FAQs
Why an independent or boarding school?
There are lots of choices in education today, but recent studies have shown that independent schools rank high in many categories from academic excellence of programs, motivation, leadership, to the success of the students who have attended such a school in their professional lives. To learn more, check out The Truth About Boarding School. A sampling of study results show that only 50% of public school students feel they are being academically challenged compared to 70% of day students at independent schools and 91% of independent school boarding students. Similarly, only 49% of public school students feel motivated by their peers, compared to 71% of day students at independent schools and 79% of boarding students.
The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS) also has more information at http://www.schools.com/.
Who is the ideal LWS candidate?
We accept applicants of all ethnic and religious backgrounds who present credentials indicating that they can succeed in the school’s academic work and who sincerely wish to undertake the school’s program. Applicants in grades 9-12 are welcome to apply.
Applicants are evaluated and accepted based on previous academic work, proven work ethic, community involvement, application essay quality, on-campus interview, and other factors.
Applicants to the LWS Winter Sports Program should have experience in competitive snow sports.
Applicants to the LWS Foreign Travel Program need not have winter sports experience.
All LWS applicants should be college bound.
What are the academic requirements to be accepted as a LWS student?
We do not use a specific formula to determine an applicant’s eligibility. Academics at Lowell Whiteman are rigorous and challenging. We look at a student’s academic record, and try to assess whether or not the student’s commitment to learning can make them a successful student here.
How much does it cost?
Our 2008-09 Boarding tuition is $32,250. Day tuition is $17,350.
Is financial aid available?
Yes, about a 1/3 of our students receive financial aid. We have a modest amount set aside for merit-based aid, and a larger amount reserved for need-based aid.
What is the time-line for the admissions process?
Applications are due March 15th. If vacancies still exist after March 15, qualified students will admitted as long as space remains.
New students may be considered for admission at mid-year if they demonstrate extremely strong academic skills.
What is involved in the application procedure?
After receiving a completed application, along with the $40 application fee, we will send the student’s current school a request for transcripts. We will also send requests for three recommendations, two to teachers, and one to a personal reference, to the individuals that applicants specify on their application.
We highly encourage a personal visit while we are in session so you may see LWS first hand. Faculty, staff and current students are happy to meet with perspective students. A campus visit also provides ample opportunity for a student interview and allows families to have their questions about LWS answered in person.
Is the SSAT required for admission?
The Secondary School Admission Test is recommended, but not required.
What kind of college placements do Lowell Whiteman graduates achieve?
See College Placement.
Where are school schedules and other important information?
Check out our Academic page.