Admission FAQs

Commitment to Excellence: The school’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its rigorous academic programs and the dedicated faculty who work to ensure each student reaches their full potential.

Strong Community Values: Saint Andrew's promotes a close-knit community where students, families, and staff work together to support each other's growth. The school’s values are deeply rooted in respect, integrity, and compassion.

Holistic Development: Saint Andrew's focuses on the development of the whole child, emphasizing intellectual curiosity, ethical leadership, and character building. The school strives to cultivate not just academic excellence, but also personal growth and a strong sense of community.

Leadership and Service: The school encourages students to take on leadership roles and engage in community service. This emphasis helps students develop leadership skills and a sense of responsibility.

Personalized Learning: With a focus on individualized instruction, Saint Andrew's tailors its educational approach to meet the unique needs and strengths of each student, allowing for a more personalized and effective learning experience

You can apply to Saint Andrew's starting on September 1 each year.

You can review our application process for each division.

• Lower School (grades pre-K-5)
• Middle School (grades 6-8)
• Upper School (grades 9-12)

To experience Saint Andrew’s School at its most vibrant, we recommend visiting while school is in session. Campus visits are available on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Additionally, we invite you to our Open House events on November 2 (for Upper and Middle School) and November 7 (for Lower School). We also offer “Scot for a Day” shadow days throughout the school year for a more immersive experience.

Our typical entry years are pre-K, Kindergarten, 6th, and 9th grades. This is when our class sizes grow and we have the most openings. However, we accept qualified students into grades pre-K-12 as space permits.

To apply for the Kindergarten program, your child must be five years old by September 1 of the year they plan to start school.

To apply for the pre-K program, your child must be four years old by September 1 of the year they plan to start school.

To access the online application portal, simply visit this link. We encourage parents to check the portal regularly to stay informed about the status of their child’s application and to ensure that all materials are being received in a timely manner.

If Saint Andrew’s is your first choice, it's important to stay in close contact with your Admission officer. Tell them about your situation and express your strong interest in attending Saint Andrew’s. Decision notifications can vary among schools, so maintaining open communication is important.

Yes, Saint Andrew’s School may offer a waitpool decision to qualified candidates once all available spots in a particular grade are filled.

A waitpool differs from a traditional waitlist in that there is no specific ranking or order for those who are in it. Instead of simply moving down a list when a spot opens up, Saint Andrew's reviews the entire waitpool to determine which candidates best meet the current needs of the school's programs, divisions, or grades. When a space becomes available, the school evaluates the waitpool to identify students who align with these specific needs and then extends admission offers to those individuals. This system allows Saint Andrew's to maintain a dynamic and flexible approach to admissions, ensuring that the needs of the school are met in the most effective way possible.

Our waitpool does not roll over to the next year. Students must reapply for the next admissions cycle if a space is not offered from the waitpool before the new school year begins. Placement in the waitpool this year does not guarantee consideration or placement in future years.

Our calendar at a glance outlines our academic year.

An International Baccalaureate (IB) World School is a school that offers one or more IB programs to students. At Saint Andrew’s School, being an IB World School means we provide the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the Middle Years Programme (MYP) as part of our curriculum. In the Upper School we offer the IB Diploma Programme.

The PYP spans the seven years of Lower School, offering a framework that helps students develop the knowledge, understanding, attitudes, and skills necessary to participate actively and responsibly in a changing world. The MYP covers the three years of Middle School, continuing to build on this foundation by fostering critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and holistic development.

As an IB World School, Saint Andrew’s is part of a global community committed to delivering a challenging and balanced education that prepares students for success in higher education and beyond while promoting ethical responsibility and a lifelong love of learning.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme at Saint Andrew's School is a rigorous and challenging two-year curriculum designed for students in their junior and senior years. It provides a globally recognized qualification that emphasizes critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and a well-rounded education.

Key features of the IB Diploma Program at Saint Andrew's include:

• Curriculum: Students undertake a comprehensive curriculum that includes six subject groups: Studies in Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and The Arts. Students also choose one subject from each group, ensuring a broad and balanced education.

• Core Components: The program includes three core elements: the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course, which explores the nature of knowledge; the Extended Essay (EE), a 4,000-word independent research project; and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), which encourages students to engage in extracurricular activities and community service.

• Assessment: Students are assessed through a combination of internal and external evaluations. Exams are held at the end of the program, and coursework is assessed by teachers and external IB examiners.

• Benefits: The IB Diploma Program develops essential skills for higher education and future careers, such as research, writing, and analytical skills. It also fosters international-mindedness and cultural awareness.

• College Recognition: The IB Diploma is widely recognized by universities around the world and can enhance college applications by demonstrating a commitment to academic excellence and a global perspective.

For more detailed information about the IB Diploma Program at Saint Andrew's School, including specific subject offerings and program requirements, please refer to our IB Diploma Programme Guide.

