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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 Virtual Family Meeting

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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 Virtual Family Meeting?
The Virtual 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 Virtual 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. 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. 

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. 

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. 

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 Bothell 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 bothell.admissions@basisindependent.com.

Fall 2025: What to Expect at Your Virtual Play Date

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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 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 can last up to 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

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?
Families must first apply before scheduling their Virtual Play Date. The Play Date must be completed, along with any other required meetings before receiving an admissions decision.

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 when you apply, you can always log back in at a later date and choose one that is convenient.

How long is the Play Date?
Play Dates are generally 15-20 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 the Bothell 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 bothell.admissions@basisindependent.com.

Fall 2024: Top Ten Questions Asked Every Admissions Season

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We are excited to meet many wonderful families considering a BASIS Independent Brooklyn education for their family.

During each admissions season we field a wide range of questions about the admissions process, our program, the transition, student life, electives, extracurriculars, and so much more! 

While we are delighted to speak to every one of our families, we have observed certain questions that are commonly asked. 

Continue reading below to learn more about the top ten questions asked every admissions season. 

How many students are at each campus? 

Our Upper School campus is home to almost 600 students, while our Lower School campus is just under 200. 

What is the teacher model at your school? 

Present in all grades 1 and above, Subject Expert Teachers (SETs) are the shepherds of academic content and are focused on high-level mastery. SETs use their passion for their subjects to inspire students while teaching them at a higher level than what is expected of students at any given age. SETs almost always hold advanced degrees in or have a great deal of experience in their discipline.

Present in most Grade 1 – 4 classrooms, Learning Expert Teachers (LETs) are masters of the learning process and of social-emotional growth in students. They accompany their students all day, from class to class, and ensure that the SETs are reaching each and every child in the class. LETs also play a lead role in literacy and Connections classes. The partnership of one LET and SET in each classroom and for each subject forms the Symbiotic Classroom of our primary program.

Unlike the Primary, Middle, and High School Programs, the Early Learning Program is primarily self-enclosed. Students don’t move classrooms for each subject and remain engaged in their vibrant, specialized classrooms throughout the school day. ELTs lead our Kindergarten and PreK classrooms and are responsible for delivering most of the content to students by bringing their own pedagogical expertise to the classroom, with the consistent support of an Early Learning Teaching Fellow.​

What special classes do students have the opportunity to take? 

For the Early Learning and Primary Program, students will take Performing Arts, Music, Visual Art, and Engineering. For the Middle and High School Programs, students will continue to have access to these courses as electives as well as Band/Orchestra and Computer Science. 

Do you offer any Clubs or Athletics? 

Our Clubs include AI for Kids, Chess, Leadership Club, Math Team, Science Bowl, Student Newspaper, Black Student Union, LatinX Affinity, Chess Team, and many more. We also have competitive and league sports for students to play. Offerings include basketball, flag football, running, soccer, tennis, and volleyball. Every year our club and athletic offerings grow in number and vary based on student interest. Learn more about our athletic and club offerings.

Do your campuses have any outdoor space? 

Our Upper School campus located in Red Hook has three different outdoor spaces. Our Lower School campus at City Point will have direct access to a new park right across our street!

What is your student-to-teacher ratio? 

It depends on the grade! Our classes are capped at the below student-to-teacher ratios. We have between two to five sections of each grade.

  • PreK-1:14:2
  • PreK-2:16:2
  • Kindergarten: 20:2
  • Grades 1 – 4: There are two teachers in every classroom, with one Subject Expert Teacher per each discipline. Our average class size is around 21 students.
  • Grades 5 – 12: Our average class size is around 20 students, with one Subject Expert Teacher per each discipline.

What is the diversity of your student population? 

Brooklyn is home to such a wonderful, diverse community and our student community reflects this! 48% of our student population are students of color and 41 different languages are spoken. 

Do you offer financial aid? 

At this time we do not offer any financial aid. We do offer tuition payment plans in one, two, or ten installations.

