How to Get Into Dalton School – NYC Elite Prep Admissions Guide

Sapneil Parikh
Oct 21
2 min read

Why Dalton School Leads NYC Private School Rankings

Nestled on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Dalton School is a nonsectarian K–12 independent day school known for its progressive Dalton Plan education. With about 1,300 students, small class sizes (avg. 16), and a 6:1 student-teacher ratio, Dalton emphasizes individualized learning, experiential labs, and interdisciplinary studies

This elite institution boasts exceptional arts, STEM, athletics, robotics, chess, global trips, and $14.5M in annual financial aid

Dalton Admissions Timeline & Key Steps

Step 1: Submit Preliminary Application (Opens mid‑August)

Begin via Ravenna with a $75 application fee (fee waiver code “NEEDFA” available). Entry primarily at Kindergarten, Grade 6, and Grade 9; other grades considered if space opens

Step 2: Schedule Tour & Interviews (Oct–Dec)

After your application is submitted, arrange:

A family tour
A student interview (20–30 min)
A parent/guardian interview on a separate day

Step 3: Take the Admission Test

Submit either ISEE or SSAT scores (201 grade levels), taken between August and mid‑January (school code needed)

Step 4: Submit Supplemental Materials

By the mid‑November to mid‑January deadline (ISAAGNY schedule), upload:

Parent statement and student essays
Transcripts (current and prior year)
Recommendations from English, Math teachers, and a school head or counselor

Step 5: Receive Admission Decision & Enroll

Decisions follow ISAAGNY’s schedule; typically issued mid‑March. Families respond via Ravenna within one week and submit deposit to hold their spot.

What Dalton Looks For in Applicants

Dalton’s admissions process is holistic, considering:

Standardized test scores (ISEE/SSAT)
Strong academic transcripts
Reflective student essays and parent statements
Student and family interview performance
Teacher & administrative recommendations
Alignment with Dalton’s progressive mission, creativity, leadership, and character
The school extends need-based financial aid (covering up to 100% tuition), awarded to roughly 20% of students, with priority applications due December  1.

Applicant Checklist at a Glance

Step	What to Do	Timing
Apply via Ravenna	$75 fee + profile	Mid‑Aug to Nov 15
Schedule Tour & Interview	Student & parent meetings	Oct–Dec
Send Test Scores	ISEE/SSAT only one attempt allowed	Aug–Mid‑Jan
Upload Application Materials	Essays, transcripts, recommendations	By ISAAGNY deadlines
Decision Notification	Via Ravenna portal	Mid‑March
Enrollment Response	Accept offer & submit deposit	Within 1 week of decision