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Science & Arts Academy
Admissions at Science & Arts Academy
Science & Arts Academy (SAA) was founded with the vision to provide intellectually and creatively talented students a stimulating and supportive environment designed for their unique abilities. ​ When families decide to apply to SAA, they will work closely with the Director of Enrollment Management, navigating each step of the admission process together. 

​The SAA Experience
SAA provides a welcoming and nurturing environment where gifted kids can be kids, and where students learn to embrace their giftedness. 
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Connect with Admissions
Schedule a meeting  » ​
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​Welcome from the Director of Enrollment 
Read more »
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Attend an Event
Learn more »

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Transportation
Learn more »
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Take a Virtual Tour 
See our school »

Admissions Process
Step 1:  Get to Know SAA
If you would like to learn more about Science & Arts Academy, please fill out our online inquiry form. Upon filling out this form, a member of our admissions team will follow up with you to share more information about SAA and answer any questions you may have.

​A great starting point in learning more about SAA is to schedule a meeting with a member of the admissions team. We also encourage you to schedule a school tour to experience our community in action. Admissions events are offered throughout the year to help parents learn more about our school and gifted education. 
 


Step 2:  Complete IQ Testing 
The IQ test serves as a helpful measure of a child’s cognitive ability and potential. Administration​ of the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence (WPPSI) or the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) is required as a part of the application process for students entering first through eighth grade.  (IQ testing is not required for entry into the Junior Kindergarten  or Kindergarten program).

Children with a full scale IQ score of 125 or above are considered for admission to SAA.  A complete evaluation report is required, which includes a full-scale IQ score, sub-test scores, evaluator commentary, and recommendations for educational programming and special services, if needed.  Testing must be completed by a licensed psychologist.  See a list of psychologists that often provide services to families seeking enrollment in Science & Arts Academy.  We will, however, accept evaluations from any licensed psychologist, even if they are not included on this list. Please keep in mind that IQ testing is only one component of the application process, as we consider all aspects of the applicant’s qualifications when making admissions decisions.  Learn more about the process of IQ testing »
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Step 3:  Submit an Application
Applications are currently being accepted for the 2022-23 school year on a rolling basis, as seats remain available.  Complete all fields in the online application, and submit along with a $75 non-refundable application fee. 

Step 4:  Submit Supporting Application Materials
In order to complete your child’s application, the following supporting materials are required:
  • Birth Certificate
  • IQ Evaluation Report (1st - 8th)
  • Latest School Report Card / Progress Update
  • Teacher Recommendation Form
  • Principal Recommendation Form (1st - 8th)
  • Writing Sample (3rd - 8th)
  • Standardized Test Scores (as available, 1st - 8th)
  • Parent Inventory of Child Traits (Jr. K and K)
All materials should be scanned and uploaded electronically into the online application.  

Step 5:  Consider Financial Assistance
We urge you not to let the cost of tuition stand in the way of considering SAA for your gifted child(ren).  Our need based scholarship program enables us to assist deserving students who could not otherwise afford to attend our school.  If you would like to apply for a need based scholarship, you will be required to complete an online application through FACTS, a need analysis provider.  The cost for a need based scholarship application  is $40.  The need based scholarship application is separate from the application for admission, although it should be completed concurrently with the admissions process. Applying for a need-based scholarship does not influence the admission decision.



​Step 6:  Complete Shadow Day
In order to learn more about SAA, applicants will complete a shadow day.  The shadow day will include joining classes, meeting with teachers, and connecting with peers.   

Step 7:  Complete Parent Interview
A parent interview is required as a part of the admissions process.  The purpose of this meeting is to help us better understand your child, and help you better understand Science & Arts Academy, so that we work together to determine if SAA is the best match for your child’s education.    ​
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Step 8:  Await Admissions Decision
Our admissions team thoroughly reviews all applications and gives careful consideration to every applicant.  We do not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, ethnicity, sexual identity, age, religion or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state or local law in the administration of educational policies, scholarships, or any other school program.  
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​Admissions decisions will be communicated approximately one to two weeks after completion of the entire application process. If a need based scholarship application was submitted, notification of award decision will be included in the contract.  A signed contract, deposit, and new family fee are due within ten days in order to secure the enrollment spot.  ​​
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1825 MINER STREET, DES PLAINES, ILLINOIS 60016
TEL: 847-827-7880  •  FAX: 847-827-7716

© 2020 SCIENCE & ARTS ACADEMY,  ALL RIGHTS RESERVED


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