Frequently Asked Questions
- What tests are required for Hillbrook School’s admissions?
Across all entry points, Hillbrook School’s holistic admissions process focuses on the student’s overall academic and personal profile rather than standardized test performance.
Junior Kindergarten (JK) & Kindergarten Entry
No standardized tests are required. Admissions are based on a school visit, developmental readiness assessments, parent/guardian questionnaires, and teacher recommendations (if applicable). The focus is on social-emotional development, curiosity, and readiness for Hillbrook’s learning environment.
1st – 5th Grade Entry
Hillbrook does not require standardized test scores for elementary school applicants. Instead, admissions decisions are based on academic records, teacher recommendations, school visits, and parent conversations. Some assessments may be conducted during the application process to evaluate literacy and numeracy skills.
6th – 8th Grade Entry
For middle school admissions, standardized test scores are not required, but students may submit them if they believe it will strengthen their application. The admissions team considers academic performance, teacher recommendations, extracurricular involvement, and student interviews. Optional work samples may also be submitted.
9th – 12th Grade Entry (High School Program)
Hillbrook operates under a test-optional policy for high school admissions.
- For 9th Grade Entry, students are not required to submit standardized test scores such as the SSAT. However, they may choose to do so if they believe it enhances their application. The primary admissions factors include academic transcripts, teacher recommendations, personal essays, extracurricular activities, and interviews.
- For 10th Grade Entry (transfer students), the same test-optional policy applies. Applicants may submit standardized test scores if they believe it reflects their academic strengths, but it is not mandatory. The admissions team evaluates transfer students based on their current high school performance, course rigor, and alignment with Hillbrook’s curriculum.
- For 11th and 12th Grade Entry, where openings are very limited, the admissions process remains test-optional. Given the competitive nature of these entry points, strong academic records, teacher recommendations, and compelling personal essays are critical. While standardized test scores are not required, submitting them may provide an additional data point in the admissions review.
Families are encouraged to apply early, as spots fill quickly, especially for key entry points in JK, Kindergarten, 6th grade, and 9th grade.
- What is The Hillbrook School ranking?
Hillbrook School is a highly regarded independent institution in Los Gatos, California, known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. While specific national rankings may vary, Hillbrook consistently receives positive evaluations from various educational platforms.
Niche awarded Hillbrook an overall grade of A+, reflecting its strong reputation in the educational community. The school is recognized for its diversity, ranking 172nd out of 5,220 private high schools nationally.
On GreatSchools, Hillbrook holds a rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars, based on 34 reviews. Parents commend the school’s effective approach to homework and its commitment to providing an excellent education.
According to Private School Review, Hillbrook ranks within the top 20% of private schools in California, highlighting its strong academic programs and community involvement.
These reviews show that Hillbrook School is committed to providing a nurturing and academically rigorous environment for its students.
- What documents are required for the Hillbrook School application?
Hillbrook School’s application process requires several documents across all grade levels, with slight variations for transfer students in upper grades. The core documents required for all applicants include:
- Application Form: Complete the online application form through Hillbrook’s admissions portal (Ravenna).
- Student Essays: Applicants must submit written responses to prompts that help the school understand the student’s interests, character, and academic aspirations.
- Parent/Guardian Statement: Parents or guardians must complete a questionnaire on Ravenna, detailing their child’s personality, achievements, and educational goals, as well as their alignment with Hillbrook’s values.
- School Transcripts: Transcripts from the previous academic year and the first semester of the current year must be submitted. These should be sent directly by the current school to Hillbrook.
- Teacher Recommendations: Applicants are required to submit recommendation letters from teachers, typically in core subjects like math and English. These recommendations should be submitted online through Ravenna.
- Student Writing Sample: A writing sample is required, reflecting the student’s writing abilities and thought processes. This is an important part of evaluating the student’s readiness for Hillbrook’s rigorous curriculum.
- Interview: An interview, either in person or virtually, is typically required to better understand the student’s character, fit for the school, and academic goals.
- Optional Standardized Test Scores: While standardized test scores (e.g., SSAT, ISEE) are not required, they may be submitted if the family believes they will strengthen the application.
- Optional Work Samples: Students may also submit samples of their work—such as academic projects or creative work—to showcase additional talents or achievements.
For Transfer Students (Grades 10–12):
Transfer students may be asked to provide additional materials, such as:
- Details of current high school performance.
- Information about specific courses or credits that may be relevant to their transition to Hillbrook.
Families should ensure that all required documents are submitted before the application deadlines to ensure full consideration.
- Does Hillbrook School interview parents?
Yes, Hillbrook School does interview parents or guardians as part of the admissions process. The parent conversation is an important component where the school seeks to understand the family’s educational philosophy, goals, and alignment with Hillbrook’s values and mission. This is typically done through an informal interview with a member of the admissions team.
The parent conversation allows the admissions team to gain deeper insights into the family’s involvement in the child’s education and how they view the school’s role in the student’s academic and personal growth. It also helps ensure a strong mutual fit between the family and the Hillbrook community.
