How to Get Into The Knox School: Your Complete Guide to Getting In

Admission tips from the best independent admissions consultants in New York.

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Why Choose The Knox School: Benefits of a Long Island Private Education

The Knox School, established in 1904 by Mary Alice Knox, is the oldest private school on Long Island, New York. Originally founded as Miss Knox’s School for Girls in Briarcliff Manor, New York, the institution was envisioned as a school rich in music and art, close to New York City, and embodying progressive educational ideas and methods.

Today, The Knox School is a co-educational boarding and day school serving students in grades 6 through 12, as well as offering a Post-Graduate program. The school emphasizes a comprehensive education that balances rigorous academics with artistic and athletic pursuits. With small class sizes and a diverse student body representing more than 20 countries, Knox provides individualized attention and fosters a supportive environment where students are encouraged to unlock their potential. 

The Knox School’s campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including a STEM lab, art studios, performing arts spaces, and athletic amenities. The school maintains a 100% acceptance rate to four-year colleges and universities, underscoring its commitment to preparing students for higher education and future success. 

How hard is it to get into The Knox School?

Yes. Gaining admission to The Knox School is a thoughtful and personalized process, reflecting the institution’s strong academic values. The school maintains an average class size of around 12 students and a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 6:1, allowing for personalized attention and a supportive learning environment.

The admissions process involves several key steps: submitting an online application form, paying a non-refundable application fee ($75 for domestic applicants, $150 for international applicants), providing supplemental materials, and scheduling both student interviews and parent/guardian conversations. Applicants are also required to submit teacher recommendations and school transcripts from the current and previous two years.

The Knox accepts new students on a rolling basis, with a priority deadline of January 31. Admission decisions are released in early March, and enrollment contracts are typically due in early April. Applications received after the priority deadline are considered based on space availability.

Standardized testing is encouraged but not required for domestic applicants. International applicants must submit proof of English language proficiency through TOEFL, Duolingo, or IELTS. The Knox School follows a holistic admissions process, with greater emphasis placed on student and parent questionnaires, teacher recommendations, interviews, and academic records than on test scores.

Given the competitiveness of the process, families may benefit from working with private school admissions consultants who understand the ins and outs of The Knox School admissions process. Consultants can provide valuable guidance in presenting a compelling application and ensuring prospective students stand out in a highly selective pool of candidates.

The Knox School Admissions Process: Step-by-Step Guide for Applicants

​The Knox School utilizes its own dedicated application portal for admissions. To begin the application process, applicants must create an account on The Knox’s application portal or The Standard Application Online (SAO). This portal allows families to submit applications, monitor application steps, and receive updates regarding admissions events.

Application Steps:

  1. Submit Preliminary Application: Complete the online application form before the deadline. Deadlines are typically around December.
  2. Schedule Required Appointments and Events: Arrange for student assessments and parent/guardian conversations as outlined in the application checklist.
  3. Submit Academic Records, Teacher Recommendations, and Standardized Test Scores: Provide transcripts from the current year and the two previous academic years. Submit recommendation letters—one from a current Math teacher, one from a current English teacher, and one additional recommendation from any school administrator or faculty member. SSAT is encouraged but not required. International students must submit English proficiency scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo).
  4. Schedule an Interview: All applicants must complete an interview, which may be conducted in person or virtually with an admissions representative.
  5. Enrollment: Decisions are released in March. Enrollment contracts and deposits are due in April. Applications submitted after January 31 are reviewed on a space-available basis.

The Knox School Admission Requirements

Crafting a Compelling Parent Statement for Your Knox School Application

Parents or guardians of applicants are required to answer a parent/guardian questionnaire that is found on The Knox’s application portal. You will be asked to talk about your child and share information about their personality, achievements, and other personal information.

Tips for Writing a Strong and Effective Knox School Parent Statement

The parent statement is an integral part of the application process as it will help admissions officers better understand your child’s background and potential to become successful at The Knox School. It will also demonstrate your family’s commitment to your child’s education. When choosing what to write about, remember that you have to be honest and authentic. Focus on your child’s strengths and unique characteristics, and provide anecdotes to support your statements. For some tips on how to write a powerful parent statement from experienced educational consultants, click here

Securing Powerful Teacher Recommendations for The Knox School

Applicants must submit recommendation letters from current math and English teachers and the principal or counselor. The forms can be found on The Knox’s application portal and must be submitted online via the same platform.

How to get strong recommendation letters for the Knox School

Teacher recommendations are crucial for admission since they give a more thorough evaluation of your child’s character, personality, and academic aptitude. Because they deal with your child on a daily basis and can confirm your child’s academic success, they can make professional and unbiased observations. Building strong relationships with teachers is crucial if you want them to be able to provide strong recommendations that support other application materials when the time comes for them to do so.

