How to Apply & Schedule a Visit

RVA serves the needs of gifted, profoundly gifted, and highly-motivated students beginning at Kinder, all the way through 9th grade, open to qualified children of any race, color, nationality, or religion.

Our admissions process is designed to help both families and the school learn as much as possible about applicants in order to make a strong, informed decision on behalf of each child. The admissions process should also give families ample time and opportunity to learn about RVA's curriculum and programs, to complete application requirements and to consider admissions decisions.

Are You Considering RVA?

We want you to come to know RVA well. We invite you to attend an Open House event or one of our FREE afternoon family activities.

Your child is welcome to attend RVA for a day to experience for her/himself
how interesting, engaging, and educational a day is for our students.

We welcome you to schedule a time for visiting RVA, which may be arranged by calling our office at 858.564.9622. There is no set length for visits, but experience shows that you should allow for an hour or so.

Your student should be as convinced as you are that pursuing a private school education is in their best interest and that he/she is willing to do everything necessary to accomplish it. This shared focus creates a positive attitude that will bolster your student's confidence and be apparent in the admissions process.

Tips Before You Visit

• Consider what aspects of schooling are of most concern to you. Write that down and bring it along on your visit at RVA so you'll be sure to learn all you're wanting to know.
  


• Consider your child. Are there any issues or questions you want to discuss that relate to your child particularly, apart from what could be relevant for any student? Write that down, too, and bring it.
  


• Talk with your child about attending a school that is academically challenging. Does he or she have any concerns that should be addressed before visiting RVA, or during the visit? By the end of your visit, make sure that your student feels he or she's gotten all the answers.

Application Submission & Interview

• Gather all the materials listed on the Application Form/Check Off List. Make copies of it all and keep one copy. Bring the materials with your application to the interview.
    ~  Application (Do you have the TEACHERS' PHONE NUMBERS?)
    ~  Student essays
    ~  Copy of latest grade card
    ~  Copy of GATE identification letter (if you have one)
    ~  Photograph of applicant
  


• Make an appointment for an interview and bring all application materials above.
  Interviews typically last 20-30 minutes, and parents are welcome to attend.

(NOTE: A good portion of most private school application forms is dedicated to concise essays by or about your student. This task can be sometimes daunting for both parent and student. A strategy to help focus more on your student's accomplishments and less of the actual task of "writing," is to first compile his/her "resume". Start by listing every accomplishment, special talent and extraordinary moment your student has experienced. The excitement generated from remembering and chronicling these events will help you view your child through his/her experiences and deeds instead of the unconditional love of a parent. This revised focus will aid in crafting a clear message you would like to communicate to the RVA staff.)

"I appreciate all that you have done to expand [my son]'s book knowledge as well as his "life lessons" knowledge.

[My son] is a very sensitive person but can tend to be very self-centered and this year he has really learned to look outside himself more – Thanks to you!"