Boarding Schools
IvySummit offers a limited, bespoke boarding school admissions support service for exceptional students. We have achieved placements at elite secondary schools worldwide, including Exeter (USA), Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz (Switzerland) and Cardiff Sixth Form College (UK).
Here, we will address some common questions about the process and how IvySummit helps applicants get accepted to top-tier academies.
How selective are boarding schools?
Admission rates at elite boarding schools are as low as 12% in the United States, with an average rate of just 39% across institutions of all quality levels. The best boarding schools in Europe and the United Kingdom have similarly rigorous standards.
Many motivated families invest in professional support from IvySummit to optimize their chance of acceptance.
What do they look for in applicants?
One of the biggest challenges in the admissions process is that highly selective schools are similar to elite universities in breadth and rigor of expectations.
Students as young as 11 or 12 must demonstrate superior academic abilities, striking extracurricular achievements, and exceptional writing and self-presentation skills. IvySummit helps students and their parents understand the expectations and craft a success strategy.
What is the admissions process?
As with college admissions, boarding schools require detailed information, which can be complex for families to manage.
Although most US boarding schools accept the Standard Application Online (SAO), the process can take weeks or months to complete, culminating in January or early February deadlines. Families must gather and submit academic transcripts, teacher recommendations, a parent statement and a student information form and questionnaire. Applicants must complete standardized tests such as the Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT) and written short answer and essay questions.
IvySummit helps families plan and manage applications, so students have ample time to present their best selves.
What do boarding schools look for?
Applicants who will rise to academic challenge, excel in extracurriculars, develop leadership skills and enrich a diverse community.
Small student bodies mean it is vital that each individual make a positive contribution. Confidence, interpersonal skills and self-presentation are scrutinized during the application process to ensure that places are only offered to applicants who will enhance the school environment.
Demonstrating these soft skills can be one of the toughest parts of the process, especially for international students. IvySummit works intensively with each applicant to polish their self-presentation through writing and interview skills.
How can my child stand out?
Top boarding schools can choose from an abundance of academically gifted applicants. Athletic and extracurricular achievements are key to gaining a competitive advantage, while students who have a unique pursuit or talent (e.g., small business owner or musical prodigy) also get noticed.
Application essays and interviews can tip the balance in an applicant’s favor. Young people who are unusually poised, eloquent and personable make a powerful impression on admissions officers.
IvySummit empowers students to shine by presenting their achievements in a cohesive, compelling and convincing manner.
IvySummit is a premier college consulting firm with a proven track record in expertly guiding students from across the globe through the complex and nuanced college application process. Our specialized focus lies in helping students achieve their aspirations of gaining admission to Ivy League institutions and other esteemed universities in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. With our persistent commitment to excellence, we provide tailored guidance and support to ensure our clients stand out and thrive in the highly competitive world of college admissions.
At IvySummit, our commitment lies in discovering the perfect match for our clients and supporting them wholeheartedly on their path to success. We strive to understand their unique aspirations and provide expert guidance, empowering them to embark on a transformative journey towards achieving their dreams.
