Understanding Drew School’s Admissions Timeline: Key Dates and Deadlines

Applying to Drew School requires careful planning, and understanding the admissions timeline can make all the difference. With multiple deadlines to track—including application submissions, interviews, and teacher recommendations—staying organized is key to maximizing your chances of acceptance.
We’ll break down Drew School’s admissions process by covering key dates and deadlines so you know exactly what to expect.
When to Start Preparing for the Application Process
Ideally, you should start preparing for Drew School admissions at least a year in advance. Here’s a rough timeline to guide you:
Spring & Summer (Before 8th Grade) | Research Drew, attend virtual info sessions and explore extracurricular activities. |
Early Fall (8th Grade) | Begin drafting your personal statement and ask teachers for recommendations. |
Late Fall & Early Winter | Submit your application, prepare for interviews, and complete any required testing. |
Early Spring | Await admissions decisions and prepare for potential enrollment. |
By starting early, you avoid last-minute stress and ensure that each component of your application is strong.
Key Deadlines for Drew School Admissions
Application Opening Date and Submission Deadline
Drew School usually opens applications in early fall (September), with a final submission deadline in early January.
- Application opens: September
- Final submission deadline: Early January
It’s highly recommended that you complete your application well before the deadline to allow time for unexpected issues, such as teacher delays in sending recommendations.
When Are Interviews Conducted?
Drew School conducts student interviews between December and February. Once your application is submitted, you’ll be contacted to schedule an interview.
- Interview period: December – February
The interview is a crucial part of the admissions process, so prepare by reviewing common questions and practicing how to articulate your strengths and interests.
Teacher Recommendation and Transcript Submission Deadlines
Drew requires recommendations from your English and math teachers, as well as transcripts from your current and previous school years.
- Recommendation & transcript deadline: Mid-January
To avoid delays, request recommendations at least a month in advance and follow up with teachers to ensure they’ve submitted them on time.
Important Steps in the Drew School Admissions Process
When to Schedule Campus Tours and Open House Events
Attending an open house or campus tour is one of the best ways to determine if Drew is the right fit for you.
- Open house events: Usually in October and November
- Campus tours: Available throughout the fall and early winter
These events provide a firsthand look at Drew’s academic environment, student culture, and facilities, helping you craft a more personalized application.
How Long Does It Take to Receive an Admissions Decision?
Admissions decisions are generally released in early to mid-March.
- Decision notification date: Early March
Students who receive an acceptance letter will have a few weeks to review financial aid offers, attend admitted student events, and make their final decision.
What Happens After Acceptance?
Enrollment Deposit and Commitment Deadline
To secure your spot at Drew, you’ll need to submit an enrollment deposit by the school’s commitment deadline.
- Enrollment deposit deadline: Early April
If you’re applying for financial aid, be sure to review your award package carefully before making your final decision.
Orientation and Transition Programs for New Students
Drew offers orientation programs to help new students transition smoothly into the school community.
- New student orientation: Late spring or summer before the school year starts
These programs allow incoming students to meet their classmates, get familiar with campus, and learn more about Drew’s academic expectations.
What to Do If You Miss a Deadline
If you miss an important deadline, contact Drew School’s admissions office immediately. In some cases, late applications may be considered on a rolling basis, but this is not guaranteed.
Even if you submit late, demonstrate strong interest by attending events and following up with the admissions team.
By knowing key deadlines, preparing early, and putting together a thoughtful, well-rounded application, you can maximize your chances of acceptance, and you’ll be well on your way to a successful application process at Drew School.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- When should I start preparing for Drew School admissions?
You should start preparing for Drew School admissions at least a year before you apply to avoid last-minute stress. In spring and summer before 8th grade, begin researching the school, attending open houses, and exploring extracurricular activities. In early fall, start working on your personal statement and ask teachers for recommendations. By late fall and early winter, submit your application, prepare for interviews, and complete any required testing. Admissions decisions are released in early March, and if you’re accepted, you must confirm enrollment by early April. Preparing early helps you create a strong application and increases your chances of getting in. Don’t wait until the last minute!
- What is the deadline to submit my Drew School application?
Drew School’s application process starts in September, with the final deadline in early January. To avoid last-minute issues, it’s best to submit your application early. In addition to the main application, teacher recommendations and transcripts must be submitted by mid-January, so ask your teachers in advance. Interviews are an important part of the admissions process and are scheduled between December and February. After applying, be prepared to schedule your interview quickly. Admissions decisions are released in early March, and if accepted, you must confirm your enrollment by early April. To improve your chances, stay organized, meet all deadlines, and double-check that all required documents are submitted on time.
- Do I need to take the SSAT or ISEE for Drew School admissions?
No, Drew School has a test-blind admissions policy, meaning you do not need to submit SSAT or ISEE scores, and they will not be considered in the admissions process. This policy ensures that applicants are evaluated based on academic records, personal statements, interviews, and teacher recommendations rather than standardized test scores. If you were planning to submit scores, don’t worry—focus on making other parts of your application strong instead. Write a compelling essay, highlight your achievements, and prepare for your interview. Drew values well-rounded students who show creativity, leadership, and academic curiosity. Without test scores, your passion, dedication, and unique experiences will play a bigger role in your application.
- When will I know if I got accepted to Drew School?
Drew School sends out admissions decisions in early March. If you get accepted, you’ll have a few weeks to review financial aid offers, attend admitted student events, and make your final decision. To secure your spot, you need to submit an enrollment deposit by early April. Drew also has orientation programs in late spring or summer to help new students adjust. If you’re put on the waitlist, stay in touch with the admissions office and show continued interest. If you miss the deadline to apply, reach out to the school to see if they’re still accepting applications. Staying organized and meeting deadlines will give you the best chance of getting in!