Best Guide to Lake Forest Academy’s Selective Admissions Process
In This Guide
Considering attending Lake Forest Academy? You are not alone. Each year, families from across the U.S. and around the world explore this highly regarded boarding and day school for its strong academics, global outlook, and emphasis on developing well-rounded, engaged students.
However, like many selective schools, gaining admission can be competitive. If you are looking to approach the process strategically, here is what you need to know.
What Makes Lake Forest Academy’s Admissions Selective?
Top boarding schools in the country, like Lake Forest Academy, evaluate students beyond grades and test scores. The admissions process is holistic, meaning the committee considers academic achievement, intellectual curiosity, character, leadership, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities.
The applicant pool is strong, with many students presenting excellent transcripts and meaningful activities. What distinguishes admitted students is how clearly they align with the school’s mission and values, as well as how they contribute to the broader community.
Understanding How LFA Chooses Its Students
The first step is completing the Inquiry Form, which allows families to express interest, receive updates, register for events, and track application progress. From there, applicants move through the following steps:
- Submit the application form and fee
- Provide standardized test scores
- Submit recommendations and transcripts
- Upload student and parent essays
- Schedule an interview
- Submit optional arts or athletic supplements
Lake Forest Academy also requires standardized tests, with testing information varying per grade level.
- 9th grade: SSAT, ISEE, PSAT, or PreACT
- 10th grade: SSAT, ISEE, PSAT, or PreACT
- 11th grade: SAT, ACT, ACT-Plan, or PSAT
- 12th grade: SAT or ACT
International students are also required to submit TOEFL iBT, IELTS, or Duolingo English test scores
What Does LFA Look for in Applicants?
Academic Strength
Lake Forest Academy offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum. Admissions officers look for students who can succeed in a challenging academic environment while balancing extracurricular and community commitments. Strong grades, consistent effort, and readiness for advanced coursework are key indicators.
Intellectual Curiosity
Curiosity plays a major role in the classroom experience. Students are expected to engage actively, ask thoughtful questions, and explore ideas beyond requirements. Whether through independent projects, research, or personal interests, demonstrating genuine enthusiasm for learning can make an application stand out.
Leadership and Character
Leadership is not limited to titles. Taking initiative, supporting peers, and contributing meaningfully to group efforts all reflect strong leadership potential.
Character is equally important. At Lake Forest Academy, students are part of a close-knit community, so qualities like integrity, empathy, accountability, and collaboration are essential. Recommendations that highlight these traits can be powerful differentiators.
Community Fit
As a residential and day school, Lake Forest Academy places strong emphasis on community engagement. Students participate in athletics, arts, clubs, and service activities, creating a vibrant campus life.
Admissions officers evaluate how each applicant will contribute to this environment. They look for students who can collaborate, build relationships, and take advantage of the school’s diverse opportunities.
Because the process is holistic, thoughtful preparation is essential. Here are some best practices
- Highlight meaningful extracurricular involvement, leadership, and academic achievements
- Use essays to tell a clear, authentic personal story with specific examples
- Maintain strong academic performance and course rigor
- Stay organized and submit all materials before deadlines
- Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths
- Prepare thoroughly for interviews by understanding the school’s programs, values, and community
Applying to a selective boarding school can feel overwhelming, but with expert insights from top boarding school admissions consultants providing “white glove” services, like Cardinal Education, students and their families feel more confident and better equipped as they move forward with the application process.
Ready to Take the Next Steps?
Selective schools like Lake Forest Academy look beyond grades—they look for students who are thoughtful, engaged, and ready to contribute.
If you want to strengthen your Lake Forest Academy application, whether through essay refinement, interview preparation, or strategic planning, consider working with the expert boarding school admission consultants who understand what LFA is truly looking for.
Reach out to start your journey today!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How selective is Lake Forest Academy?
Lake Forest Academy is considered a selective boarding and day school, attracting a strong pool of academically capable and well-rounded applicants. Admissions decisions are based on a holistic review, so grades alone are not enough—character, curiosity, and community fit all play important roles.
Does Lake Forest require standardized testing?
Yes, Lake Forest Academy requires standardized testing, with accepted exams varying by grade level. For 9th and 10th grade, students may submit the SSAT, ISEE, PSAT, or PreACT; for 11th grade, the SAT, ACT, ACT-Plan, or PSAT are accepted; and for 12th grade, applicants must submit the SAT or ACT. International students are also required to demonstrate English proficiency through exams such as the TOEFL iBT, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test.
Can academic tutoring improve chances of admission?
Yes, tutoring can strengthen academic skills, improve grades, and build confidence. It can also help students develop critical thinking and study habits that align with the school’s rigorous academic expectations.
How important are interviews in Lake Forest Academy’s admissions?
The interview is an important component of the admissions process. It allows the school to assess a student’s communication skills, personality, and overall fit within the community. A strong interview can significantly reinforce an application.