We do award a select number of scholarships based on academic merit to a highly selective group of current BASIS Independent Brooklyn students in grade 8, planning to stay for high school. Qualification for the scholarship is determined by the student’s academic record, teacher recommendations, and demonstration of leadership.

At most private and independent schools, financial aid and scholarships are funded through school fundraising, whether from parents, outside donors, alumni, or employees. BASIS Independent Brooklyn does not do any fundraising and does not expect or accept any monetary donations from our community.

Do you offer transportation? 

We encourage families at both campuses to make use of nearby public transportation options; we offer free or reduced MetroCards for students who plan to use public subways or buses. The BASIS Independent Brooklyn Upper School campus in Red Hook is conveniently located near stops for the B61 and B57, as well as the F and G trains at Smith & 9th Street Station. BASIS Independent Brooklyn Lower School is located centrally in Downtown Brooklyn near stops for the 2, 3, 4, 5, A, C, D, F, G, N, Q, and R trains; the LIRR at Atlantic Terminal; and many MTA bus lines, including the B25, B26, B38, B52, B54, B57, B61, B62, and B67.

Families are also welcome to use CitiBikes, bikes, strollers, skateboards, and scooters. We have storage at both campuses for these modes of transportation. For those families with students at both our Upper and Lower School campuses, BASIS Independent Brooklyn offers a “Connector” bus. Our fee-based transportation program at the Red Hook campus includes morning and afternoon bus services throughout New York City. Our bus routes attempt to accommodate the majority of students who sign up, and they are carefully planned with each school year. Please inquire directly for more details on our current routes.

What community opportunities will my student have if they join your program?

We have very active National Junior Honor Society and National Honor Society chapters at our school leading regular service initiatives. Moreover, our student leadership society, Leadership Club, has prioritized building both a culture of service and sustainability at the school. That means students lead annual drives and regularly promote ways to volunteer with Red Hook and Downtown Brooklyn organizations throughout the school year. Our Student Affairs team started an Annual Day of Service for our entire high school before Thanksgiving Break three years ago which has become an anticipated tradition.

Our school community has worked to develop partnerships with impactful non-profits making a difference in the community. One great example is the Red Hook Art Project, which provides tutoring and mentoring for under-served children and youth. The organization offers free classes and tutoring in visual art, music, and homework help. Our students have volunteered for the homework help program and just started teaching guitar classes. They also work to ensure our leftover school lunches are transported to RHAP and given to students and their families.

The level of community involvement differs by grade. Many of our students start service work in middle or high school that continues through to their Senior Project. In our younger grades, teachers often lead service projects as part of their Connections class. This year we are excited that many of our high school students will teach a class on the importance of service to our Lower School Cubs that involves a service project.

We want to ensure that our students not only feel the comfort and sense of belonging that comes with their own community but also recognize the ways to give back to society.

We invite you to attend an upcoming informational event or campus tour to learn more about our program, difference, teachers, and approach to helping students discover their potential.

If you have any questions, please reach out to the Admissions Team at (718) 643-6302 or email us at brooklyn-admissions@basisindependent.com.

BASIS Independent Brooklyn is a PreK – Grade 12 private school, providing students an internationally benchmarked liberal arts and sciences curriculum, with advanced STEM offerings.

Early Admissions: Complete Your Child’s Application in the Next 15 Days

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As we start this season of gratitude, I am thankful to be part of a such a dynamic learning community – a community that appreciates advanced academics and a spirit of teamwork and collaboration. Here, at BASIS Independent McLean (BIM), each student, faculty member, and administrator strives to be an EPIC Hawk.

EPIC stands for empathy, perseverance, integrity and curiosity. And, I am thankful to be part of a community that values these character traits.

I also want to thank you for taking the time to learn more about BIM. I hope that our stories of learning and fun have inspired your family to join us. And, with only 15 days until the Early Admissions application deadline, now is the time to take that first step towards joining us next year.

