Bay School FAQs

Q: What makes The Bay School different?
A: Although the mission of the Bay School shares attributes common to those of other regional independent high schools--a commitment to diversity, an academically challenging curriculum, a compassionate and responsible community--our mission and philosophy also include an emphasis on the importance of studying science and technology, ethics and world religions. We believe that these issues are not only timely but crucial aspects of a 21st century education.

Q: Is attendance at an open house required?
A: Attendance at an open house is not required; however, we strongly recommend that all interested students visit the school at least once. Open houses and campus visits provide an opportunity for students and their families to learn more about our school and its curriculum and philosophy.

Q: Are campus visits and interviews required for admission?
A: Campus visits are a great way for applicants to get to know the Bay School, but they are not required. Student interviews are required for all applicants and will be scheduled once we receive Part I of the application. For more detailed information on scheduling campus visits, please see the admission procedure page.

Q: What is the basis for selection of Bay School students?
A: Offers of admission to the Bay School are based not only upon academic records, but also upon a student’s commitment to the school's mission, and a desire to become an active and engaged member of the school community. The Admission Committee selects students based on both the contents of the application as well as the interview.

Q: What standardized tests are accepted?
A: The Bay School requires official SSAT scores for all applicants.

Q: How does the Bay School support its students?
A: An extensive support system which includes faculty and staff advisors, a learning specialist, and chaplain are available to our students. Deans' offices, as well as those of the learning specialist, counselor and chaplain are centrally located to encourage constant communication between the students and their advisors. Additionally,advisory periods are set aside weekly for student meetings with teachers, advisors and counselors.

Q: Where will Bay School students go after graduation?
A: In 2008, our inaugural senior class went through Bay’s first college application process, with much anticipation from the community and our greater audience. Though we only have one year’s worth of results to report, we have every expectation that the good work our students are doing in our uniquely challenging program will continue to be acknowledged by stellar colleges and universities. We are very pleased that our 52 seniors were admitted to 122 different colleges and earned well over $500,000 in merit scholarships for 2008-2009. Some of the acceptances in the class of 2008 include: MIT, Stanford, Wellesley, UC Berkeley, Amherst, Bowdoin, Reed, Tufts, Duke, Carleton and the U.S. Naval Academy.