ADMISSIONS

An open house includes a campus tour and meetings with teachers, staff, and students. Hosting open houses is a typical practice among schools.

• Why it matters

  A school visit offers a firsthand look at the environment, culture, and daily life of the school. It provides an opportunity to ask questions, observe interactions, and verify your expectations directly. It's a vital part of an informed choice.

See the deadline distribution for all other schools we cover below.

• Application deadline by enrollment type(s)

  Month	Alderwood Academy	Other schools
  	Rolling admissions	Fixed deadline	Rolling admissions
  September	Day admissions	0%	88% of all other schools have rolling admissions
  October		Less than 1%
  November		2%
  December		7%
  January		1%
  February		2%
  March		2%
  April		1%
  May		1%
  June		Less than 1%
  July		0%
  August		1%

• Why it matters

  The admissions timeline helps you plan and prepare for key milestones, including school visits, application submission, and acceptance notifications.

Acceptance rate at Alderwood Academy is typical of the schools we cover.

• What Alderwood Academy says it looks for in students

  At Alderwood Academy, we welcome students who are curious, kind, open-hearted, and ready to grow—not just academically, but emotionally and socially. We are looking for children who will thrive in a warm, nurturing environment where relationships, respect, and self-awareness are central to the learning experience.
  
  An ideal student is not defined by test scores or outward achievements, but by their willingness to explore, to try, and to connect. They should be receptive to hands-on learning, collaborative work, and creative expression. A readiness to communicate, listen, and participate in a community of care is essential.
  
  We also look for families who share our values—who believe in whole-child education, emotional safety, and the importance of nurturing both competence and character. Students who thrive at Alderwood are those who feel seen, supported, and inspired—and who, in turn, help create a respectful and joyful learning environment for others.

• Why it matters

  A school's acceptance rate gives you an indication of how competitive the admissions process is. Understanding this can help you set expectations and make strategic decisions about where to apply. Please note that the acceptance rates provided here are approximate.

See grade-by-grade admissions requirements at Alderwood Academy and how they compare with other schools.

• Breakdown by grade

  Grade	% of schools requiring
  		JK	Interview: 35%, Exam: 4%
  SK	Interview: 35%, Exam: 5%
  K	Interview: 41%, Exam: 9%
  Gr. 1	Interview: 51%, Exam: 16%, Essay: 2%
  Gr. 2	Interview: 52%, Exam: 19%, Essay: 2%
  Gr. 3	Interview: 53%, SSAT: 1%, Exam: 21%, Essay: 2%
  Gr. 4	Interview: 55%, SSAT: 1%, Exam: 23%, Essay: 3%
  Gr. 5	Interview: 57%, SSAT: 1%, Exam: 25%, Essay: 5%
  Gr. 6	Interview: 60%, SSAT: 2%, Exam: 26%, Essay: 7%
  Gr. 7	Interview: 63%, SSAT: 2%, Exam: 28%, Essay: 10%
  Gr. 8	Interview: 64%, SSAT: 2%, Exam: 28%, Essay: 10%

• What Alderwood Academy says about the application process

  Application fee: N/A

  Registration fee: N/A

  Deposit: $1,200

  
  Description:

  At Alderwood Academy, our application process is warm, thoughtful, and designed to ensure a strong alignment between the family and the values of our school.

  The process begins with an initial inquiry or tour, where families are invited to visit the school, meet our staff, and experience our learning environment firsthand. Following the visit, families may submit an application form along with a student profile, previous school records (if applicable), and a non-refundable application fee.

  An interview with the parents and child is then scheduled to understand the child’s learning style, personality, and needs. This is followed by an observation session or trial day, especially for Kindergarten and early elementary applicants.

  Our goal is to welcome families who resonate with our mission of holistic, value-based education. Once accepted, families receive a welcome package and orientation to begin a meaningful, connected school journey.

• Why it matters

  Understanding admission requirements is crucial as you assess your fit with a school and the likelihood of acceptance. These requirements often reflect the school's educational priorities.