At Seattle Academy, engaging deeply in our culture and opportunities is a key part of preparing for college. While formal college advising begins in 11th grade, this timing is intentional. Outside of recruited athletes, who may need to start earlier, waiting until 11th grade allows time and space for students to explore, grow and develop their unique strengths. In the meantime, we ensure younger families receive helpful information to prepare them for the process. We also offer near-daily after school office hours for any student who wishes to ask us questions. 

How It Works

Every student is matched with a dedicated College Advisor who serves as a central guide throughout the application process. Advising is highly personalized and supports students academically, emotionally and strategically.

College Advisors

• Get to know each student
• Build individualized advising plans
• Recommend a balanced college list
• Review essays and applications
• Help plan college visits and interviews
• Guide testing strategy and prep
• Share info on financial aid and scholarships
• Coordinate teacher recommendations and write counselor letters
• Host well over 100 college rep visits each year
• Organize events like college fairs and mock admissions nights
• Submit official documents and communicate with admissions offices
• Support decision-making and celebrate outcomes

For Younger Grades

• While 11th grade is the official start, we know questions come earlier. We welcome curiosity and provide several access points for 9th and 10th grade students and families: Office hours in the Upper School 4th Floor Commons for student-only questions on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 3-3:30 on days school is in session
• Fall 11th Grade College Advising Webinar: Open to all upper school families
  Spring 10th Grade Panel: Along with department chairs, answers common early questions about 11th grade course selection and next steps
• Evening events: Topics include college athletics, financing and testing
• Questionnaires Available: For athletic recruits or earlier college visit planning
• Practice testing: 10th and 11th graders can take remote SAT/ACT practice exams; 10th and 11th graders may also take the PSAT on campus

Our Approach

We’ve built a structure that ensures families feel informed and supported, while students stay focused, reflective and organized. College advising isn’t just about applications it’s about helping students make thoughtful decisions, avoid burnout and find the right next step.

Have Questions?

Please review the FAQ section for common topics. Still need help? collegeadvising@seattleacademy.org

We are often asked, "What should students be doing now to prepare for college?" The honest answer may surprise you because it starts with settling into high school.

With headlines swirling about changing test policies and selective admission, it’s easy to feel like you’re behind before you’ve even begun. But take heart by choosing Seattle Academy, your student is already on the right path. When the time comes, we’ll guide you through the college process with clarity, context and care.

For Now: Focus on High School Life

Here’s what matters most in 9th grade:

• Adjust to high school academics and routines.
  • You have time. Despite the noise, the formal college process doesn’t start until 11th grade. Starting too early can distract from the meaningful experiences that colleges truly care about.
• Learn how to manage your time.
  • The ability to balance school, extracurriculars and downtime is a major asset for high school and for life after it.
• Build real relationships with your teachers.
  • These connections matter deeply. Your teachers will be mentors, guides and ultimately, your strongest recommenders.
• Get involved. Try new things.
  • Not everything will stick and that’s okay. The goal is to discover what excites you, not just what looks good on an application. Authenticity reads better than strategy.

Resources Along the Way

While the formal college process begins in 11th grade, we invite families to engage with us earlier if they’re curious:

• Attend College Advising events open to all grades (check the Seattle Academy calendar)
• Join us in November for our annual guest speaker on standardized testing (recording available)
• Explore our FAQ for updates on testing and other college topics
• Students may visit our office hours in the Upper School 4th Floor Commons to ask student-only questions on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 3:00 PM-3:30 PM on days school is in session

Our Commitment to You

We believe in first things first. Take one step at a time, stay engaged and make the most of your Seattle Academy experience. That’s the best preparation for both college and life.

And if things feel off, or you just have questions? Reach out. College Advising is here for you, not only in 11th and 12th grade, but any time. Best wishes for Upper School!

As 10th grade begins, our priority remains the same: students should focus on engaging fully in their classes, connecting with teachers and exploring Seattle Academy. At the same time, we invite students to develop a light, informed awareness of college without pressure or stress.

What You Can Do Now (Without Overdoing It)

• Do your best in school. Stay organized, reach out to teachers when you need help and build strong relationships. Your teachers will later become mentors and recommenders.
• Save your work. Keep copies of essays, lab reports and creative projects. It helps to build a portfolio over time.
• Explore colleges casually.Students may visit our office hours in the Upper School 4th Floor Commons to ask student-only questions on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 3:00 PM-3:30 PM on days school is in session. 
• If curious, visit a college website and sign up for a virtual info session. You’re just surveying options including maybe a large university (like UW), a mid-size public school (like Western), or a small liberal arts college (like Whitman or UPS).
• Try things. Seattle Academy offers many ways to get involved. Experiment with new clubs or activities. What you genuinely enjoy often tells a clearer story to colleges than what’s chosen for résumé appeal.
• Attend a college fair. Look into the fall NACAC College Fair open to the public and featuring hundreds of colleges.
• Check out Colleges That Change Lives (CTCL). Their events and materials offer great insight into student-centered colleges.