The Early Admissions application deadline of November 15 is quickly approaching! Remember that this is just the deadline for submitting the application. You still have until December 1 to complete the application and receive your child’s decision on December 7. However, with the holidays right around the corner, we know that your to-do list is growing. With just a little planning ahead, you can submit your child’s application today and make the Early Admissions deadline!

Here are some tips for chipping away on your child’s application checklist:

  • Don’t wait! Request your child’s transcripts and teacher recommendations:
    • December 1 is the deadline for completing your child’s application, but it’s best to submit your requests for these items early. Giving your child’s current school and teachers extra time to submit these items will make the entire process less stressful.
    • Note: For grades 1 and above, we need teacher recommendations from the Math and English teacher(s) and transcripts for this year and the previous two years (if applicable).
  • Don’t try to do it all at once! Break down the application into manageable parts:
    • Log in and start the application. You can complete just a bit and save as you go. That 10-minute window before your next Zoom call could get you halfway through the application.
    • Submit your child’s application early! Submitting your application early gives us time to help with questions prior to the deadline. Plus, it allows you to start scheduling any remaining application pieces through our application portal.
    • Select a date and time for your child’s Family Meeting/Interview. This is an important part of the application. Here, we learn about your child’s interests and hobbies, as well as your family’s educational philosophy and goals.
    • Schedule your child’s Entrance Exam. If your child is applying to grades 2 and above, they need to complete a BIM Entrance Exam.
      • Students in grades 2 and 3 take a one-on-one exam with a member of team via Zoom. Once you submit your application, a member of our team will contact you to help set-up a date and time.
      • For students applying to grades 4 and above, we offer the exam virtually once a week. We are also offering the Entrance Exam in-person on Saturday, November 18. Space is limited for this on-campus exam date.


Once you’re done, it is time to take a few days to relax and recharge! Please remember that our team is here to help you throughout the process. We look forward to receiving your application, and we hope that your family finds many ways to celebrate this season of gratitude!

P.S. Haven’t attended an informational event yet? Join us virtually on Friday, November 17 or in-person on Saturday, November 18 for an Information Session to learn more about BIM!

Fall is in the Air – Time for Open House

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We invite you to join our Open House on Saturday, October 21. Open House is the best way to learn about our advanced curriculum, discover our talented subject expert teachers, and meet our dynamic students and parents!

Register for an Open House

Hints of fall are beginning to appear everywhere! Pumpkin-spice everything is beginning to appear everywhere, and my Saturdays now consist of admissions events in the morning followed by football and gumbo in the evenings. This can only mean one thing. The BIM Fall Open House will soon be here! Fall Open House is my favorite event of the year, and one of the best ways for your family to get to know our Red-Tailed Hawk community!

This event is sure to help you learn what makes BASIS Independent McLean unique – not just in the DMV but around the world.

Open House Structure
Doors open at 9:00 AM, and the length of the event and start time of your program will vary based on your program of interest. Please review the section below for your child’s grade of interest.

Toddler-Kindergarten (The Early Learning Program)
Program Time: 9:00 AM-10:00 AM

Visit our Early Learning Program where our youngest students learn and grow. Hear from Early Learning teachers, administrators, and parents, as you learn how BIM fosters curiosity, exploration, and creativity.

Following the program, you are invited to visit with our Parent Community Association (PCA) at the PCA Meet-and-Greet.

Grades 1-4 (The Primary Program)
Program Time: 9:00 AM-10:00 AM

Visit with our Learning Expert and Subject Expect Teachers, where you will learn about our unique two-teacher model. From math and science to humanities, Mandarin, music and more, hear about our focus on teaching students how to learn and how we spark a lifelong love of learning.

Following the program, you are invited to visit with our Parent Community Association (PCA) at the PCA Meet-and-Greet.

