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Admissions Events

How to: the Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) Assessment 

July 29, 2025 by mallorykilbreath Leave a Comment

Starting this year, BASIS Independent Bothell will align with many of our peer institutions by requiring Grades 2-9 applicants to submit their ISEE scores in place of our own BASIS Independent Schools exam.  Let’s go through our most frequently asked questions in understanding the ISEE and how to sign up! 

How can I sign my student up for the ISEE? 
There are a variety of in-person locations at which your student can take the ISEE. While testing fees, format, and the registration process may vary, the test itself remains uniform across all testing locations. To learn more about your ISEE testing options, please visit www.iseetest.org .  

Can my student take the ISEE at BASIS Independent Bothell? 
Yes! We will be proctoring the ISEE exam at our campus once in the Fall testing season and twice in the winter testing season. These testing dates will only be available to students who have applied to our school for the 2026-2027 school year. Once you apply, you will be able to see our unique “event code” on your Ravenna portal to sign up for our exam through the ISEE website.

How long does the ISEE take? 

See below for exam times. 

How often can my child take the ISEE? 
ERB allows your child to take the ISEE once per testing season, up to three times per school year. The seasons include Fall (August-November), Winter (December-March), and Spring/Summer (April-July). 

How many sets of scores can I submit to BASIS Independent Bothell?  
For Early Admissions (current siblings only), students can submit one set of scores from an ISEE taken between August 2025 and November 2025. For Regular Admissions, students can submit one set of scores from an ISEE taken between August 2025 and February 2026. No scores from before August 2025 will be accepted.  

Additionally, BASIS Independent Schools will only accept and consider one set of admission test scores per applicant. If we receive more than one set of test scores, we will only review the test scores from the chronologically earliest test date. 

Can students take the ISEE exam at a different location and share the results of the exam with BASIS Independent Bothell? 
Yes, if more convenient, students can take the exam at another testing site, and parents can share the results of their exam with us directly in their ERB Parent Portal.  

What forms of identification should my child bring to the test site on exam day? 
All students will be required to present their Verification Letter from ISEE to confirm the student’s name and ISEE ID Number, in addition to one of the approved forms of student identification below.  

Applicants to Grades 2 – 8 

• Birth Certificate 

• Social Security Card 

• School Report Card 

• Health Insurance Card 

Applicants to Grades 9 – 12 

• School ID 

• Passport or Green Card 

• State-Issued ID 

• Driver’s License or Learner’s Permit 

• Military Dependent ID 

• Visa 

• Global Entry Card 

• National Identity Card 

• Employment Authorization Card

How can my child prepare for the ISEE?  
ERB provides free online sample tests to help students familiarize themselves with the exam portal and question types. Sample tests can be found here 

How much does it cost to take the ISEE? 
The cost to take the ISEE varies based on both the testing method and your student’s grade level. Review full pricing details here. BASIS Independent Schools has no control or influence over the pricing of the ISEE. 

If you have any questions, email us at bothell.admissions@basisindependent.com or give us a call at 425-219-1116 

Helpful links for families: 

  • ISEE registration website: https://iseeonline.erblearn.org/  
  • ISEE preparation materials: https://www.erblearn.org/families/isee-preparation/  
  • ISEE instructions for testing: https://www.erblearn.org/families/isee-by-erb/instructions/in-person-paper/ 
  • ISEE score reporting information: https://www.erblearn.org/families/isee-by-erb/score-reports/ 

Filed Under: Academics, Admissions, Admissions Events, Admissions Process, Early Admissions

Fall 2026: The Admissions Process

July 29, 2025 by mirandamartinez Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Dublin, we seek applicants who have an interest in learning at an international level, a desire to make a contribution, a willingness to work hard, and an ambition to join a collaborative, supportive, and joyful community of peers, and Subject Expert Teachers. Be ready to participate in a culture where academics are encouraged, learning is celebrated, and students have fun! In order to both ensure student success and manage the popularity of our program, admissions is a selective process.

We are excited to know you are considering BASIS Independent Dublin, a Grades 6 – 12 private school opening in Fall 2026.

When applying, each family will work with members of the Admissions Team whose role is to welcome new families to our program and educate them on the benefits of a BASIS Independent Schools education. They are the guides through the application and admissions process. Read below to learn more about the admissions process. 

Step 1: Attend an Admissions Event (Optional)

Though not required, we strongly recommend you attend one of our Admissions Events to learn about our program before applying.

To view our upcoming Admissions Events, click here. 

Step 2: Submit an Online Application

You will submit an application with general student information. This will officially start the application process! In your application, you will be able to request Teacher Recommendation Forms, send the Transcript Request Form, and schedule your student’s Entrance Exam and Family Meeting. We also keep families up to date on their application through a dashboard in their account. 

Please note: Steps 3, 4, 5, and 6 can be done in any order but must be completed after the application is submitted and before the Deadline to Complete an Application.  

Step 3: Teacher Recommendations

Students applying will have their current teacher fill out the English Teacher Recommendation and the Math Teacher Recommendation forms.

