Transfer to Private School: Everything You Need to Know for Success!
Thinking about whether to transfer to private school? Learn about the benefits of transitioning from public to private school during your high school years.
The decision to transfer to private school from a public school can be an exciting, albeit challenging, journey for students and their families. There are plenty of factors to weigh and questions to ask.
- How difficult is the transfer process?
- Is it worth the investment?
- Will I make new friends at a new school?
- What differences can I expect in terms of the academic environment, school systems, and overall experience?
Today, we’ll discuss the distinctions between public and private schools, the process of making the switch, and what a successful transition might look like if you are currently enrolled in a public school.
What is the Difference Between Public and Private?
First, let’s review what separates public from private schools.
1. Class Size and Student-Teacher Ratio
One of the most apparent differences is the smaller class sizes in private schools. With fewer students per class, teachers can provide more individualized attention, ensuring that each student’s academic needs are met more effectively than in larger public school classrooms.
2. Flexibility in Academics
Private schools like St. Agnes Academy offer greater flexibility in addressing specific academic needs. For example, if a student is excelling in a particular subject, a private school might provide opportunities for acceleration or advanced study that might not be available in public schools.
Additionally, private high schools emphasize college preparation, helping students navigate the college admissions process with specialized guidance. Additionally, private schools offer more personal student services to help guide students through their high school journeys.
At St. Agnes, we offer robust College Counseling services and inclusive student support through the Student Wellness Center. In this space, students can enjoy a safe, nonjudgmental, and confidential environment where they can seek assistance in managing their academic and personal lives at St. Agnes.
The Student Success Center at St. Agnes also works alongside the Wellness Department to provide a place for students with various learning differences to attain skills in study techniques, time management, organizational strategies, and goal planning.
The Center is also a source for all students to develop effective learning and academic strategies to help meet the curriculum demands of St. Agnes. You often cannot find this level of support in the public school system.
3. Curriculum and Extracurriculars
Private schools tend to have a wider range of extracurricular activities and specialized courses. Whether it’s advanced math programs, arts, electives, or unique clubs, private institutions may offer more options for students to explore their interests.
At St. Agnes, students have the opportunity to participate in over 70 different clubs and activities. Just one example of the incredible extracurriculars at St. Agnes is the Spectrum Engineering and Robotics Club, which gives students more opportunities to accelerate in STEM.
4. Discipline and Values
Students who attend public school are often required to adhere to state standards. However, private schools can customize their disciplinary policies and values systems.
Many private schools incorporate a faith-based approach, like Catholic or Christian schools, focusing on character development alongside academic achievement. Even secular private schools may have specific values around community involvement, respect, and responsibility that shape their learning environments.
For example, students at St. Agnes are encouraged to deepen their faith through prayer and theological studies. A sense of community is fostered through shared worship and service, which ultimately educates the whole person.
5. Social Environment
The sense of community at private schools can be more intimate, especially in smaller institutions. Our community-based approach often leads to stronger bonds between students and teachers and more opportunities for personal growth and leadership development.
The Process of Switching: How Difficult is it?
Shifting from public to private school isn't always a simple process, especially given the selective nature of many private institutions. The application process can vary depending on the type of school and grade level, but there are a few general steps to be prepared for.
1. Application and Documentation
Most private schools require an application package, including academic records, teacher recommendations, and sometimes an entrance exam such as the SSAT or ISEE. High school and middle school transfers typically require more documentation, especially if the student is applying for advanced placement or special programs.
At St. Agnes, we review each applicant holistically. The following criteria are considered by the admissions committee when determining admissions:
- Grades from the previous two grades and the first semester of the current grade
- ISEE results
- PSAT or SAT for transfer students
- English and math teacher recommendation forms
- Student application and essay
- Attendance and discipline records
- Work habits
A consistent pattern of above-average grades and test scores is typical of our entering classes.
2. Interviews and Visits
Many private schools expect prospective students and their families to attend a school tour or interview. The interview helps schools assess if the student is a good fit for the school’s culture and academic philosophy.
3. Waiting Lists
Depending on the grade level and the popularity of the school, there may be waiting lists for admissions. Early planning and research are essential, as some schools have application deadlines a year in advance, especially for key transition years.
4. Financial Aid
Applying for financial aid is another crucial step in the process of transferring to a private school. Families should be aware of deadlines and gather the necessary financial documents to ensure they can afford the transition.
Many private schools offer financial assistance, including St. Agnes. We recommend reading through our timelines and requirements to ensure your family is best positioned to support the transition.
5 Key Steps to a Successful Transition
When moving from a public school to a private school, there are several steps students and parents should take to ensure a smooth transition.
1. Research Early
Start by researching schools that align with your academic needs and your family’s values. Each private school has unique strengths – whether a strong academic track, a robust arts program, or a commitment to social responsibility. Visiting multiple schools, understanding their offerings, and speaking to administrators can help narrow down the choices.
2. Stay Organized
Keep track of deadlines for applications, teacher recommendations, financial aid forms, and entrance exams. Many private schools require specific documents like recent report cards and standardized test scores. Being organized and timely in your submissions will ease the process.
3. Prepare for Entrance Exams
Many private schools require exam scores such as the SSAT or ISEE. These standardized tests help determine whether a student is academically prepared for the private school curriculum.
4. Consider Financial Aid
If your family is concerned about the cost of private education, look into the financial aid options available. Private schools often offer need-based scholarships, so it’s important to work with your family to gather financial documents and apply for assistance early.
5. Talk to Your Current School
Communication with your current school is essential. If you're transferring mid-year, the school may need to provide academic records and other required documents. Being upfront about your plans and thanking school administrators for their cooperation is helpful.
Should You Make the Move?
The decision to transfer from a public to a private school often comes down to a student's individual needs. If public school is not meeting your academic, social, or emotional needs, a private school could offer a fresh start with more tailored support.
Families considering transferring to private schools typically do so for reasons like better academic support, integrating faith into education, smaller class sizes, more extracurricular opportunities, or a desire for a different educational philosophy.
As we have seen through the years at St. Agnes, the switch from public school to private school can provide significant growth opportunities for students, both academically and personally.
Find Support on When to Transfer to Private School
Switching from a public to a private school is a significant decision that requires careful planning – but the effort is worth it because of the available opportunities for students.
From smaller classes and specialized programs to a strong sense of community, private schools offer many benefits that can foster growth and success at various grade levels. The key is to start the research process early, stay organized, and communicate openly with the schools involved.
If you’re thinking about whether to transfer to private school, we encourage you to seek expert advice to ensure a successful move. We can provide the information you need to support you and your family.
To take a closer look at the educational journey at St. Agnes, contact our Director of Enrollment Management, Brigid Schiro, to set up a tour today!
