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How to Get Into Horace Mann School – Elite Bronx Private School Guide


Why Horace Mann Is NYC’s Premier K–12 Private School

Horace Mann School, located in Riverdale, Bronx, is a leading private, nonsectarian independent day school (PK–12) with over 1,700 students and an 8:1 student‑teacher ratio. It’s part of the Ivy Preparatory School League, offers a challenging liberal-arts curriculum, stellar athletics and arts programs, and robust college counseling.


Admissions Timeline & Key Steps (Grades 6–11)


Application & Interview Registration

  • Opens: August 4, 2025

  • September 10: Interviews begin (in person or via Zoom if outside NYC)

  • Deadline to schedule interview: October 15

  • Family application due and application fee ($60, or $25 if applying for aid): November 15Academic Records & ISEE Testing

  • Upload report cards from the prior two academic years by October 15

  • Schedule ISEE/SSAT and submit scores by January 15


Essays & Recommendations

  • Student essays, activities summary, and optional parent statement due by January 15

  • Two teacher recommendations due by January 15


Admission Decisions

  • Decisions released: Early February


What Horace Mann Looks For in Candidates

The admissions team conducts a holistic review, considering:

  • Academic excellence and transcripts

  • ISEE or SSAT percentile (typically 6–8 stanines for ISEE)

  • Writing ability expressed in essays

  • Interview impressions from student and family

  • Teacher recommendations detailing character and learning habits

  • Extracurricular involvement and leadership

  • Alignment with the school’s values of community, academic curiosity, and diversity


Quick Application Checklist

Step

Action

Deadline

Submit application & pay fee

Via Ravenna portal

Nov 15

Schedule interview

Student & parent meeting or playgroup

By Oct 15

Upload past report cards

Two years and current school year

By Oct 15

Take ISEE/SSAT

One attempt; scores reported

By Jan 15

Submit essays & activity list

Student and optional parent statement

By Jan 15

Request teacher recommendations

From current academic teachers

By Jan 15

Admissions decision

Notification via portal

Early Feb


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