Standardized Testing & AP Information

• Consider attending our PSAT 101 program in September (See Seattle Academy calendar).
• Take a free, optional virtual practice ACT in October or SAT in November (pre-registration required).
• Join our November event on testing changes. A recording will be shared afterward.
• Take an optional PSAT 10 in March. 
• Have questions about testing? Check our FAQ section.

Note on APs: Seattle Academy does not offer an AP curriculum by design. Colleges understand and respect this. While some students independently choose to take AP exams, many opt out. Details and updates are in our FAQ on AP testing.

As 11th grade begins, College Advising remains fully engaged in supporting students through a thoughtful, developmentally appropriate start to the college process. While our primary fall focus is on 12th grade (you’ll be grateful for this when it’s your turn!), we are equally excited to begin guiding 11th graders.

Key Events:

• September PSAT 101 overview 
• October 11th Grade College Advising Webinar: A general information session for 11th grade families covering common questions, the latest in college admission and what’s ahead
• October PSAT 11 
• October College Financing Night
• October virtual practice ACT
• November virtual practice SAT
• November Testing Overview with guest speaker (recording available)
• December College Kickoff Meeting – the official start of individualized advising

Weekly emails to students (starting the first week of school) include college rep visit schedules and important reminders. These are archived for families on the 11th grade page.

What Students Should Do Now

• Prioritize your academics. Colleges value consistent or upward grade trends. Keep steady and strive upward.
• Build relationships with teachers. Most students request recommendations from two academic teachers from 11th grade.
• Attend college rep visits on campus. These are informative, low-pressure ways to explore colleges and connect early.
• Explore virtual resources. College websites now offer robust virtual tours, info sessions and student panels. No travel required.
• Save your work. Keep samples of writing, creative projects and activity records for future use.
• Students may visit our office hours in the Upper School 4th Floor Commons to ask student-only questions on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 3:00 PM-3:30 PM on days school is in session. 

Opportunities to Explore

• Practice tests: Sign up for an official PSAT on campus or take a virtual practice SAT/ACT 
• College fairs: Learn more about the fall NACAC College Fair attended by hundreds of schools.
• Colleges That Change Lives (CTCL): Attend an event or read about this student-centered group of colleges.
• NCAA Athletes: If considering Division I or II athletics, register with the NCAA Clearinghouse and let us know.

Mock Admission Committee - Case Studies

In the Spring, Seattle Academy will partner with other local schools to host a “case studies” program, a simulated college admission experience led by real admission officers. Students and families gain insight into how decisions are made and attend a college fair afterward. This is a highly recommended event.

One Last Thought

While the world has changed, so has college admission. The process may seem more complex, but we are energized, informed and fully in your corner. You are not in this alone.

If questions remain after our fall webinar and after reviewing this FAQ, reach out anytime: collegeadvising@seattleacademy.org

Seattle Academy’s College Advising Office looks forward to the focus, momentum and growth that come with the start of 12th grade. Students were given specific instructions in the spring of 11th grade and we now look forward to reviewing that summer work and beginning the final phase of the application process.

College Advisors are available via email over the summer and resume in-person meetings as school begins. To ensure a smooth and productive start, please review checklist in your 2027 College Resource Folder. If you need help locating the folder, please reach out to your College Advisor. 

Fall Events for 12th Graders & Families

Details for each event are posted on the Seattle Academy calendar and the 12th Grade College Advising webpage.

• September:  Student & Parent Webinar covers key expectations and next steps
• October: Guide to College Financing
• Class meetings (mandatory): Important college updates shared directly with students
• Ongoing: Weekly student emails (archived on 12th grade page for family viewing)

Other Reminders

• Testing: Info about the current standardized testing landscape is here. 
• AP Exams: SAAS does not offer an AP curriculum. Colleges understand this and don’t expect AP scores. While some students opt to test independently, many do not. See the AP FAQ for more information.
• Interested in college athletics?: If you’re pursuing D1 or D2 athletics, register with the NCAA Clearinghouse and inform your College Advisor.
• Students may visit our office hours in the Upper School 4th Floor Commons to ask student-only questions on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 3:00 PM-3:30 PM on days school is in session. 

