NWAIS represents a diverse group of schools, each of which has its own mission and culture. Their philosophy, principles, and practices are consistent with a free, open and humane society. Our schools provide an intellectual environment in which students are free to express individual points of view and to debate all sides of a subject. NWAIS member schools are primarily day schools with a few boarding programs. Enrollment has been increasing gradually over the past few years while the number of applications has also grown.

During the 2022-23 academic year:

The average day school tuition was $29,659
The average five day boarding tuition was $66,302
23% of students in NWAIS schools received financial aid, with an average grant of $20,486
Students of color make up 38% of total enrollment

While all schools within NWAIS are committed to providing a positive and safe educational experience for all their children, there is no common mold for our schools. Each school has developed a distinctive program and culture based upon its mission and suited to its own community. It is recommended you begin this process the fall before the year in which you wish to enroll your child. Also, you should consider a number of schools as many schools have more applicants than places for new students.

As you attempt to answer these questions, you should also begin collecting information about the various schools in which you are interested. Call and request admission brochures and application materials. You can use the NWAIS School Search to explore profiles of our member schools and our School Tour and Open House Calendar to help you plan visits to schools in your area.

What are the requirements and deadline dates of the admission process? Are interviews with you and your child required?
What type of admission testing or academic assessment must your child go through?
Are references from current teachers required?
Are there deadline dates for various steps in the process?
When will schools make admission decisions and/or financial aid decisions? What factors does the school take into account when choosing between students?

Additional information can be found via the NAIS Parents Guide on the National Association of Independent Schools website. Families in the greater Seattle area can also vist the Puget Sound Independent Schools website for additional details on the admissions process and school tours.

Once you have heard from the schools that accepted your child, you will be given a certain amount of time to make your choice - usually two weeks. Whichever school you choose, be sure to inform the other schools which accepted your child of your final decision. Many schools have candidates on waiting lists and these students are anxious to learn whether a space will become available. Once you return the enrollment contract along with a tuition deposit, your family will be considered part of that school's community. You will hear several times from the school before the start of the next school year and will begin to experience the sense of community and caring that is such an important part of the independent school world.