Prepare for Your Visit

For most independent and private schools, a visit and an interview are required as part of the application process. It’s not only an opportunity for the school to get to know the applicant and the family, but it’s also an opportunity for the family to experience firsthand the school’s culture and to ask questions that are not easily answered by a brochure or webpage.

How to schedule a campus visit and interview?

Interviews and campus tours are scheduled online through your Ravenna account. Alternatively, call our office (860-727-5000) to schedule your visit (a Ravenna account is still necessary.) All families will begin with a student-guided tour of campus. Following the tour, the student will meet one-on-one with a member of the Admissions team. After the student portion, we will meet with the parent/guardian.

Interviews are scheduled Mondays through Fridays during school hours. Please plan for about a 90-minute visit to campus for the interview and campus tour. Should you have any questions please reach out to us, and we would be happy to assist you! Zoom interviews are available upon request; please call our office at (860) 727-5000 to schedule.

Where is KO located?

Kingswood Oxford’s campus is located in the heart of West Hartford, Connecticut at 170 Kingswood Road, conveniently located off of I-84, exit 43. After your interview, head right across the street from KO to Blue Back Square or the town center and enjoy a quick bite in one of the town’s many fantastic restaurants.

Where exactly should families go for the scheduled visit?

Admissions visitors, including prospective students and family members, should report to the Nicholson Administration building, located at the main entrance. Visitor parking is available in front of the building. For best GPS results use: 125 Outlook Avenue, West Hartford, CT Click here for more details about where to find us.

Does an application need to be completed before an interview?

No. Most families choose to interview before starting an application to get a first look at the school and to get a feel for the fit for their child. The application materials can be completed in any order, at any time, as long as it is complete and submitted by February 1.

What should my child wear to the interview?

In line with our school’s dress code policy, we encourage our visitors to come to campus dressed in a neat and appropriate manner.

How long does the visit to KO last?

Please plan for about a 90 minute visit to campus for the interview and campus tour.

Is a campus tour part of the interview?

Yes, your campus visit will include a student-led tour. For those applicants that request a Zoom interview, we strongly encourage a visit to campus for a student-guided tour. You may schedule the visit by calling our offices at (860) 727-5000.

Does KO offer interviews on the weekend?

No. Our appointment times are Monday-Friday during the hours of 8:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m. Our first appointment begins at 8:15 a.m. and our last appointment begins at 2:15 p.m. Wednesdays are half days at KO; therefore, we only offer morning appointments.

What kinds of questions will my child be asked in the interview?

We realize that many students have never been interviewed. We like to use this time to get to know your child as an individual. We ask them about their interests and what they are looking for in a future school. There are no trick questions or wrong answers. The interview process allows time for students and parents to learn more about the school regarding their individual interests and expectations. We always remind our applicants to relax and be themselves!

What should we expect?

Think of the visit and interview as an opportunity to connect and get to know one another authentically. Students should be ready to talk about themselves so we can understand their interests. They may feel uncomfortable by the attention, and it is normal for them to feel this way. The admissions officers will ask questions, but you can also ask questions, so have some questions prepared so we can address your needs or concerns. Keep in mind that most schools conduct separate interviews for the students and the parent/guardian.

How should we prepare?

Before the interview, talk to your child about what will happen. Remind your child to practice good manners and establish eye contact. Research the school’s website to gain insights into the school’s programs, offerings, mission, and core values.

What types of questions should we ask?

Dig deep. Try not to ask questions that you can find easily on the website. It’s an excellent opportunity to discuss the school’s philosophy and mission. Ask about the small but important details. How early can a child be dropped off? How does transportation work? What is the food like? Make a list of aspects of the school that are important to you and ask about those things. Ask about the school’s expectations of parents/guardians, which may differ from day to boarding schools.

What kind of student is a good fit for KO?

Students at KO are naturally curious, with a thirst for knowledge both inside and outside the classroom. Students with a desire to discover new areas of interest, students who strive to learn more and intentionally engage themselves in this journey, and students who work together to think bigger for the greater good of the community all find much success here at KO.

What makes KO different from other independent schools in the area?

KO takes pride in being the premier independent day school community for Grades 6-12 in the Greater Hartford area. As a day school, we believe the parent-teacher-coach partnership is critical to our student’s success. We work to empower students to become independent, self-advocate, and embrace lifelong learning through our robust academics while expanding their interests in our co-curricular activities. As a day school, students form one cohesive group; no lines of demarcation exist between day and boarding students. We ALL share a similar experience- going home to our families at night.

Interested in learning more about what sets KO apart? Explore here.

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