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How to Get Into Groton School – Massachusetts Elite Boarding & Day School Guide


Why Groton School Is One of America's Most Prestigious Prep Schools

Groton School, located less than an hour outside Boston in Groton, MA, is a highly selective independent boarding and day school for grades 8–12, enrolling around 380 students with a 7:1 student-teacher ratio. Known for rigorous academics, small class sizes, exceptional athletics, and financial aid that supports nearly half its students. Approximately 41% receive need-based aid; families earning under $150,000 may attend tuition-free. Acceptance rates hover around 8–12%, making Groton one of the most selective secondary schools in the U.S.


Admissions Timeline & Application Steps


Step 1: Complete a Candidate Profile ➜ Join Gateway to Prep Schools

Submit your bio form at Gateway to Prep Schools to begin the admissions process, access tours, application materials, and receive admissions updates.


Step 2: Submit Application & Fee (by January 15)

Groton accepts applications through Gateway. Complete essays, student & parent statements, transcript uploads, recommendation requests, and pay the $50 fee by January 15. Late applicants may be reviewed based on space.


Step 3: Testing Options

Submit either the SSAT (preferred) or ISEE before the deadline. Only one test score is accepted per cycle.


Step 4: Schedule Campus Interview

Candidates schedule a student interview (often preceded by a student-led tour) and a parent/guardian interview—typically held between fall and January.


Step 5: Admission Decision & Enrollment

Decisions are emailed in early March. Accepted students must submit enrollment contracts and tuition deposits shortly thereafter.


What Admissions Considers

Groton uses a holistic evaluation, including:

  • SSAT/ISEE results

  • Academic transcripts and GPA

  • Student and Parent statements with personal essays

  • School recommendations (teacher & administrator)

  • Interview impressions and campus engagement

  • Involvement in extracurriculars, personal character, and leadership potential Alumni connections, financial need, and regional diversity may also be considered.


Quick Application Checklist

Step

What to Do

Deadline

Candidate Profile

Create account & complete Gateway profile

ASAP

Application Submission

Essays, statements, transcripts, fees via Gateway

By Jan 15

Admission Test

Submit SSAT (preferred) or ISEE

Before Jan 15

Interviews

Student + parent interviews scheduled by school

Fall – Jan

Decision

Admissions notifications sent via email

By early March

Final Enrollment Decision

Contracts & deposits due promptly after decision

As directed


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