Spence School

Spence describes its approach as a rigorous liberal-arts education that sets high academic standards while developing character, personal integrity, self-confidence, and the joy of learning. It emphasizes inquiry and the idea that diverse points of view deepen understanding of complex truths, preparing students for responsible citizenship and purposeful engagement with the world.

Spence’s application is submitted through its online admissions portal (MySchoolApp) and follows the ISAAGNY-mandated admissions timeline; the application fee is $85 (automatically waived for families applying for financial aid). (spenceschool.org) Key dates shown for the 2026–2027 cycle include: Kindergarten application deadline December 1, 2025; Middle/Upper School preliminary application deadline December 13, 2025; Upper School required appointments due December 5, 2025; financial aid (Clarity) deadline December 1, 2025; teacher/counselor forms due January 8, 2026; and decision notifications on February 5, 2026 (K), February 11, 2026 (Grades 1–8), and February 20, 2026 (Grades 9–11). (spenceschool.org) Requirements vary by division but include student appointments (e.g., Kindergarten playgroup or student visit; interviews for older grades), a parent/guardian conversation and essay, school records/reports and ISAAGNY evaluation forms, and (for Grades 3–12) ISEE or SSAT testing taken between August 2025 and early January 2026; personal recommendation letters are not accepted and “first-choice” letters are not encouraged. (spenceschool.org) Spence notes that Kindergarten applicants must be 5 by August 31, 2026, that Grades 1–4 openings are based on attrition, and that siblings and legacies applying to Kindergarten are eligible for early notification (a stated priority category). (spenceschool.org) The school’s public admissions pages do not describe a specific waitlist process; families are directed to contact the admissions office (admissions@spenceschool.org / 212-710-8140) with questions. (spenceschool.org)