Admissions

The Character Skills Snapshot at Chadwick: What It Is and How to Prepare

November 11, 2026 2 min read

Quick Answer for Busy Parents

Chadwick School asks every Grades 7–12 applicant to take the Character Skills Snapshot, an at-home assessment that takes about half an hour. Chadwick says grades and test scores tell only part of the story, and the Snapshot helps it explore how its community might help your child grow and thrive.

Why Chadwick Uses the Snapshot

Chadwick takes a holistic view of each applicant and says character and integrity are significant in its decisions. Its Core Values are respect, responsibility, fairness, compassion, and honesty. The Snapshot gives the admissions committee another window into your child, alongside the interview, recommendations, and school record.

What the Snapshot Measures

The Character Skills Snapshot, developed by the Enrollment Management Association, looks at seven character skills:

Skill What It Reflects
Initiative Taking action without being told
Intellectual engagement Curiosity and love of learning
Open-mindedness Considering other viewpoints
Resilience Bouncing back from setbacks
Self-control Managing impulses and attention
Social awareness Understanding others’ feelings
Teamwork Working well with others

Want Help Preparing for Chadwick?

We help families understand every part of the application, from the Snapshot to the interview.

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How to Approach It

  • Choose a quiet half hour when your child is rested.
  • Encourage honest answers; there’s no single “right” profile.
  • Talk afterward about the skills your child is proud of, which can help in the interview.
  • Remember the Snapshot is one part of a holistic review.

Character, Front and Center

Chadwick’s process rewards students whose values come through clearly. We help families prepare thoughtfully and authentically.

Let’s Talk About Chadwick

Talk with an advisor about the Snapshot, interview, and January 4 deadline.

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Related Articles

How to Get Into Chadwick School: A South Bay Family’s Roadmap to Admission
Chadwick and Chadwick International: One School, Two Countries

Frequently Asked Questions

Who takes the Character Skills Snapshot at Chadwick?
Applicants to Grades 7–12.
How long does the Snapshot take?
About half an hour, taken at home.
Is the Snapshot a pass-fail test?
No. It’s one part of Chadwick’s holistic review, giving another perspective on how a student might grow in its community.
Can my child prepare for the Snapshot?
The best preparation is honesty and a calm setting; reflecting on character strengths can also help in the interview.

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