Frequently Asked Questions

Our goal is to turn the typically stressful admissions process into a seamless, exciting experience. Below are some of the most common FAQs about our program. We know that you are bound to have more questions—please contact us or visit one of our informational events and we will be happy to address them.
  • What is the application process?

    Submit an online application, along with a $100 non-refundable application fee, download student transcript requests and letter of recommendation forms, and schedule a play date or entrance exam and a family meeting. For more details, click here.

  • What is your age cutoff for TK and K?

    Students must turn four years old by May 31 of the year they are applying for Transitional Kindergarten and five years old by September 1 of the year they are applying for Kindergarten.

    For example, a student must turn four years old by May 31, 2024, to attend Transitional Kindergarten in the fall of 2024. A student must turn five years old by September 1, 2024, to attend Kindergarten in the fall of 2024.

  • Do you have school uniforms?

    No, we do not have school uniforms. We do ask all students to wear appropriate athletic shoes on days they have P.E.

    For the Upper School, students may be asked by teaching staff to wear specific clothing such as long sleeves and/or closed-toe shoes if a science lab activity requires it for safety. 

  • Do you offer a Shadow Program?

    Our Shadow Program is open to applicants in Grades 6 – 9. For the Fall 2024 season, the Shadow Program will launch on September 1.

    Please note, that this program is available for applicants only and is on a first come first served basis. Due to this program’s popularity, we cannot guarantee that all applicants will be able to attend a Shadow Day.

  • What kind of transportation is offered?

    We offer a private bus service from key locations throughout the Valley for an additional fee.

  • What type of extracurricular activities do you offer?

    While the classroom experience is tremendously important to our students, we also offer at our Lower School over 40, and at our Upper School over 90, sports and clubs to enrich life outside of the classroom. Our offerings are always based on student and teacher interests.

  • The curriculum is challenging; how do I know my child will succeed?

    From their very first day as a BASIS Independent Silicon Valley student, all new students are placed on an academic support plan. At the start of the new school year, your student meets with his or her dean once a week to ensure a smooth transition.

    Ours is an environment that champions hard work and the belief that all students can meet high standards with the right level of support. Our administrative staff, faculty, and deans partner with you and your child, to ensure that he or she feels successful and empowered. The support your child will receive is unmatched; our school environment is warm, spontaneous, alive with curiosity, and always nurturing. Our results are possible because of our culture of learning and support. Teachers provide office hours throughout the school week for students and parents, and are available to talk through concerns or questions. Our student-led Peer Tutoring program operates after school, Monday through Friday, and to help expand their networks and become comfortable asking for help.

    Read more about student services.

  • Do you offer financial aid?

    At this time we do not offer any financial aid.

  • What resources will you have in your school for students with special needs?

    BASIS Independent will not have resources on campuses for many special needs, and we will also not maintain a school psychologist; however, our teachers and administrators have a long and successful record of supporting, challenging and inspiring students who require various learning accommodations.

    Ask any experienced BASIS Independent teacher what a BASIS Independent student looks like and they will give you this very straightforward answer: a BASIS Independent student works hard, asks questions, and helps other people.  All we ask is that the student is willing to work. At BASIS Independent Schools, we build on that educational competency. Above all, our strong and results-oriented support team of teachers and administrators never gives up on a student.

    For questions regarding your student’s specific situation, please contact the Admissions Team.