We know this process can feel overwhelming, especially in today’s evolving admission landscape. But you are not alone. Our team draws from decades of experience and current national conversations and we’re committed to offering context, clarity and encouragement.

There is no such thing as a College Advising emergency. We’ve built this system to work proactively and thoughtfully. When in doubt, review this page and the FAQs and email us directly. We’re here, we care deeply and we’re already cheering on the 12th grade. collegeadvising@seattleacademy.org

If you’re a parent or caregiver who remembers standardized tests being a major part of college admission, testing requirements have changed significantly in recent years. Seattle Academy’s College Advising team has been tracking these shifts closely, not only since the pandemic, but well before. We’re engaged in ongoing national conversations and keep our guidance aligned with current realities and college expectations.

What to Expect Now

• Many colleges are now test-optional some permanently, others temporarily
• Test policies vary by institution and can even change year to year
• Context and strategy matter more than ever in deciding whether to test, when and where to send scores
• Oftentimes very high scores are required to be “additive” to your application

Next Steps by Grade Level

Click below for a detailed breakdown of:

• What’s happening in the testing landscape now
• Recommended general next steps by grade level (9th–12th)

Every student’s college visit plan will look different. Some students may attend college rep visits hosted at Seattle Academy. Others may sign up for virtual info sessions or plan in-person campus visits near home or while traveling.

When and How to Visit

While there is no single “right time” to visit colleges, here’s what we recommend:

• 9th & 10th grade families may want to start with Pacific Northwest schools including large public universities such as the University of Washington or Oregon State, liberal arts colleges like Whitman or the University of Puget Sound, or mid-sized universities like Gonzaga or Western Washington University.
• 11th & 12th graders can explore more targeted visits, including Seattle Academy’s on-campus rep visits and deeper virtual engagement.

Can’t visit every school? No problem. Many students don’t. What matters more is showing that you’ve done your research and can write clearly and personally about why a college is a good fit for you.

Demonstrated Interest Matters

Whether near or far, your goal is to engage meaningfully with the schools you’re considering. That could mean:

• Attending a virtual info session
• Registering for a student panel or interview
• Emailing with admission reps
• Actively using a college’s website
• Visiting campus and letting the college know you were there

Remember: likely and target schools often value demonstrated interest more than reach schools do. Ignoring them may send the wrong signal.

Visit a Range of College Types

Your college list should include a diverse mix of schools and so should your visits. For example:

• Visiting an Ivy? Make sure to also tour a smaller liberal arts college or public university.
• Drawn to urban campuses? Also explore colleges in different settings.

Openness signals maturity and helps you build a stronger, better-balanced college list.

How to Schedule

Families arrange their own college visits by visiting the admission websites of each school:

• Register for tours and info sessions
• Say yes to optional interviews when available
• Always make sure the admission office knows you were on campus

(Don’t just drive through without checking in. If that’s your only option, send a follow-up email to let them know you were there.)

Want Help?

Students can email a draft of their proposed college visit plans to: collegeadvising@seattleacademy.org. We’ll gladly review them and offer feedback.

“Demonstrating interest,” or engaging meaningfully with colleges, serves two important purposes:

• For the student: It helps you learn whether a college is the right fit.
• For the college: It signals that you might attend if admitted, a factor some schools weigh in their decision-making.

This kind of engagement is especially important for your “likely” and “target” schools, not only the “reaches.” These colleges are often more sensitive to signs of real interest as they try to predict who will enroll.

Examples of Ways to Show Genuine Interest

There is no single approach that works for everyone, but here are several effective ways for 11th and 12th graders to engage:

• Attend virtual info sessions hosted on the college’s official website
• Participate in in-person college rep visits at Seattle Academy (fall only)
• Join virtual or in-person college fairs (e.g., NACAC or CTCL fairs)
• Schedule a virtual or in-person interview, if offered
• Sign up for official college mailing lists and follow up as needed
• Attend events sponsored by colleges (usually advertised directly to students)
• Email thoughtful questions to the admission office
• Write a strong, personalized “Why College X?” essay if prompted on the application

Even if you can’t visit a college in person, you can still show strong interest through virtual engagement and targeted communication.

Some students research or visit after applying, and that’s fine! What matters is that your engagement is real and thoughtful. Colleges can tell the difference between a student who’s genuinely curious and one who’s just checking boxes.

You don’t need to do everything on this list, but doing something is key. The most important thing is to engage sincerely and with intention. 
collegeadvising@seattleacademy.org. We’re happy to help you build a plan that is right for you. 

College Advising’s goal is to help every student build a college list that includes institutions where both admission and financial fit are probable. We’ve coached hundreds of families over the years and draw from extensive experience to help students make informed, personalized choices.

