X

Frequently Asked Questions

Our goal is to make the admissions process a seamless, exciting experience. Below are some of the most common questions about our program. We know that you are bound to have more questions—please contact us. We're here to help. 
  • What is the application process?

    We are accepting applications for Grades 2 – 7 for fall 2022. Our intention is to add a grade level every year thereafter. To apply, submit an online application, along with a $45 non-refundable application fee, download student transcript requests and letter of recommendation forms, and schedule an entrance exam and a family meeting (student required to attend the family meeting).

    Please note, we do not use Ravenna. Instead, families may apply through the BASIS Independent Bellevue application portal. Stay connected with us and join our interest list.

  • What is the BASIS Independent Entrance Exam?

    All applicants are required to take the BASIS Independent Schools Entrance Exam. This examination is created and administered by BASIS Independent Schools. The exam covers three topics, including math, language arts, and writing. Each section is thirty minutes in length. Preparation is not necessary. The Entrance Exam is more of a diagnostic test that is used by the Admissions Team and Head of School to find out where your student is, academically speaking. The exam will be held at our campus. Admissions does not share the results of the exam with an applicant. For more details on our Entrance Exam, click here.

  • Do you plan to have a high school?

    While we do not offer a High School Program at this time, we are actively working with the City of Bellevue to offer it in the future.

  • How do you select teachers?  

    We hire the country’s brightest and most promising minds: teachers who are committed to sharing their subject matter expertise with students. Our educators hold academic degrees in the disciplines they teach, spanning from Calculus to Mandarin, and have a passion for their subjects that no teacher training can provide. While many have been teaching for years in college preparatory or university settings, some are leaping into a new career, transferring from another BASIS Independent Schools campus, or leaving a research lab or corporate job to share their experience and applied knowledge with students.

    Upon selection as top candidates, prospective teachers are asked to teach a lesson during one of our regular Teacher Demo Days. The Head of School will assemble classes of our prospective students, and candidates are provided the opportunity to teach a lesson, challenge students, and show their subject expertise, as well as show their ability to communicate high-level subject matter to young students while inspiring them. Our students take these sessions extremely seriously and know their feedback weighs heavily in our hiring decisions.

    It is a condition of employment that our teachers demonstrate a natural connection with students and a strong ability to learn and adjust quickly to new and demanding situations.

  • What kind of transportation is offered?

    BASIS Independent Bellevue is committed to ensuring that traveling to and from school is as convenient as possible. As we build our community, we will also construct our bus transportation network and program based on where our families are located and demand.

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

    From their very first day as a BASIS Independent Bellevue 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 nurturing. Our results are possible because of our culture of 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 Thursday, to help expand students’ social networks and become comfortable asking for help.

    Read more about student services

  • What type of extracurricular activities do you offer? 

    We will offer a variety of club and athletic offerings and participate in competitions. Our offering will grow every school year as we grow in grade levels and in total student population. Extracurriculars in the first year of school and beyond will be based on student and teacher interests. Explore our sports & athletics or clubs & activities.

  • Do you offer financial aid? 

    At this time we do not offer any financial aid. We also do not fundraise during the school year. Families have the option to pay tuition in one of three different ways. A family may submit their tuition in one lump sum (1 Payment), split tuition in half with the first payment due prior to the start of the school year, and the second payment due in December of the school year (2 Payments), or make monthly tuition payments (10 Payments). For more details on tuition and fees and payment plan options, please click here.

  • Do you fundraise?

    We do not fundraise. Fundraising requires tremendous administrative support and overhead, which distracts the Head of School and detracts from the academic environment. We also do not want parents to be continually solicited for funding or hope that extra financial contributions will sway influence in the school. However, we welcome parent involvement in other ways such as the Parent Volunteer Committee.

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

    BASIS Independent Bellevue 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.

  • Are students required to wear a uniform?

    BASIS Independent Schools does not require school uniforms.