BDS Home home   contact   directions   site map   careers
Admissions
Faculty
Friday Notice
Teacher Training
Sports Schedule
Spotlight
Curriculum
What's New
Summer Program
Calendar
Alumni Our Community
Message from the Head
Diversity
BDS at a Glance
Development


FAQs
What kind of child succeeds at Belmont Day School?
A child with strong cognitive skills, a love of learning, a deep curiosity, and thoughtfulness towards others will flourish at Belmont Day School. The school is interested in forming a partnership with parents to nurture the intellectual, artistic, social, emotional, and athletic qualities in all students.
How will my child be evaluated?
Applicants for grades pre-k, k, and 1 are invited to spend an hour working in small groups with several of our teachers and the director of admissions. During this time the children sing, play, and engage in creative activities. The visit is designed to be similar to a typical primary school experience. It also gives the admissions team a chance to observe the children at work and play.
Applicants for grades 2 - 8 are invited to spend an abbreviated day with a class of children at their current grade level. They participate in all activities as well as meet with the reading and math teachers. We do not administer standardized tests during their visits. Fifth through eighth-grade applicants are required to submit the results of an ISEE or ERB.
Information collected from the child's visit is added to the school report, test results (where relevant), and application materials. The admissions committee balances all of this information when making decisions.
Our teachers are very experienced in working with children. We understand that some children have difficulty separating or are shy, and we plan our visits to be welcoming and enjoyable.
Do you require references?
Belmont Day School does not require references from close friends or business associates. It is important to us to get to know you and your child personally. Your child's teacher is a valuable resource in giving us a more complete picture of him or her as a learner and of your role as active parents.
What happens at the parent interview?
The parent interview is an opportunity for the school and parents to become acquainted. Many times parents are brimming with questions both large and small. Members of the admissions committee are happy to answer them so that your application is an informed one. The interview is also a time for us to learn more about your child and your goals for him or her.
When will we hear about the school's decision?
Like most independent schools in the area, we mail our decisions on March 10. You will receive a letter telling you whether or not we have a place for your child. You have until April 10 to respond.
What does it mean to be placed on the waitlist?
We frequently have many more children apply to our school than we have places. We keep a small, active waitlist of qualified candidates. If you are offered a place on the waitlist, it is very important that you return the waitlist agreement card promptly.

- back to top -

 


A Message from Our Admissions Office
Admissions Process
Admissions Timeline
Financial Aid
FAQs
Next Schools
Request Information