Upper School Process | Bentley School

Upper School (Grades 9-12): Application Process

We consider many factors when evaluating an applicant, including the required application pieces and, beyond that, what it might be like to have a particular student join our community. We would enjoy having the chance to set up a time for a phone call or virtual chat to tell you more about the three pillars at the heart of every Bentley education: Character, Purpose, and Community.

Bentley’s online application process is designed to be clear and simple, and like most Bay Area schools, we use an online application system called Ravenna. Once you create an online account, a comprehensive checklist and directions ensure that you don't miss a deadline or forget to submit important paperwork.

APPLICATION PROCESS

STEP 1: Learn more about Bentley
Schedule a video chat or phone call (optional)
While we are currently unable to invite you and your family to our beautiful Upper School campus in Lafayette to learn more about our program and observe our students and faculty in the classroom, we invite you to schedule a video chat or personal phone call.

>> CLICK HERE to schedule a conversation <<

STEP 2:
Complete and submit the online application
Through our online application system, Ravenna, applicants fill out required forms, submit supplemental materials, and track application progress. Please visit www.ravenna-hub.com to create a profile for your student.

STEP 3:

Bentley School is adopting a test-optional policy for students applying for admission for entry in Fall 2021. This means that SSAT or ISEE scores are not required to apply, though applicants may still choose to submit them. Test scores have always been a part of our holistic application review, and the Admissions Office evaluates applications with a focus on student written responses, letters of recommendations from teachers and counselors, the interview process, and grades. Applicants who do not submit ISEE or SSAT test scores are encouraged to help us better understand their academic background and can elect to submit ERB or CAASPP scores instead.

To register for the ISEE (school code: 570407) click here, and for the SSAT click here.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, ERB will now be offering the ISEE at home. Please visit their website for more information on how to register.

Step 4:

Submit recommendations online

Bentley requires two separate teacher recommendations: one from the applicant's current English teacher and one from the applicant's current Math teacher. We also ask for a recommendation from a Principal or Counselor. All recommendations must be delegated and submitted through the applicant’s existing Ravenna account.

Step 5:

Submit transcripts

A complete and official transcript, including both current (2020-2021) and previous (2019-2020) year grades should be sent directly from your child’s school. This request can also be completed through Ravenna. (Directions are provided in your applicant profile.)

Step 6:

Schedule student and parent interview

Once an application is complete we will schedule a time for a virtual interview. The interview will start with a question and answer session for the whole family, and conclude with a 15-20 minute interview with the student.

9-12 Admissions Team

List of 2 members.

Peter Jordan

Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management, 9-12

925-900-4057
Katrina Ong

Assistant Director of Admissions, 9-12

While our regular school days are not happening on campus, we are fully engaged in our hundred-year-old process of excellence in teaching and learning through our most recent signature program, the Bentley Remote Schoolhouse. This program went into development last October when schools in our area closed for several days due to the PG&E public safety power shutoffs.

Our remote learning model sustains vital human connection and helps every member of our community remain actively engaged with our curriculum. While a constant and intentional work in progress, Bentley Remote Schoolhouse already reflects the ingenuity and resilience of our faculty, staff, students, and families.