Help Your Child Ace the U.S. Private School Writing Sample
For families in Singapore applying to elite U.S. private schools, the Proctored Writing Sample (PWS) can feel like a wild card. It’s timed, unpolished, and designed to show what your child can do in real time without help. But with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be intimidating.
Cardinal Education specializes in helping international students prepare for every step of the U.S. private school admissions process. Our one-on-one online tutoring sessions help Singaporean students master the writing mechanics, structure, and timing required to perform their best during the Proctored Writing Sample or Online Essay.
What Is the Proctored Writing Sample for U.S. Private Schools?
The Proctored Writing Sample (sometimes called the Online Essay or Proctored Online Essay) is a 30-minute, supervised writing assessment administered by Test Innovators. Students receive a writing prompt and are expected to respond on the spot, with no coaching or assistance. The test is conducted online through a scheduled Zoom link.
The writing sample gives admissions officers a glimpse into your child’s writing skills. Unlike the personal statement or admission essay, which can be heavily edited and coached, the PWS is considered to be more reflective of a student’s critical thinking and English communication skills. It’s an important part of the application, especially for highly competitive private schools in the United States.