Saint Andrew’s School offers 29 Advanced Placement (AP) courses across various subjects. This diverse selection allows students to challenge themselves and earn college credit while preparing for higher education. Saint Andrew’s also offers the AP Capstone Diploma program.

You can view our college enrollments for the most recent five years on the last page of the school profile.

In the Middle and Upper School class sizes vary; most classes average 15 students. Lower School classroom sizes range from 16-24 students with two full-time, certified lead teachers, making the student-to-teacher ratio smaller.

The school day is from 8:15 a.m. to 3:05 p.m., with an early dismissal at 2:15 p.m. on Wednesdays.

Interscholastic and competitive sports start in grade 6 and continue through Middle and Upper School. Additionally, we provide sports-focused after-school enrichment opportunities beginning in Lower School.

During the school year, Saint Andrew’s Lower School offers a morning care program beginning at 7:30 am as a courtesy to our parents. “Beyond the Bell,” the aftercare program, is designed to meet the needs of those parents whose family schedule does not coincide with the school’s schedule. It is available on either a full-time or drop-in basis for families until 5:30 pm daily.

Yes, Middle and Upper School students can be on campus as early as 7:30 a.m. and stay until 6:00 p.m. Some student clubs and activities may extend beyond these hours.

Yes, Saint Andrew's School provides limited bus transportation from select locations within Parkland, West Palm Beach, and Wellington. This service is available for an additional fee.

We have several ways for parents to get involved at Saint Andrew's.

Yes. Families can purchase uniforms from Jonathan Reed Uniforms.

No, your child does not need to bring lunch to school. Lunch is included as part of our daily program. The menu offers a wide variety of options, featuring seasonal ingredients and international cuisine. Each menu is carefully reviewed and approved by a team of registered dietitians, ensuring a balanced and healthy diet for our students.

Yes, Saint Andrew’s is a 1:1 device school, which means that every student receives their own device, which is included in the cost of tuition. In grades pre-k-2, students are provided an iPad; in grades 3-12, students are provided a MacBook Air.

No, Saint Andrew's School does not offer a Postgraduate (PG) year.

Yes, Saint Andrew’s School allows students to "reclassify," meaning they can repeat their current grade when applying. However, please note that the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) permits only four years of athletic participation in grades 9-12. Therefore, a reclassified student will not be eligible to compete in athletics during their senior year if they repeat a grade during high school. It is important to discuss this with your Admission Officer during the application process.

Saint Andrew’s does not accept any outside scholarships or funding. Families with financial need are welcome to apply for need-based financial aid.

Saint Andrew's offers a limited number of merit scholarships for high-achieving students in grades 9-12. However, in compliance with Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) rules, we do not offer athletic awards, as doing so would violate these regulations. In addition, we offer need-based financial aid opportunities to those who qualify.

The SSAT, or Secondary School Admission Test, is a standardized exam used by independent schools to assess students' verbal, math, and reading skills. It includes a non-scored writing sample to evaluate writing ability. The SSAT is available in three formats: paper-based, at-home, and at Prometric test centers. It’s important to note that the SSAT is not connected to the SAT, which is used for college admissions.

To meet the admission deadline of January 15, 2025, the last day to test is January 4, 2025.

Saint Andrew's has no preference regarding which SSAT format you choose.

Paper SSAT

• Availability: Offered in the U.S., Canada, and many international locations.

• Test Limits:

  • U.S. & Canadian Middle/Upper Level: Up to 6 Standard tests and 1 Flex test annually.

  • International Middle/Upper Level: Up to 4 Standard tests (5 in China) and 1 Flex test annually.

  • Elementary Level: Up to 3 tests, including 2 Standard and 1 Flex test annually.

• Details:
  The traditional paper-based test is popular because it resembles a typical classroom exam, helping to reduce test anxiety. Students can take the Standard SSAT on specific dates at approved locations or the Flex SSAT, offered on special dates. Both test types are identical; only the date and location differ. The availability of test centers in your area could determine whether or not to choose the paper SSAT. Paper SSAT results are generally available within two weeks, though occasionally, it may take up to three weeks.

SSAT at Home

• Availability: Available only in the U.S. (including territories) and Canada.

• Test Limits: Middle and Upper Level students can take up to 2 combined SSAT at Home and Prometric tests per testing year.

• Details:
  The SSAT at Home is a convenient online option that allows students to take the test from their home environment. It's available monthly from August through mid-July. Parents/guardians must ensure a quiet and distraction-free environment. An online proctor monitors the test via webcam. SSAT at Home scores are typically released to schools and families on the Wednesday and Thursday following the test date.

Prometric Test Center

• Availability: Available in the U.S., Canada, and many international locations (not available in China, Hong Kong, Korea, Vietnam, Laos, Jamaica, and Myanmar).

• Test Limits: Middle and Upper Level students can take up to 2 combined SSAT at Home and Prometric tests per testing year.

