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Demystifying High School Admissions

Shane Guilbert Neal, a man wearin glasses, a hat, and a puffer vest

12 Things Most Parents Don’t Know

With the guidance of Shane Guilbert-Neal, Upper School Director at Foothill Country Day School, we’ve pulled together a list of things many parents are surprised to learn about high school admissions. Each year, Guilbert-Neal works with about 40 students to help them find and apply to their best-fit high school. His track record is impressive—last year’s graduating class was admitted to 23 different high schools across the country.

So what do these families know that you might not?

1. There’s more than one type of high school—and one will fit your child.

Most parents don’t realize just how many kinds of schools are out there. Beyond your local public high school—which may very well be an excellent option—there’s a wide array to explore:

  • Boarding and day schools (and some with both)
  • Single-gender schools (all boys or all girls)
  • Public charter and magnet schools
  • Online and hybrid program schools
  • Faith-based schools: parochial (Catholic, Lutheran, Episcopal), Christian, Jewish, Muslim and more
  • Heritage schools: tribal, Native Hawaiian, language-immersion, and cultural schools
  • Specialized programs: International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced Placement (AP), military, performing arts, equestrian, special needs, even e-sports!

The best way to begin is with an open mind. Admission fairs—often held each fall—are a great opportunity to learn more. For example, Foothill Country Day School in Claremont hosts a fair with nearly 50 schools from across the country.

2. Unless you choose your local public school, there will be an application process.

Private school applications typically have deadlines in January or February of your child’s 8th-grade year, which means families need to start planning early. At Foothill Country Day School, students begin thinking about high school options as early as 6th grade, with parents attending events and meetings where faculty provide customized guidance.

3. Many private schools welcome students with learning differences.

Don’t assume that selective schools won’t accept students with ADHD, dyslexia, or other forms of neurodiversity. Quite the opposite—there are many excellent schools specifically designed to serve these learners.

4. Financial aid isn’t just for low-income families.

Private schools often have millions of dollars in financial aid to distribute each year, and assistance is available to families across income levels. Don’t hesitate to ask about it.

5. The right high school program can save you money in college.

Programs like IB (International Baccalaureate), AP (Advanced Placement), and dual enrollment (taking college courses for both high school and college credit) can help students graduate with a semester—or even a year—of college already completed. Strong academic preparation from a well-chosen high school can also allow students to test out of classes through CLEP exams. The savings can be substantial.

6. Admissions tests matter—and preparation helps.

Though not the SAT, private school entrance exams like the SSAT, ISEE, and HSPT play an important role. Some schools use them for admissions; others for placement. Either way, your child should be familiar with the test format. Practice tests and prep courses can make a difference.

7. Diversity means more than you might think.

When schools talk about diversity, they’re not just talking about race. Many seek a mix of backgrounds—geographic, cultural, religious, and socioeconomic. That might mean a school far from your neighborhood is looking for students just like your child.

8. “Checking boxes” backfires.

Admissions officers can spot when a student has been overloaded with activities simply to look “well-rounded.” Too often, those applications look identical, and admissions officers are left with the impression that parents are aggressively pushing their child. Instead, encourage your child to pursue genuine passions. Authentic depth is more compelling than a laundry list.

9. Interview skills count.

Schools want students who can comfortably engage in conversation with adults—not overly rehearsed, robotic answers. Encourage your child to practice speaking in full sentences. Activities like debate, theater, and public speaking naturally build these skills.

10. Authenticity is everything.

Most independent schools have strong honor codes. They value students who are honest, real, and authentic. Encourage your child to present their truest self, and be clear about what your family values and needs. The best advice: be the best version of yourself.

11. There’s no such thing as the “best” high school.

Rankings like U.S. News & World Report are only one lens—and an imperfect one. Colleges are aware of this. What matters most is finding the right fit for your child: a place where they can thrive academically, socially, and personally.

12. Let your child lead (with your guidance).

Yes, they’re only 12 or 13, and yes, you’ve been in the driver’s seat until now. But choosing a high school is one of the first big life decisions your child will make. Your role is to introduce options, help set reasonable expectations (including financial ones), and then step back so your child can take the lead.

Final Thought

The high school admissions process can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With an open mind, early preparation, and a focus on your child’s unique strengths, you’ll find a school that’s not just “good”—but the right fit.