Applying to Urban

Urban does not evaluate standardized test scores as part of our application process. This change was made in support of Urban’s longtime commitment to access and equity, and simplifies and streamlines the process for students and families applying. Our application review process is holistic and comprehensive, and a student’s capacity for success at Urban can be showcased in a multitude of ways. We continue to value students with an enthusiastic approach to learning, a clear capacity for success in Urban’s innovative and rigorous academic program, and an affinity for our mission and deeply held core values. To our interested 8th graders: we are excited to learn more about you and what you will bring to Urban!

Space for transfer students into grades 10 and 11 is limited and based on space availability. We do not accept midyear transfers or rising Seniors. The transfer application process and timeline are the same as the 9th-grade application. Please visit Ravenna-Hub, and indicate your transfer application. Throughout the process, please email or call the Admissions Office (415 593 9555) if you have any questions regarding the transfer application process and timeline.

Please note that our in-person admission events are designed specifically for 8th graders entering 9th grade. We’d like to invite transfer applicants and families to join us for all virtual events and the December Open House. If we are able to offer a spot, admitted transfer students will have an opportunity for a full campus class visit.

Urban enrolls approximately 105-110 students in each 9th grade class. We typically receive 600-800 applications. Transfers are admitted based on space available in 10th or 11th grade. There are a total of 420 students currently enrolled at Urban.

We do not offer automatic admission to siblings, nor to children of alumni. These prospective students are required to undergo the same competitive admissions process as all Urban applicants. While we value our strong relationships with our current and legacy families, we strongly recommend that each family undergo a thorough review of potential high school options to ensure that whichever school they choose is the best fit for their child.

It’s our strong belief that the best education occurs in a school made up of students, faculty/staff and families drawn from many different socioeconomic backgrounds, cultures, races, religions, sexual orientations and gender identities. Since our founding more than 50 years ago, diversity, inclusion, equity and access have been critical elements of Urban School’s mission and core values as we seek to create a community that reflects our city, state and our future world. To learn more about Urban’s commitment, please visit our page for Belonging at Urban: Equity & Inclusion.

Belonging

Yes! While Urban does not issue I-20 visas for international students at this time, international students who can acquire their own Visas and housing and may apply through the regular admissions process.

We look forward to meeting 7th grade families in fall 2025. Families are welcome to experience Urban at any of our athletic events, music concerts or drama performances! Any virtual events are open to all prospective families.