How to Choose the Right Private School
Your comprehensive guide to navigating private school selection, from evaluating fit to acing entrance exams and interviews
Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most significant decisions you'll make as a parent. Whether you're in Canada, the United States, the UAE, Singapore, Hong Kong, or elsewhere, the process of exploring private school options can feel overwhelming.
This comprehensive guide walks you through key considerations - from deciding between public and private education to finding the best-fit private school, preparing for entrance exams, and acing school visits and interviews. By the end, you'll be equipped with globally relevant advice to confidently choose a private school that aligns with your child's needs and your family's values.
Public School vs Private School
Understanding the key differences helps you make an informed decision for your family
Public School
- Government-funded, generally free
- Follows state/provincial curriculum
- Larger class sizes (20-30+ students)
- Open to all students in catchment area
- Reflects local community diversity
Private School
- Tuition-based ($8,000-$30,000+ annually)
- Flexible curriculum (IB, AP, specialized)
- Smaller classes (typically under 20)
- Selective admissions process
- Rich extracurricular programs
The Bottom Line: In North America, about 6.8% of Canadian K-12 students and roughly 10% of U.S. students attend private schools. In regions like the UAE and Hong Kong, private/international schools are more common for expatriate families. There's no one-size-fits-all answer - the ideal choice depends on your child's needs, your family's values, and your circumstances.
Evaluating Private School Fit
Not all private schools are the same. Consider these essential factors when evaluating options
Academic Programs & Curriculum
Examine curriculum offerings including IB, AP, national, or international programs. Consider advanced coursework, STEM focus, and support for diverse learning needs.
Educational Philosophy & Values
Understand the school's teaching approach - traditional, progressive, Montessori, or Waldorf. Ensure alignment with your family's educational values and beliefs.
School Culture & Community
Assess the school's atmosphere - competitive or collaborative, nurturing or independence-focused. Consider diversity, inclusion, and community engagement.
Facilities & Resources
Tour campus facilities including labs, libraries, arts studios, and sports facilities. Modern, well-equipped environments enhance learning experiences.
Class Size & Teacher Quality
Smaller classes mean more individualized attention. Inquire about teacher qualifications, experience, and professional development opportunities.
Tuition & Financial Aid
Understand total costs including fees, uniforms, and extras. Explore financial aid, scholarships, and sibling discounts that can make education affordable.
Essential Questions to Ask
Come prepared to your school visits with these critical questions
What is your class size and student-teacher ratio?
What curriculum do you follow, and do you offer IB or AP programs?
How do you support both advanced learners and those who need extra help?
What are your teachers' qualifications and professional development opportunities?
How would you describe the school's values and atmosphere?
What extracurricular activities, sports, and clubs do you offer?
Where do graduates typically attend high school or university?
Do you offer financial aid, scholarships, or sibling discounts?
How do you handle discipline and bullying issues?
Preparing for Private School Entrance Exams
Many private schools require entrance assessments like SSAT or ISEE. Here's how to prepare effectively
Start Early
Begin preparation 3-6 months before the test date with a structured study schedule.
Understand the Format
Familiarize yourself with test structure, sections, timing, and scoring systems like SSAT or ISEE.
Practice Tests
Take full practice tests under timed conditions to identify strengths and weaknesses.
Test-Taking Strategies
Learn time management, intelligent guessing, and essay writing techniques for optimal performance.
Need Test Prep Support?
Our experienced tutors specialize in SSAT, ISEE, and other entrance exam preparation. We provide personalized coaching, practice materials, and test-taking strategies to help your child perform their best.
Book Test Prep ConsultationAcing the Admissions Interview
Make the right impression during your school visits and admissions interviews
Be Authentic
Answer questions honestly. Schools appreciate genuine responses over rehearsed perfection.
Research the School
Demonstrate genuine interest by mentioning specific programs, values, or opportunities that attracted you.
Prepare Questions
Have thoughtful questions ready about school culture, support systems, and community engagement.
Professional Presentation
Arrive early, dress appropriately, maintain eye contact, and show enthusiasm for the opportunity.
Remember: The admissions interview is a two-way conversation. Schools want to ensure a good fit just as much as you do. Stay calm, be yourself, and show genuine enthusiasm for the opportunity. Authenticity resonates more than perfection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions parents have about private school selection
QIs it worth sending my child to a private school?
Private schools offer smaller classes, specialized programs, abundant resources, and strong academic outcomes. However, the decision depends on your child's needs, the quality of local public schools, your budget, and family values. Many families find the individualized attention and enriched environment worth the investment, especially when the school aligns perfectly with their child's learning style.
QWhich is better: private or public school?
Neither is universally "better" - it depends on your specific situation. Private schools excel in resources, class size, and curricular flexibility, while public schools offer diversity, community integration, and no tuition costs. Evaluate individual schools based on academic outcomes, culture, and how your child would fit, rather than making blanket comparisons.
QHow do I compare tuition fees between schools?
Look beyond headline tuition to understand what's included (books, activities, technology, meals). Calculate total annual costs including application, enrollment, uniforms, transport, and additional fees. Factor in financial aid offers and sibling discounts. Compare value - what each school delivers for the investment - not just cost.
QWhat age is best to start private school?
There's no single best age. Starting in kindergarten provides full program benefits and easier social integration. Natural transition points (Grade 6/7 for middle school, Grade 9 for high school) are also popular as they coincide with other changes. Consider your child's readiness, adaptability, and the specific academic needs at each stage.
QWhat are the disadvantages of private schools?
Key drawbacks include high costs, potentially limited socioeconomic diversity, academic pressure at competitive schools, selective admissions that may exclude some students, and possible instability if enrollment or finances suffer. Longer commutes and distance from neighborhood friends can also be factors for some families.
Ready to Find the Perfect School?
Choosing the right private school is a journey that requires research, reflection, and sometimes expert guidance. Our team specializes in helping families navigate school selection and prepare students for entrance exams and academic success.