High School: The Private School Recruiting Process

By Michele Blandino

With the start of a new school year still fresh in many of our minds, it is hard to believe that for the members of this year’s eighth grade class who are contemplating spending their high school years at a private or parochial high school, it is almost too late to begin the process.

While private and parochial high schools have always attempted to recruit their students during the seventh and eighth grade years, recently it has not been uncommon to see the process begin even earlier. The reason is simple: with the cost of college skyrocketing, parents are less likely – or able – to pay the tuition while saving for college. As a result, these high schools have had to retool their marketing programs in an effort to demonstrate the value of the education they provide.

Starting Early

Indeed, the most effective private and parochial school marketing programs will schedule the initial contact for sometime during the student’s sixth or seventh grade year. At that point, they will provide the student with information about their school and invite them to an event taking place on the school’s campus such as an athletic contest or a theatrical or musical production. The idea here is to get the student on campus so that they will become familiar with the school.

In the meantime, the school will likely keep in touch with the student using periodic letters or postcards to remind them about key events in the admissions process. In the spring of the student’s seventh grade year, they may be invited to a more formal event such as an Open House. Here, the student will be given a detailed tour of the school and have the opportunity to speak with faculty members and students. A similar event may be held in the fall for students unable to attend in the spring.

The Entrance Exam

Before the end of the calendar year, those schools utilizing admissions testing will administer their exams to eighth grade students wishing to enroll during the next school year. Typically the application for these exams can be obtained at the Open House or by calling the school’s admissions office. While the schools generally prefer students to take the entrance exam at the scheduled time, in the event of a conflict, arrangements for a make-up exam can usually be made.

Notification of Acceptance

The entire process culminates shortly after the new year when acceptance letters are mailed. Information regarding tuition, fees and registration is usually provided with the acceptance letter.

A Final Word

While the process described above is typical, there are always exceptions. Schools may admit students without taking the entrance examination or they may arrange for private tours or other opportunities to meet the faculty if the prospective student isn’t able to attend any of the official events.

If you are interested in sending your child to a private or parochial high school but are not familiar with their admissions process, call the school’s admissions office. They will outline the process for you and, assuming there are still spots available, they will likely do everything in their power to admit your child.