Does attending Prep School help with college admissions?

Class2025Parent
Tue, 16 Apr 2024 18:41:34 +0000

Does it help is the question… Maybe? Maybe not? Here is what I am learning- a generalization: kid applies to college, the admissions office at the school to which they are applying will read the application with the rest of the applications of from your kid’s school- comparing like with like- reading the application in context, not lumping it in randomly with an applicant from a public school in Arkansas. This seems to be true for most schools based on what I have read and been told by admissions offices and college counselors are both of the boarding schools my children attend. Of course there may be exceptions, isn’t that life?

Now does prep school help with college admissions- depends on your kid. I think of it more broadly in the context of the kid and fit. Prep school/boarding school has been a huge fit advantage for their own development, education and personal growth. I have two class of 2025 kids- one started at a local private school in 7th grade, by the time 9th grade rolled around it was clear that maybe the fit wasn’t what it needed to be for him, nothing wrong with the school itself. The boarding school he ultimately has been at for 10th/11th and next year for 12th is a better fit and that will make a difference in his college application process. Will the outcome be better? No Idea… but I do feel certain he will be better prepared for whatever college choice he makes.

Just my two cents and sharing experience, yours will be unique to your kid and I hope it works out the best it can for them and your family!