Application Preparation
Prepare for the pieces Peddie reads
The application mixes essays, recommendations, grades, a required interview and SSAT or ISEE scores.
Checked against Peddie's published admissions pages on November 5, 2026.
Testing
Testing.
- Testing policy
- Peddie accepts the SSAT or the ISEE. Grade 9 and 10 applicants submit score reports directly to Peddie. Scores are one part of a holistic review and do not affect consideration for need-based aid.
- School codes
- The SSAT school code is 5716 and the ISEE school code is 571501.
- Grade 11 and postgraduate applicants
- Grade 11 and postgraduate applicants may send SSAT, ISEE, ACT, PSAT or SAT reports to admission@peddie.org, and also submit a graded writing sample.
- English-language tests
- Non-native English speakers submit TOEFL (school code 8126), IELTS or Duolingo results. This may be waived after three years at a school where English is the main language of instruction.
- 01
Pick one test early and take a full timed practice test before building a study plan.
- 02
Leave room for a second sitting before the January deadline, and check with the admission office if you are unsure a score is needed.
Essays
Essays that sound like your student.
- Essays
- Student essays are a required part of the application.
- Parent statement
- A parent statement is optional.
- 01
Pick specific moments from the last year, not a list of achievements.
- 02
Get the substance right before polishing the style.
- 03
Write the parent statement in your own voice, as a parent, and keep it separate from the student essays.
Interview
An interview that feels like a conversation.
- Requirement
- Interviews are required. Families complete an inquiry form first, and interviews run Monday through Saturday.
- Scheduling
- To arrange an interview, contact the admission office at admission@peddie.org or (609) 944-7501.
- 01
Have two or three stories ready that show how your student thinks.
- 02
Practice explaining an interest out loud, without notes.
- 03
Bring real questions about daily life in the dorms and in class.
Preparation plan
A plan that works backward from the deadline.
Adjust the pace to your student's schedule. The order matters more than the exact days.
First
Complete the inquiry form and arrange the interview
Interviews are required and run Monday through Saturday. Contact the admission office to schedule yours.
Early
Choose the SSAT or ISEE
Peddie accepts either one. Plan the sitting early enough to send scores before the January deadline.
Next
Draft the student essays
Read the prompts in your application account first, then write.
Fall and winter
Ask for recommendations
Peddie asks for your current English teacher, math teacher, and principal or guidance counselor. Tell them before you send the request.
By January 15
Submit the application and the financial aid materials
Families who want aid submit their materials to Clarity by January 15, the same day as the application deadline.
After submitting
Watch for March 10
Admission decisions and financial assistance determinations arrive together on March 10.