How to get into Sidwell Friends School
Washington, DC Grades PreK–12 · DayMost selective
Sidwell Friends School is a most selective day school in Washington, DC, serving grades PreK–12. Applicants typically take the SSAT or ISEE or Early-Childhood (WPPSI/WISC/ERB). Below is the admission test, the application timeline, and how to prepare.
Approximate tuition: ~$52,000 per year. This figure is approximate and changes every year — always confirm current tuition and financial aid on Sidwell Friends School's official site.
Required admission tests
SSAT — Secondary School Admission Test
Grades 3–11 (Elementary / Middle / Upper) · Percentile vs. same-grade applicants; penalty for wrong answers (guess wisely)
Prep for the SSAT with iPrepGeniusISEE — Independent School Entrance Exam
Grades 2–12 (Primary / Lower / Middle / Upper) · Stanine 1–9 (no penalty for wrong answers)
Prep for the ISEE with iPrepGeniusEarly-Childhood (WPPSI/WISC/ERB) — Kindergarten & Lower-School cognitive screening
PreK–Grade 2 entry ('private kindergarten') · Percentile / index scores (administered by a psychologist)
Prep for the Early-Childhood (WPPSI/WISC/ERB) with iPrepGeniusApplication deadlines
These are typical windows that change each year — confirm current dates on Sidwell Friends School's official admissions page.
How to prepare
- Start with a free diagnostic to find your child's strengths and gaps on the SSAT or ISEE or Early-Childhood (WPPSI/WISC/ERB).
- Practice every section with adaptive, verified questions.
- Take full-length, section-timed simulations to build pacing and stamina.
- Track a readiness percentile and follow a weekly study plan up to the deadline.
Build your Sidwell prep plan
Diagnostic → adaptive practice → simulations → readiness score. Start free.
Start freeiPrepGenius is an independent study resource, not affiliated with or endorsed by Sidwell Friends School or any test publisher. School details are a starting guide — verify current requirements with the school.