Admissions FAQ

Yes. Students applying to grade 1 and below will participate in a Play Date. This play-based assessment allows us to observe your child's social-emotional and academic development in a school setting. 

Students applying to grade 2 and above will participate in a standardized entrance exam, such as the ISEE or SSAT. 

No. All sibling applicants to BASIS Independent McLean follow the same admissions process. Each student is evaluated individually based on their own qualifications and fit for the school.

No, we do not offer financial aid. However, families may submit tuition in three different ways: one payment, two half-payments, or 10 monthly installments. 

We do not require students to wear a uniform. Students are expected to follow our dress code, which promotes a respectful and appropriate learning environment.

No. We want to avoid families feeling pressured to donate or believe that their financial contributions will result in increased influence at the school. Families have many other opportunities to get involved in supporting the school, which can be found on the Parent Community page.

Yes. Many BASIS Independent Schools offer student shadow opportunities, though the format and availability vary by campus and grade level. Families interested in a shadow visit should reach out to the Admissions Team for specific details and scheduling information.

Yes, BASIS Independent McLean offers a wide variety of in-person and virtual summer programs, day camps, and academic enrichment courses for both current and non-enrolled students. Visit the Summer Programs page for details.

This varies greatly by campus. We encourage you to contact the Admissions Team to receive more information. 

Yes, BASIS Independent McLean offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities, including student clubs, athletic teams, and competitive auxiliary programs. Visit the Sports & Athletics and Clubs & Activities pages under “Student Life” for details.

Every BASIS Independent McLean teacher is chosen first for subject-matter expertise. Our faculty hold academic degrees in the subjects they teach, from Calculus to Mandarin, and bring real enthusiasm for their fields into every lesson. Many come from university or college preparatory classrooms or another BASIS Independent Schools campus; others are transitioning from a research lab or a corporate career, choosing instead to share their real-world expertise with young learners.

Expertise alone isn’t enough, however. Finalist candidates are asked to attend our Teacher Demo Days, where they are invited to teach a live lesson in front of a class of prospective students assembled by the Head of School. Students take the exercise seriously, and their feedback carries real weight in our final hiring decisions. We’re ultimately looking for teachers who connect naturally with students and adapt quickly to whatever the classroom in front of them needs.

While BASIS Independent McLean does not offer a dedicated special education program, we work closely with families to understand each student’s individual needs. Our schools are equipped with counselors, student affairs members, expert teachers, and administrators who have experience supporting students with appropriate learning accommodations and are committed to helping every student succeed within our academic program. 

Because every child’s situation is unique, we encourage you to contact the Admissions team to discuss your students’ needs and whether our school is the right fit.

At BASIS Independent McLean, we believe students are capable of more than they can imagine. Our students come from different backgrounds, bring different interests and strengths, and each finds their own path to success. 

Our students are curious! They ask questions, think for themselves, and explore ideas that may be new or difficult. They take intellectual risks, persevere when something doesn't come easily, and discover that challenges can be opportunities to grow. Our students all share a willingness to learn, grow, and embrace new possibilities.