Conversations That Lead to Clarity

In individual advising meetings, we:

• Discuss unique family circumstances that may affect financial aid eligibility
• Recommend colleges known for strong merit aid
• Remind students of key deadlines and required financial documents, including the FAFSA and CSS Profile
• Help families interpret financial aid policies across different types of institutions

All students applying for federal aid must submit the FAFSA and many private colleges also require the CSS Profile. We’ll continue to send reminders about these forms and provide resources to help students stay on track.

Support & Resources for Families

Fall Financial Aid & Scholarships Presentation

• Held annually and recorded for on-demand viewing
• Event details are available via the Seattle Academy calendar
• For a timeline of the financial aid process, go here. 

One-on-One FAFSA Help

• A dedicated member of our team works directly with any student or family needing assistance with FAFSA filing or financial aid strategy.

Questions? We’re here to help. If you have questions about how financial aid fits into your student’s college process, please contact: collegeadvising@seattleacademy.org

College Advising’s goal is that every college plan include colleges where both admission and affordability are likely. A college is only reliable for admission if it is reliable for aid. Our experience working with and tracking students for many years has exposed patterns that help us coach students honestly and well.

Individual conversations with students yield information about unique family circumstances. This can help College Advisors recommend colleges known for merit scholarships or remind families about the steps required to apply for financial aid. 

All students seeking federal financial aid complete the FAFSA and many colleges require the completion of the CSS Profile. College Advising also sends reminders about financial aid and scholarships. Additional information is available here. 

Each year in the fall we host a presentation about financial aid and scholarships which we record and make available for viewing anytime. Please see the Seattle Academy calendar. A dedicated member of our team also works directly with any student or family who has specific questions about filing their FAFSA and other materials.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to Early Decision. That’s why every Early Decision conversation is individualized. Here's what we can tell you broadly and strategically.

What Is Early Decision?

Early Decision (ED) is one of several college admission plans. It typically requires:

• An application by November
• A binding agreement: if admitted, you commit to enrolling

This makes ED a signal of commitment to a college, which can give students a strategic advantage in admission (think of it as a “bird in the hand” for the college). ED does not guarantee admission and some colleges are more responsive to this signal than others.

Is Early Decision Right for Me?

It depends on you, your interests and your list. College Advisors at Seattle Academy work closely with each student to evaluate:

• Whether ED is a strong strategic option
• Which colleges on your list respond most favorably to ED applicants
• Whether applying ED fits your academic, personal and financial picture

For example: If you love two schools equally, but one has a stronger ED advantage, your advisor might recommend that college as your ED choice.

What If I Haven’t Visited the School?

Not ideal but not a dealbreaker. Each year, we work with students who apply ED to colleges they haven’t visited in person. Colleges have invested heavily in:

• Virtual tours and info sessions
• Visits to and presentations in Seattle
• Admission rep meetings
• Alumni conversations (which we can help arrange)

What About Financial Aid?

This is a critical part of the ED conversation. Because ED is binding, you won’t be able to compare multiple financial aid offers which can be a real limitation for families needing to weigh affordability. We strongly recommend first using the college’s Net Price Calculator to determine if a college is within your budget.  Seattle Academy College Advisors can help assess:

• Which colleges tend to be more generous with need-based aid
• Whether applying ED makes financial sense for your family
• What deadlines must be met to receive a complete aid package

What About Early Action and Restrictive Early Action?

Early Action (EA) is a non-binding admission plan offered by many colleges. Students who apply EA typically submit their applications in early November and receive a decision in December or January, well before regular decision timelines. With EA:

• You can apply to multiple colleges using this plan (unless otherwise restricted)
• You’re not obligated to attend if admitted
• You can wait until May 1 to make your final decision
• It can be a great opportunity to hear early news and reduce stress

While EA doesn’t usually offer the same admission advantage as Early Decision, it’s still a helpful way to engage early with schools, especially public universities and institutions where EA is the standard early round. We often recommend applying EA when it’s available and a good fit.

Restrictive Early Action (REA) is a non-binding early plan with some limitations on where else you can apply early. It’s offered by a handful of highly selective private colleges (such as Stanford, Harvard, Yale and Notre Dame) and each college sets its own version of the rules. With REA:

• You’ll apply early and receive an early decision
• You do not have to attend if admitted
• You’re typically restricted from applying Early Decision elsewhere
• In some cases, you may also be restricted from applying EA to other private colleges. See your college advisor. 

If you’re considering REA, your College Advisor will help you interpret the fine print and decide whether it’s the right move for your college list and timeline.

