Application Preparation
Prepare across every part of the application
Create a preparation cycle that strengthens evidence, reflection, communication, and academic readiness.
Checked against Andover's published admissions pages on October 6, 2026.
Testing
Testing.
- Testing
- Standardized testing is required; Andover is not test-optional.
- Accepted tests
- Applicants submit one of these tests: the Upper Level SSAT, the Upper Level ISEE, the PSAT, the SAT, or the ACT.
- Score codes
- Andover's score-report codes are SSAT 5758, ISEE 220030, SAT 0156, and TOEFL 8127.
- 01
Pick one test early and take a full timed practice test before building a study plan.
- 02
Leave room for a second sitting before the application deadline, if the school allows it.
Essays
Essays that sound like your student.
- Essays
- Applicants submit an essay response through Gateway to Prep Schools.
- Graded writing
- Applicants submit a graded writing sample through Gateway to Prep Schools.
- Video response
- Applicants submit a short video response through the Andover Application Portal.
- 01
Collect specific moments first: what happened, what your student decided, and what changed.
- 02
Draft for substance before style. Polish only after the reflection is clear.
- 03
Keep any parent statement in the parent's voice and focused on the student.
Interview
An interview that feels like a conversation.
- Requirement
- The interview is Step 2 of Andover's application; applicants choose an on-campus interview, a virtual interview, or an interview recording.
- Scheduling
- Interviews can be scheduled only after the Candidate Profile is submitted, through the interview scheduler in the Andover application portal.
- 01
Prepare two or three stories, not scripted answers.
- 02
Practice explaining an interest out loud, including what your student still wants to learn.
- 03
Bring one or two real questions about daily life at the school.
Preparation plan
A preparation plan that works backward from the deadline.
Adjust the pace to your student's schedule. The order matters more than the exact weeks.
Weeks 1-2
Map the application
List every part of the application and its due date from the school website, then decide who owns each piece.
Weeks 2-5
Draft the essays
Write honest first drafts in your student's own voice, then submit them for instructor feedback.
Weeks 3-6
Prepare for testing
Andover requires test scores. Take one timed practice test, then work on the sections that cost the most points.
Weeks 5-8
Revise with feedback
Use the line-by-line notes to cut what is generic and strengthen what is specific.
Before the interview
Practice real conversation
Talk through interests, reading, and activities out loud so answers sound natural, not memorized.
Final two weeks
Check every piece
Proofread, confirm every requirement is complete, and submit before the deadline.