FAQs


Admission FAQs

 

  Q: How many applications do you receive each year?
  A: We do not publish the specific number of applications received per year; however, the ratio of applications to the Upper School to acceptance has remained fairly constant at 4:1 in recent years.
  Q: What is The Summit looking for in a prospective student?
  A: The Summit truly believes in the well-rounded student. We seek to enroll students who are prepared to be successful academically and contribute to The Summit community as a whole. Each student is encouraged to be involved in all aspects of the school.
  Q: How can I receive a brochure/application for The Summit?
  A: From this website, you can complete a request form to have information mailed to you or you can download an admission application. You may also call or e-mail the Admission staff.
  Q: What is the tuition for The Summit? Are there additional fees?
  A: For the complete description of tuition and additional fees by grade, see Tuition and Fees. Tuition and fees are for the 2005-2006 academic year only. Additional fees range from $875 to $1900, depending on the grade and student involvement.
  Q: Does The Summit offer scholarships or financial aid?
  A: Merit-based scholarship opportunities are available for students applying to grades 9-12. Financial aid opportunities are available for students applying to grades 7-12. An application for financial assistance can be obtained from the Admission office. For further information, see financial aid.
  Q: What is a typical class size?
  A: Classes at The Summit range from 15 to 17; however, a typical class has about 15 students.
  Q: What is your age cut-off for preschool?
  A: A child must be three by September 30 of the year of preschool entry.
  Q: What is your age cut-off for kindergarten?
  A: A child must be five by September 30 of the year of kindergarten entry.
  Q: Does The Summit have a policy that promotes diversity?
  A: The Summit admits qualified students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin. Summit students come from 11 different countries, 75 different Cincinnati zip code areas, and 40 different school districts (including eight in Kentucky). Over 15% of our students represent ethnicities other than Caucasian. This year, new students are enrolling from public, private, and international schools all over the world.
  Q: What are Montessori Sibling Days?
  A: Montessori Sibling Days are interview session days for current Summit families who have Montessori-aged children applying to The Summit.
  Q: If my child is placed in a waiting pool, and no opening becomes available, do we have to reapply for the following year?
  A: Yes.
  Q: Are siblings of current Summit students and Summit alumni’s children automatically offered admission?
  A: While the school gives priority consideration to siblings and legacies, each applicant is required to follow the same admission process and is evaluated by the same Admission Committee.
  Q: I am not sure if our family can afford The Summit or if my family will qualify for aid. Is it worth applying?
  A: The Summit is committed to helping families afford a Summit education, which is why we offer a range of financial aid and scholarships. Many families find our payment plans a convenient way to manage the costs of a Summit education. From The Summit’s perspective, if you’re uncertain if you will qualify for aid, but feel that paying The Summit’s tuition and additional fees will be a financial hardship, we encourage you to apply for aid. The process is confidential and has no impact on the admission decision. See financial assistance for more information.
  Q: Does The Summit provide transportation?
  A: Free bus transportation for eligible students is offered by the following school districts, with central pick-up and drop-off points from these areas:
  • Cincinnati (except for high school students), Forest Hills, Madeira, Mariemont, Lakota, Loveland, Sycamore, West Clermont, Northwest (except for high school students) and Indian Hill. This service is not rendered by The Summit. Please contact your school district for details.
The Summit does provide transportation from a central pick-up and drop-off point from the Mason/Kings area. There is a weekly fee for families in this district who utilize the service.
  Q: What kind of test must my child take to be considered for admission? Is there a minimum score requirement?
  A: For specific details on which tests satisfy the application testing requirement, see Application Process. These tests have proven to be an accurate predictor of success for prospective new students; however, it is not possible to specify score levels, as test scores are only a portion of the application process. The Admission Committee reviews an application in its entirety to include teacher recommendations, school records, the visit/interview, and test scores. It is also important to note that the strength of an individual application will be determined by the strength of the applicant pool.