Admissions FAQ

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What is Sonoma Academy looking for in a student? Hide

We asked our student admissions representatives to tell us what they are looking for in students for Sonoma Academy. They want students who are:

  • Motivated
  • Committed
  • Excited about learning
  • Excited about opportunities
  • Diverse in background
  • Creative
  • Encouraging of others
  • Responsible
  • Active
  • Open to new ideas

Do you accept transfer students? Hide

Yes, each year we have new students enter SA in every grade level.

Which tests do you require? Hide

Students must take the Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT). Visit www.ssat.org to register online. Our school code is 7400.

Priority testing dates for 07-08:
October 13, 2007
November 10, 2007
December 8, 2007

Are applicants required to attend Open Houses and visit days? Hide

Attending an Open House is optional, and is geared for parents and students to attend together. A student visit day, however, is a crucial part of the process and one we ask every applicant to complete. A personal interview is required, and that usually is conducted during the visit day.

Are interviews required? Hide

Yes, a personal interview is a vital part of your application to SA. Students are interviewed by either a member of the admissions staff or by a student representative.

When are applications due? Hide

January 15, 2009. This is an agreed-upon date used by all Bay Area private schools as their application deadline.

When will I be notified if I’m accepted? Hide

March 19, 2009. This is an agreed-upon date used by all Bay Area private schools to respond to applicants.

What makes SA different from other schools? Hide

Here’s how our students answer that question:

“All the teachers support you and are really interested in you. I didn’t have that with any teachers from my old school.”

“Here it’s not just a group of over-achievers who are serious about schoolwork—it’s everyone.”

“At this school every person is seen in one way or another and no one is ignored. At other schools there’s always some person at the back of the class who doesn’t talk all year.”

”I’ve had so many opportunities here I wouldn’t have had—or had the courage to take advantage of anywhere else.”

Here’s what our parents say:

“My daughter feels acknowledged, taken seriously for her thoughts and ideas, appreciated for her sense of humor, encouraged to be brave and clear in her thinking and communication, and supported when she takes risks.”

“Sonoma Academy is a place where my daughter is accepted and respected for who she is, and nurtured by great teachers and staff to be all she can be. She loves school—what more can I say or hope for?”

What makes Sonoma Academy’s curriculum unique? Hide

To find out what makes out curriculum special, click here.

Where have Sonoma Academy’s graduates gone to college? Hide

Our graduates have chosen to attend schools all across the country. A list of where our graduates have been accepted can be seen here.

How diverse is your student population? Hide

We share the conviction that a diverse, inclusive community is fundamental to a meaningful educational experience. We are deeply committed to having a faculty and student body which reflect the rich diversity within the North Bay. SA has achieved a level of racial diversity in its students and staff that reflects that of Sonoma County (18%). Students come from 60 different schools (including private, public, charter, parochial, and home schooling), and from 20 different towns and cities in Sonoma, Napa, and Marin Counties. In addition to ethnic and geographical diversity, 40% of families receive varying levels of tuition assistance.

How much is tuition? Hide

Tuition at Sonoma Academy is determined based on a review of each families financial situation. See Financing SA.

How do I apply for individualized tuition? Hide

For information on applying for individualized tuition, please click here.

Will I need a computer? Hide

No, SA provides all students and faculty with laptop computers (currently MacBooks) with all required software loaded onto them. In fact, because we provide the software and technology assistance, these are the computers students must use at school. An annual technology fee covers a year’s lease of the computer, the software, and on-site technology help.