top of page

How to Get Into Harvard‑Westlake School – California Top-Tier Prep School Admissions Guide


Why Harvard‑Westlake Is One of California’s Elite Private Schools

Harvard‑Westlake School is a prestigious nonsectarian independent day school serving grades 7–12 in Los Angeles County with approximately 1,600 students, a student‑teacher ratio of 8:1, and small class sizes of ~16. Known for its rigorous academic excellence, including honors, AP, and optional International Baccalaureate offerings, Harvard‑Westlake consistently ranks among the top private high schools in the U.S.


Admissions Timeline & Step‑by‑Step Process


Fall Inquiries & Events

  • Complete the Admissions Inquiry (grades 7 & 9 key entry points).

  • Attend virtual or in-person information sessions and campus visits starting in September. Visiting requires pre-inquiry registration.


Interview Invitation Deadline – November 14, 2025

  • To guarantee an interview, submit your admission application by November 14. Interviews begin late September and run into winter.


Standardized Testing: ISEE

  • Required for all entry applicants (grades 7 & 9).

  • Only one ISEE score (taken August–mid‑January) is accepted (school code: 052135).

  • Test prep beyond a first attempt is discouraged.


Full Application & Financial Aid Deadline – January 16, 2026

  • Submit online application, student questionnaire (essays), recommendation forms (English, math, school head), transcripts, and financial aid forms by this date.


Decision Notifications – March 13, 2026

  • Admission decisions released via the portal by March 13; enrollment deadline March 20.


What Harvard‑Westlake Looks For

Admissions conducts a holistic evaluation, considering:

  • ISEE performance

  • Transcript history and course rigor

  • Student questionnaire or writing sample

  • Interview impressions (student and parent)

  • Teacher and administrative recommendations

  • Extracurricular achievement, personal integrity, and leadership potential

  • Fit with Harvard‑Westlake’s values of intellectual curiosity, community, and character

About 20% of students receive need-based aid, with an average award of $33,500 — available only if applied at admission.

Quick Application Checklist

Step

Action & Deadline

Complete Inquiry

September (grades 7 & 9 entry points)

Submit Application

By November 14 to ensure interview

Take ISEE Exam

August–mid‑January; only one score accepted

Submit Full Application

By January 16

Interview (2‑part)

In-person or Zoom, after application

Receive Decision

By March 13

Confirm Enrollment

Before March 20



Visit our website:

Give us a call or send us an email anytime!

 
 
 

Comments


bottom of page