Application Process: International Students

Please begin the application process by completing an online inquiry form to set up an account in the Admission Portal. Upon submission, you will receive an email confirmation with instructions on how to confirm your Admission Portal account and begin your application. 

Submit an Inquiry

International student applicants may apply online through either SAO (Standard Application Online) or the SSFS Admissions Portal.

SAO (Standard Application Online)
Applicants will be able to download forms directly from SAO, upload completed forms, and confirm receipt of online teacher recommendation forms, school requests, and other documents needed.

SSFS Admissions Portal
Please begin the application process by completing an online inquiry form to set up an account in the Admission Portal. Upon submission, you will receive an email confirmation with instructions on how to confirm your Admission Portal account and begin your application. Once you have received an email with your login/password and application instructions, you may log in and begin the application process.  Logging into the Admission Portal will provide you with the following:

• A checklist of application requirements
• Event calendar to schedule interviews and visits
• The ability to track the status of your application
• Electronic forms needed for the application process:
  • Math teacher recommendation form
  • English teacher recommendation form
  • Current school records
  • Neuro-Psych (Behavioral Reports), 504 Plan, IEP,  standardized testing reports if applicable

The online application must be submitted on or before the deadline of January 15, 2023 by 5 PM. 

International students are required to submit one of the following exams as part of the application process. Your score report should be sent directly to Sandy Spring Friends School admissions office; we require ONE of the following tests:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): To register for TOEFL, visit their website and register online. Our school code is 7529. We recommend a score of 70 or higher.
• TOEFL Jr. Comprehensive (for students who are 11-15 years old): To register for TOEFL, visit their website and register online. Our school code is 7529. We recommend a score on the comprehensive exam of:
  • 250-285 listening
  • 250-275 language form & meaning
  • 245-275 reading
• SSAT (Secondary School Admission Test) at Home: Visit their website and register online or call SSAT at (609) 683-4440 to request a Student Registration Guide. The school code number for Sandy Spring Friends School is 7090. 

SSFS is now a Duolingo English Test partner. You can take the test from anywhere using a computer with a front end camera and microphone. No appointments are needed, and you receive your results within 48 hours.

The Director of Upper School &  Boarding Admission, Shamika Murray, will contact applicants to schedule a virtual student visit and interview. 

Please log in to your Admission Portal regularly to ensure that your forms have been received and your application file is complete. Families whose applications are completed by the application deadline (January 15, 2023) will be notified about acceptance on February 24, 2023. Applications are accepted year-round on a space-available basis.