Grades 5-8 (The Middle School Program)
Program Time: 10:00 AM-11:30 AM

In the Middle School Program, we focus on developing the academic, executive functioning, and self-advocacy skills needed for success in the high school years. Hear from our Subject Expert Teachers and learn about how they inspire excellence inside and outside of the classroom. Plus, learn about the many athletic and academic competition teams, students clubs, international trips, and more.

Join our students, faculty, and administrators as you experience a day in the life of a Red-Tailed Hawk.

If you arrive early, please join the Parent Community Association (PCA) for the PCA Meet-and-Greet or join our Student Ambassadors for a campus tour between 9:00-10:00 AM. The last tour will depart at 9:40 AM.

Grades 9 and Above (The High School Program)
Program Time: 10:00 AM-11:30 AM

Educating tomorrow’s great innovators, pioneers, and thought leaders requires a well-rounded curriculum – one with breadth and depth across academic disciplines.

Meet students, faculty, and administrators as you and your child learn about high school at BIM. At BIM, your child will join a collaborative and supportive learning community and be challenged to become a dynamic problem solver – one poised to tackle difficult challenges with confidence.

If you arrive early, please join the Parent Community Association (PCA) for the PCA Meet-and-Greet or join our Student Ambassadors for a campus tour between 9:00-10:00 AM. The last tour will depart at 9:40 AM.

Don’t miss this interactive experience! Register today for our Fall Open House. As you get ready for whatever a fall weekend means to you and your family (apple or pumpkin picking, tailgating and BBQs, fall leaves with a pumpkin spice latte/hot chocolate), spend a little of your weekend with us on October 21 and learn how:

  • Our passionate subject teachers guide each child through the BASIS Curriculum, a curriculum that builds the skills needed for students to be creative, innovative, and independent thinkers.
  • Our supportive community focuses on building confidence, self-advocacy, and independence, where students guide our traditions and are encouraged to be culture creators.
  • Our students achieve top outcomes and college placements while developing the content and skills necessary to be prepared to lead.
Register for an Open House

Please contact me with any questions at stephanie.cancienne@basisindependent.com or 703.991.6075.

Fall 2024: What to Expect at Your In-Person Entrance Exam

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At BASIS Independent Fremont, we seek applicants who have an interest in learning at an international level, a desire to make a contribution, a willingness to work hard, with 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 BASIS Independent Schools Entrance Exam is part of the admissions process for students applying for grades 2–9 for Fall 2024. Its results show us concepts understood and concepts not yet understood for the grade level they are applying for. All applicants will take this 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. Given that 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. 

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 grades 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 classroom. 

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, November 4, 2023 at 10:00 AM* 
Sunday, December 10, 2023 at 10:00 AM* 
Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 10:00 AM* 
Sunday, February 11, 2024 at 10:00 AM*

*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.  

We look forward to meeting your student(s) soon at your Entrance Exam!

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

BASIS Independent Fremont is a grades TK-12 private school based in Fremont, California, providing students an internationally benchmarked liberal arts and sciences curriculum. 

Fall 2024 Admissions Guide: Top 10 Questions Asked Every Admissions Season

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Every admissions season we field hundreds of questions about the admissions process, our program, the transition, student life, electives, extracurriculars, and so much more! 

While we are happy to speak to every one of our families, we notice the same questions being asked consistently. 

Keep reading below to learn more about the top ten questions asked every admissions season. 

#1 – How many students will be admitted in each grade? 

Our most commonly asked question! Seat capacity changes from year to year depending on the reenrollment of our current families and our graduating class. As this is an ever-changing number, we aren’t able to determine seat capacity until around February, after the reenrollment deadline of our current families, which is why we make the majority of our admissions offers (Regular Admissions) in March. So, though we cannot provide you specifics of exactly how many seats are available “this year” and in “this grade”, we encourage you to apply as we will have available seats in all grades every year.

If you are interested in a BASIS Independent Fremont education, apply!

#2 – What is the difference between Early Admissions and Regular Admissions? 

