How hard is it to get into NYC private schools?

Let’s just say you’re not the only one eyeing that dream school. The most sought-after NYC private schools can be tougher to get into than some Ivies. With limited spots and lots of qualified applicants, it’s competitive from kindergarten on up. Families tour, test, interview, and stress over every recommendation. Some schools have acceptance rates in the single digits. But here’s the good news: there’s a wide range of schools across the city, and finding the right fit matters more than chasing a brand name. It’s less about cracking the code and more about telling your story and finding a school that gets it. And yes, even with all the hoops, kids do get in and thrive.