top of page
Search

How to Get Into Miami Country Day School – Miami Shores Private School Guide


Why Miami Country Day School Is So Highly Rated


Miami Country Day School (MCDS), in Miami Shores, is a non‑sectarian independent day school for PK3 through 12. Built on a 22-acre campus, MCDS serves nearly 1,280 students with a 9:1 student-teacher ratio, offering a diverse, college-preparatory education grounded in the core values of honor, respect, wisdom, and compassion.


It’s consistently ranked among the best private K–12 schools in Florida with a strong STEM, arts, athletics, and leadership ecosystem, and graduates attend top-tier universities across the country.


Admission Timeline & Step-by-Step Process


Applications Open – September 1

Prospective families create an account in the online portal to begin.


Early Decision – by November 30

Early Decision applicants (prioritized siblings/alumni and first-choice families) receive admissions decisions by December 15. Accepted families must submit enrollment paperwork promptly.


Regular Decision – Deadline January 31

The full application—completed portal, transcripts, recommendations, and test registration—must be submitted by January 31. Decision notifications are released by March 1.


Rolling Admissions – After February 1

Applications received after Feb 1 are considered on a rolling basis, with decisions issued by March 15 depending on space availability.


Activity Day / Assessments

  • PK3–5: Attend an on-campus Activity Day (play-based or group evaluation).

  • Grades 2–12: Take Primary, Lower, or Standard ISEE, or SSAT for middle/upper school applicants.


Interviews & Recommendations

Schedule a virtual family interview after application submission. Families share their values, academic goals, and explore MCDS offerings. Recommendation forms are submitted via the portal from current teachers and the principal.


What Admissions Reviews


The holistic admissions process evaluates:

  • ISEE or SSAT scores and grade transcripts

  • Virtual parent-and-applicant interviews

  • Recommendation letters and school evaluations

  • Alignment with MCDS values and school culture

  • Social-emotional readiness and intellectual curiosity

  • Extracurricular interests, leadership potential, and community fit.


MCDS values applicants who demonstrate strong character, community engagement, and the potential to thrive in a diverse, global learning environment.



Quick Application Checklist

Step

Age / Grade Level

Deadline

Submit Application

All grades

Sept 1 – Jan 31

Early Decision Option

PK3 – Grade 12 (select)

Nov 30 (Decision by Dec 15)

Activity Day Test

PK3–5

Activity Day scheduled

ISEE/SSAT

Grades 2–12

Complete before deadline

Virtual Interview

All grades

After application

Decisions Released

Regular/rolling

Mar 1 – Mar 15

Visit our website:

Give us a call or send us an email anytime!

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page