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Fall 2025 Admissions Guide: Applying for TK – Grade 9

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We are excited to launch admissions for Fall 2025 for TK–Grade 9!

Admissions is now open and you may click here to submit your application for our Early or Regular Admissions cycle.

At BASIS Independent Fremont, students and Subject Expert Teachers engage in a spiraling liberal arts and sciences curriculum benchmarked to the best education systems in the world. We believe in setting a higher standard for students and promoting self reliance and accountability in an environment where learning is encouraged and celebrated.

Early and Regular Admissions
This year, we have two admissions cycles: Early and Regular Admissions. Early Admissions is only open for Transitional Kindergarten (TK), while Regular Admissions is for TK–Grade 9.

What’s the difference between Early and Regular Admissions?

Early Admissions: If BASIS Independent Fremont is your top choice, we recommend you apply in Early Admissions for Transitional Kindergarten. You will receive an admissions decision this November and you will also have an earlier commitment date if your child(ren) are accepted and you decide to enroll. Additionally, your private school search is completed by December instead of March! We will reserve a select number of seats for Regular Admission applicants. 

Regular Admissions: Families of students applying to TK–Grade 9, are notified of an admissions decision in March, which aligns with decisions from other private schools in the Bay Area.  

What are they key admissions dates?

Early Admissions (TK Only)
Application Deadline: Monday, October 21, 2024
Application Completion Deadline: Friday, November 8, 2024
Notification: Wednesday, December 4, 2024
Commitment Deadline: Friday, December 13, 2024

Regular Admissions (TK-Grade 9)
Application Deadline: Wednesday, January 22, 2025
Application Completion Deadline: Friday, February 14, 2025
Notification: Wednesday, March 12, 2025
Commitment Deadline: Friday, March 21, 2025

What are the admissions requirements?

We advise families who are interested in our program to attend an Information Session, Open House, or speak with a member of the Admissions Team to learn more about our program and prior to attending their Family Meeting. Learn more and register for an upcoming event by clicking here. This year, we will be offering a combination of in-person and virtual events.

Below, are the admissions requirements: 

  • Family Meeting – All Grades (All prospective students applying for Grade 2 and above are required to attend the Family Meeting with their parents)
  • Math and English Teacher Recommendations (Grade 1 and above)
  • Transcripts (current school year and last two school years)
  • Play Date (TK, Kindergarten and Grade 1 only)
  • Entrance Exam (Grades 2-9 only)

Early Admissions applicants have until Friday, November 8, 2024 to complete all above requirements. Families who apply in Regular Admissions, must complete all admissions requirements by Friday, February 14, 2025.

What are the tuition and fees for the 2025-26 school year?

Tuition for the 2025-26 school year is expected to be released by the end of the year. There is a small tuition increase every year. For reference, the tuition for the current school year (2024-25) is listed below.

What are the tuition payment options?

Families have the option to pay tuition all at once in one payment, split tuition into two half payments, or spread tuition across ten monthly payments. 

Will you have seats available for the next school year?

We will have seats available in every grade level for the 2025-26 school year. While traditional entry points are TK, Grade 6, and Grade 8 & 9, we will have seats across all grades. If you are interested in BASIS Independent Fremont, we recommend you apply!

How can I learn more about your program?

School leadership and the Admissions Team has prepared and planned ways for prospective families to learn more about our program virtually as well as in-person events. This admissions season, we will offer virtual and in-person Information Sessions, Open Houses, one-one-one meetings with the Admissions Team by phone or Zoom, limited tours, and more. We look forward to sharing our program with you and answering your questions. 

Your Admissions Team

The Admissions Team’s role is to welcome new families to our program and educate them on the benefits of a BASIS Independent Fremont education. We look forward to meeting you and partnering with you throughout the application process.

Our Admissions Team includes – Director of Admissions – Mr. Michael Mertes,  Associate Director of Admissions – Ms. Mengsu Kong and Admissions Manager – Ms. Yue Yu. 

The Admissions Team is looking forward to connecting with you! If you have any questions, please contact the Admissions team by e-mail, or speak with an admissions representative at 510.775.5822.

We look forward to meeting you!

Fall 2025: The Admissions Process

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At BASIS Independent Bellevue, 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! 

We are excited to know you are considering BASIS Independent Bellevue, a Grades 3 – 9 (expanding through Grade 12 over the next several years) private school. In order to both ensure student success and manage the popularity of our program, admissions is a selective process.

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 on our website with general student information. This will officially start the application process! After your application is processed, you will be able to access the Teacher Recommendation Forms, and Transcript Request Form, and schedule your student’s Entrance Exam and Family Meeting.

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 a family is issued an admissions decision.  

