Admissions Process

Inquiring and Applying to Bay

Below is an overview of the admissions process, from inquiry to application. We know that the high school search can feel a bit overwhelming, but we are here to support you. You'll see our dedicated team of admissions professionals, parent/guardian volunteers, and student ambassadors during all events, and we are always available to answer your questions.

Email admissions staff  |  Email student ambassadors

See important dates for 2025-26

Visit Us!

The best way to get to know Bay is to come for a campus visit. Experience classes, meet members of our community, and see our school in action. On our Visits and Open Houses page, you can learn about fall events and see the list of dates. We recommend starting with a morning visit and an open house, both of which have distinct experiences for students and their parents/guardians. 

As always, if you would like to connect with someone in our admissions office, please email [email protected]. 

Step 1: Inquire and Attend Events

First, you’ll sign up for Ravenna, the system used by most Bay Area schools for the application and event-registration process. Signing up is easy; once you’ve created your account, search the directory for The Bay School of San Francisco to explore our school, receive our materials, and register for events so you can see us in action. During the fall (the inquiry phase), you’ll be researching and visiting schools you are interested in. 

Sign Up for Ravenna

Learn About Visits and Open Houses

Step 2: Submit Your Application

 Ready to apply? You will fill out your application in Ravenna and submit the necessary documents there. Applications for admission and flexible tuition are due on Thursday, January 8, 2026. A complete application to The Bay School includes:

• Part 1: parent/guardian application due November 17
• Part 2: student application
• Transcripts from your last two school years (request from your current school)
• Principal/school counselor recommendation
• Current English teacher recommendation
• Current math teacher recommendation
• Student interview
• $90 application fee or fee waiver
• Note: The Bay School does not require or consider standardized testing in its application.

Applications for admission and flexible tuition are due on Thursday, January 8, 2026. Admissions decisions will be emailed and posted in Ravenna the afternoon of Friday, March 20, 2026. 

Step 3: Learn About Flexible Tuition

We are committed to serving a diverse population of students from every economic background. Learn about Bay's inclusive tuition model and how to apply for flexible tuition grants. Flexible tuition decisions are released with admissions decisions on March 20, 2026. 

Step 4: Interview

Bay requires an interview with each student. These conversations are an opportunity for us to get to know you more personally and for you to ask us questions as well. You don’t need to prepare! We want to know who you are and what you envision for your high school experience, so come just as you are.

Important Dates

The following are key dates in the admissions cycle for 2025–26:

• Parent/guardian application due: November 17
• Applications for fall 2026 admission and flexible tuition: January 8, 2026
• Admissions decisions emailed and posted in Ravenna: March 20, 2026
• Enrollment contracts due (flexible tuition): March 26
• Enrollment contracts due (full pay): March 27