How to Apply

1. Complete the Online Application and submit the $100 application fee

Click Here to Complete Online Application

• Applications for the following school year open on November 1. 
• To be considered in the first round of decisions, the online application form is due no later than February 1 to allow time in February to complete all of the checklist items in the application process. Applicant families are asked to work through the checklist and schedule admissions appointments in a timely manner so the entire application is complete by early March. First round decisions are sent out in mid-March. 
• If you apply after February 1, your child's application will be processed as soon as possible with decisions going out in late March or as soon as possible thereafter.
• Required Forms to complete the application file:
  • Photo of your child and a family photo
  • Any pertinent educational assessments, if applicable
  • Confidential Student Evaluation form from your child’s current teacher
  • Parent Questionnaire
  • Birth Certificate

2. (Grades 1-7 only). Schedule your Child's Shadow Visit

Shadowing at ACDS is an essential part of our application process. The visit gives your child a valuable chance to experience our school by attending classes, interacting with our teachers, and spending time with fellow students. Each shadow student is warmly welcomed by a dedicated "shadow buddy" who will guide the student through the day's classes. Shadow students are included in all class activities.

The ACDS Shadow Experience

Please note: shadow visits are only able to be scheduled after your application has been submitted.

3. Schedule your Family Conversation

Once your child has completed the shadow dates and/or assessment, your family will participate in a 30-minute conversation with members of our admissions team. Parents/guardians and the applicant(s) are expected to attend the meeting. Siblings are also welcome to attend. Here is what we will cover:

• Why you’ve chosen Almaden Country Day School
• Your goals for your child
• Your child's impression of the shadow visit
• Your child's specific interests or favorite activities
• Your desired level of parental involvement
• Any questions you or your family members may have

4. ACDS Emails Decision Letters

At Almaden Country Day School we strive to accept students who will be a good fit for our program while considering the preferences and needs of the family. We do not enroll on a first-come, first-served basis. Students are accepted based on space availability and on the Admissions Committee's review of all of the materials gathered during the admissions process, including those from outside sources. Ultimately, our goal for every child accepted into our program is to ensure that ACDS will be the best match for the student and the family and that we are able to serve a student within the framework of our programs. Where space is not available, students who would otherwise have been accepted will be placed in a wait pool. For applications received before February 1, decision letters will be emailed on March 19. If you apply after February 1, your decision letter will be emailed at the end of March or later, depending on the completion date of your student's application. 

5. Pay Enrollment Deposit

Once your child is accepted, you can secure their space by completing the enrollment contract and paying the non-refundable enrollment deposit within seven days of the date of your acceptance letter.  If you anticipate requesting Tuition Support (financial aid), please review our Tuition Support page for important information.