Step 3: Teacher Recommendations*

You will be able to provide 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 download a Transcript Request Form after submitting your application. This form requests your child’s current school 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: Student Evaluation

Students will register for a BASIS Independent Schools In-Person Entrance Exam. This evaluation allows us to meet and interact with your child and determine if they are ready – academically, socially, and emotionally – to join our program in the grade for which they are applying. 

Step 6: Virtual Family Meeting

At least one parent or guardian is required to attend this 20-30 minute Virtual Family Meeting. Students are required to attend. This meeting is a chance for us to meet your family, and your student, and learn a bit more about them in a one-on-one setting. 

Once all supplementary materials are received and required meetings are attended, your application is complete!

If you have any questions, please contact us at blv.admissions@basisindependent.com.

Fall 2025: The Admissions Process

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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! 

We are excited to know you are considering BASIS Independent Bothell, a Kindergarten – Grade 12 private school opening in Fall 2025! In order to both ensure student success and manage the popularity of our program, admissions is a selective process.

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 on our website with general student information. This will officially start the application process! After your application is processed, you will be able to access the Teacher Recommendation Forms, and Transcript Request Form, and schedule your student’s Play Date or Entrance Exam and Family Meeting.

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 a family is issued an admissions decision.  

Step 3: Teacher Recommendations (Kindergarten – Grade 1 Not Required, Grades 2 – 9 Required*)

You will be able to provide 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 (Kindergarten – Grade 1 Not Required, Grades 2 – 9 Required*)

You will be able to download a Transcript Request Form after submitting your application. This form requests your child’s current school 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

Students applying for Kindergarten – 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 – academically, socially, and emotionally – to join our program in the grade for which they are applying. 

Step 6: Virtual Family Meeting

At least one parent or guardian is required to attend this 20-30 minute Virtual Family Meeting. Students applying for Kindergarten – Grade 1 are not required to attend. Students applying to Grades 2 – 9 are required to attend. This meeting is a chance for us to meet your family, and your student, and learn a bit more about them in a one-on-one setting. 

Once all supplementary materials are received and required meetings are attended, your application is complete!

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

Fall 2025: The Admissions Process

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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 on our website with general student information. This will officially start the application process! In your application, you will be able to email Teacher Recommendation Forms, download 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 1 Not Required, Grades 2 – 9 Required*)

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. You can also download fillable PDFs of both the math and English Teacher Recommendations. 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 download a Transcript Request Form in your application. This form requests your child’s current school 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 TK – Grade 3 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

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 – academically, socially, and emotionally – to join our program in the grade for which they are applying. 

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

Step 6: Virtual Family Meeting

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 Grade 2 – 9 are required to attend. This meeting is a chance for us to get to meet your family, your student, and learn a bit more about them 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, Grade 6)

Deadline to submit an application: Monday, October 21, 2024
Deadline to complete an application: Friday, November 8, 2024
Notification date: Wednesday, December 4, 2024, by 5:00 PM PST
Commitment deadline: Friday, December 13, 2024, at 12:00 PM PST

Regular Admissions (TK – Grade 9)

Deadline to submit an application: Wednesday, January 22, 2025
Deadline to complete an application: Friday, February 14, 2025
Notification date: Wednesday, March 12, 2025, by 5:00 PM PST
Commitment deadline: Friday, March 21, 2025, at 12:00 PM PST


If you have any questions, at sv.admissions@basisindependent.com.

Fall 2025: What to Expect at Your In-Person Entrance Exam

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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 2025. 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. 

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, October 26 at 10:00 AM* (Early Admissions Only)
Saturday, January 25 at 10:00 AM* (Regular Admissions)
Saturday, February 8 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, email us at sv.admissions@basisindependent.com.

Fall 2025: What to Expect at Your Virtual Family Meeting

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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 Admissions 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 8, 2024. Those applying to Regular Admissions must complete their Family Meeting by their Completion Deadline, Friday, February 14, 2025. 

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, email us at sv.admissions@basisindependent.com

Fall 2025: What to Expect at Your Virtual Play Date

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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 Virtual Play Date?
The play-based assessment provides our teachers, administrators, and admissions staff the opportunity to get to know your child and observe your child’s social-emotional and academic development in a one-on-one setting.

The virtual assessment will take place in the comfort of your own home and we request that you have a few materials available for your child to use during the duration of the Play Date.  

Play Dates generally last 30 minutes and feature time for our teacher or administrator to get to know your child, followed by an age-appropriate lesson or activity. 

What materials should be brought to the Play Date?
Your child should be comfortable and sitting in a chair at a table. Please have these materials ready for your child:

  • A recently created piece of artwork
  • Several sheets of paper
  • Writing or drawing utensils (crayons / color pencils / markers / pencil)
  • A favorite book
  • A favorite toy

When are the Play Dates held?
Play Dates are held virtually Monday – Friday, as early as 8:30 AM and as late as 2:00 PM, for 30-minute periods. 

