Here’s What You Need to Know About Cushing Academy

Overview

Cushing Academy is a top private school in  Ashburnham, Massachusetts. Coed and offering both day and boarding options, it is located on a 162-acre campus serving grades 9-12 and those pursuing a postgraduate year. Founded in 1865, the school has prided itself on its dedication to high-quality education. With a typical class size of 12, the student-teacher ratio sits at around 6:1, guaranteeing that students receive the attention they deserve. Cushing Academy’s mission of developing curious and creative thinkers leads it to a unique community-centered setting that enriches education for all. The decision to balance academics with comprehensive development across all disciplines of life allows for social growth and character building unmatched by other institutions. Students at Cushing find themselves excelling in all facets, developing as future leaders prepared to change the world.      

How hard is it to get into Cushing Academy? 

Its approach to education makes Cushing Academy a premiere academic destination for high-level achievers. Parents who aspire to send their students may come to realize that admissions is competitive. With only around 400 students in total, Cushing Academy accepts only a handful of new students each school year.

Furthermore, Cushing does not operate on a rolling admissions basis, making application even more difficult as families have to balance their personal lives with the pressure of deadlines and requirements. Those who wish to begin in the spring must submit all of their requirements by November 15. Those who wish to begin in the fall must submit all their requirements by February 1. 

With the help of experienced private school admissions consultants, your chances of being accepted may increase. Our elite team will help you strategize ways to make your child shine. 

Cushing Academy Application 

The Cushing Academy application process begins by creating an account at either of these three Cushing Academy accepted portals: SAO – SSAT Standard Online Application, Gateway to Prep Schools Application, and Cushing Academy Application. After making an account, here are the other requirements you will need to follow: 

1. Schedule an interview
2. Complete the parent statement 
3. Complete the personal statement 
4. Delegate recommendation letters
5. Request a transcript

Cushing Academy Admissions 

Admissions Interview

Applicants are required to schedule an interview with Cushing Academy to be considered for admission. In this interview, admissions officers will determine if your child and your family are a good fit for the school community. Beyond fit, they will also be assessing and evaluating your child’s character based on how they carry themselves. This is also your opportunity to ask questions and gain more insight into the school’s culture and academics. The process is surprisingly tricky but from experience, Cardinal Education understands what they’re looking for. Our interview preparation will introduce you to common interview questions and develop your family’s confidence to answer proudly and charismatically.     

Parent Statement

Parents or guardians are required to answer a form. These can be found on your application portal of choosing. The questions will ask you to reflect on your child’s performance and deliver truthful information about their personality, achievements, and other personal information. Your statement is an important part of the application process because it demonstrates your commitment to your child’s education. Since it helps admissions officers understand your child’s potential, it’s important to focus on strengths and what makes your child unique. For tips and tricks on how to write the best parent statement, click here for advice from expert educational consultants. 

Personal Statement

The personal statement is a series of essays that your child must complete within a limited character count. The form may be found on your preferred application portal. The questions delve into their interests, personality, and ability to reflect on themselves. When answering these questions it’s important that your child is honest while also writing in such a way that paints themselves in the best light. If you would like some assistance in understanding how to best do this, our admissions team can help you strategize and understand your child’s best interests to write the best statement. Here are some useful tips on how to write a compelling personal statement. 

Teacher Recommendations/Recommendation Letters

Applicants must submit a total of three letters of recommendation for their application. One English teacher recommendation letter, one math teacher recommendation letter, and finally a recommendation letter from either their counselor or principal. Emails of these individuals are submitted through your chosen application where they will receive an email.   

These letters are vital pieces of information to the admissions process as they showcase professional and unbiased observations of your child. Furthermore, the thorough evaluation of your child’s character, personality, and academic aptitude will help Cushing Academy decide whether your child fits the school’s profile. To ensure exceptional letters, it’s crucial that you build genuine and strong relationships at your child’s current school.    

Transcript

Applicants are required to submit a transcript of records that contains their entire academic history of the current school year and the previous two. The form to request its release can be found on your preferred application portal. 