Knox School Application Transcript: Submission Guidelines 

Applicants must submit transcripts from both the previous academic year and the first semester of the current one. Once submitted, the school will handle the process directly.

How to Improve Grades for The Knox School Application 

The transcript will demonstrate your child’s readiness to handle The Knox School’s rigorous curriculum. But what if your child’s grades aren’t all that outstanding? Start private school admissions consulting early! Our tutors and academic coaches will work with your child to improve grades and achieve scores that meet the requirements. We provide online or in-person tutoring for a variety of courses as well as diagnostic testing. However, because we are aware that boosting GPA won’t guarantee success, we provide academic coaching that teaches executive function skills as a more holistic strategy.

Writing a Standout Personal Statement for The Knox School

There are questions that an applicant has to answer within a limited character count. The questions delve into your child’s personality, skills, and interests, as well as their expectations of The Knox School. The questions might seem simple and easy to answer, but admissions officers are looking at certain characteristics and values in your child that will determine if they are a good fit at The Knox School. 

How to Create a Winning Knox School Personal Statement

Our private school admissions consultants can guide your child and give advice on how to best answer the questions truthfully. Our years of experience working with families applying to The Knox School have allowed us to understand what they are looking for in applicants. From your child’s personal circumstances, we can identify what traits and characteristics will interest the admissions team and be considered for admission. Here are some useful tips on how to write a compelling personal statement.

Understanding SSAT/ISEE Requirements for Knox School Admission

Applications from Grades 5-11 must include ISEE or SSAT results. Admissions personnel can better assess each applicant’s academic preparedness and likelihood of succeeding in the school’s demanding environment with the use of these exams.

Effective Strategies for Knox School Standardized Test Preparation

We are aware that getting ready for standardized tests can be somewhat stressful, but we can be of assistance. We will help your child through customized test preparation strategies based on our years of expertise working with families applying to The Knox School. Our objective is to alleviate the burden of test preparation and ensure that your child is prepared to present their best self on test day. Aside from SSAT prep and ISEE prep, we offer individualized SSAT practice tests and ISEE practice tests to make sure your child submits impressive scores. 

Preparing for Your Knox School Admissions Interview: Tips and Advice

The admissions interview is a required and meaningful component of The Knox School’s application process. Every applicant must participate in an interview, which can be conducted either in person on campus or virtually, depending on the family’s preference and location. This step typically follows the submission of the application, although families may coordinate with the admissions office to schedule it earlier as needed.

Mastering Your Knox School Admissions Interview: What to Expect and How to Shine

Your child will be assessed and evaluated based on how they conduct themselves on those occasions. With nearly 20 years of experience in the industry and helping numerous families get into The Knox School, we know what they are looking for. With informed interview preparation, our admissions consultants will introduce your child to common interview questions and teach them how to answer them truthfully while adhering to their values. 

Visiting The Knox School: Campus Tours, Open Houses, and Virtual Events

The Knox School offers a range of opportunities for prospective families to learn more about its programs and community through campus tours, open houses, and virtual information sessions.

Scheduling a Personalized Campus Tour at The Knox School

The Knox School offers personalized campus tours by appointment throughout the year. These guided visits provide families with an inside look at classrooms, dormitories, arts and athletic facilities, and the school’s scenic waterfront. During the tour, visitors also have the chance to meet faculty and get a feel for the daily student experience. Tours can be scheduled by contacting the Admissions Office directly.

Attending Knox School Open Houses: What to Expect

Seasonal open houses are hosted during the admissions cycle to welcome prospective families to campus. These events typically feature presentations from school leadership and faculty, student-led panels, and guided tours that offer a comprehensive look at academic programs, extracurricular activities, and community life at Knox.

Participating in Knox School Virtual Information Sessions Online

For families unable to visit in person, The Knox School provides virtual information sessions hosted by members of the admissions team. These online events often include a virtual campus overview, highlights of the school’s curriculum and programs, and live Q&A segments to help families better understand the admissions process and what makes Knox unique.

What is Student Life Like at The Knox School?

Student life at The Knox School is vibrant, inclusive, and intentionally designed to support both personal growth and community engagement. With a small student body and a 6:1 student-to-teacher ratio, every student is known, valued, and encouraged to participate fully in the life of the school. The campus offers a beautiful setting on Long Island’s North Shore, where students enjoy a balance of academics, athletics, arts, and leadership opportunities. Boarding students live in welcoming dormitories with faculty supervision, fostering independence while building strong bonds with peers from across the country and around the world.

Beyond the classroom, Knox students are actively involved in a variety of clubs, community service projects, student government, and weekend activities. Whether it’s joining the drama club, playing on a sports team, attending off-campus trips, or participating in cultural celebrations, students have many avenues to explore their interests and connect with others. The school’s commitment to character education, leadership development, and global awareness creates a campus culture that is supportive, respectful, and empowering.

