Why the Admissions Process Starts Early—and How It Helps Your Family

One question we often hear from families is: “Why does the independent school admissions process start so early?”

If you're just beginning to explore schools, it might be surprising to learn that applications often open nearly a year before your child would start. As parents, we know how hard it can be to plan next week—let alone next fall! But there are good reasons for this early timeline, and it’s designed to support both families and schools.

Here’s why Westside—and other independent schools—get started early:

Spots Are Limited
Independent schools typically have just a few openings per grade, and interest can be high. Starting early gives families time to get to know the school, and it gives us time to get to know you. It’s all about finding the right fit—for your child and for our community.

It’s a Thoughtful Process
Admissions isn’t just a form and a deadline. At Westside, we take a holistic approach that includes parent conversations, student visits, teacher recommendations, and time to truly understand your family’s hopes for your child. Beginning early allows everyone to move through the process with care, not stress.

Time to Plan Financially
Whether you’re exploring tuition assistance or simply budgeting ahead, financial planning takes time. An early start gives families space to understand their options and feel confident about the decision.

Life Gets Busy
We know how packed your calendar is. Tours, interviews, and application steps are much more manageable when you don’t have to squeeze them in at the last minute. Starting early lets you move at a thoughtful pace—and enjoy the process.

Building a Connected Community
At Westside, we’re intentional about building classrooms that reflect a wide range of backgrounds, strengths, and perspectives. An early timeline helps us shape balanced classes where every child can thrive.

In Short?
Starting early might feel surprising at first—but it gives you time to explore, ask questions, and find the school that feels just right for your child. And we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Find out more about applying to Westside

We’d love to connect. Reach out to our admissions team at admissions@westsideschool.org to start a conversation.