We read (a lot!) and we love to share what we’ve found useful, insightful, or just plain interesting. If you’re ready to begin learning about the college admission process, here are some recommended starting points, grouped by format.

Books on the College Admission Process

• College Admission: From Application to Acceptance, Step by Step by Christine VanDeVelde and Robin Mamlet: A thorough, accessible guide that balances clarity with compassion. Great for families navigating the process together.
• College Admission Essentials by Ethan Sawyer: Offers both strategy and soul, helping students understand what matters most in applications.
• College Essay Essentials by Ethan Sawyer: A practical, creative guide to writing the personal statement with voice and vision.
• Dream School by Jeff Selingo:  Urges families to drop the “top 25” mindset and seek out other amazing colleges.
• The Truth About College Admission by Brennan Barnard and Rick Clark: A myth-busting, values-based approach to applying and staying connected as a family. Also available with an optional companion workbook.
• Who Gets In and Why: A Year Inside College Admissions by Jeffrey Selingo: An inside look at how decisions really get made, which is useful for students and parents alike.
• Valedictorians at the Gate by Becky Munsterer Sabky: Insightful, reassuring advice from a former Dartmouth admissions officer.

Books on College Fit & Philosophy

• Colleges That Change Lives: 40 Schools That Will Change the Way You Think About Colleges by Loren Pope, revised by Hilary Masell Oswald: Celebrates schools that prioritize transformative learning and student outcomes.
• Fiske Guide to Colleges: A trusted, research-rich guide to hundreds of schools, including student perspectives.
• Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be by Frank Bruni: A powerful counter-narrative to prestige obsession, perfect for students feeling pressure.

Books on Parenting & Paying for College

• How to Raise an Adult by Julie Lythcott-Haims: A compelling case for encouraging independence and especially relevant during the college process.
• The College Conversation: A Practical Companion for Parents by Eric J. Furda and Jacques Steinberg: A parent-focused guide filled with tools to support meaningful conversations during the search.
• The Price You Pay for College by Ron Lieber: A financial deep dive into what families are actually paying for and how to make smarter decisions.

Please find current information about AP exams here. 

Since its founding, Seattle Academy has intentionally chosen not to offer AP (Advanced Placement) courses. Instead, we offer honors courses that are equivalent in rigor and complexity, but with far greater flexibility and intellectual freedom. This decision allows our faculty to:

• Design dynamic, sophisticated and creative courses
• Teach deeply, not to a test
• Focus on critical thinking and engagement, not rote memorization
• Colleges understand and respect this approach.

How Colleges Evaluate Our Curriculum

Seattle Academy’s College Advisors bring decades of experience from selective college admission offices. We know firsthand how colleges review applicants. Admission officers evaluate students in the context of what their high school offers. If a school (like SAAS) doesn’t offer APs, students are not penalized. 

Colleges have designated regional admission officers responsible for understanding high schools in their territory, Seattle Academy included. Our students apply across the country. Colleges know our curriculum well and consistently recognize its quality and academic challenge.

How We Provide Context to Colleges

College Advising plays a direct role in helping colleges understand our academic program. We do this by:

• Writing in-depth counselor recommendation letters
• Including a school profile with each application
• Communicating directly with admissions offices as needed

These materials clearly explain our curriculum and grading practices, ensuring that every student is reviewed fairly.

Choosing the Right Level of Challenge

We encourage students to take initiative and challenge themselves appropriately. For some, this means taking the most rigorous schedule possible. For others, it may mean focusing on a few honors courses, adding challenge over time, or balancing advanced classes with wellness and extracurricular commitments. What matters most to colleges is that students:

• Sustain effort across core academic subjects (English, history, math, science and world language) through 12th grade
• Make thoughtful, reflective academic choices based on personal goals, interests and well-being

Course Planning Support

• 9th & 10th Grades: Academic advisors and department heads help guide early course choices.
• Spring of 10th Grade: College Advising is part of a course selection panel for families.
• 11th & 12th Grades: Course decisions are discussed 1:1 in college advising meetings.
• Office hours are available for students of all ages where they can ask questions about course selection and more. 

Interested in AP Exams?

Although we do not offer AP classes, some students choose to sit for AP exams. For more information, see the AP Exams section in our FAQ.

With its seven members and first-hand experience in college admission, Seattle Academy College Advising is known for its compulsive organization, information-seeking and good spirit.

A closely integrated and nationally connected office, College Advising shares and analyzes what it hears, deciding as a team how to apply that information to support all students. 

We are excited about our work in part because we see how the following yield success relative to each student: 

• High-quality and honest information gained through decades of experience
• Individual understanding of our dynamic students in our dynamic programs
• Positive energy and relentless organization