We offer two application cycles during our core season. Early Admissions is only available for TK. This will require families to complete their application earlier in order to have the opportunity to receive an admissions decision and accept their seat earlier. Regular Admissions will have all the same requirements but families receive an admissions decision and accept their seat at a later date. Regular Admissions is open to all applicants, TK-Grade 9.

#3 – How do you help students transition into the program? 

We enroll new students every year. For students to achieve the results that they do in our program, they must have the necessary support along their academic journey, from both the school and at home. While we encourage families to join our program sooner rather than later, students consistently join in later grades and are incredibly successful.

One of the tools with which we support our students is through office hours. Teachers provide support through targeted interventions as well as office hours throughout the school week for both students and parents to talk through concerns or questions. In addition to this, both our lower and upper school campuses have student affairs’ departments consisting of deans and counselors. This department provides academic and social emotional tools, along with interventions for academic and behaviors support plans.

Depending on the grade we offer a student-led Peer Tutoring and mentoring program, which operates after school and is there to help expand their networks and become comfortable asking for help. We also offer Summer School along with JumpStart Packets before the start of the school year. 

#4 – Can a student successfully transition from a public school to your program? 

Every year, we have students join us from multiple public schools. Any motivated student can excel in our program. We have a strong support network to ensure a student has the toolkit to succeed. In the beginning, there is always some adjustment for students from both public and private schools. Workloads may be higher than average in the beginning as students adjust to the structure and practices of our day-to-day program and classroom experience. However, we see time and again, that students adjust and learn how to utilize their resources to thrive in their school life.

School administration, faculty, and staff are always present to participate in supporting and guiding students, as well as helping develop good work and study habits, along with time management skills.

#5 – How much homework should students expect in middle school and high school?

This depends on the student, their core classes, electives, after-school activities, and even what time of year it is, especially in high school. Grade 5 students will typically see 45 minutes to an hour of homework every night, but that depends on the day and the student. Grade 6 students will have one to one and a half hours of homework. Grade 7 and 8 students will have one and a half to two hours of homework, but that once again depends on the student and their schedule. Homework in high school largely depends on our student’s course selections but is usually around two hours or more. Our Student Affairs Team assists in monitoring homework but since each student, their work ethic, and their schedules can vary, it is hard to say an exact time for each grade.

#6 – With such high academics, do students even have time for clubs and sports?

Absolutely! Most of our student body participates in at least one extracurricular activity at our school every year. But our answer to this is, “it always depends on the student.” We have Upper School students taking two to three AP courses and they participate in one to two clubs or more, but we also have Lower School students that take their required coursework and only have time to participate in one club.

Students are given the tools to learn and practice organization, time management, and work and study habits. But no two students are alike. It is more important to us that our students learn to take on only what they can handle, challenge themselves when appropriate, and learn when and if they need to turn their focus elsewhere. Many students may play a sport or participate in a club on campus but also engage in an activity outside of school such as ballet or martial arts. Our students learn to manage their time while exploring and enjoying their extracurricular interests and passions.

#7 – What is your teacher hiring process?

We believe academic degrees or experience in the disciplines taught, and passion for that subject are the most important tools for inspiring deep content understanding in students. Our selective hiring process screens for candidates who are committed to sharing their expertise and helping students become the best versions of themselves. All final candidates are invited to conduct a Teacher Demo, where Heads of School assemble classes of our students and administrators, and candidates are given the opportunity to teach a lesson, challenge students, show their subject expertise, as well as show their ability to communicate high-level subject matter to young students. 

Our students take these sessions seriously; they know their feedback weighs heavily in our hiring decisions. Some new faculty members have been teaching for years in school or university settings. Others are leaving a research lab or corporate job to leap into a new career and share their experience and applied knowledge with BASIS Independent students.

#8 – What is your student-to-teacher ratio in the classroom?

TK and Kindergarten will have around 21 students to two teachers per classroom. Grades 1 – 4 will have around 26 students per class with a Learning Expert Teacher (LET) that stays with them throughout the day and an individual Subject Expert Teacher (SET) that joins their class for each subject. Grade 5 and above will also have around 26 students but have an individual Subject Expert Teacher for each subject. 

