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Private School Admissions for the Secondary School Advantage

From school selection and academic readiness to application and interview prep, we guide every step of your family’s admissions journey, securing entry to resource-rich secondary schools that set the stage for future university success.
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WHO IS IT FOR:​

Parents of students aged 8 to 15 (Grades 3 to 9) who are:

  • Aiming for top day or boarding private schools in the U.S. or Canada and want to increase their chances of admission;
  • Unsure which schools to apply to or when and how to begin the process; and,
  • Feeling unprepared for entrance tests and interviews, and need clear direction.
Proven Track Record of Success

Our Results

Every year, KEY students receive offers from top private schools and universities across Canada, the United States, and abroad. Our results reflect the strength of our personalized guidance, academic preparation, and strategic application planning that help families turn their educational goals into reality.
2021-22 results
Why Families Choose KEY Education

Benefits

A Clear and Personalized Admissions Plan

We tailor your timeline, goals, and milestones — so you never feel lost or behind

Stronger Applications That Reflect the Real You

We help craft authentic parent statements, guide your child in writing theirs, and coach you to present confidently in interviews

Integrated Academic + Admissions Support

Combining academic preparation with strategic planning to strengthen both test and overall performance.
Comprehensive Guidance From Start to Finish
Our program is designed to guide families through every stage of the admissions journey. From initial assessments to post-acceptance onboarding, we combine academic preparation, interview coaching, and application strategy to ensure your child is confident, prepared, and ready to thrive at their new school.

    Personalized Admissions Strategy & Roadmap

    We begin with an in-depth family and student discovery process to understand your child’s strengths and goals. Our advisors then create a personalized admissions strategy including school matching, thematic positioning, timeline planning, milestone tracking, and a step-by-step action plan for profile development.

    Application Development

    We guide families through every stage of the application process helping them build a cohesive and authentic story across application statements, teacher references, school visits, and interview responses.

    Interview & Campus Visit Preparation

    With our signature interview coaching program, developed by former private school admissions staff, we provide mock interviews and coaching for both students and parents, as well as pre-visit training to ensure families engage with schools confidently and strategically.

    Academic Readiness Support

    Through our Junior Scholars Academic Support programs, students can strengthen literacy, math, and executive functioning skills. We provide targeted tutoring and enrichment to ensure they meet or exceed private school academic expectations.

    Enrichment & Personal Development

    Beyond academics, we help students develop the soft skills that differentiate successful applicants. Our programs foster resilience, empathy, leadership, and character, aligning with what top schools seek in well-rounded candidates.

    Ongoing Check-ins & Family Support

    Throughout the process, we provide regular check-ins and progress updates to parents, helping families stay aligned and reducing stress. We also offer guidance on school visits, post-application follow-ups, and final decision support.

Let’s Get Started
With a Complimentary Consultation!

Take the first step toward your child’s private school success. In this free, no-obligation session, we’ll discuss your goals, answer your questions, and map out a personalized plan to guide your admissions journey.
Explore More Ways We Can Help

You Might Also Be Interested In:

Families often pair our admissions guidance with other KEY programs to strengthen skills, boost confidence, and prepare for the next stage of learning. Here are a few related services you might find valuable.

    Early Years Private School Admissions Guidance

    Comprehensive admissions consulting for younger applicants, from school selection and application strategy to document preparation and interview coaching. We guide families through every step of the process.

    Primary & Secondary Private School Admissions Guidance

    Strategic planning and guidance on every part of the admissions process,including school selection, application narratives, interview prep, and private school onboarding.

    Little Scholars After School Enrichment Program

    A leveled program built around early-years private school admissions criteria, with a focus on strengthening three key areas: language expression, academic foundations, and social-emotional development. 

    Junior Scholars Academic Support Program

    Designed according to private school assessments, our leveled courses strengthen language comprehension, logical thinking, and oral expression, while also training written and interview skills to comprehensively tackle entrance requirements.

    LaunchPad Academy

     A preschool program designed specifically to prepare children for private elementary school admissions. Our curriculum is aligned with private school evaluation standards, ensuring our students are fully prepared for entrance assessments and interviews, and a smooth school transition.

    Junior Scholars Academic Advising

    To ensure students continuously improve academically and develop good study habits, each family is assigned a dedicated academic advisor who works closely with students, teachers, and our admissions advisors to create a personalized academic plan that precisely meets the child’s needs.
Answers to Parents’ Most Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Book a Free Assessment
  • How far in advance should we start preparing for private school admissions?

    We recommend starting 12 to 18 months before your target entry date. This allows ample time to strengthen academics, build extracurricular profiles, and prepare application materials without last-minute pressure.

  • What materials and assessments are typically required for primary and secondary private school applications?

    Requirements vary by school. Please contact us to receive a detailed admissions checklist for your target schools. In most cases, schools require standardized tests such as the SSAT or their own entrance exams. Some also conduct group assessments to evaluate how applicants conduct themselves in a group setting, and students in certain grades may be required to interview with admissions officers. Typical application materials include past report cards, standardized test scores, application essays, recommendation letters, or teacher evaluation forms.

  • What SSAT score is needed for private school admission?

    There is no one benchmark score. Since private schools use a holistic review process, SSAT results are important, but application materials and assessment performance are equally critical. We recommend booking a free initial evaluation and consultation with us so we can provide tailored advice for your family.

  • How do I know the school's intake grade ? Does a non-entry year mean no admissions at all?

    We have compiled a list of private schools in Greater Vancouver showing entry grades and available spots. Please contact us for details. Even in non-entry years, schools may still accept applications depending on available space.

KEY INSIGHTS

Admissions & Learning Resources

Get the resources you need to navigate school choices with confidence. Explore our curated guides, checklists, and expert tips designed for parents at every stage.

Resources

View More 

    Insider Secrets from Admissions Officers: Mastering Essays & Interviews

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    The New CEO of Goldman Sachs Describes the Valuable Job Skill He’s Finding Less

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    Are You Ready to Be a Private School Parent? Here’s How You Can Tell

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    How should children and parents prepare for private school interviews?

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    Why are students skilled in debate more likely to enter top universities?

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    Teaching Your Kids This Skill Will Set Them Up for Success.

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    Applying to Private School? Here’s What You Should Have Done by Nov. 15

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    Your Child’s Mid-term Grades Are Bad. What Can You Do Now?

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    Private School Application Checklist: Early October Edition

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    SSAT Prep Turns Low Test Scores Around

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Let’s Get Started
With a Free Assessment!
Our educator will evaluate your child based on private school assessment criteria. After the assessment, a report will be provided to help you understand your child's readiness for private school assessment.

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