List of 10 frequently asked questions.

• I am interested in learning more about Harding Academy, where do I begin?

  Thank you for your interest in Harding Academy! The best way to begin the admissions process is by submitting an online inquiry. The form takes less than 5 minutes to complete and provides our Admissions Team with the key information needed to partner with you on this journey.

• What happens after I complete the online inquiry?

  Once you submit an inquiry, our Admissions Team will use the information provided—such as household details, the grade you are applying to, and your child’s interests—to guide your next steps along your admissions journey.
  
  You will automatically be added to our mailing list, ensuring you receive updates on upcoming events, deadlines, and all things Harding.

• What happens after I have completed the online application?

  Once you submit an application, our system will send you an email with login credentials and a link to create your Parent Portal password.
  
  Through the portal, you can:
  

  • Register for tours, Shadow Days, and admissions events
  • Schedule required assessments
  • Check the status of admissions requirements such as teacher recommendations, transcripts, etc.

• What are the age requirements for Harding Academy?

  • PreK students must be at least four years old before the first day of school.*
  • Kindergarten students must be at least five years old before the first day of school.

  
  *As you consider timing, it may help to know that most of our PreK students turn five before the start of the
  calendar year.

• When should I apply to Harding Academy?

  Application deadlines vary by grade level and family status:
  
  New Families
  

  • PreK: November 1, 2025
  • K – 8th Grade: December 13, 2025

  Returning Families
  

  • PreK, K, and Grade 6: November 1, 2025
  • Grades 1-5, 7-8: December 13, 2025

  Our largest entry points are PreK, kindergarten, and 6th grade. Admission to other grades depends on availability.

• What does the admissions process include?

  Similar to varying deadlines, Harding’s Admissions Office has different requirements for each division. 

  
  

  Primary Education Division (PreK & K)

  • Age-appropriate assessment
  • Teacher recommendation
  • Parent interview
  • Kindergarten only: Classroom observation

  Lower School (1-5 Grade)

  • Grade 1: one-on-one age-appropriate assessment
  • Grade 2-5: ISEE 
    Grade 2-3: Writing assessment at Harding
  • Grade 4-5: Shadow Day
  • Teacher recommendation
  • Parent interview
  • Transcripts

  Middle School (6-8 Grade)

  • ISEE 
  • Shadow Day
  • Teacher recommendation
  • Parent interview
  • Transcripts

• How do I register for the required assessments?

  Primary Education Division (PreK & K)

  • Please register through your Parent Portal. 

  Lower School (1-5 Grade) 

  • Grade 1: Register for your child’s one-on-one assessment in the Parent Portal. 
  • Grade 2-3: Register for your child’s writing assessment in the Parent Portal. 
  • Grade 2-5: Register for the ISEE. Please be sure to share your child’s scores with Harding (School Code:
    432525).

  Middle School (6-8 Grade)

  • Register for the ISEE and please share your child’s scores with Harding (School Code: 432525).

• What is a Shadow Day and when should I schedule one for my child?

  A Shadow Day allows your child to experience life at Harding firsthand. During their time at Harding, prospective students will:
  

  • Spend time paired with a “Shadow Day host” in the grade they are applying to
  • Participate in classes
  • Meet teachers and classmates
  • Experience our school culture
  • Explore our cafeteria and enjoy lunch on us

  During the visit, your child will be given a tour of the school and have an opportunity to ask questions.
  
  Shadow Days are scheduled through the Parent Portal. Dismissal is typically after lunch, but exact times vary by grade. Students should wear comfortable, school-appropriate clothing. It is important to note that students will be paired with a host in the grade they are applying for and not the grade they are currently in. For instance, if your child is applying to grade 5, your child will shadow a student in grade 5.

• Is Financial Aid availability and how does that impact my application?

  Yes. Financial Aid is available for both new and returning families. Importantly, the Financial Aid review process is completely separate from admissions decisions.
  
  Aid is allocated based on demonstrated need. For more details, please visit our Tuition and Financial Aid webpage. Families applying for Financial Aid should reach out to the Admissions Team for an application fee waiver.

• Does Harding require students to wear a uniform?

  Yes, we do require students to wear uniforms at our school. We believe that uniforms help promote a sense of community, reduce distractions, and create a focused learning environment. Uniforms also encourage school spirit and help students feel a sense of belonging. We're happy to provide more details about our uniform policy if you have any questions