You will be able to email the recommendations directly to your child’s current teacher. We do not accept recommendations from past teachers, only current ones. As listed in the instructions of the recommendations, we do not accept documents from parents. All recommendations must be sent from the teacher to the Admissions Office directly. 

We understand some schools do not allow their teachers to write recommendations for students that are leaving their program. In these circumstances, the requirement can be waived. 

Step 4: Transcripts

You will be able to send a Transcript Request Form in your application. This form requests your child’s current school to send us a current-year report, along with the last two years. As listed in the instructions of the request form, we do not accept documents from parents. All transcripts must be sent from the school to the Admissions Office directly. 

Step 5: Entrance Exam

Students will register for a BASIS Independent Schools Entrance Exam. These evaluations allow us to meet and interact with your child and determine if they are ready to join our program academically, socially, and emotionally in the grade they are applying for.

Step 6: Family Meeting

At least one parent or guardian is required to attend this 30-minute Family Meeting. Students applying are required to attend. For families applying for multiple students, only one family meeting is required to be scheduled. This meeting is a chance for us to meet your family, ask your student(s) questions about their specific interests in school, and get to know them a bit more in a one-on-one setting.

Once all supplementary materials are received and required meetings are attended, your application is complete! If you complete your application by the completion deadline, you will receive an admissions decision on the notification day. See below for more details. 

Early Admissions (Grades 6 – 8)

Deadline to submit an application: Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Deadline to complete an application: Friday, November 21, 2025
Notification date: Wednesday, December 3, 2025, by 5:00 PM PST
Commitment deadline: Friday, December 12, 2025, at 12:00 PM PST

Regular Admissions (Grades 6 – 10)

Deadline to submit an application: Wednesday, January 28, 2026
Deadline to complete an application: Friday, February 13, 2026
Notification date: Wednesday, March 18, 2026, by 5:00 PM PST
Commitment deadline: Friday, March 27, 2025, at 12:00 PM PST

Ready to Apply?
Click Here to Start Your Application

Filed Under: Admissions, Admissions Events, Admissions Process

Fall 2026: What to Expect at Your Family Meeting

July 29, 2025 by mirandamartinez Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Dublin, we seek applicants who have an interest in learning at an international level, a desire to make a contribution, a willingness to work hard, and an ambition to join a collaborative, supportive, and joyful community of peers, and Subject Expert Teachers. Be ready to participate in a culture where academics are encouraged, learning is celebrated, and students have fun! 

In order to both ensure student success and manage the popularity of our program, admissions is a selective process.

What is the Family Meeting?
The Family Meeting is an essential part of the admissions process at BASIS Independent Dublin and is part of our final admissions decision. This 30-minute meeting is the school’s opportunity to learn more about your child and your family’s interest in our program.

While we are happy to answer questions about our program, the Family Meeting is not intended to be the first time families learn about our offerings. Prior to the Family Meeting, we strongly encourage families to visit our website and blog, attend an Admissions Event, or speak with a member of the Admission Team.

When are the meetings held?
Family Meetings are held virtually Monday – Friday from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM every 30 minutes. 

Who is required to attend the Family Meeting?
At least one parent or guardian is required to attend along with the student who is applying.

If your child is required to attend the Family Meeting and does not, you will be asked to reschedule. 

What if we are applying for more than one student?
Only register for one Family Meeting, and bring both students to the same meeting. 

When does the meeting have to take place?
Those applying in Early Admissions must complete their Family Meeting by their Completion Deadline, Friday, November 21, 2025. Those applying to Regular Admissions must complete their Family Meeting by their Completion Deadline, Friday, February 13, 2026. 

How do we register for a Family Meeting?
Once you submit an application, you will be guided in the application portal to schedule your Family Meeting. 

If you’re not ready to choose a date and time, you can always log back in at a later date and choose one that is convenient. Please note: As we get closer to the Completion Deadline, there are fewer meeting times available. We would suggest scheduling one as soon as you are able. If you wait and are unable to schedule a Family Meeting for one of our offered times, your application will be incomplete, and you will not be considered for admission. 

How long is the Family Meeting?
Family Meetings are generally 30 minutes long. Oftentimes, those hosting the Family Meeting will have back-to-back appointments and will be unable to go over the 30-minute mark. 

Who will we be meeting with?
Our Family Meetings are hosted by members of the Admissions Team, members of our Administration, and even some of our Subject Expert Teachers! You never know who will be hosting, but you’ll always get to speak with a member of the BASIS Independent Schools community.  

What questions will we be asked?
The meeting is our chance to get to know you and your child more in a one-on-one setting. We may ask you questions about why you’re interested in BASIS Independent Dublin, your child’s academic and non-academic interests, and even what they like to do with their free time. 

We discourage any formal interview prep, as it tends to make students more nervous when we are just trying to get to know them. We want all students to feel comfortable and be themselves. 

How will the Family Meeting be held?
To begin the season, we will be hosting all Family Meetings virtually. You will receive a reminder email 24 hours before your meeting time with a Zoom link to your virtual meeting. When your meeting time arrives, please log in to your meeting via Zoom. 

As the season progresses, we may be able to adjust our meeting offerings to in-person at our temporary administrative office. We will alert families if and when these in-person appointments become available.

