FAQs

We consider all parts of the application and take a holistic approach to our admission process. We do not have a weighted system for different pieces of the application.

We believe that instituting a test-optional policy encourages a more holistic assessment of students, focusing on their unique talents and strengths beyond test scores, and it fosters individuality and creativity while leveling the playing field, reducing the influence of test preparation resources.  

Aligning with the trend of test-optional admission also helps to prepare students for the evolving landscape of higher education, where standardized test scores are becoming less significant in admissions decisions.   

Applicants may choose whether or not to submit test scores. The admission committee evaluates each candidate holistically using all the application materials available, including the interview, teacher recommendations, transcript, extracurricular involvement, and more. 

There is a lot of joy here. We believe that students are more likely to take positive risks and grow intellectually, as well as personally, in our culture where they are cared for and valued. We seek to recognize the individual gifts of each student, and we are committed to helping our students explore the many possibilities available to them in the arts, athletics and, of course, academics.

Learning to balance academics, athletics, arts, community activities, and personal priorities is at the core of a Gill education. We believe that an excellent education is one that is steeped in discovery and opportunity. We develop strong academic skills crucial for success in college, and those skills are enhanced when our students also grow as individuals.

Successful students demonstrate a joy for learning and a record of academic success within the context of their own experience. Our students share a willingness to be positively engaged in a diverse community, and they want to engage deeply with learning both inside and outside of the classroom.

Gill has a generous need-based financial assistance program that supports qualifying families. For additional information about the financial aid process, please view our Financial Aid section.

Our average class size is 16 students.

KnightSite is our intranet system used primarily by teachers and students. Teachers post course information, assignments, assessments, and a variety of resources. Notably, students can submit papers, teachers can communicate with their classes, and parents may also log in as well.

We place a very high value on building and maintaining a positive and inclusive school culture for students, parents, teachers, staff, and alumni. Subsequently, there are countless ways to be involved as a member of the Gill community. Volunteering in a classroom, helping in the garden, participating in community service, cheering for a team, and so much more. We are true community filled with remarkable people.

Students walk, drive, carpool, or take the bus! To learn more about our transportation options, please visit our dedicated transportation page.

One hundred percent of Gill graduates go on to colleges and universities of choice. We have an extensive and personalized college guidance process that begins in the spring of freshmen year. Learn more about the college guidance process at Gill.

In Lower School, we offer an Extended-Day Program that is varied and enriching. In Middle School (grades 5-8), in addition to extensive athletics, clubs, and activities at the end of the academic day, students may attend faculty-supervised study hall every day until 5:45 p.m., free of charge. Upper School students have performance rehearsals, athletics, driver’s education classes, and are invited to study in the Matthews Family Library with the support of a librarian or faculty member each day until 5:45 p.m.

Gill boasts awarding-winning fine and performing arts programs. We have variety of course offerings in the arts at every grade level, which are outlined in our curriculum guide, and we also have number of clubs and activities that meet after school and on weekends.

Physical education is an important component of a balanced academic day and is required for students in grades preschool through eighth grade. In our Upper School athletics are not required; however, 80 percent of our Upper School students play on one of our 25 varsity and 9 JV teams during their career at Gill.

Gill students have long history of community service that is part of the fabric of school life and it is not mandatory. That service is who we are.

Students participate in a variety of service learning projects in Lower and Middle School. In Upper School, community service is completely voluntary and takes a variety of forms: blood drives, Saturdays with Habitat for Humanity, supporting food banks, tutoring, international service projects, and much, much more.

All GSB students are expected to dress in a neat, clean manner that reflects a responsible attitude toward the school community. The following is a brief overview of GSB's Dress Code standards across divisions. A complete guide to GSB's Dress Code is available for current families through the Knightsite portal.

Lower School:
The Lower School has a standardized dress code for kindergarten through Grade 4. This includes polo shirts, khaki, navy, or gray pants, and dresses. 

Middle School:
Students may wear corduroy or khaki-style pants and a collared shirt. Shorts are permitted in September and May. Skirts need to be at or below the knee. Hooded sweatshirts with the Gill St. Bernard's School insignia or a college logo are permitted. Gym shorts, jeans, and sweatpants are not permitted.

Upper School:
Specific dress code requirements (collared shirts, skirt length, sweatshirts, etc.) are disseminated annually to all enrolled students. Dress shorts are permitted in September and May. Gym shorts, t-shirts, jeans, and sweatpants are not acceptable attire for school. A complete dress code is available in the Student/Parent Handbook distributed to all families annually and available on the GSB website.