How to Get Into Crossroads School: Tips From Admissions Experts

We know what it takes to get into Crossroads.

TALK TO OUR EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANT TODAY! Call Us Toll Free: (888) 521-5243

Cardinal Education is an independent educational consulting company. We are not affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with any public or private school.

Is Crossroads a Good School?

Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences, established in 1971, is a K-12 independent day school located in Santa Monica, California. The school enrolls approximately 1,202 students across its elementary, middle, and upper schools, with a student-teacher ratio of 8:1. Notably, 98-100% of seniors matriculate directly into college, reflecting the school’s commitment to academic excellence. Crossroads emphasizes a holistic education that integrates academics, arts, and community engagement, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. The school’s dedication to diversity is evident, with 56% of students identifying as students of color. Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences is highly regarded for its comprehensive educational approach and strong college placement record.​

The student demographics at Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences reflect a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity. The student body, according to Niche, is 44% White, 23% Multicultural, 14.2% Hispanic, 9.8% Asian, 8.7% African American, 0.2% Unknown, and 0.1% Native American. This diverse representation is essential to the school’s mission of creating an inclusive learning environment where students from different backgrounds can engage in meaningful discussions, broaden their perspectives, and develop a deeper understanding of the world. By embracing cultural and ethnic diversity, Crossroads fosters a sense of belonging and prepares students to thrive in a multicultural society, reinforcing its commitment to social justice, equity, and collaboration across different communities.

Is It Hard To Get Into Crossroads School? 

To put it simply, yes, admissions to Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences are highly competitive. The school’s reputation and impressive rankings contribute to a growing applicant pool each year. Crossroads is ranked #1 among Private K-12 Schools in the Los Angeles area and #6 among Private High Schools, demonstrating its academic prestige. Additionally, it ranks #12 for Best College Prep Private High Schools, making it a sought-after institution for students aiming for top universities. With such high rankings, the school naturally attracts a diverse and talented group of applicants who are eager to benefit from its rigorous academic programs and vibrant arts curriculum.

As a result of this demand, Crossroads maintains a selective admissions process to ensure that incoming students align with its values and academic standards. The school’s holistic approach to admissions considers not only academic excellence but also artistic talent, extracurricular involvement, and community engagement. Furthermore, Crossroads ranks #22 in Most Diverse Private High Schools, emphasizing its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. With such a well-rounded reputation and competitive admissions process, securing a spot at Crossroads requires strong academic performance, a passion for the arts, and a dedication to community involvement.

Now that we understand the selectivity of Crossroads School, let’s break down the admissions process and explore each application requirement.

What are the Steps in Crossroads School’s Admissions Process?

The admission process for Crossroads School is comprehensive and involves several key steps to ensure a thorough evaluation of each applicant. Below is an overview of the process:

  1. Submit Your Application – Complete the online Family Application to begin the process. ​
  2. Provide Required Documents – Ensure that transcripts and recommendation letters are sent to Crossroads promptly. ​
  3. Visit the Campus – Attend a tour or open house to experience the Crossroads community firsthand. ​
  4. Participate in a Small Group Interview – Engage in on-campus group interviews designed to foster collaboration among applicants. ​
  5. Complete the Character Skills Snapshot – This assessment helps Crossroads understand your strengths beyond academics. ​
  6. Optional: Submit Test Scores – You may choose to submit ISEE or SSAT scores to provide additional academic context; however, this is not mandatory.
  7. Await Admission Decisions – After completing the steps above, patiently wait for the admissions committee to review your application and notify you of their decision.

What Are The Application Requirements For Crossroads School?

Admissions Interviews

Parents or guardians of applicants are invited to a virtual conversation that lasts up to 1 hour. You will have a chance to meet members of the admissions team and the faculty and learn more about Crossroads. You will also have a chance to ask questions so you may gain more insight into the school’s culture and academic structure. 

How to prepare for admissions interviews

Both of these activities are indirect and non-formal interviews where you and your child will be assessed and evaluated based on how you carry yourselves during those occasions. They will determine if your family will be a good fit for the school community. With nearly 20 years of experience in the industry and helping numerous families get into Kerkeley Hall School, we know what they are looking for. With informed interview preparation, our admissions consultants will introduce you to common interview questions and how to answer them truthfully while adhering to their values. 

Teacher Recommendations

Crossroads requires two teacher recommendations as part of the application process. These letters give admissions officers a clearer picture of your academic abilities, character, and potential for success at the school. It is important to choose teachers who know you well, preferably from your core academic subjects, so they can speak directly about your strengths, work ethic, and classroom contributions. Be sure to inform your recommenders of all deadlines and provide them with any guidelines from the school to ensure they submit thoughtful, personalized evaluations that support your application.