Can we ask questions at the end of the meeting? 
If there is time, yes! But always note who you are speaking to. Whoever hosts your meeting will always introduce themselves and let you know their role at BASIS Independent Schools. If their role is not in relation to your question, they will let you know, and encourage you to reach out to the Admissions Team for an answer. 

Ready to Apply?
Click Here to Start Your Application

Filed Under: Admissions, Admissions Events, Admissions Process

Fall 2026: What to Expect at Your Entrance Exam

July 29, 2025 by mirandamartinez Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Dublin, we seek applicants who have an interest in learning at an international level, a desire to make a contribution, a willingness to work hard, and an ambition to join a collaborative, supportive, and joyful community of peers, and Subject Expert Teachers. Be ready to participate in a culture where academics are encouraged, learning is celebrated, and students have fun! 

In order to both ensure student success and manage the popularity of our program, admissions is a selective process.

What is the Entrance Exam?
The Entrance Exam is part of the admissions process for students applying for Grades 5 – 10 for Fall 2026. Its results show us concepts understood, and concepts not yet understood for the grade level they are applying for. All applicants will take this BASIS Independent Schools Entrance Exam.

How will your Entrance Exam be conducted this year?
As our future campus is still under construction, Entrance Exams will be conducted in person at our temporary administrative office in Dublin this admissions season.  

What is a passing score on the Entrance Exam?
This exam is not a pass or fail. Because the exam is diagnostic in nature, we consider it to be just one part of our comprehensive admissions process, along with all the other application requirements. 

Each applicant is allowed to take the exam once. 

How will I learn the results of the Entrance Exam?
We do not share exam results with applicants or parents. 

Do you require students to take the ISEE or other similar outside exams? Do you accept these scores? 
We do not require the ISEE, HSPT, or SSAT, nor will the Admissions Team accept or review these scores. 

All Grades 5 – 10 applicants are required to take the BASIS Independent Schools Entrance Exam. 

What is on the Entrance Exam?
Our Entrance Exam covers three topics: Math, English/Language Arts, and Writing. The content of these exams is based on the foundational material needed for the grade students are applying for. 

  • Math: Students will be presented with a set of open-ended math questions based on their incoming grade level and the BASIS Curriculum Schools program. Exam length: 30 minutes. 
  • English/Language Arts: Students will be presented with reading comprehension and grammar multiple-choice questions. Students will read short passages and then answer questions to test their comprehension, as well as their knowledge of words in context, literary devices, etc. Students will also be presented with grammar questions that will ask them to correct sentences or identify parts of speech. Exam length: 30 minutes. 
  • Writing: Students will be presented with an essay prompt and asked to write a response. Exam length: 30 minutes. 

How long does the Entrance Exam take?
In total, we ask for families to allow two hours. The exam is self-paced, but students have up to 30 minutes for each topic. These two hours will allow enough time for the proctor to take attendance, read the instructions, and for all students to complete all three parts of the exam. 

How should my student prepare academically for the exam?
Preparation is not necessary. We want students to focus on their current academics at their current school, and not study for or stress over an exam they will never know the results of.

The exam is used by the Admissions Team and Head of School to find out where your student is, academically speaking. As BASIS Independent Schools offers an advanced curriculum, it is completely normal for your child to encounter some challenging or unknown concepts on our exam. 

What should my student bring to the exam?
Students are required to bring their own pencils and erasers. Admissions will have extra pencils and erasers if needed, but students should not depend on using them. Students are also welcome to bring a water bottle, but it can not be a glass bottle. We do not allow food in our exam rooms.

Cell phones, calculators, rulers, and smartwatches are not allowed. 

When should we arrive on campus for the exam?
The temporary administrative office will open 15 minutes before the exam start time. All exams will begin promptly when advertised. We will have a closed exam room once the exam begins and will not allow late students to join. If students arrive after the exam has begun, they will not be able to participate in the exam and will have to reschedule.

Families are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes before the exam start time to allow enough time to park, check-in, and have their students led to their assigned exam room. 

What should parents do while their child takes the exam?
Parents will be able to wait in the parking lot for the duration of the exam but will not be permitted to wait inside the temporary administrative office.

The exam is self-paced but an exam room will not be dismissed until all students have completed all three sections of the exam, or their allotted time has run out. 

We commonly find Middle and High School applicants take the full two hours. As such, we would not advise parents to leave the parking lot for more than one hour to grab a coffee or run a quick errand. 

How do I sign up for an exam?
Once you submit an application, you will be guided in the application portal to schedule your exam date. While there is an application fee, there is no additional fee for the exam. The application fee covers all requirements of the application process.

Ready to Apply?
Click Here to Start Your Application

Filed Under: Admissions, Admissions Events, Admissions Process

Upcoming Summer Admissions Events!

July 25, 2025 by wpengine Leave a Comment

Join us this summer and learn more about BASIS Independent Manhattan!

As we prepare for the first day of school, we are excited to invite you to meet us throughout the summer at various events! This is a wonderful opportunity for you and your student to participate in fun activities and learn more about our community at BASIS Independent Manhattan, a PreK – Grade 12 Top Private School with locations on the UWS and Chelsea.

