How to Apply: Upper School

Tell us a little more about yourself by completing our inquiry form. A member of our Admissions team will reach out to connect. 

INQUIRE

A visit to campus is a great way to meet our teachers, coaches, and dorm parents and talk with students who share your interests. The interview is an important part of the application process. We recommend that you schedule your visit and interview when school is in session. Please call the Admission Office at 805-686-0650 or email admissions@dunnschool.org to arrange your visit.

If you are unable to make it to campus physically, tours and interviews can be scheduled by video chat. You can also check out our virtual tour below — or attend our Virtual Open House using the button below. 

LEARN MORE

Applications are due by Feb. 1, 2024, through the Standard Application Online (SAO). To get started, just visit the SAO website by using the button below and create an account. After completing the process, the required forms and materials listed below will be available to us in your SAO portal.  

• Student Profile
• Parent Statement
• Student Essay
• English Recommendation
• Math Recommendation
• Principal/Guidance Counselor Recommendation
• Official School Reports

APPLY

Applications received after Feb. 1 will be considered on a space availability basis. 

Dunn School is test optional; you may choose to, but are not required, to submit SSAT scores for applicants to grades 9 and 10. Likewise, students applying for grades 11 or 12 may choose to, but are not required, to submit PSAT or SAT scores. 

If you wish your scores to arrive before the Feb 1. application deadline, we recommend that you register for the SSAT no later than the January testing date.  

Our SSAT code is 2914 and our ISEE code is 051863.

Complete the Character Skills Snapshot
Rooted in our five Core Values and whole-student philosophy, character development is a central aspect of Dunn's educational approach. The Character Skills Snapshot helps us understand the areas in which we can help students grow and thrive beyond their academic abilities, and we encourage, but do not require, students to submit it as part of their application.

Learning Strategies
Please use the button below to view additional information and documentation that may be required for admission into our Learning Skills Program.

LEARN MORE

English Proficiency
Students who do not identify English as their first language are required to submit an English proficiency test such as TOEFL or Duolingo. 

Our TOEFL code is 8147.

Admissions decisions will be sent to families by letter and email on March 10, 2025. Families have until April 10, 2025, to make their enrollment decision.