4 Tips for Choosing a Teacher for a Letter of Recommendation

  1. Pick a Teacher Who Knows You Well – A teacher who knows you well can accurately and authentically capture the essence of your character. 
  2. Choose a Teacher that Aligns with Your Aspirations – If you show BCP that you’re someone who thrives in STEM fields, a great way to supplement that is to have a recommendation from a STEM teacher. 
  3. Consider a Teacher Who Writes Well – A teacher who can effectively write can effectively convey your strengths through the recommendation. 
  4. Ask Early and Ask Politely – Teachers get many requests, so ask in advance, provide necessary details, and express gratitude.

School Records and Documents

As with virtually every school, Bellarmine College Preparatory requires prospective students to submit their current school records as part of the application process. This includes but isn’t limited to academic transcripts, report cards, and a birth certificate. A more detailed list of the specific school records required can be found in their admissions page.

Character Skills Snapshot

The Character Skills Snapshot is like a personality check-in that helps schools see what makes you tick beyond grades and test scores. In just 25 minutes, it gives a peek into seven key traits schools care about, like initiative, open-mindedness, curiosity, self-control, resilience, teamwork, and social awareness. Think of it as a way to show off your inner awesomeness. Our admissions consultants can help you get ready with fun exercises that bring out your strengths, plus a mock test so you know exactly what to expect. It’s not something to stress about — just a chance to show the kind of person you are.

Standardized Testing Scores: ISEE or SSAT

Even though submitting ISEE or SSAT scores is optional at Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences, strong test scores can still strengthen an applicant’s profile. Standardized tests provide admissions officers with an additional academic metric to evaluate a student’s preparedness, especially in a competitive applicant pool. If an applicant has high scores, they can serve as a distinguishing factor, reinforcing their academic abilities alongside grades, teacher recommendations, and extracurricular involvement.

Navigating the SSAT and ISEE can be overwhelming for families, but the right preparation can make a significant difference in a student’s performance. We provide guidance to help families understand which test best suits their child’s strengths and what the best strategies are in taking the SSAT or ISEE. With the right preparation and strategic practice, students can approach these exams with a stronger sense of readiness and a greater chance of success.

If you’re looking for resources, check out our SSAT practice test and ISEE practice test!

Parent/Guardian Questions

Parents or guardians of all applicants are required to answer a parent/guardian questionnaire that can be found on the school’s application portal. This questionnaire provides an opportunity to share insights about your child, your family’s values, and your interest in joining the school community. It serves as a way for the admissions team to better understand your family’s educational priorities and how they align with the school’s mission.

How To Answer The Parent Questions

When choosing what to write about, remember that you have to be honest and authentic. Focus on your child’s strengths and unique characteristics, and provide anecdotes to support your statements. For some tips on how to write a powerful parent statement from experienced educational consultants, click here.

What Student Life Is Like At Crossroads School and Why Families Choose It

Choosing the right school for your son is an important decision. Crossroads School offers a remarkable setting that builds on children’s moral, social, and intellectual growth. Through coursework, exciting extracurricular activities, worthwhile volunteer work, and a competitive athletic program, Crossroads School helps mold boys into self-assured, well-rounded people who are ready for success in college and beyond.

What is Crossroads School’s Academics Like?

Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences is anything but cookie-cutter when it comes to academics. This is a school that thrives on creativity, curiosity, and a belief that learning should never be confined to a textbook. Instead of chasing AP labels, Crossroads swapped them out for its own Crossroads Advanced Studies (CAS) courses. Why? Because the school believes students learn best when they’re actually excited about what they’re learning. Whether it’s organic chemistry, filmmaking, or gender studies, the curriculum encourages students to dive deep, ask big questions, and challenge the status quo.

What really sets Crossroads apart is its dedication to five core commitments: academic excellence, the arts, the greater community, diversity, and the development of each student’s full human potential. In other words, the school isn’t just building great students — it’s shaping thoughtful, well-rounded humans. The arts aren’t just an elective here; they’re part of the lifeblood of the school, integrated throughout the academic journey to spark creativity, critical thinking, and joy. Parents love that their kids come home talking about Plato, photography, and community service — all in the same breath. It’s a place where intellect meets imagination and where kids are encouraged to learn with heart and purpose.

What AP Courses Does Crossroads Offer?

Crossroads’ AP courses (known as Crossroads Advanced Studies) offer students the opportunity to dive into different fields of study. Below is a list of CAS subjects, for a more detailed list please visit the school’s official page

STEM Languages Visual and Performing Arts Journalism and Publication
CAS Biology CAS French CAS Ceramics CAS Journalism
CAS Calculus CAS Latin CAS Creative Writing CAS Yearbook
CAS Chemistry CAS Spanish CAS Filmmaking  
CAS Computer Science   CAS Graphic Design and Animation,  
    CAS Studio Art  
    CAS Jazz  

What is Crossroads’ Extracurricular Activities Like?

At Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences, extracurriculars aren’t just a side dish — they’re part of the main course. Whether your child dreams of performing on stage, building a robot, scoring the game-winning goal, or launching a community initiative, there’s space (and encouragement) to do it all. With top-notch arts programs, competitive athletics, and meaningful leadership and service opportunities, Crossroads turns passions into purpose. It’s this dynamic, hands-on culture that makes the school one of the best places for students to discover who they are — both in and out of the classroom.