FREE SUMMER EVENTS – You Won’t Want to Miss!

Waterfront Wonders: Science and STEM with Ms. Delaney and Ms. Amy (ages 3-10)

STEM with Ms. Delaney: Students will explore foundational coding and computational thinking skills by programming Ozobots using color-coded paths and simple logic sequences. Through hands-on challenges, they’ll learn how to debug, sequence commands, and think like engineers while watching their robots respond in real time!


  • Tuesday, August 5 at 10:00 AM | LIC Waterfront (Long Island City) | RSVP HERE


Science with Ms. Amy: Kids will explore the world of science by creating their own lava lamps and magnetic paintings. We will discuss how science is a part of the world around us everywhere we go!

  • Tuesday, August 12 at 10:00 AM | LIC Waterfront (Long Island City) | RSVP HERE

Paint in the Park:  Art Class with Ms. Carmen (ages 5-16)

Join us for an evening of watercolor painting by the LIC waterfront! Our BASIS Independent Manhattan Lower School Art teacher will be leading two workshops on watercolor techniques: ages 5-11 at 5:30 PM and ages 12-16 at 6:15 PM. Participants will get to take home an original watercolor painting

  • Thursday, August 7 at 5:30 PM | LIC Waterfront (Long Island City) | RSVP HERE

TABLING EVENTS

FlyNYC: Stop by our table for a fun activity and meet our admissions team.

  • Saturday, August 16 at 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Pier I at W 70th St


Launch Math + Science Camp: Tabling Event: Come stop by our table and meet our admissions team!

  • Thursday, July 24 at 8:30 AM | 3 W 65th St
  • Thursday, July 31 at 8:30 AM | 3 W 65th St


West Side County Fair: While you are partaking in games and rides, don’t forget to stop by our table and say hi!

  • Sunday, September 7 at 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Pier I at W 70th St

UPCOMING ADMISSIONS EVENTS

Virtual Information Sessions

  • Tuesday, July 29 (12:00 PM)
  • Tuesday, August 26 (12:00 PM)

Virtual Admissions Q&A

  • Thursday, August 14 (12:00 PM) | PreK – Grade 1
  • Thursday, August 14 (1:00 PM) | Grades 2 – 10

Join us for a campus tour and learn more about our wonderful community. Interested in applying for the 2026-2027 school year? Our applications go live on August 1! Be sure to sign up for our newsletters to stay informed.

Register Below for Our Upcoming Admissions Events

Click HERE

Filed Under: Admissions, Admissions Events, Community Events, Current Events, STEM, Visual Arts

Fall 2026: The BASIS Independent Brooklyn Admissions Process

July 23, 2025 by jogoldfarb Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Brooklyn, we seek applicants who have an interest in learning, a desire to contribute to our vibrant school culture, a willingness to work hard, and a drive to join a collaborative, supportive, and joyful community of peers, faculty, and school leadership. Our students are excited to learn in a culture where academics are a focus, learning is celebrated, and students have fun! 

For families new to the admissions process, we wanted to provide an overview of what to expect.

Our Lower School campus at City Point in Downtown Brooklyn is home to all PreK-Grade 2 classes.

BASIS Independent Brooklyn, a PreK–Grade 12 private school, has both a Lower and Upper School campus, each designed specifically for the grades served!

PreK–Grade 2: 405 Gold Street, Brooklyn, NY  11201
Grades 3–12: 556 Columbia Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231

When applying, families will meet our Admissions Team, who will guide them every step of the way throughout the admissions process. Our Admissions Team members are a wonderful resource for families, and our team is eager to answer questions and educate prospective families on the benefits of a BASIS Independent Brooklyn education.

Read below to learn more about the admissions process. 


Step 1: Attend an Admissions Event 

Our Upper School campus in Red Hook serves students in Grades 3–12.

We strongly recommend prospective families attend one of our Admissions Events to learn about our program and meet some of our staff, students, and family community members before applying. We host events for the Regular Admissions season from August to December.

To view and register for upcoming Admissions Events, click here. 

Step 2: Submit an Online Application

Families will submit an application by filling out an Application Form, which covers basic information, and paying a non-refundable deposit. Families applying for PreK–Grade 1 will also need to complete a Parent Questionnaire. Once you submit the application, application fee, and, if applicable, Parent Questionnaire, you officially start the application process!

In your application, you will be able to request teacher recommendations, report cards/transcripts, schedule your Family Meeting, and your student’s Play Date or Entrance Exam. Families can also keep track of their application process on their Ravenna dashboard.

Please note: Steps 3, 4, 5, and 6 can be done in any order but must be completed after the application is submitted and before the deadline to complete an application.

Step 3: Teacher Recommendations (PreK–Grade 10 Required*)

Students applying for PreK–Grade 1 will have their current teacher fill out the Early Learning Program Teacher Recommendation. For Grades 2–10, your child’s current teacher(s) will fill out the English Teacher Recommendation and the Math Teacher Recommendation.

