How to Apply

Thank you for your interest in Sidwell Friends School!

APPLY NOW
We are now accepting applications for the 2026-27 school year for students who will enter prekindergarten, kindergarten, 3rd, 4th, 6th, 7th, and 9th grades. Whether you are just beginning to explore independent schools or you are ready to dive in, we’re here to support you each step of the way.

The application for non-entry grades will open on Monday, December 1, 2025. Should there be openings due to attrition at the time of re-enrollment, we will review completed files and contact families to schedule their group visit and assessments. 

Important Note: Deadlines for entry-grade applicants are separate from the deadlines for non-entry-grade applicants. 

This fall we will hold several events to help you learn more about Sidwell Friends. From open houses to information sessions to campus tours, we can’t wait to welcome you. To learn more and register for these events, please visit our Ravenna admissions platform. Advance registration is required given limited capacity.

Let's get started! 

Applying to Sidwell Friends requires several steps. While the requirements for each application grade differ slightly, the following list provides a helpful overview of the process. Please keep in mind that all requirements are due on or before December 31, 2025.

CREATE AN ACCOUNT AND STUDENT PROFILE 

Sidwell Friends School uses the web-based admissions system Ravenna to manage the application process from start to finish. Unless otherwise stated, all steps in the application process occur in Ravenna. If the application fee is a hardship for your family, please complete this form to request a fee waiver. 

SUBMIT FAMILY INFORMATION FORM

Once you’ve created your account in Ravenna, we suggest you complete this form on or soon after August 15. There is a $70 fee to apply. Children must be the required age by September 1, 2026 to apply: 4 for PK, 5 for Kindergarten, 6 for 1st grade, and 7 for 2nd grade. 

SUBMIT CURRENT SCHOOL RECORDS/TRANSCRIPT

Submit the transcript release form to your child’s school authorizing it to send transcripts directly to Sidwell Friends School. (Not required of preK applicants.)

REQUEST TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS

Applications require a current teacher recommendation. We recommend sending the forms to teachers no earlier than November 1 so that they will have a chance to get to know your child before completing them.

ATTEND A STUDENT GROUP VISIT & ASSESSMENT

After you have submitted your Family Information Form (Step 2), your next step is to join us for a Student Group Visit (Assessment Day). 

For Pre-K, Kindergarten, 3rd Grade, and 4th Grade Applicants, the Admissions Office will assign your student’s visit date and share details directly with your family.

For 6th, 7th, and 9th Grade Applicants, families will receive available dates and may register for their child’s assessment day through Ravenna.

*Please note that a limited number of Be Our Guest Days, which are shortened shadow visits that include the assessments, will be offered throughout the fall. Prospective students will only complete a Group Visit Day OR a Be Our Guest Day. 

All admitted students will be invited for a full shadow day in March.

Sidwell Friends is a member of AISGW – Association of Independent Schools of Greater Washington. Please see AISGW’s Statement to Applicants here.