Who is required to attend the Play Date?
One adult (a parent, guardian, caregiver, or family member) is required to be present, but this person is expected to only provide technical support as needed. We hope to interact with your child independently of the adult.

We ask that the adult in the room sit behind and to the side of the child so that our teacher or administrator may be able to effectively conduct this assessment without adult interference. 

When does the Play Date have to take place?
Those applying in Early Admissions must complete their Play Date by their Completion Deadline, Friday, November 8, 2024. Those applying to Regular Admissions must complete their Play Date by their Completion Deadline, Friday, February 14, 2025. 

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

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 Play Date for one of our offered times, your application will be incomplete, and you will not be considered for admission. 

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

Whom will we be meeting with?
Our Play Dates 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 your child will always get to meet with a member of our community. 

What if my child doesn’t know all the answers?
That’s ok! We are meeting with them to gauge where they are socially, emotionally, and academically. We know and understand not all students are in the same place. 

What if my child doesn’t speak English?
While we understand not all students will be proficient in English, we are looking for more than a beginner level of English fluency. Students should be able to answer questions from the host about themselves, numbers, colors, a book or toy, etc. in English. The host should not have to speak slowly or repeat themselves for the child to understand. The adult attending the Play Date should also not offer any assistance or translation for the child.

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

What if my child doesn’t do well due to unforeseen circumstances?
We know children don’t always have good days, a good night’s sleep, their tummy hurts, they are overly shy – we understand all these things. 

It is the right of the Admissions Office to reschedule if we feel it is necessary, however, we will not offer to reschedule if the adult feels the child did not do well or their best. As this is an assessment, only one opportunity for the assessment is allowed.  

Will we know the results of the Play Date?
No, we do not share assessment results with applicants or parents.  

We look forward to meeting your student(s) at their Virtual Play Date!

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

Fall 2025: What to Expect at Your Virtual Family Meeting

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At BASIS Independent Bellevue, 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 Virtual Family Meeting?
The Virtual Family Meeting is an essential part of the admissions process at BASIS Independent Bellevue 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.

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

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

If your child does not attend, you will be asked to reschedule. 

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

When does the meeting have to take place?
Families must first apply before scheduling their Virtual Family Meeting. The Virtual Family Meeting must be completed before receiving an admissions decision.

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

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.

How long is the Virtual 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. 

Who will we be meeting with?
Our Virtual 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 Bellevue 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 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. 

How will the Virtual 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, email us at blv.admissions@basisindependent.com.

Fall 2025: What to Expect at Your In-Person Entrance Exam

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At BASIS Independent Bellevue, 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 3 – 9 for fall 2025. Its results show us concepts understood, and concepts not yet understood for the grade level they are applying for. All applicants will take this exam created by BASIS Independent Schools.

How will your Entrance Exam be conducted this year?
Entrance Exams will be conducted in person and at the BASIS Independent Bellevue Campus 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 3 – 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 Independent 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 cannot 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. 

What should parents do while their child takes the exam?
Parents will be able to wait in the campus parking lot for the duration of the exam but will not be permitted to wait inside the campus lobby or outside the classrooms. Parents are able to leave campus to grab a coffee or run a quick errand, but we would not advise leaving for more than 30 – 45 minutes.

A classroom will not be dismissed until all students have completed all three sections of the exam, or their allotted time has run out, but as mentioned above this total time can vary by grade.

How do I sign up for an exam?
Once you have submitted your application, you will be prompted to schedule your Entrance Exam in your application portal. 

If you are 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.

When are the In-Person Entrance Exam dates?
Sunday, December 8
Sunday, February 2

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

Fall 2025: What to Expect at Your In-Person Entrance Exam

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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 Entrance Exam?
The Entrance Exam is part of the admissions process for students applying for Grades 2 – 9 for fall 2025. Its results show us concepts understood, and concepts not yet understood for the grade level they are applying for. All applicants will take this exam created by BASIS Independent Schools.

How will your Entrance Exam be conducted this year?
Entrance Exams will be conducted in person at the BASIS Independent Bellevue Campus and the BASIS Independent Bothell temporary office 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 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 Independent 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 cannot 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. 

What should parents do while their child takes the exam?
Parents will be able to wait in the campus parking lot for the duration of the exam but will not be permitted to wait inside the campus lobby or outside the classrooms. Parents are able to leave campus to grab a coffee or run a quick errand, but we would not advise leaving for more than 30 – 45 minutes.

A classroom will not be dismissed until all students have completed all three sections of the exam, or their allotted time has run out, but as mentioned above this total time can vary by grade.

How do I sign up for an exam?
Once you have submitted your application, you will be prompted to schedule your Entrance Exam. 

If you are 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.

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