You will be able to delegate the recommendations directly to your child’s current teacher. We do not accept recommendations from past teachers. As listed in the instructions of the recommendations, we do not accept documents from parents or guardians. All recommendations must be sent from the teacher to the Admissions Office directly. 

Step 4: Transcripts (Grades 1–10 Required*)

You will be able to delegate a Transcript Request Form in your application. This form requests that your child’s current school send us a current-year report, along with the last two years. If you’ve attended more than one school within the past three years, you may need to provide a Transcript Request Form to any prior school(s). As listed in the instructions of the request form, we do not accept documents from parents or guardians. All transcripts must be sent from the school to the Admissions Office directly. 

We understand that some applicants to grades 1 and 2 may not have formal transcripts from their early childhood programs, such as PreK or daycare. In these circumstances, the requirement of three years of transcripts can be waived.

Step 5: Student Evaluation (PreK–Grade 10 Required*)

Students applying for PreK–Grade 1 will register for a Play Date. Students applying for Grades 2–10 will register for the ISEE (Independent Schools Entrance Exam). The ISEE can be taken on December 6, 2025 at our campuses, or taken at any other testing site on another date. Both of these evaluations allow us to meet and interact with your child and determine their readiness to join our program academically, socially, and emotionally in the grade they are applying for.

Step 6: Family Meeting (PreK–Grade 10 Required*)

At least one parent or guardian is required to attend the Family Meeting. Students applying for PreK–Grade 1 are not required to attend. Students applying to Grades 2 – 10 are required to attend. For families applying for multiple students, only one family meeting is required. This meeting is a chance for us to meet your family, ask your student(s) questions about their specific interests in school, and get to know them a bit more in a one-on-one setting.

Once all supplementary materials are received and required meetings are attended, your application is complete! If you complete your application by the completion deadline, you will receive an admissions decision on the notification day. See below for more details. 

Early Admissions (only for siblings of current students)

A glimpse into an Engineering class in our Primary Program.

Deadline to submit an application: Friday, November 14, 2025
Deadline to complete an application: Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Notification date: Friday, December 5, 2025, by 5:00 PM EST
Commitment Deadline: Friday, December 12, 2025, by 12:00 PM EST

Regular Admissions (PreK–Grade 10)

Deadline to submit and complete an application: Thursday, January 8, 2026

Notification date by grade: by 5:00 PM EST
PreK: Thursday, February 26, 2026
Kindergarten: Thursday, February 5, 2026
Grades 1–8: Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Grades 9–10: Friday, February 20, 2026

Commitment deadline by grade: by 12:00 PM EST
PreK: Thursday, March 5, 2026
Kindergarten: Thursday, February 12, 2026
Grades 1–8: Friday, February 27, 2026
Grades 9–10: Thursday, March 12, 2026

Our BASIS Independent Brooklyn Admissions Team prioritizes a spirit of collaboration and accessibility to new families, demystifying the application process as much as possible. They work hard to ensure anyone interested in our program can tour the campuses and meet our staff. To that end, parents, guardians, and students are encouraged to come to campus and see our school in action. We hope to see you at an upcoming event soon!

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact our Admissions Team at brooklyn-admissions@basisindependent.com.

Filed Under: Admissions, Admissions Events, Admissions Process, Early Admissions

What to Expect at your Family Meeting: Fall 2026 Admissions

July 22, 2025 by mallorykilbreath Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Bothell, we seek applicants who have an interest in learning at an international level, a desire to make a contribution, a willingness to work hard, and an ambition to join a collaborative, supportive, and joyful community of peers, Learning Expert Teachers, and Subject Expert Teachers. Be ready to participate in a culture where academics are encouraged, learning is celebrated, and students have fun! In order to both ensure student success and manage the popularity of our program, admissions is a selective process. 

What is the Family Meeting?

The Family Meeting is an essential part of the admissions process at BASIS Independent Bothell and is part of our final admissions decision. This 20-30 minute meeting is the school’s opportunity to learn more about your child and your family’s interest in our school. 

While we are happy to answer questions about our program, the Family Meeting is not intended to be the first time families learn about our offerings. Prior to the Virtual Family Meeting, we strongly encourage families to visit our website and blog, attend an Admissions Event, or speak with a member of the Admissions Team. 

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions: 

Q: When are the meetings held?

Family Meetings are held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM and 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM as well as Friday at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Exact availabilities are subject to change.

Q: Who is required to attend the family meeting?

At least one parent or guardian is required to attend. Students applying for Kindergarten – Grade 1 are not required to attend. Students applying to Grades 2 – 9 are required to attend. 

If your child is required to attend the Virtual Family Meeting and does not, you will be asked to reschedule.  

Q: What if we are applying for more than one student?

Only register for one Virtual Family Meeting, and bring both students, if required to attend, to the same meeting. 

Q: When does the meeting have to take place?

Families must first apply before scheduling their Family Meeting. The Family Meeting must be completed before receiving an admissions decision.

Q: How do we register for a family meeting?

Once you have submitted your application, you will be prompted to schedule your Family Meeting. These meetings are conducted virtually.  

If you’re not ready to choose a date and time when you apply, you can always log back in at a later date and choose one that is convenient. 

