ADMISSIONS

Outside of school events, like open houses, you can schedule a tour of the school (visit website). If arranged on a regular school day, a tour may provide a realistic view of school life.

• 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	Saplings Nature 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) PS, K and 1 (for the same grades offered at Saplings Nature School).

• Breakdown by grade

  Entry grade	Number of openings available: Day
  	Saplings Nature School	Average of all other schools
  Preschool	-	24
  K	10 - 15	17
  Gr. 1	1 - 5	10
  Gr. 2	1 - 8	8
  Gr. 3	1 - 10	8
  Gr. 4	1 - 5	9
  Gr. 5	1 - 5	9

• 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.

See data for other schools below.

• Breakdown by grade

  Grade	Acceptance rate: Day
  	Saplings Nature School	Average of all other schools
  Preschool	-	39%
  K	50%	22%
  Gr. 1	50%	40%
  Gr. 2	100%	37%
  Gr. 3	100%	36%
  Gr. 4	100%	36%
  Gr. 5	100%	36%

• What Saplings Nature School says it looks for in students

  At Saplings Nature School, we welcome children who are curious, imaginative, and eager to learn through exploration, play, and connection with the natural world. We are looking for students who are open to being outdoors in all seasons, who enjoy asking questions, solving problems, and engaging in collaborative experiences. Children who thrive here are often independent thinkers, creative storytellers, deep observers, and joyful movers. They may not fit neatly into traditional classroom settings but shine when given time, space, and trust to follow their interests. We value children who bring their full selves—big emotions, bold ideas, and quiet wonder—and are supported by families who believe in unhurried childhoods, strong relationships, and learning that goes beyond academics. We are looking for students who are ready to grow not just in knowledge, but in confidence, empathy, and connection—to themselves, others, and the land.

• 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 Saplings Nature School and how they compare with other schools.

• Breakdown by grade

  Grade	% of schools requiring
  		Preschool	Interview: 18%
  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%

• What Saplings Nature School says about the application process

  Application fee: $0

  Registration fee: $0

  Deposit: $500

  
  Description:

  Families begin the application process by completing an initial application form through Lillio. Once we receive your application, we will invite you to attend one or more Stay & Play events. These visits give families and children an opportunity to experience our environment and allow us to get to know each other in a relaxed, natural setting.

  Following the Stay & Play, if we feel the program is a good fit and there is available space, we will offer your child a spot. To confirm enrollment, families must submit a non-refundable deposit of $500, which will be applied toward the year’s tuition.

  Please note that spaces are limited, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We encourage families to apply early and to ensure alignment with our values of outdoor, play-based, child-led learning.

• 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.