Keys School Admissions Timeline: Key Dates and Deadlines

Navigating the admissions process for a selective school like Keys School can feel overwhelming, but knowing the important dates and deadlines can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and timely application. If you’re considering Keys School for an upcoming academic year, here’s your comprehensive guide to the key milestones you need to keep in mind.

1. Application Period Opens

Approximate Timeframe: September

The application process typically begins in September. This is when the online application portal opens, allowing families to start submitting their applications for the upcoming school year. Getting a head start on gathering necessary materials is highly recommended.

2. Information Sessions and Open Houses

Before submitting an application, attending an information session or open house is a great way to learn more about the school’s programs and community. Schools generally host these events between October and December.

Common Open House and Information Session Timeframes:

  • Lower School Information Session: Usually held in early October
  • Middle School Information Session: Usually scheduled in late October
  • Upper School Information Sessions: Often hosted in late October and early November
  • General Open House: Takes place in November, offering families a chance to visit and explore the campus

Check the school’s official website for exact dates, as they may vary each year.

3. Key Application Deadlines

Staying on top of deadlines is crucial for a smooth admissions process. Below are the approximate timeframes for submitting key application materials:

  • First & Lower School Application Forms Due: Mid-December
  • Middle & Upper School Application Forms Due: Early January
  • All Application Files (Transcripts, Teacher Recommendations, etc.) Due: Mid to late January

Be sure to check with Keys School for the exact deadlines each year.

4. Shadow Days and Campus Visits

Experiencing a day in the life at Keys School can help your child decide if it’s the right fit. Shadow days typically take place between December and January.

Common Shadow Day Timeframes:

  • Upper School Shadow Days: Often scheduled in mid-December and early January

These visits give prospective students a glimpse into the academic environment, school culture, and classroom interactions.

5. Admission Decisions Released

Approximate Timeframe: Late February

Once all applications have been reviewed, families receive their admission decisions in late February. This is a key moment in the admissions process, so be sure to check your email and school portal for updates.

6. Intent to Enroll Deadline

Approximate Timeframe: Early March

If your child is accepted, you’ll need to confirm their enrollment by submitting your intent to enroll by early March. This ensures their place in the upcoming school year.

7. New Family Orientation

Approximate Timeframe: April

For families who have been accepted and intend to enroll, the school usually hosts a new family orientation session in April. This event helps incoming students and their families become familiar with school policies, academic expectations, and campus culture.

8. First Day of School

Approximate Timeframe: Early September

The school year officially begins in early September, marking the start of an exciting academic journey for new and returning students.

Preparing for a Successful Keys School Application Process

The admissions process at Keys School is competitive but rewarding. Staying organized and keeping track of key milestones ensures a smoother application experience.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always check the admissions page on the official Keys School website. Best of luck to all families applying—here’s to a successful and exciting journey ahead!

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Keys School has different deadlines depending on the grade level your child is applying for. If you’re applying for Lower School (younger grades), the deadline is usually mid-December. For Middle and Upper School (older grades), applications are due in early January. After that, you also need to submit supporting materials like teacher recommendations and transcripts by mid to late January. If you’re applying for financial aid, those forms are usually due about one to two weeks after the main application deadline. Since deadlines can change slightly each year, it’s always best to check the official Keys School website to make sure you have the correct dates. Applying early helps ensure a smooth process!

  • Keys School hosts tours, information sessions, and open houses from October through December. These events give families a chance to visit the campus, meet teachers, and learn more about the school’s programs. Lower School usually has its session in early October, while Middle and Upper School sessions happen later in October or November. There is also a general open house in November where families can tour the school. To attend, you need to sign up on the school’s admissions webpage. Attending an open house or tour can help you decide if Keys School is the right fit for your child before you apply.

  • Once you submit your child’s application and all required documents, the school will review everything carefully. Admission decisions are usually sent out in late February. You will receive an email or a notification through the school’s admissions portal. If your child is accepted, you’ll need to confirm their spot by submitting an enrollment deposit by early March. If your child is waitlisted, the school may offer a spot later if space opens up. It’s important to check your email and school portal regularly so you don’t miss any important updates. If you have questions about your application status, you can contact the admissions office for more details.

  • Shadow days give prospective students a chance to spend a day at Keys School and see what it’s like to be a student there. Your child will be paired with a current student, attend classes, meet teachers, and experience the school environment firsthand. Shadow days are typically available between December and January for Middle and Upper School applicants. Younger students may have shorter visits or classroom observations instead. These visits help students and families decide if Keys School is the right fit. If you want your child to participate in a shadow day, you should contact the admissions office or mention it when submitting your application.