Q: How long is the family meeting?

Virtual Family Meetings are generally 20-30 minutes long. Oftentimes, those hosting the Virtual Family Meeting will have back-to-back appointments and will be unable to go over the 30-minute mark. 

Q: Who will we be meeting with?

Our Family Meetings are hosted by members of the Admissions Team, members of our Administration, and even some of our Subject Expert Teachers! You never know who will be hosting, but you’ll always get to speak with a member of the Bothell community.  

Q: What questions will be asked?

The meeting is our chance to get to know you and your child more in a one-on-one setting. We may ask you questions about why you’re interested in our program, your child’s academic and non-academic interests, and even what they like to do with their free time.  

We discourage any formal interview prep, as it tends to make students more nervous when we are just trying to get to know them. We want all students to feel comfortable and be themselves.  

Q: How will the family meeting be held?

Family meetings are typically conducted virtually. You will receive a reminder email 24 hours before your meeting time with a Zoom link to your virtual meeting. When your meeting time arrives, please log in to your meeting via Zoom. If you sign up for an available in-person slot, this will be designated on the sign up.

Q: Can we ask questions at the end?

If there is time, yes! But always note who you are speaking to. Whoever hosts your meeting will always introduce themselves and let you know their role at the school. If their role is not in relation to your question, they will let you know and encourage you to reach out to the Admissions Team for an answer.  

We look forward to meeting you and your student(s) soon at your Virtual Family Meeting! 

If you have any questions, email us at bothell.admissions@basisindependent.com. 

Filed Under: Admissions, Admissions Events, Admissions Process

Fall 2026: The BASIS Independent Silicon Valley Admissions Process

July 17, 2025 by biancaocampo Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, we seek applicants who have an interest in learning at an international level, a desire to make a contribution, a willingness to work hard, and an ambition to join a collaborative, supportive, and joyful community of peers, Learning Expert Teachers, and Subject Expert Teachers. Be ready to participate in a culture where academics are encouraged, learning is celebrated, and students have fun! In order to both ensure student success and manage the popularity of our program, admissions is a selective process.

We are excited to know you are considering BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, a TK – Grade 12 private school with both a Lower and Upper school campus!

TK – Grade 5: 1500 Partridge Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Grades 6 – 12: 1290 Parkmoor Avenue, San Jose, CA 95126

When applying, each family will work with members of the Admissions Team whose role is to welcome new families to our program and educate them on the benefits of a BASIS Independent Silicon Valley education. They are the guides through the application and admissions process. Read below to learn more about the admissions process. 

Step 1: Attend an Admissions Event (Optional)

Though not required, we strongly recommend you attend one of our Admissions Events to learn about our program before applying. Our events are held from September – January traditionally.

To view our upcoming Admissions Events, click here. 

Step 2: Submit an Online Application

You will submit an application with general student information. This will officially start the application process! In your application, you will be able to request Teacher Recommendation Forms, send the Transcript Request Form, and schedule your student’s Play Date or Entrance Exam and Family Meeting. We also keep families up to date on their application through a dashboard in their account. 

Please note: Steps 3, 4, 5, and 6 can be done in any order but must be completed after the application is submitted and before the Deadline to Complete an Application.  

Step 3: Teacher Recommendations (TK – Grade 9 Required*)

Students applying for TK – Grade 1 will have their current teacher fill out the Early Learning Program Teacher Recommendation. For Grades 2 – 9, your child’s current teacher will fill out the English Teacher Recommendation and the Math Teacher Recommendation.

You will be able to email the recommendations directly to your child’s current teacher. We do not accept recommendations from past teachers, only current ones. As listed in the instructions of the recommendations, we do not accept documents from parents. All recommendations must be sent from the teacher to the Admissions Office directly. 

*We understand some schools do not allow their teachers to write recommendations for students that are leaving their program. In these circumstances, the requirement can be waived. 

Step 4: Transcripts (Grades 2 – 9 Required*)

You will be able to send a Transcript Request Form in your application. This form requests your child’s current school to send us a current year report, along with the last two years. As listed in the instructions of the request form, we do not accept documents from parents. All transcripts must be sent from the school to the Admissions Office directly. 

*Depending on an applicant’s prior school attendance, we understand a Grade 2 applicant may only be able to provide transcripts for years they attended school. In these circumstances, the requirement of three years of transcripts can be waived. 

Step 5: Student Evaluation (TK – Grade 9 Required*)

Students applying for TK – Grade 1 will register for a one-on-one Virtual Play Date. Students applying for Grades 2 – 9 will register for a BASIS Independent Schools In-Person Entrance Exam. Both of these evaluations allow us to meet and interact with your child and determine if they are ready to join our program academically, socially, and emotionally in the grade they are applying for.

*Given the number of applicants for our Early Learning Program, Play Dates are only offered virtually.

Step 6: Virtual Family Meeting (TK – Grade 9 Required*)

At least one parent or guardian is required to attend this 30-minute Virtual Family Meeting. Students applying for TK – Grade 1 are not required to attend. Students applying to Grades 2 – 9 are required to attend. For families applying for multiple students, only one family meeting is required to be scheduled. This meeting is a chance for us to meet your family, ask your student(s) questions about their specific interests in school, and get to know them a bit more in a one-on-one setting.

