Parent FAQ
Start with the questions that change the plan
Check the entry grades, the dates and the cost before investing in preparation work.
Checked against Sidwell Friends's published admissions pages on November 5, 2026.
Before you enroll
Questions from parents.
Which grades can my student enter?
Most new students enter in the expansion grades. For this guide those are Grades 6, 7 and 9. Students may be admitted in other grades only if space is available, and spaces open only when there is attrition. Sidwell enrolls a 12th grade student only in rare instances.
Are test scores required?
Standardized in-school testing is required. Admissions testing is optional, and Grade 9 applicants may send SSAT or ISEE results.
Is there an interview?
Grades 6 and 7: schedule a parent or guardian meeting, in person or virtual. Grade 9: schedule a parent meeting and interview, held virtually.
What does it cost?
$61,830 for 2026-27 (Middle School) $62,330 for 2026-27 (Upper School) Middle School adds a $500 textbooks and laptop fee (Grades 5 to 8), PE uniforms at $55 or $80, and optional Extended Day at $1,950 per semester or $3,600 for a full year. Minimester travel costs vary. Upper School adds textbooks at $500 to $700, a $420 technology fee and a $75 yearbook. Travel for academic, arts, athletic or service trips is optional and costs vary.
Does Sidwell offer financial aid?
Sidwell says family income should never be a barrier to a Sidwell education. About 23% of students receive financial aid. Sidwell lists $10,145,734 awarded and a $39,478 average grant.
Does Sidwell have buses?
Sidwell does not provide bus transportation to and from school. The Wisconsin Avenue campus is 0.7 miles from the Tenleytown/AU Metro station, and Metrobus lines 30, 31, 33, 96, H3 and H4 serve it.
Can international students apply?
Sidwell issues I-20s only after a student is accepted and enrolled. It has no boarding or homestay program, so students must live in the DC area with a parent or legal guardian. Sidwell does not offer an ESL program. English language learners should submit TOEFL scores.
Can we apply if we are moving to the area?
Sidwell does not reserve spaces for families moving to the area after the admissions season. Families outside the DC, Maryland and Virginia region are told about other ways to complete in-person steps if they cannot travel to campus.
Is SidwellPrep affiliated with Sidwell Friends?
No. SidwellPrep by EduAvenues is an independent service, not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Sidwell Friends School. Check every requirement and date on the school's own website before you apply.
How current is the admissions information on this site?
The admissions facts on this site were last checked against the school's published pages on November 5, 2026. Schools can change requirements and dates at any time.