BASIS Independent Schools

BASIS Independent SchoolsBASIS Independent Schools
Inquire

Admissions

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

by

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

by

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

by

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

by Leave a Comment

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

by Leave a Comment

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

by Leave a Comment

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

What is the 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.

Fall 2025: What to Expect at Your Virtual Family Meeting

by Leave a Comment

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

What is the 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

by Leave a Comment

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

What is the 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?
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 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 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.

Why Mandarin?

by Leave a Comment

When families begin learning about our Early Learning and Primary programs, they often ask us the same question: “Why do you teach Mandarin to all your students?”

Mandarin is a required part of our curriculum from Transitional Kindergarten to Grade 4 because Mandarin provides our early learners with the opportunity to engage both sides of their brains, provides students with visual and artistic stimulation, and promotes the development of interdisciplinary thought and analysis.

Mandarin is a tonal language. This means that the same word can have multiple different meanings depending on the tone. Students of the language must attend to both the basic sound as well as the tone in order to understand a word.

The difference in brain activity between Mandarin and English speakers is well documented in scientific research. Most recently, The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America published a study that outlined the specific differences in brain activity between speakers of tonal and non-tonal languages.

The results demonstrated that while speech processing is largely carried out in the “common left hemisphere,” Mandarin speakers activate an additional sector of their brain called the “right anterior temporal cortex,” which is crucial in recognizing differences in tone. Learning to speak a tonal language means that one must exercise this connection between the left and right hemispheres of the brain in order to improve their tonal comprehension abilities.

Additionally, Mandarin’s use of written characters for each word rather than an alphabet provides students with visual and artistic stimulation. Introducing Mandarin at an early age promotes the development of interdisciplinary thought and analysis, enabling the students to draw connections between their lessons from different subjects. 

Mandarin instruction at BASIS Curriculum Schools employs a variety of teaching techniques for accessing different styles of learning. For example, because tone is so important when speaking Mandarin, students often use music and song to practice their speaking skills. Through a variety of teaching methods and instructional media, students rapidly improve their conversational Mandarin abilities.

Though Mandarin is the required World Language from TK – Grade 4, a student’s exposure to another language doesn’t end there. Beginning in Grade 5, students will study Latin as their World Language. Then, from Grade 7 and onwards, students will choose between French, Latin, Mandarin, or Spanish as their World Language.

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley is a TK – Grade 12 private school, providing students with an internationally benchmarked liberal arts and sciences curriculum, with advanced STEM offerings. Considering joining the Bobcat community? To join our interest list for the next school year and receive admissions updates and more, please click here. 

BASIS Independent Manhattan Grads Head to Top Universities: Class of 2024 College Acceptances

by Leave a Comment

We are thrilled to announce the college acceptances of our inaugural graduating class at BASIS Independent Manhattan! These outstanding results reflect their hard work, dedication, and pursuit of excellence. We are inspired by their achievements and proud to see them succeed.

Senior Class Photo

A Pioneering Spirit Sets the Stage
As Ms. LaNette Hodge, Head of School, reflects, “This is a truly significant milestone for BASIS Independent Manhattan. Many of these students joined us in the very first year we opened our doors. Witnessing their development and evolution throughout their 6th-12th grade experience has been truly rewarding. They are pioneers, setting a high standard for future BASIS Independent Manhattan graduates.”

Head of School and Seniors

College Enrollment Reflects Exceptional Achievements
Here’s a glimpse into the impressive colleges our Class of 2024 will be calling home this fall (listed in order of commitment date):

  • Wesleyan University
  • Yale University
  • Duke University
  • University of Virginia (2 students)
  • Cornell University
  • Stanford University
  • University of California San Diego (UCSD)
  • University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
  • Lafayette College
  • Carnegie Mellon University
  • Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI)
  • University of Colorado Boulder

(Full list of college acceptances will be included below.)

Senior Trip to Jackson Hole

The statistics speak volumes about the caliber of this graduating class:

  • 23% of students secured spots at top-10 ranked universities.
  • Over 62% received offers from institutions within the top 25 nationally and internationally, including prestigious names like Stanford, Yale, Duke, and the University of Virginia (three graduates this year!).
  • An impressive 92% gained acceptance to schools ranked in the top 50.
  • Remarkably, 100% were accepted to colleges within the top 75.

These statistics are reflected across the BASIS Independent Schools Network! Check out our blog highlighting the acceptances from our fellow campuses in Brooklyn, McLean, Silicon Valley, and Fremont. Read the blog: The Class of 2024 – Achieving New Heights and Redefining Success

A Journey of Self-Discovery and Opportunity
Ms. Andie Abrams, College Counselor, shares her experience, “While we weren’t quite sure what to expect from our first graduating class, we are absolutely thrilled with their achievements. The students embraced the college application process early, focusing on self-discovery and finding schools that truly aligned with their goals. They celebrated every milestone, big and small, and I have no doubt that they are all well on their way to incredible success.”

We at BASIS Independent Manhattan are beyond proud of our Class of 2024 and their remarkable accomplishments. They are a testament to the power of a nurturing and rigorous academic environment, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to them all! We can’t wait to see the amazing things they achieve in the years to come.

Full List of College Acceptances:

  1. American University
  2. Babson College
  3. Boston University
  4. Carnegie Mellon University
  5. Cornell University 
  6. Denison University
  7. Duke University
  8. Elon University
  9. Emory University (2)
  10. Fordham University (2)
  11. George Mason University
  12. George Washington University (2)
  13. James Madison University
  14. Lafayette College
  15. Lehigh University (2)
  16. McGill University (2)
  17. New York University
  18. Northeastern University
  19. Ohio State University, The
  20. Pomona College
  21. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (2)
  22. Rochester Institute of Technology (2)
  23. Rutgers University
  24. SUNY Albany
  25. SUNY Binghamton
  26. SUNY Stony Brook
  27. Stanford University
  28. University of California – Berkeley
  29. University of California – Davis (2)
  30. University of California – Irvine
  31. University of California – Los Angeles (UCLA)
  32. University of California – San Diego (3)
  33. University of California – Santa Barbara
  34. University of Colorado Boulder
  35. University of Connecticut
  36. University of Delaware
  37. University of Indiana at Bloomington
  38. University of Maryland, College Park
  39. University of Massachusetts Amherst (2)
  40. University of Rochester
  41. University of Virginia 
  42. Washington University in St Louis
  43. Wesleyan University 
  44. Worcester Polytechnic Institute (2)

Interested in learning more about our program and the Senior Year? We invite you to explore our website, visit our school, or contact our Admissions team to see if BASIS Independent Manhattan is the right fit for you.

BASIS Independent Manhattan, a private school offering PreK through Grade 12, is based in Manhattan, New York. Students thrive alongside Subject Expert Teachers as they engage in a liberal arts program with STEM offerings.