Frequently Asked Questions

We are excited to work with you and your family throughout the admissions process! Below are some of the most common and frequently asked questions about our program. We know that you are bound to have more questions—please contact us. We're here to help.
  • What is the application process?

    Our admissions process is holistic and comprehensive. We are now accepting applications for Toddlers through Grade 10. Read more about our admissions process here.

  • What are your age requirements for students in Early Learning?

    Toddlers must be two years old before they can begin the program.

    For applications to the 2024-25 school year: PreK-1 applicants must be three years old by September 30, 2024, and PreK-2 applicants must be four years old by September 30, 2024. Kindergarten applicants must be five years old by September 30, 2024.

  • The curriculum is challenging; how do I know my child will succeed?

    Our mission is to create a love of learning in all students and our curriculum is carefully calibrated so that in every discipline and at every grade level, students are appropriately challenged and excited by their learning.

    Each year builds for the challenges to come in a supportive and joyful classroom. We are all a team—your child, other students, teachers, deans alike—and the team works together to ensure the success and empowerment of each student. Teachers provide office hours throughout the school week, where students can ask quetions or seek extra support.

    Read more about student services.

  • What type of extracurricular activities do you offer?

    With over 50 clubs and organizations and over 80% of students participating in extracurricular activities, we are a vibrant and fun community where students are encouraged to expand and complement their academic programs. Our offerings are based on student interests and teacher expertise in sports, music, humanities, competition clubs, and sciences clubs, to name a few. For a more complete list of the offerings available, explore our sports and athletics and clubs and activities.

  • Do you offer financial aid?

    At this time, we do not offer any financial aid. We do offer tuition payment plans in one, two, or ten installations. Read more about our tuition and fees for each grade.

  • Do you have a referral program?

    Yes, we appreciate your help in building our school. Your family will receive a tuition credit for each new family referred to and enrolled at BASIS Independent McLean. The new family will also receive a tuition credit. Learn more.

  • What resources will you have in your school for students with special needs?

    BASIS Independent will not have resources on campuses for many special needs, and we will also not maintain a school psychologist; however, our teachers and administrators have a long and successful record of supporting, challenging and inspiring students who require various learning accommodations.

    Ask any experienced BASIS Independent teacher what a BASIS Independent student looks like and they will give you this very straightforward answer: a BASIS Independent student works hard, asks questions, and helps other people.  All we ask is that the student is willing to work. At BASIS Independent Schools, we build on that educational competency. Above all, our strong and results-oriented support team of teachers and administrators never gives up on a student.

    For questions regarding your student’s specific situation, please contact your Head of School.

  • Do you offer transportation?

    We are not offering transportation for the 2023-24 school year. However, we have offered transportation previously.

  • What distinguishes BASIS Independent Schools from BASIS Charter Schools?

    BASIS Independent Schools and BASIS Charter Schools are a part of the BASIS Curriculum Schools Network- featuring the proven educational philosophy and learning approach that has been developed and refined since 1998.

    However, BASIS Independent McLean is distinctive in our lower student-to-teacher ratio, cutting-edge academic facilities that include labs, a theater, collaboration rooms, and fine arts and music facilities.

    We also have a selective admissions process and do not engage in fundraising.