Cushing Academy requires a transcript as it will give them a comprehensive overview of your child’s academic readiness to handle their curriculum. If you’re concerned that your child may need some additional support in order to generate an exceptional transcript, we suggest that you consider private school admissions consulting. Our team of admissions consultants, tutors, and academic coaches are ready to work alongside your child to build up their academic prowess. While we provide online and in-person tutoring for a variety of courses, we also believe in holistic character growth that develops personality and character.  

Cushing Academy Alumni

1. Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck – the king of Bhutan. 
2. John Cena – an American professional wrestler and actor who is regarded as one of the best wrestlers of all time within WWE.  
3. Bette Davis – an iconic American actress who was one of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood at the peak of her career.  
4. Nate Berkus – an American interior designer and television personality who gained recognition for his appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show and for hosting HGTV’s The Nate and Jeremiah Home Project.   
5. Meghan Duggan – a three-time Olympic hockey medalist who currently serves as the director of player development of the New Jersey Devils.
6. Herbert William Conn – an American bacteriologist notable for his discovery that oysters can distribute typhoid fever. 
7. Pete Snyder – an American entrepreneur who ran for governor of Virginia in 2021.
8. Arthur Edmund Carewe – an Armenian-American stage and film character actor of the silent film era.
9. Erica Lawler – an American ice hockey player who played for the U.S. Women’s National Team in the 2008 Olympics. 
10. Broc Little – an American ice hockey player currently playing for the Linköping HC in Switzerland.

Student Life at Cushing Academy

Students at Cushing are taught to enjoy life as developing academic masters and as people. Beyond the rigorous academics, students are given a wide range of opportunities to develop and explore themselves. From art to athletics, the possibilities are endless. Penguins experience community in all aspects of their lives at Cushing. Every Friday, expect assemblies that bring everyone together to perform and discuss updates. Community Lunch on the other hand is done family style and students should expect to see new faces every time! For those adventurous, Cushing Academy Summer Sessions have students pushing their limits both physically and mentally.   

Cushing Academy Academics

Cushing Academy operates on the belief that students follow their academic journey. Beyond the core subjects, the curriculum challenges students through varied and complex courses such as intermediate languages, gothic literature, advanced mathematics, psychology, chamber music, metalsmithing, and more. Students are encouraged to look deep within themselves to understand their academic needs and forge ahead with an education best suited to them. Cushing Academy also offers Academic Support Coaching and Academic Support Classes which are handled by experienced staff who seek to build trust and understanding for those who benefit from intensive support for diverse needs.     

Cushing Academy Athletics

Cushing Academy’s athletic program features 36 teams across 13 sports. Athletes may join field hockey, ice hockey, track and field, volleyball, cross country, ski, basketball, baseball, golf, lacrosse, softball, tennis, and soccer. Athletes are expected to not just perform well but also encompass the spirit of good sportsmanship. Exceptional athletes are celebrated throughout the season, called the Impact Penguins of the week Numerous sports are also livestreamed for those in the community who may have missed an important match.  

Cushing Academy Arts

Arts at Cushing Academy is a medium well supported by an experienced team of artistically talented teachers. Students can practice both visual and performing arts, developing their passions on stage or through hands-on approaches. From studios and practice rooms to galleries and the stage, there are numerous opportunities for those who see expression as a means to life. Cushing supports students who share a love of the arts. Cushing Academy offers Pottery & Sculpture, Photography, Art Studio, Metalsmithing, Glass Studio, Drama, Dance, and Music. 

Activities at Cushing Academy

The opportunities are endless at Cushing Academy. Students are encouraged to explore their interests and develop their passions. Typical club offerings include Debate, Film, MUN, Classical Music, and more. There are also on-campus weekend activities hosted by the school at any given time. Students may find themselves racing through an obstacle course or singing their hearts out at karaoke. Finally, open seven days a week is the Student Center which gives students a place to hang out and relax with a variety of leisure entertainment open to all.