The Knox School Curriculum: College Preparatory Academics

The Knox School offers a college-preparatory curriculum that emphasizes academic rigor, critical thinking, and personal development across all grade levels. Students in grades 6 through 12 engage in a well-rounded course of study that includes core subjects such as English, mathematics, science, history, and world languages. Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses are available in multiple disciplines to challenge high-achieving students and prepare them for the demands of higher education. Small class sizes and a 6:1 student-to-teacher ratio ensure that each student receives individualized attention and meaningful academic support.

In addition to traditional academics, The Knox School places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, technology integration, and the development of 21st-century skills. The curriculum is enriched with robust offerings in visual and performing arts, including studio art, photography, theater, and music. STEM opportunities are available through advanced science courses and lab-based learning. The school also supports English language learners through dedicated ESL programs. With a focus on academic excellence and whole-person development, Knox equips students with the knowledge, confidence, and independence needed to succeed in college and beyond.

What Sports does The Knox School offer?

The Knox School offers a competitive and well-rounded athletics program that promotes teamwork, leadership, and physical wellness. Students can participate in a variety of sports across three seasons, which encourages students to develop discipline, resilience, and school spirit.

Regarding grade levels, The Knox School serves students from grades 6 through 12. While specific sports teams are typically organized at the Varsity and Junior Varsity levels, participation may vary based on student interest, skill level, and team requirements. It’s best to consult the school’s athletics department for details on eligibility and team placement.

What Kind of Arts and Music Programs are at Knox School?

The Knox School offers a rich and expansive Arts and Music program that nurtures creativity, expression, and technical skill across a variety of disciplines. Students have access to both visual and performing arts through a curriculum that is designed to inspire and develop artistic talents while fostering confidence and communication. The curriculum is structured to help students explore artistic disciplines deeply, while also encouraging interdisciplinary connections and personal interpretation.

Knox School Visual Arts Program: Drawing, Painting & Sculpture

The Knox School’s Visual Arts program offers courses in drawing, painting, mixed media, and sculpture. Classes are conducted in the Fine Art Loft, a studio featuring vaulted ceilings that provide ample natural light and an outdoor patio, creating an inspiring environment for artistic exploration. 

Step into the Spotlight: Performing Arts Opportunities at Knox

The Performing Arts program at Knox provides students with opportunities to engage in plays, musicals, and concerts. Specialized classes are available in acting, music, stagecraft, playmaking, and digital film. The program aims to cultivate students’ love of performing and help them develop their unique voices by creating work that captivates the community. 

Knox School Music Program: Choir, Instruments & Music Theory

Within the Performing Arts offerings, Knox students can participate in music-related activities, including choir and instrumental ensembles. The curriculum includes classes that focus on music performance and theory, allowing students to develop their musical talents and understanding.

Lights, Camera, Action: Theatre Studies at Knox Academy

The Theatre program is an integral part of the Performing Arts at Knox, with students having the opportunity to perform in plays and musicals. Classes in acting and stagecraft provide a comprehensive understanding of theatrical production, from performance techniques to behind-the-scenes technical skills.

These programs reflect The Knox School’s commitment to fostering creativity and artistic expression among its students.​

What Clubs and Organizations Can Students Join at The Knox School?

The Knox School offers a variety of clubs and organizations that cater to diverse student interests, promoting leadership, creativity, and community engagement. Some of the most popular clubs and organizations include:

These organizations provide students with opportunities to develop new skills, pursue their passions, and contribute positively to the school community.

Who are some famous Knox School Alumni?

The Knox School in St. James, New York, has a distinguished list of alumni who have excelled in various fields. Notable alumni include:

  • Millie Chan: Product Designer, Business Owner, and CEO. 
  • Dr. Matthew Rosen: A Physicist known for his contributions to medical imaging and quantum computing. 
  • Miles Chamley-Watson: U.S. Olympian in Fencing (2012, 2016) and three-time First Team All-American
  • Dr. Benjamin Cilento: Renowned Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. 
  • Phebe T. Phillips Byrne: Equestrian; winner of National Horse of the Year in 1990. 
  • Tim Eriksen: Ethnomusicologist, singer, and songwriter known for his contributions to traditional American music. 
  • Lisa Gay Hamilton: Acclaimed Broadway, film, and television actress.
  • Chris Strompolos: Film producer recognized for his work in independent cinema. 
  • Jim Liu: U.S. Junior Golf Champion in 2010.

These individuals exemplify the diverse talents and achievements of The Knox School’s alumni community.

Related Articles 

The Knox School Admissions: Key Deadlines, Events, and How to Apply Successfully
Discover the Equestrian Program at The Knox School: Ride and Learn on Campus

Did You Know?

The Knox School has its own equestrian center right on campus where students can ride and care for horses.

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