What is the Proctored Writing Sample, and why do D.C. private schools require it?

The Proctored Writing Sample might not sound glamorous, but in the world of Washington, D.C. private school admissions, it’s a big deal. This timed, supervised essay—completed either in person or online—is your child’s chance to show admissions officers how they really write. No Grammarly, no parental edits, no AI cheat sheets. Just raw, unfiltered thinking on paper (or screen). Schools like Sidwell Friends, Georgetown Day, and National Cathedral use it to see if students can organize their thoughts, build an argument, and communicate clearly when the clock is ticking.

And here’s the twist: it’s not just about perfect punctuation. It’s about having a voice, making a point, and structuring ideas under pressure. In a city where every applicant is impressive, a strong Proctored Writing Sample can tip the scales. At Cardinal Education, we coach students to write with confidence, clarity, and purpose—so what they put on the page speaks just as powerfully as their transcripts.