The Admissions process at The International School of Minnesota is designed to help parents make the best educational decision for their children. We strive to enable the School, applicants, and parents to learn as much as possible about each other in order to determine the suitability of ISM’s environment for each applicant.
The application process for International applicants differs from the standard U.S. process in some ways. Click here for information on the International Admissions Process.
CAMPUS TOUR:
Interested families are encouraged to visit the School for a tour by appointment. The prospective family will have the chance to visit a classroom and talk with our admissions staff.
To arrange for an appointment or to learn more about ISM, contact the ISM Admissions Office at 952.918.1840 or admissions@ism-sabis.net
APPLICATION:
To initiate the admissions process, the School must receive a completed application form and the $75 non-refundable application fee. There is no application deadline, but it is recommended that the admissions process be initiated in late winter or early spring for the next school year. Applications are accepted year-round; students are enrolled on a space-available basis.
Preschool applicants must be three by September 30th and must be completely toilet trained for consideration.
DAY VISIT:
All applicants for admission to Prekindergarten through Grade 12 are required to participate in one typical school day during the August to June school year. Exceptions are made in cases where the family has not completed its relocation, when the student applies during the summer months, or when the student is joining the School on a student visa from another country.
Visiting students have the opportunity to meet faculty members and fellow students, become familiar with the level of class work, and to experience the general atmosphere of the School. Day visits are scheduled by appointment only, as schedules must be coordinated with all instructors involved.
SCHOOL RECORDS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
The School requests that parents/guardians of all applicants authorize the release of current records including transcripts, test results, and any psychological/neurological evaluations. The School further requests that all applicants submit recommendations from current teachers. The number of recommendations requested varies according to grade level. The School provides forms both for the release of school records and for recommendations. Parents are asked to give recommendation forms to teachers who are well acquainted with the applicant. Teachers are directed to mail the completed forms directly to the admissions office.
FINANCIAL AID:
ISM offers Financial Aid to qualifying students in Grades 6-12 on a financial need basis only. The students must meet all academic criteria and gain acceptance before a determination of need is established. Financial Aid forms are available from the admissions office.
Financial Aid Brochures and Information:
How Do I Apply For Financial Aid?
Directions for Submission of Financial Information to TADS
TESTING:
Testing is conducted for students prior to admission to ISM. Testing of candidates for admission to Preschool through Grade 3 is scheduled by appointment on an individual basis. Test time is 30 minutes for Preschool through First Grade. Parents are requested to remain at The School for PS-Grade 1 testing.
Candidates for admission to Grades 4-12 are tested on designated Saturday mornings, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, or by special appointment.
DECISION ON APPLICANTS:
Admission decisions are made after careful evaluation of candidates to determine the appropriateness of The International School of Minnesota and its program of study for each candidate. The Admissions Committee considers the results from the day visit, individual and group test results, and previous school records including transcripts and teacher recommendations. Criteria for evaluation include motivation, social and emotional development, interests and talents, the candidate’s ability to add diversity to the student body, and the ability of the School to meet the needs of the candidate.
This is a process of gathering information and giving information. School officials will, therefore, be available to provide information, to discuss areas of concern and interest, and to respond appropriately to any requests parents may have. The School will in turn gather information about applicants from school transcripts, recommendations, testing, school visits, testing, school visits, and interviews.
ADMISSIONS PROCESS CHECK LIST
Make initial inquiry.
Request a brochure and information packet.
Visit with an Admissions Representative.
Attend an open house, if possible.
Schedule a campus tour on a school day.
Submit application(s) and appropriate fee(s) to the admissions office.
Schedule a day visit.
Request completion of recommendation forms from your child’s/children’s current teachers. Return envelopes are provided.
Mail request form for release of school records to current school.
Register your child/children for admissions testing.