Visual Arts Program

At Crossroads, creativity isn’t limited to sketchpads. It spills into clay, paint, digital design, and more. Middle School students spend four hours each week exploring both two- and three-dimensional art. By eighth grade, they can branch out into electives like Ceramics, Studio Arts, Multimedia Arts, or Graphic Design. Once in Upper School, students can go even further by majoring in visual arts, diving into Crossroads Advanced Studies (CAS) courses, and exhibiting their work in the Sam Francis Gallery. It’s hands-on, expressive, and full of opportunity to explore what makes each student’s artistic voice unique.

Music Program

The Elizabeth Mandell Music Institute, or EMMI, is Crossroads’ audition-based classical music conservatory for Upper School students. It’s designed for serious musicians who want to deepen their skills. Students study music theory, harmony, analysis, counterpoint, and ear training while performing in Chamber Orchestra and Chamber Music classes. There are multiple concerts and solo recitals each year, plus master classes with world-class artists and workshops in a variety of genres. Whether students are performing Bach or composing something brand new, the program helps them grow as both artists and performers.

Performing Arts Program

Crossroads is a place where the stage is always alive. The Performing Arts Program includes drama, music, filmmaking, and visual arts, with options for beginners and experienced artists alike. Students can major in drama, music, or visual arts, join a touring theater company, perform in ensembles, or explore filmmaking through CAS courses. Highlights include student productions, original scripts, and performances that have reached venues like Carnegie Hall and the Panama Jazz Festival. With faculty support and professional opportunities, students don’t just learn about the performing arts — they practice and live them every day.

Athletics: What Sports Does Crossroads Offer?

​Crossroads integrates athletics into its educational philosophy, offering a variety of sports teams across different grade levels. The school has established partnerships to enhance its athletic programs, such as the multi-year agreement with Flight Club, a prominent sneaker consignment store, to support the men’s varsity basketball team. This collaboration underscores Crossroads’ commitment to providing quality athletic experiences that complement its academic and artistic offerings.​

Elementary School Teams Middle School Teams Upper School Teams
Girls Basketball Girls Cross-Country Girls Cross-Country
Girls Volleyball Girls Basketball Girls Basketball
Boys Volleyball Girls Soccer Girls Soccer
Boys Basketball Girls Softball Girls Softball
Coed Flag Football Girls Tennis Girls Tennis
Coed Soccer Girls Track and Field Girls Track
Coed Swimming Girls Volleyball Girls Volleyball
  Boys Cross-Country Boys Baseball
  Boys Baseball Boys Basketball
  Boys Basketball Boys Cross-Country
  Boys Soccer Boys Soccer
  Boys Tennis Boys Tennis
  Boys Track and Field Boys Track
  Boys Volleyball Boys Volleyball
  Coed Flag Football Coed Flag Football
  Coed Golf Coed Golf
  Coed Swimming Coed Swimming

Crossroads School of Arts And Sciences Famous Alumni

  • Gwyneth Paltrow: Academy Award-winning actress known for her roles in Shakespeare in Love and the Iron Man series. ​
  • Jack Black: Actor and musician recognized for films like School of Rock and as the lead vocalist of the band Tenacious D.
  • Kate Hudson: Actress acclaimed for her performance in Almost Famous and co-founder of the fitness brand Fabletics.
  • Zooey Deschanel: Actress and singer-songwriter known for her role in the TV series New Girl and as part of the musical duo She & Him.
  • Jonah Hill: Actor and filmmaker recognized for roles in Superbad and The Wolf of Wall Street, and director of Mid90s.
  • Maya Rudolph: Comedian and actress, former cast member of Saturday Night Live and star of films like Bridesmaids.
  • Michael Bay: Film director and producer known for high-budget action films, including the Transformers series. ​
  • Bronny James: Basketball player and son of NBA star LeBron James, recognized for his own emerging talent in the sport.
  • Maude Apatow: Actress known for her roles in Euphoria and films directed by her father, Judd Apatow.

Related Articles:

The Arts at Crossroads School: Inspiring Creativity and Expression

Social Justice at Crossroads School: Empowering Students to Create Change

Experiential and Outdoor Education at Crossroads School

Did You Know?

Founded in 1971 by Paul Cummins and Rhoda Makoff, Crossroads started with just 34 seventh and eighth graders in three rooms of a Baptist church on Pico Boulevard.!

Client Testimonial

We had no idea where to start with the Crossroads application, but Cardinal Education walked us through everything. Our daughter loves her teachers and has really found her place. We’re so glad we did this.

Parents of a 6th grader

    DISCLAIMER

    Cardinal Education is an independent educational consulting company. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by any private school, including those mentioned on this website. All school names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used here for descriptive purposes only.

    COPYRIGHT © | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED | CARDINAL EDUCATION