How to Apply

Sudbury Valley School enrolls new students throughout the school year. The school practices open admissions, welcoming applicants who are ready to participate as self-directed, autonomous members of the community. Students must be at least four years old to enroll.

Because Sudbury Valley is a unique environment, the admissions process is designed to help families understand the school deeply and to ensure that enrollment is a thoughtful and mutual decision.

Step 1: Campus Tour & Admissions Meeting

The first step is to schedule a Campus Tour & Admissions Meeting to learn more about Sudbury Valley.

During your visit, you'll tour the campus and meet with an Admissions Counselor. This is an opportunity to learn how the school works, ask questions, and explore whether Sudbury Valley feels like a good fit for your child and family. It is also a chance for us to learn more about your child and what your family is looking for in a school.

Campus Tours & Admissions Meetings are available throughout the school year. We encourage the student and all parents or guardians to attend. Visits typically last 60–90 minutes.

Step 2: Visiting Week

Before enrolling, students are required to participate in a Visiting Week.

During the week, visiting students become part of the school community. They spend time with students of all ages, explore the campus, join activities, attend School Meeting if they choose, and experience what it is like to manage their own time in a Sudbury environment.

Visiting Week gives students, families, and the school an opportunity to determine whether Sudbury Valley is a good fit. There is a $300 fee for the Visiting Week.

Step 3: Enrollment

After completing the Visiting Week, families may choose to enroll at any time during the school year. Sudbury Valley has rolling admissions, which means students can start at any point during the year. Regardless of when a student enrolls, families commit to one year of enrollment.

Sudbury Valley welcomes families from a wide range of backgrounds and communities. What they tend to share is a belief that children learn best when they are trusted with freedom, responsibility, and the opportunity to direct their own lives.