Frequently Asked Questions

Many parents ask about the odds of admission if their son is not a sibling or legacy or from another independent school. Interestingly, nearly three quarters of admitted boys have no prior connection to Fenn. Our students come from many different schools and from over 40 cities and towns across Massachusetts. Additionally, nearly 30 percent identify as students of color.

We offer a round-trip transportation program for over 12 nearby communities. Additionally, Fenn students from Concord and Carlisle are able to ride buses on routes managed by the Transportation Department for the Concord-Carlisle Public Schools. 

Fenn’s priority application deadline is January 31. All applicants who submit materials by this date will receive a decision on March 10. After January 31, we strongly encourage you to inquire about any remaining spaces, and we will work with your family to complete the application process as quickly as possible.

At Fenn, we strive to educate the "whole boy," and therefore we consider "the whole boy" in making admissions decisions. We are not looking for particular test scores. Instead, we ascertain whether a candidate has the intellectual potential, academic readiness, social skills, and drive to succeed at Fenn. We take into account all aspects of a boy's admissions materials in making our decisions. No one piece of information, or moment in time, makes or breaks a boy's prospects for admission.

Your first step in applying to Fenn is to contact the Admissions Office and schedule a time to speak with a member of our Admissions team.

Student interviews typically take place following your family's campus tour. The interview is framed as a "meet and greet" conversation and allows us to get to know your son better, to share a bit more about Fenn, and to answer any questions he may have. Students applying for Grade 4 will also be asked to complete a short writing activity.

Yes. We do not require a formal parent interview, but we certainly always welcome conversation, comments, and questions. In addition to the parent conversation that kicks off our admissions process, we encourage parents to call or email anytime throughout the year to further discuss educational goals and to receive answers to important questions.

Yes. While Fenn does not have a uniform, we do have a dress code, as we believe that appropriate attire sets the tone for seriousness of purpose and respect for the school community. All students wear shirts with collars and khaki-material pants or shorts. In the winter, boys are allowed to wear hooded sweatshirts, keeping the hoods down inside school buildings. Hats and outdoor jackets must be removed indoors.