Once all supplementary materials are received and required meetings are attended, your application is complete! If you complete your application by the completion deadline, you will receive an admissions decision on the notification day. See below for more details. 

Early Admissions (TK – K)

Deadline to submit an application: Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Deadline to complete an application: Friday, November 21, 2025
Notification date: Wednesday, December 3, 2025, by 5:00 PM PST
Commitment deadline: Friday, December 12, 2025, at 12:00 PM PST

Regular Admissions (TK – Grade 9)

Deadline to submit an application: Wednesday, January 28, 2026
Deadline to complete an application: Friday, February 13, 2026
Notification date: Wednesday, March 18, 2026, by 5:00 PM PST
Commitment deadline: Friday, March 27, 2026, at 12:00 PM PST


If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

You can contact our Lower School (TK – Grade 5) at svl.admissions@basisindependent.com  and our Upper School (Grades 6 – 9) at sv.admissions@basisindependent.com.

Filed Under: Admissions, Admissions Events, Admissions Process, Early Admissions

Fall 2026: What to Expect at Your In-Person Entrance Exam

July 17, 2025 by testadmin Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, we seek applicants who have an interest in learning at an international level, a desire to make a contribution, a willingness to work hard, and an ambition to join a collaborative, supportive, and joyful community of peers, Learning Expert Teachers, and Subject Expert Teachers. Be ready to participate in a culture where academics are encouraged, learning is celebrated, and students have fun! In order to both ensure student success and manage the popularity of our program, admissions is a selective process.

What is the Entrance Exam?
The Entrance Exam is part of the admissions process for students applying for Grades 2 – 9 for Fall 2026. Its results show us concepts understood, and concepts not yet understood for the grade level they are applying for. All applicants will take this BASIS Independent Schools Entrance Exam.

How will your Entrance Exam be conducted this year?
Entrance Exams will be conducted in person and on our campuses this admissions season. 

What is a passing score on the Entrance Exam?
This exam is not a pass or fail. Because the exam is diagnostic in nature, we consider it to be just one part of our comprehensive admissions process along with all the other application requirements. 

Each applicant is allowed to take the exam once. 

How will I learn the results of the Entrance Exam?
We do not share exam results with applicants or parents. 

Do you require students to take the ISEE or other similar outside exams? Do you accept these scores? 
We do not require the ISEE, HSPT, or SSAT, nor will the Admissions Team accept or review these scores. 

All Grade 2 – 9 applicants are required to take the BASIS Independent Schools Entrance Exam. 

What is on the Entrance Exam?
Our Entrance Exam covers three topics: Math, English/Language Arts, and Writing. The content of these exams is based on the foundational material needed for the grade students are applying for. 

  • Math: Students will be presented with a set of open-ended math questions based on their incoming grade level and the BASIS Curriculum Schools program. Exam length: 30 minutes. 
  • English/Language Arts: Students will be presented with reading comprehension and grammar multiple-choice questions. Students will read short passages and then answer questions to test their comprehension, as well as their knowledge of words in context, literary devices, etc. Students will also be presented with grammar questions that will ask them to correct sentences or identify parts of speech. Exam length: 30 minutes. 
  • Writing: Students will be presented with an essay prompt and asked to write a response. Exam length: 30 minutes. 

How long does the Entrance Exam take?
In total, we ask for families to allow two hours. The exam is self-paced, but students have up to 30 minutes for each topic. These two hours will allow enough time for the proctor to take attendance, read the instructions, and for all students to complete all three parts of the exam. 

We commonly find Middle and High School applicants take the full two hours, but for Grade 5 and below it can vary from 45 minutes to an hour and a half.

How should my student prepare academically for the exam?
Preparation is not necessary. We want students to focus on their current academics at their current school, and not study for or stress over an exam they will never know the results of.

The exam is used by the Admissions Team and Head of School to find out where your student is, academically speaking. As BASIS Independent Schools offers an advanced curriculum, it is completely normal for your child to encounter some challenging or unknown concepts on our exam. 

What should my student bring to the exam?
Students are required to bring their own pencils and erasers. Admissions will have extra pencils and erasers if needed, but students should not depend on using them. Students are also welcome to bring a water bottle, but it can not be a glass bottle. We do not allow food in our classrooms.

Cell phones, calculators, rulers, and smartwatches are not allowed. 

When should we arrive on campus for the exam?
The campus will open 30 minutes before the exam start time, 9:30 AM. All exams will begin promptly at 10:00 AM. We will have a closed campus once the exam begins and will not allow late students to join. If students arrive after 9:55 AM, they will not be able to participate in the exam and will have to reschedule.

Families are encouraged to arrive by 9:45 AM at the latest to allow enough time to park, check-in, and have their students led to their assigned classrooms. 

Where is the entrance exam?
Students applying for Grades 2 – 5 will take their exam at the BASIS Independent Silicon Valley Lower Campus located at 1500 Partridge Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94087. Students applying for Grades 6 – 9 will take their exams at the BASIS Independent Silicon Valley Upper Campus located at 1290 Parkmoor Ave, San Jose, CA 95126.

