When is the Right Time to Apply to Join Southridge?
Renee Lepp

We believe that choosing the right school is one of those really big decisions - the kind you lie awake thinking about at night when the kids are finally in bed.  

If you are interested in applying to Southridge for admission for Fall 2026 we would like to gently remind you that time is running out! 

Here are a few things to think about when making your decision:

  • Spaces are limited. At Southridge, one of the best things we offer is a small school in size.This allows us to be better able to ensure that each child is safe, seen and known, and supported to be all they can be, and to be celebrated. Prioritizing a small teacher to student ratio and an overall small school population means that we have limited spaces so we encourage you to apply for admission in the first round so you have the best chance to be admitted. Deadline for applications: 
    • Grades 1-12  December 1, 2025
  • Time to explore. Applying early means you have more time to connect with us and make sure we are indeed the right school for your child and for your family. We’ve just finished three Open House events showcasing the Junior and Senior Schools and we hope you were able to attend, but if not, we would be delighted to take you on a tour of the school or answer any questions you might have about Southridge or the application process. We want prospective families to have time to reflect on their child’s strengths and passions and whether we are able to meet them. We look for kids who are curious, creative, and collaborative in nature - kids who want to roll up their sleeves and “do stuff.” We offer a full co-curricular program that involves athletics, outdoor education, and the arts. Finally above all, we prioritize developing goodness and well-rounded service, athletics and the arts. Engaging with us sooner rather than later, means you have time to get all your questions answered and we have time to get to know each other - and we really value that.
  • Aligning values. Southridge is a K-12 independent day school that was initiated and built by families just like yours. To this day, we are known for our commitment to community and its one of the things we value most. Applying early gives you the opportunity to fully explore whether Southridge is not only the right fit for your child but also for your family.  

Your Admission Timeline — A Transparent Guide

Here’s a snapshot of our typical timeline (please check our website for exact dates as they may vary):

  • Early September: The application portal opens for the next academic year.
  • December 1st: Grades 1-12 application deadline
  • Fall and Winter: Campus tours, assessments, and interviews take place
  • Early Spring: Admission decisions are posted
  • Spring/Summer: Final steps - confirmation of enrollment, orientation details, and readiness preparations

 
Tips to make the most of your application process

  • Start by visiting us. Attend one of our Open Houses or book a private tour for a chance to meet our teachers and see our campus.
  • Reflect on your child’s strengths and passions. We look for learners who are curious, creative, collaborative and ready to engage - not just academically, but in service, athletics or the arts.
  • Act early, but thoughtfully. Early doesn’t mean rushed. Take time to prepare your application thoughtfully, reach out with questions, connect with us, and ensure your child is set up to thrive.
  • Talk values. We believe in nurturing not only strong minds but good hearts. We encourage students who value truth, tolerance, respect and compassion and can work effectively as part of a team.
  • Making our school more accessible. We know that great students come from many different backgrounds. To help make a Southridge education more accessible, we offer up to $200,000 in financial assistance to new Grade 8-12 students each year in scholarships and bursaries
  • Use this time to plan ahead. Once your application is submitted, you’ll have time to explore transition activities, prepare your child for the move (especially for those entering a new division), and get ready for a community where “Let Every Spirit Soar” isn’t just a motto—it’s our everyday.
     

Choosing Southridge means choosing a learning community committed to helping each student flourish, guided by our strong foundations and enriched by a supportive, vibrant environment.  

Ready to take the next step? Visit our admissions page here or contact our Admissions team for more details.