What is Phillips Academy (Andover) Looking For?
Unlimited curiosity, an open-minded embrace of difference, a passion for learning, exploration and discovery. Andover is a place for students who are bold, self-motivated, authentic and daring. Andover looks for applicants who will bring their own unique, even quirky brilliance and passion to life at the school. Admission to the school is most selective, with 13% of its applicants gaining admission. Given over 70% of those applying are academically fit for admission, qualified applicants must be prepared to present their unique strengths, interests, talents and passions throughout the admissions process. The extent to which your presence on campus will enhance the experiences of others plays a major role in the selection process.
What does it mean to be an intentionally diverse, inclusive community at Andover?
Excellence is the overarching standard for everyone at Andover. At the heart of its values, “Non-Sibi” (not for self), and “Youth from Every Quarter” (diversity) have been foundational principles upon which the school has been built. Over a decade ago, Andover became one of the only private boarding schools in the nation with 100% need-blind admission, meaning that admission of its students could be solely based on merit and not their ability to pay. Andover prides itself on being an 'intentional community' with 50% of its scholars as students of color. Andover is likely to be the most diverse place any student has experienced.
Financial Aid at Andover
Phillips Academy offers generous financial aid packages to promote inclusivity and ensure that talented students from all economic backgrounds can attend. Approximately 47% of students receive financial aid, with roughly $58,000 being the average grant for boarding students. Additionally, Andover is one of the very few private schools to be able to meet 100% of each student’s demonstrated financial need.
Residential Life
The boarding experience at Phillips Academy is integral to student life. With 5+ residential clusters, there are over 840 boarding students and almost 300 day students with 49 countries represented. Each cluster houses around 220 students, a dean, 40 faculty members, and leadership positions for students. This system encourages camaraderie, personal growth, and participation in house activities and events.
A Place Of Unlimited Opportunities
Founded in 1778, Andover is the oldest incorporated boarding school in America. As one of the largest and best endowed, over 300 courses are offered, including eight world languages and 150 electives. The renowned Addison Gallery of American Art and Peabody Institute of Archaeology with its over 600,000 artifacts, photographs, and documents grace the campus. There are more than 200 classroom teachers, most of whom live on campus and serve in other roles as coaches, advisors, counselors, and mentors. Successful applicants demonstrate that they are curious about everything.
Extracurricular Opportunities at Andover
Andover offers an extensive range of extracurricular activities that cater to diverse interests and talents. With over 125 student-run clubs and organizations, students can explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and form lasting friendships by:
- Participating in a variety of different clubs.
- Engaging in music, theater, visual arts, and dance events.
- Joining diverse groups with a range of focuses.
Admissions Testing Requirements
Standardized testing is an important component of the Andover admissions process, providing a measure of academic readiness and potential. There are testing requirements based on grade level and domestic or international status.
- Domestic Students: You must submit scores from SSAT (Upper Level) ISEE (Upper Level), PSAT, SAT, or ACT.
- International Students: Non-native English speakers should submit IELTS, TOEFL iBT, or the Duolingo English Test scores.
The Application and Interview Process
The application process at Andover offers a platform for students to showcase their achievements and potential. A successful application includes a graded writing sample, short answers with an essay, and compelling letters of recommendation.
Candidate Profile and Application
Prospective students should begin the application process by completing a candidate profile Once you receive an email with the login credentials, you’ll log in, fill out and submit your application with the relevant supporting documents. You also have the option to supplement your application with an interview.
Optional Interviews:
Interviews provide an opportunity for applicants to express their interest in Andover. You can choose from an in-person or virtual interview, or a video submission. On-campus interviews include a tour.
How can an applicant to Andover stand out from the crowd?
Given the competitiveness of its admissions process and depth of the pool of candidates, to stand out applicants need to give evidence of:
What are the academic credentials of applicants
admitted to Andover?
While Andover does not have a specific cutoff for grades or test scores, the admissions committee continuously searches for exemplary and uniquely talented applicants with the potential to excel. Therefore, on average those admitted have:
- A’s on their transcript
- Involvement and dedication to extracurricular activities
- Demonstrated high energy and self-motivation
- Very strong letters of recommendation
- For non-native English speakers a score at or above a 7.5 on the IELTS, 100 on the TOEFL iBT, or 135 on the Duolingo English Test.
- Intellectual curiosity
- Compassion for and commitment to helping others
Examples of applicants with special talents
at Andover would be:
- World-class talent in the performing or visual arts
- Exceptional skills and promise in any sport
- Award-winning science or math student
- Demonstrated entrepreneurial skills
- Extensive experience in the service of others
Start Your Journey Today
Contact us to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward achieving your academic goals. We have admissions strategists ready to go through a free initial consultation to determine your strengths and weaknesses to tailor a plan for our services to meet your admissions goals.