What should parents do while their child takes the exam?
Parents will be able to wait in the campus parking lots for the duration of the exam but will not be permitted to wait inside the campus lobby (San Jose) or outside the classrooms (Sunnyvale). 

The exam is self-paced but a classroom will not be dismissed until all students have completed all three sections of the exam, or their allotted time has run out. 

We commonly find Middle and High School applicants take the full two hours, but for Grade 5 and below it can vary from 45 minutes to an hour and a half. As such, we would not advise parents leaving campus for more than 30 minutes to grab a coffee or run a quick errand. 

How do I sign up for an exam?
Once you submit an application, you will be guided in the application portal to schedule your exam date. While there is an application fee, there is no additional fee for the exam. The application fee covers all requirements of the application process.

When are the In-Person Entrance Exam dates?
Saturday, January 24 at 10:00 AM* (Regular Admissions)
Saturday, February 7 at 10:00 AM* (Regular Admissions)

*Please note, once an exam date fills, we will close registration for that date and families will have to sign-up for the next available exam.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

You can contact our Lower School (TK – Grade 5) at svl.admissions@basisindependent.com  and our Upper School (Grades 6 – 9) at sv.admissions@basisindependent.com.

Filed Under: Admissions, Admissions Events, Admissions Process

Fall 2026: What to Expect at Your Virtual Family Meeting

July 17, 2025 by testadmin Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, we seek applicants who have an interest in learning at an international level, a desire to make a contribution, a willingness to work hard, and an ambition to join a collaborative, supportive, and joyful community of peers, Learning Expert Teachers, and Subject Expert Teachers. Be ready to participate in a culture where academics are encouraged, learning is celebrated, and students have fun! In order to both ensure student success and manage the popularity of our program, admissions is a selective process.

What is the Family Meeting?
The Family Meeting is an essential part of the admissions process at BASIS Independent Silicon Valley (BISV) and is part of our final admissions decision. This 30-minute meeting is the school’s opportunity to learn more about your child and your family’s interest in BISV.

While we are happy to answer questions about our program, the Family Meeting is not intended to be the first time families learn about our offerings. Prior to the Family Meeting, we strongly encourage families to visit our website and blog, attend an Admissions Event, or speak with a member of the Upper School Admission Team or our Lower School Admission Team.

When are the meetings held?
Family Meetings are held virtually Monday – Friday from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM every 30 minutes. 

Who is required to attend the Family Meeting?
At least one parent or guardian is required to attend. Students applying for TK – Grade 1 are not required to attend. Students applying to Grades 2 – 9 are required to attend.

If your child is required to attend the Family Meeting and does not, you will be asked to reschedule. 

What if we are applying for more than one student?
Only register for one Family Meeting, and bring both students, if required to attend, to the same meeting. 

When does the meeting have to take place?
Those applying in Early Admissions must complete their Family Meeting by their Completion Deadline, Friday, November 21, 2025. Those applying to Regular Admissions must complete their Family Meeting by their Completion Deadline, Friday, February 13, 2026. 

How do we register for a Family Meeting?
Once you have submitted your application, you will be prompted to schedule your Family Meeting. 

If you’re not ready to choose a date and time, you can always log back in at a later date and choose one that is convenient. Please note: As we get closer to the Completion Deadline, there are fewer meeting times available. We would suggest scheduling one as soon as you are able. If you wait and are unable to schedule a Family Meeting for one of our offered times, your application will be incomplete, and you will not be considered for admission. 

How long is the Family Meeting?
Family Meetings are generally 30 minutes long. Oftentimes, those hosting the Family Meeting will have back-to-back appointments and will be unable to go over the 30-minute mark. 

Who will we be meeting with?
Our Family Meetings are hosted by members of the Admissions Team, members of our Administration, and even some of our Subject Expert Teachers! You never know who will be hosting, but you’ll always get to speak with a member of the Bobcat community.  

What questions will we be asked?
The meeting is our chance to get to know you and your child more in a one-on-one setting. We may ask you questions about why you’re interested in BISV, your child’s academic and non-academic interests, and even what they like to do with their free time. 

We discourage any formal interview prep, as it tends to make students more nervous when we are just trying to get to know them. We want all students to feel comfortable and be themselves. 

How will the Family Meeting be held?
You will receive a reminder email 24 hours before your meeting time with a Zoom link to your virtual meeting. When your meeting time arrives, please log in to your meeting via Zoom. 

Can we ask questions at the end? 
If there is time, yes! But always note who you are speaking to. Whoever hosts your meeting will always introduce themselves and let you know their role at the school. If their role is not in relation to your question, they will let you know, and encourage you to reach out to the Admissions Team for an answer. 

We look forward to meeting you and your student(s) soon at your Virtual Family Meeting!

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

You can contact our Lower School (TK – Grade 5) at svl.admissions@basisindependent.com  and our Upper School (Grades 6 – 9) at sv.admissions@basisindependent.com.

Filed Under: Admissions, Admissions Events, Admissions Process

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