Best Guide to Woodside Priory’s Selective Admissions Process
In This Guide
Considering applying to Woodside Priory School? You are not alone. Each year, families from across the United States and around the world explore this independent Catholic school for its strong college-preparatory academics, close-knit boarding and day community, and emphasis on character development and leadership.
Like many top private schools in California, admission to Woodside Priory is selective. Understanding the process helps families approach each step with clarity and confidence.
What Makes Woodside Priory School’s Admissions Process Selective?
Woodside Priory uses a holistic admissions process, meaning students are evaluated as complete individuals rather than through a single academic metric.
Admissions decisions consider academic performance, teacher recommendations, character, extracurricular involvement, leadership potential, and overall fit with the school’s mission-driven community.
Because many applicants are well-qualified, successful candidates are those who demonstrate alignment with Priory’s values: academic responsibility, personal integrity, curiosity, and community engagement.
Understanding Woodside Priory School’s Admission Process
Woodside Priory’s admissions process begins through the Ravenna platform, where families create an account to register for events and submit application materials.
The process is designed to give the admissions team a well-rounded view of each applicant’s academic preparation, personal qualities, and readiness for either day or boarding life.
Application Process for Day Students
- Create a Ravenna account
- Participate in admissions events:
- Priory Open Houses
- Parent Tours
- Campus Visit
- International Visitors Program
- Virtual Campus Visit
- Complete the application in Ravenna
- Application Form & Fee
- Parent Supplement
- Student Supplement
- Submit required documents:
- Teacher Recommendations (English, Math, Counselor/Principal, Clergy)
- Transcript (current and previous school year)
- STAR Test
- Schedule an interview
Application Process for Boarding Students
- Create a Ravenna account
- Submit application through Ravenna or SAO
- Application Form & Fee
- Parent Supplement
- Student Supplement
- Submit required documents:
- Teacher Recommendations (English, Math, Counselor/Principal, Clergy)
- Transcript (current and previous school year)
- Submit testing information:
- STAR Test
- SSAT or ISEE
- Duolingo English Test / IELTS / TOEFL (international applicants)
- Schedule an interview
What Does Woodside Priory School Look for in Applicants?
Academic Strength
Woodside Priory seeks students who are prepared for a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum. Strong grades, consistent effort, and a willingness to take on academic challenge are key indicators of readiness.
The admissions committee also evaluates academic context, including the rigor of coursework available to the student.
Intellectual Curiosity
Curiosity and engagement in learning are highly valued.
Students who go beyond classroom requirements—through reading, exploration, creative work, or independent projects—stand out in the process.
Character and Leadership
Leadership at Woodside Priory is reflected in action, not titles. The school values students who show responsibility, kindness, initiative, and integrity in their daily interactions.
Community Fit
As a boarding and day school community, Priory emphasizes participation across academics, residential life (for boarders), athletics, arts, and service.
Admissions officers look for students who will actively contribute to campus life and thrive in a close-knit environment.
Because the process is holistic, thoughtful preparation can make a meaningful difference.
- Highlight authentic extracurricular involvement and leadership experiences
- Write essays that clearly reflect your voice and personal story
- Maintain strong academic performance and course rigor
- Stay organized with Ravenna deadlines and document submissions
- Choose recommenders who can speak in detail about your strengths
- Prepare for interviews by understanding Priory’s values, programs, and community culture
Applying to a selective private school can feel overwhelming, but with expert insights from top private 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 Woodside Priory look beyond grades—they look for students who are thoughtful, engaged, and ready to contribute.
If you want to strengthen your Priory application, whether through essay refinement, interview preparation, or strategic planning, consider working with the expert private school admission consultants who understand what Priory is truly looking for.
Reach out to start your journey today!
Like what you see here? We are happy to permit you to use our material as long as you link back! Please refer to us as the Cardinal Education Blog.
Related Articles
Woodside Priory: How to Ace Boarding School Admissions
Famous Woodside Priory Graduates and Where They Are Today
Frequently Asked Questions
How selective is Woodside Priory School?
Woodside Priory is a selective independent school. Admissions are based on a holistic review of academics, character, extracurricular involvement, and overall fit.
Does Woodside Priory require standardized testing?
Yes. Applicants may be required to submit STAR testing and, depending on grade level, SSAT or ISEE scores. International applicants may also need TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test results.
Is Ravenna required for the application?
Yes. Ravenna is the primary platform used to manage the application process, submit materials, and schedule admissions events and interviews.
How important are interviews in the admissions process?
Interviews are an important component because they allow the admissions team to understand a student’s communication skills, personality, and fit within the school community.
