High School Placement (Archived)

The High School Placement Office at The School at Columbia University has a successful record of helping students gain admission to schools that meet their academic, social and emotional needs. In consultation with advisors and teachers, the High School Placement (HSP) team offers families and students individualized guidance through the high school application process. They encourage students to look at public, independent, parochial schools, and boarding schools. Additionally, the HSP team creates tailored and customized lists of recommended school options for each student to consider.

The process begins in Grade 7 during the spring when students start a weekly Life Skills course that helps them craft essays, practice interview skills, and prepare portfolios. Test preparation materials and resources, included in The School's tuition, are offered to all Grade 7 students. Families meet regularly with the HSP Office throughout the year to prepare materials and establish priorities.

In the fall of Grade 8, families and students attend school open houses and visit schools, and meet with high school admissions counselors. By the end of the calendar year, with the step-by-step assistance of the HSP Office, all applications are submitted and families await decisions in the spring.