Frequently Asked Questions

List of 12 frequently asked questions.

  • How do I apply to Rivers?

    Follow the steps on the How to Apply page.
  • When is the Application for Admission due?

    All application forms should be in our office by January 15.
  • What standardized test do I need to take?

    If you are applying to grades 6, 7 or 8, you should register for the ISEE. If you are applying to grades 9, 10 or 11, you should register for the SSAT. If you have completed the PSAT, we will accept that in lieu of the SSAT.
  • When should I arrange my tour and interview?

    We begin interviewing at the end of September and will offer appointments when school is in session throughout the months of October, November, December and January. Please schedule your interview as soon as possible through your Ravenna account in order to ensure an interview time that works well with your schedule.  Interviews include a tour of our campus by a current Rivers student.
  • What happens during my interview?

    After the tour, the visiting student will be interviewed by a member of our admission committee. The same interviewer will then talk to the student's parents. The entire visit will last between 1.5 and 2 hours.
  • What kinds of questions will the interviewer ask?

    The purpose of the interview is to let us get to know you. We may ask how you spend your time both in and out of school, what classes and activities you particularly enjoy, what you are looking for in a school and a variety of other topics.   Don't worry; we will strive to make the interview a pleasant and relaxed experience.  And, we want you to be sure to ask your questions about Rivers as well!
  • Do I need to apply before I interview?

    No. In fact, the visit may help you decide whether or not Rivers may be a good fit for you!  
  • Is there a particular score I have to get on the ISEE or SSAT test?

    Standardized test scores are only one piece of your final application and no more important than the other information we request. There is no cutoff score you must achieve to be considered for admission to Rivers.
  • What are you looking for in a candidate?

    We admit students who are successful and enthusiastic learners, who enjoy taking risks in their educational pursuits, who are eager to participate in all aspects of the Rivers experience (academic, athletic, co-curricular and service-oriented), and who are willing to contribute to the community with enthusiasm.
  • I don't think I can afford Rivers. What kind of aid is available?

    No applicant should be deterred from applying for admission due to financial constraints.  We are committed to a socio-economically diverse student body and currently award more than $6.8 million in financial assistance to qualified students.  We only award financial aid based on need; we do not give academic or athletic scholarships. Click here to learn more about our financial aid program.
  • Where do Rivers students come from?

    Academically, our students come in equal numbers from both public and private schools. Geographically, our students come to us from more than 60 cities and towns in the greater Boston area.
  • How do students get to Rivers?

    Almost all students get to Rivers by car, and many families car pool. However, bus service is available from the Northeast and Southeast suburbs, as well as three buses for students from Boston: 1.) Departing from State Street on the MBTA Blue Line; 2.) Departing Back Bay station on the MBTA Orange Line; 3.) Departing Forest Hills station, making a stop on Hammond Pond Parkway (Route 9) in Chestnut Hill.  The Northeast Bus originates in Winchester and makes stops in Lexington and Lincoln.  The Southeast Bus makes two stops in Westwood and one in Needham.

    For up-to-date bus schedules please click here.
333 Winter Street Weston, MA 02493
P: 781.235.9300 F: 781.239.3614