High School Admissions
A completed application for High School applicants consists of:
• Application, including parent(s)/guardian(s) narrative and signed transcript/records request form(s).
• Completed Applicant Questionnaire
• Application fee of $75
• Copies of applicant’s academic record for the past three years (in most cases this will be provided by student’s current school and is requested by CWS using the records request form). This record includes grades received, standardized test scores, copy of Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) if relevant, copy of educational evaluation if relevant, and attendance records for the past three years.
• Letters of recommendation from student’s current English teacher, Math teacher and principal or guidance counselor. Common Recommendation Forms can be downloaded here and must be mailed or faxed to the Admissions Office directly from the teachers.
Please click here to download the English Teacher Recommendation Form for High School Admission.
Please click here to download the Math Teacher Recommendation Form for High School Admission.
Please click here to download the Principal Recommendation Form for High School Admission.
Please click here for a downloadable Chicago Waldorf School Application.
It is highly recommended that High School applicants visit for a day. Although this is not a requirement of a completed application, it helps families decide whether or not to apply. We encourage 9th grade applicants to visit during the late fall of their 8th grade year. Visits can be scheduled most times throughout the school year through the Admissions Office.
Mid-year transfer applicants are considered until February 15.
Admissions Process
The Admissions staff works collaboratively with faculty to facilitate an admissions process that is professional, meaningful and pedagogically sound. We look for many qualities in prospective students, but the most important criteria is for the student and family to value and support our educational philosophy. It is also important to ascertain if we will be able to meet the needs of the student and the expectations of the family. Students who are well-rounded and highly motivated are most likely to thrive in the high school
A complete file is given to the appropriate high school teachers for review. In most cases, the applicant is recommended for an interview and assessment. This is conducted by two members of the high school faculty and, in some cases, an Educational Support Specialist and/or the Admissions Director. Interviews involve the student and the parents or guardians, and range in length from 45 to 75 minutes. This includes math and English proficiency assessments and an opportunity for the applicants to share examples of their academic and/or artistic work.
Admission decisions are made by the High School faculty. Notification will be sent in writing within 3 weeks of the interview or as soon as possible once a decision has been made for late or mid-year applicants.
There is a three month probationary period for all new students of the Chicago Waldorf School. This gives the Class Advisors and family an opportunity to discuss initial adjustment and identify what is necessary to ensure a successful transition to our school.
Tuition, Tuition Adjustment and Sibling Discount
Please visit the Tuition page for specific information regarding tuition, tuition adjustment and sibling discount..
Notice of Nondiscrimination Policy
The Chicago Waldorf School does not discriminate against qualified applicants for employment or admissions to the School on the basis of race, color, creed, gender, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, religion, age, or physical disability in the administration of its educational policies, scholarship, financial aid, athletic, and other school-administrated programs.