Basis Independent Mclean

BASIS Independent McLean emphasizes a rigorous, spiraling liberal arts and sciences curriculum benchmarked to top global education systems, aiming to build deep content knowledge, critical thinking, and self-advocacy. Their philosophy centers on connected, mastery-based learning supported by expert teachers, with accountability informed by student performance data and a joyful culture that celebrates hard work. Technology is used deliberately to optimize learning and support curriculum decisions, while maintaining the teacher-student relationship as essential to student success.

BASIS Independent McLean applications are submitted through the Ravenna portal (create an account to apply, register for required admissions events/meetings, and track checklist items). (basisindependent.com) Requirements depend on grade: Age 2–Grade 1 applicants complete the online application, submit an Early Learning Program teacher recommendation (and a transcript request for Grade 1), and attend a play date and family meeting; Grades 2–10 applicants submit English and math teacher recommendations, transcripts, take the ISEE, and attend a family meeting (admissions events are optional). (basisindependent.com) For Fall 2026 key dates shown on the school site include Regular Admissions (opens August 1, 2025; application due January 31, 2026; required materials due February 11, 2026; decisions March 6, 2026; commitment March 23, 2026 with a signed enrollment agreement and $3,000 non‑refundable deposit) and Rolling Admissions (opens February 1, 2026; decisions within 10 business days of a completed application; commitment typically within 10 business days of an offer, also with a $3,000 deposit). (basisindependent.com) The school lists age cutoffs (e.g., PreK-1 turns 3 by September 30; PreK-2 turns 4 by September 30; Kindergarten turns 5 by September 30) and notes it may recommend a different grade placement based on academic preparedness. (basisindependent.com) If a grade fills, qualified applicants are placed into grade-level “wait pools,” and the McLean admissions pages reviewed do not specify any priority categories (e.g., sibling/alumni/staff) for offers or for the wait pool. (basisindependent.com)