• Details:
  Prometric test centers provide a controlled environment for the computer-based SSAT. This format eliminates the need for system checks and minimizes distractions. Scores from tests taken Monday through Sunday are released to schools and families the following Wednesday and Thursday.

Please Note: Test availability is based on the student’s physical location on test day, not their home address. For example, a U.S. student traveling to Germany cannot take the SSAT at Home while in Germany. The SSAT testing year runs from August 1 to July 31. For questions, contact info@ssat.org.

Yes, SSAT offers testing accommodations for qualified students. You must apply and receive approval before registering for a test. For assistance, contact the SSAT’s accommodations team at ta@enrollment.org. Saint Andrew’s School DOES NOT offer testing accommodations.

Scoring Methodology

• Middle and Upper Level SSAT:

  • Correct Answer: +1 point

  • Incorrect Answer: -0.25 points

  • Omitted Questions: No points awarded or deducted.

Norming
The SSAT is a norm-referenced test, meaning your performance is compared to a norm group—a representative sample of students who took the SSAT over the past three years. This comparison helps determine where you stand relative to other students in your grade and gender.

Why is this important?
Your SSAT scores are compared to those of students applying to some of the most selective independent schools. Because the norm group is highly competitive, it’s essential to understand that your results reflect your standing among top-performing peers.

To view your SSAT score report:

• Log into your parent/guardian account.

• Select "Active Scores" from the "SSAT Scores" dropdown.

• Click the "+" next to your student’s test.

• Click "View Score Report" to access the PDF. (If the Testing Experience Statement is incomplete, you’ll need to complete it first.)

• If you purchased the SSAT writing sample, you’ll also have access to download it.

A Flex test is a paper SSAT that can be taken on a flexible schedule, unlike the Standard SSAT, which is offered on fixed dates. Flex tests are administered by EMA member schools and approved educational consultants. Students at all levels can take one Flex test per testing year (August 1 – July 31). Saint Andrew's will offer a Flex test on Sunday, November 3, 2024.

Paper SSAT

• Scores are typically released within two weeks of the test date. Schools and families receive the scores simultaneously.

SSAT at Home

• Scores are usually released on the Wednesday following your SSAT at Home test date. Schools and families receive the scores on the same day.

• Exception: Tests taken between 12/23/24 and 1/5/25 will have scores released on 1/8/25.

Prometric Test Center

• Scores for tests taken from Monday through Sunday are released the following Wednesday. Schools and families receive the scores on the same day.

• Exception: Tests taken between 12/16/24 and 12/22/24 will have scores released on 12/23/24.

You have two options for sending your child’s SSAT scores:

• During Registration: You can select schools or educational consultants to receive your child’s scores during the registration process.

• After Viewing Scores: If you prefer to see your child’s scores first, you can wait to add recipients. Once added, schools and consultants will have immediate access to the scores.

Saint Andrew’s School is close to Palm Beach International Airport (26 miles), Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (28 miles), and Miami International Airport (50 miles).

English Proficiency: If English is not a student’s first language, an English Proficiency Test score is required: TOEFL (The TOEFL ets.org) or Duolingo (Duolingo English Test). Our school code for the TOEFL is 8163.

Interviews: Student and parent Interviews are conducted in person or through Zoom after the student’s application has been submitted.

For Students from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan: Saint Andrew's has partnered with Vericant to conduct interviews and short writing samples with our applicants in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. The Vericant interview is a required component of your application and will take the place of a Zoom interview. The Vericant interview deadline is December 15, 2024. A member of our Admission team may also reach out to you to schedule a Zoom interview. To learn more about Vericant and to schedule an interview, please visit Vericant's Website.

Once a student has been accepted and completed the enrollment process, please submit it to our Office of Admission. Please review our application process here.

Yes, Saint Andrew’s requires all international transcripts to be translated and evaluated by a third-party assessor. International applicants may use a third-party assessor of their choice. We recommend Josef Silney & Associates and World Education Services.

To learn more about the financial aid process, what tuition includes, and Tuition, Merit Awards, and FA FAQs, international students are eligible to receive need-based financial aid from the school. Please review our financial assistance page.

Saint Andrew's offers boarding in grades 9-12. We do not allow our international students to participate in homestay programs. If an international student is a day student, they must reside with a parent or blood relative living in the Boca Raton area while enrolled at the school.

Interviews can be done while on campus or by video conferencing. Interviews can be scheduled by contacting the admission office by phone (561) 210-2020 or emailing the admission office at admission@knowledge-gate.com.

Saint Andrew’s is the best of all worlds, offering a unique residential experience that helps students grow as individuals and achieve their goals. Whether a soccer game, a swim meet, an art exhibit, or a jazz performance, there is always something going on at Saint Andrew’s School. Our resident students benefit from all school events as well as numerous other activities organized by the residential program. Visit the boarding pages on our website.