admission policy
Fall 2020
Standardized Testing Update
Watkinson School has always held that a single test does not define or predict a student’s ability to succeed in our program. While standardized testing can be helpful in determining where a student stands at a given point in time, we have sought to provide a flexible and informed application process for prospective students and families, and historically have waived the requirement for testing in certain situations.
Beginning this fall 2020, Watkinson School will NOT require standardized tests for admission, with the only exception being International students who must prove a certain level of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS) as part of their application. All other tests will be optional.
FAQs
We will gladly accept the scores of these tests and will include in your file for admission. This information is one piece of the larger puzzle in determining acceptance, and can also help in placement for classes when an accepted student enrolls.
Many students have a record of standardized testing (SBAC, Iowa, etc.) and we will be happy to review those results as part of a student’s application file.
Other students have individualized testing (WISC, IQ, neuropsychological testing and/or other batteries of tests) which can help give a very detailed look at a child’s learning profile, aptitude and level of achievement, and may also indicate specific learning issues.
These types of tests are always welcome and can help us determine if Watkinson could be a proper fit for your student in our college-prep program and perhaps necessitate supplemental help in our Learning Skills Program (LSP)
We also invite applicants to submit a piece of graded work (essay, project, etc) along with rubric/feedback from the teacher, from this current school year.
Any/all of the three above optional items will provide us with further insight into who the applicant is as a learner. Whether or not you choose to include these materials will not impact the admission decision.
If you have further questions about testing or anything else admission-related, please contact one of our admission officers and/or schedule an appointment to discuss your child in greater detail.
Thanks for your interest and we look forward to talking with you soon.
