Frequently Asked Questions

Students aged 6-19 (Grades 1-12) years can apply to Chartwell School. Results of a recent psycho-educational assessment must demonstrate that the student has average or above average cognitive ability (as shown on the WISC-IV) and is diagnosed with dyslexia or another language-based learning difficulty and/or ADD or ADHD. There must be evidence that the student understands his/her learning difficulty and is motivated to participate in Chartwell programs.  For more information, visit the Who Should Apply page.

The WISC, or Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (4th or 5th Edition), is a standardized intelligence test. It forms part of a recognized battery of tests used to document learning disabilities, including dyslexia and attention deficit disorder. While the fact that your child has a learning difficulty does not change, an updated diagnosis often adds new insight into his/her learning styles.

If your child has not had an updated evaluation within three years of making an application to Chartwell, or if your child’s assessment is otherwise out of date, there are several ways of arranging an evaluation:

• the school may refer you to a school psychologist to arrange for testing if your child is attending a public or charter school
• there are psychologists in your local community or area who are in private practice and specialize in learning disabilities

In general, applications should be received by July 31. However, we understand that many families only realize the need for a different type of learning environment after the school year has begun. We are happy to discuss your specific situation and students applying after this date will be considered (however, acceptance is conditional on space availability in the specific program or grade for which the student is applying).

Applications to Chartwell are reviewed as they are received – on a first-come, first-served basis. The earlier you apply for your child, the better your chances are for having your child admitted for the next school year. Should a vacancy occur, students who have been accepted after the deadline are placed on a waiting list.

A visit is an introductory meeting parents schedule with the Director of Outreach and Family Engagement. It’s a chance for you to see the campus, tour the classrooms, and ask any questions you may have about the school and its programs.

Once an application is submitted, the Chartwell academic and admissions team reviews your child’s profile and information provided. You and your child will then be invited back to campus for a series of shadow days and to engage in the Chartwell Intake Assessment Battery. Your child’s visit experience and assessment results will then be shared during an interactive parent debrief and discussion. 

Prospective high school students will participate in an interview with the Director of the High School who will then work with the student to build a personalized shadow day experience.

Visits to Chartwell take place from Monday to Friday between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm. Admissions interviews for the Lower and Middle School are arranged from Monday to Friday between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm. Admissions shadow interviews in the High School are arranged from Monday to Friday between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. 

Should these time frames pose a challenge for your family, we will work with you to make accommodations as needed.

Financial Aid opens each year in January for returning families and new families may apply if they have been accepted into a Chartwell program. Chartwell offers need-based financial aid awards in the form of grants that do not need to be repaid. Our budget is limited and we seek to equitably distribute grants to students based on their family’s financial need. The maximum award is 67% of tuition. Awards are limited and are made on a first-come, first-served basis, so timely applications are important. Financial aid requests are submitted through SSS, an online system for determining need-based financial assistance.

For more information, visit the Tuition and Financial Aid page. 

If it’s determined that your Chartwell student needs additional support to succeed, arrangements can be made for an additional cost. 

Yes! We have a strong Chartwell Family Network and the Director of Outreach and Engagement will happily connect you with a current family to share their experience and answer any questions you have.

At this time, Chartwell does not arrange or provide transportation to and from school. At the beginning of each year, the Chartwell Family Network helps facilitate connections in various geographic regions for carpooling options.