#9 – How do you teach soft skills such as empathy, confidence, self-control, and self-awareness?

We believe that these skills begin at home and we rely on our parents and guardians to work in partnership with us to enhance social emotional learning. On the school side, students are a part of a learning community, one that gives the opportunity for young adults to better themselves, have achievements, have failures, learn lessons, etc. One of the unique things about our program is that we implement an SEL (social emotional learning) curriculum starting in TK that is regularly taught as part of the school day.

Whether it be their behavior in the hallways, participating in class discussions, or connecting with friends during lunchtime or after school, they are learning these lessons through their relationships with their teachers and fellow students. It’s a daily journey and one that reminds students of the community they are a part of, and the respect we require them to show other people and themselves.

#10 – How does the school communicate with families about campus life and events? 

Our parents and guardians are a valued part of our community and we strive to keep them updated regularly about day to day school life. Most of our communications occur on a platform called ParentSquare. Your family will be updated weekly through our School Newsletters and “Friday Photos”. These weekly ParentSquare publications keep you informed and entertained with lively tidbits from around our campuses. We also post regularly about upcoming campus events and updates. 

Families at the Lower School will also receive weekly newsletters with updates from their student’s Learning Expert Teacher to ensure they are best able to support their students through their studies. Starting in grade 9, our students have access to StudentSquare, which provides them with the same content and resources our families access through ParentSquare.

Families are also invited to regular Administrative Office Hours to connect with our teams at both Lower and Upper School campuses both virtually and in person! We are so excited to stay connected with you!

Prepare to Soar: The 2024-25 Application is Open

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We are excited to have our halls filled again with the laughter and chatter of happy students moving between classes and to see our passionate, expert teachers using engaging and interactive learning to bring subjects to life. And, we can’t wait to see what will come as these talented Red-Tailed Hawks learn and grow this school year.

The start of school also means the beginning of the 2024-25 admissions process. So, your child’s BASIS Independent McLean (BIM) journey begins here. As you explore our curriculum and community, it is our goal to show you how BIM can prepare your child to soar!

2024-25 Application Live

The 2024-25 application is now live for students from age 2-grade 10! Start your application today.

If you are still interested in admissions for the 2023-24 school year, we do still have limited space available in some grades, so please contact me today.

If you are new to our interest list, welcome! For those returning, welcome back! Please use our website, blogs, and social media to research our school. As a member of our interest list, you will continue to receive important admissions information on application deadlines, upcoming events, and community traditions and achievements. If you have not yet joined our interest list, join here.

Key Admissions Dates & Deadlines

We have two admission cycles: Early Admissions and Regular Admissions. The applications for both cycles are now open, and the requirements for both cycles are the same. The main differences are the application deadlines and notification and response timelines. If you know that BIM is your top choice, we encourage you to apply during Early Admissions to secure your child’s place as quickly as possible.

Let’s review the deadlines and timelines associated with each cycle.

Early Admissions

Application Submission Deadline: Wednesday, November 15, 2023
Application Completion Deadline: Friday, December 1, 2023
Decision Released: Thursday, December 7, 2023
Response Deadline: Wednesday, January 10, 2024


Regular Admissions

Application Submission Deadline: Saturday, January 20, 2024
Application Completion Deadline: Thursday, February 1, 2024
Decision Released: Friday, March 1, 2024
Response Deadline: Wednesday, March 20, 2024
Regardless of which cycle you choose, the Admissions team recommends that you get started on your child’s application today!

Visit with Us

Our Admissions team has created a variety of virtual and in-person opportunities for you to learn more about BIM. To see all visit options, please visit the Admissions Event section of our website. From Information Sessions to Open Houses and tours to Shadow Days, we are planning robust experiences for your family and your child.

In the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact me at stephanie.cancienne@basisindependent.com or 703.991.6075. As always, we look forward to getting to know your family and your child!