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	Pear Tree School	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.

The highest number of openings across all other schools we cover include Grade(s) K, 1 and 7 (for the same grades offered at Pear Tree School).

• Breakdown by grade

  Entry grade	Number of openings available: Day
  	Pear Tree School	Average of all other schools
  K	16 - 32	17
  Gr. 1	16	10
  Gr. 2	4 - 5	8
  Gr. 3	5 - 8	8
  Gr. 4	1 - 3	9
  Gr. 5	8 - 12	9
  Gr. 6	1 - 8	9
  Gr. 7	1 - 8	16
  Gr. 8	8 - 16	10

• Why it matters

  Popular entry grades may offer more opportunities for peer integration and more extensive orientation programs at the school. Applying to these grades may increase the chances of admission and support a smoother social and academic transition for the student.

Admissions at Pear Tree School is more competitive than the majority of the schools we cover.

• Breakdown by grade

  Grade	Acceptance rate: Day
  	Pear Tree School	Average of all other schools
  K	60%	22%
  Gr. 1	60%	40%
  Gr. 2	40%	37%
  Gr. 3	40%	36%
  Gr. 4	40%	36%
  Gr. 5	50%	36%
  Gr. 6	50%	36%
  Gr. 7	50%	38%
  Gr. 8	80%	35%

• What Pear Tree School says it looks for in students

  At Pear Tree School, we seek students who not only embody curiosity, adaptability, collaboration, creativity, responsibility, and openness to growth but also deeply value being positive, kind, welcoming, encouraging, and inclusive. We view each class not just as a group of students but as a cohesive cohort where each member significantly impacts the class dynamics and the experiences of others:
  
  1. Curiosity and a Love for Learning
  We look for students who are naturally curious about the world around them. They should have a genuine enthusiasm for exploring new ideas, asking questions, and engaging deeply with the learning material. This innate desire to learn drives their engagement with our theme and project-based curriculum, fostering a lifelong love for education.
  
  2. Adaptability and Resilience
  Success at Pear Tree School requires students to be adaptable and resilient. Our innovative approach to education—The Pear Tree Method—encourages students to navigate through interdisciplinary themes, which differs from traditional subject-based learning. Students who thrive are those who adapt to new challenges with a positive attitude and view setbacks as opportunities for growth.
  
  3. Collaboration and Communication
  Our school places a strong emphasis on developing 21st-century skills, among which collaboration and communication are key. We seek students who are willing to work cooperatively in diverse groups, share ideas respectfully, and listen to the perspectives of others. Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, enable students to contribute meaningfully to group projects and discussions.
  
  4. Creativity and Problem-Solving
  Pear Tree School values creativity and the ability to think outside the box. Students who are successful in our environment often approach problems with innovative thinking and are not afraid to try unconventional solutions. They take joy in the creative process, whether in academic projects, arts, or extracurricular activities.
  
  5. Responsibility and Ethical Awareness
  We look for students who demonstrate a sense of responsibility towards their learning, their peers, and the wider community. An awareness of ethical considerations and a commitment to positive social impact align with our focus on global citizenship and environmental stewardship. Students who are mindful of their actions and their impact on the world will find a nurturing home at Pear Tree School.
  
  6. Openness to Growth and Feedback
  A successful student at Pear Tree School is one who is open to personal and academic growth. They should see feedback as a valuable tool for improvement and be committed to self-reflection and continuous learning. Our educational approach supports students in developing a growth mindset, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
  
  7. Positivity and Kindness
  Our ideal student radiates positivity and kindness in every interaction within the school community. They approach learning and collaboration with a positive outlook, contributing to a supportive and uplifting classroom environment. Kindness, both in actions and words, is essential, as it fosters a sense of safety and belonging for all students.
  
  8. Welcoming and Encouraging
  We value students who are welcoming to everyone, regardless of background or ability. A student who takes the initiative to include and encourage others, especially those who may feel marginalized or unsure, plays a critical role in building a cohesive and dynamic cohort. This welcoming nature ensures that every student feels valued and supported in their educational journey.
  
  9. Inclusivity and Support
  Inclusivity is at the heart of Pear Tree School’s ethos. We look for students who actively support and advocate for an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated, and every voice is heard. They understand that each member of the community brings unique perspectives and strengths, and they actively contribute to creating a space where everyone can thrive.
  
  Admission Process
  In our admissions process, we assess not only the individual qualities of prospective students but also their potential to contribute to the positive, inclusive culture of their cohort. Through interviews, portfolio submissions, and interactions, we encourage families to share examples of how their child embodies these values of positivity, kindness, encouragement, and inclusivity. Our aim is to assemble cohorts where each student not only succeeds academically but also enhances the social and emotional well-being of their peers, creating a nurturing and dynamic learning environment.
  
  At Pear Tree School, we believe that a cohesive cohort enriched by diverse, supportive, and engaged students is fundamental to our holistic, forward-thinking educational approach. We are committed to fostering an environment where every student is empowered to make a positive impact, supporting not just their own growth but also that of their peers and the broader school community.

• 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 Pear Tree School and how they compare with other schools.

• Breakdown by grade

  Grade	Required by Pear Tree School					% of schools requiring
  	Interview	SSAT	SSAT (out of province)	Entrance exam	Entrance essay
  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 Pear Tree School says about the application process

  Application fee: $330

  Registration fee: $3,850

  Deposit: 33%

  
  Description:

  Visit our Website for up-to-date information about our Admissions process [link]:

  1. Apply online with a nonrefundable fee of $300 + GST

  • Pear Tree School admits students on a rolling basis (subject to spaces available)
  • Applicants for our full-day Kindergarten program must be at least 5 years old on December 31st of the year of entry to Pear Tree School.
     

  2. Submit required documents:

  • For Kindergarten applicants: a reference letter from a preschool, daycare, or caregiver
  • For Grade 1 - 8 applicants: a copy of most recent report card
  • Proof of your child's citizenship or permanent residence (i.e. birth certificate, passport, PR card)
  • A copy of your child's CareCard (if applicable) 
     

  3. Student assessment and observation

  • Student assessment and observation will take place within one month of application.
     

  4. Family interviews

  • Family interviews will take place will take place within one month of application.
  • Every student and family will have an interview with Pear Tree's directors
  • Placement decisions will be announced within one month of application.

• 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.