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- Why should I hire an educational consultant?
Trying to manage applications, essays, test prep, and interviews on your own can quickly become overwhelming. A private school admissions consultant helps organize the process, answer questions, and guide your family step by step so nothing slips through the cracks. Every school has slightly different requirements, from essays and interviews to testing policies and deadlines. Without guidance, families may feel lost or unsure of how to present their child in the best light. Our consultants at Cardinal Education bring years of expertise in private school admissions strategy, essay coaching, test prep, and interview preparation. We know what admissions officers look for and how to help students highlight their unique strengths. With professional support, families gain confidence, clarity, and a higher chance of acceptance into competitive schools.
Read the following articles to understand why families hire admissions consultants:
Why Admissions Consulting Is a Game-Changer for Competitive SchoolsHow to Choose the Right Admissions Consultant for Your Family
- What is the Proctored Writing Sample, and how should we prepare?
The Proctored Writing Sample is a required timed essay that many top schools, like Castilleja School, Crystal Springs Uplands School, Sacred Heart Schools, Atherton, and The Nueva School, use to evaluate a student’s ability to think critically and write clearly under pressure. Unfortunately, many students are caught off guard by the format because schools often emphasize different writing styles. Preparing with our tutors allows students to practice with real prompts, learn step-by-step essay organization, and receive feedback that helps refine their writing. By practicing early, students not only become more confident but also learn how to adapt their strong analytical skills to the American essay style that U.S. admissions officers expect.
- How do I prepare my child for an admissions interview?
Preparing for a private school admissions interview requires more than just practicing answers to a list of common questions. It’s about teaching your child how to communicate authentically, confidently, and thoughtfully under pressure. At Cardinal Education, we start with mock interviews that replicate the kinds of questions admissions officers usually ask, ranging from academic interests to personal passions and family background. We also work on tone, body language, and conversational flow to reduce anxiety and make students come across as more polished. Our consultants emphasize that the interview is not about memorized answers but about showing genuine curiosity, character, and alignment with the school’s values. With preparation, your child will learn how to connect naturally and make a lasting impression. Here is an article to learn how to Make a Great Impression During a Private School Interview.
- What should I do if my child is waitlisted at a private school?
Getting waitlisted can feel discouraging, but it’s not a rejection. It means your child met the school’s standards, but there just weren’t enough seats available. The good news is that with the right strategy, many students do move from waitlisted to accepted. At Cardinal Education, we advise families not to simply wait but to take strategic steps to strengthen their child’s candidacy. This can include writing a compelling waitlist letter, sending academic or extracurricular updates, and reaffirming genuine interest in the school. Our consultants have helped many families move from waitlisted to accepted at elite institutions by guiding them through this delicate process. With the right approach, a waitlist can still turn into an acceptance.
