FAQ

BWL sets itself apart by offering a rich and challenging college preparatory education combined with a warm and nurturing community that fosters a sense of belonging. 

All learners succeed at BWL because we tailor our program to the needs of each student. We offer visual, auditory, and tactile options to accommodate different learning styles.   

100% of graduates attend at least one of their top choice colleges or universities. With the help of our College Guidance team, we send students to a broad range of fine institutions from Ivy League to small liberal arts programs. See our 2017-2021 College Acceptance List. 

At BWL we pride ourselves on offering small class sizes.  In Lower School, class size is approximately 12-15 students per 1 to 2 teachers and our reading and math groups range in size from 5 to 8 children.  In Middle and Upper school, classes would be about 12 to 15 students per teacher. Grade sizes are about 25-35 for Lower school and 40-50 for Middle and Upper School.   

Yes, 10% of our student body is international.

BWL is a SEVIS approved school that is authorized to issue the I-20 form for accepted students in order to apply for the F1 Student Visa.  The admissions process for international students is the same as it is for U.S. citizens. BWL is also accredited by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). 

We are always striving for diversity at BWL. Students of color comprise about 34% of our student body. We offer a DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) club for older students. Faculty and staff regularly participate in DEI programs. 

French and Spanish instruction begins in Kindergarten. Japanese is added as a third language option starting in 4th grade.

Violin, Viola, and Cello lessons take place in 4th and 5th grades.  Chorus, vocal ensemble, acapella groups, and music theory are some of the options offered K-12. 

Kindergarten through 5th grade perform in an annual play or musical production with their classes.  We also have optional extracurricular Performing Arts productions for Middle and Upper school.  We believe our theater program instills a sense of confidence in our students and helps them learn to work together through a collaborative venture.

Yes, we offer a range of options from Robotics to the Global Poetry Consortium. We also present a writing lab, science fairs, and an annual art show.

Yes, for Kindergarten through 5th grade, we have a full array of Lower School Enrichment Programs from which to choose, including extended day options (teacher-supervised time from 3:00pm to 6:00pm).  Middle School activities are built into the school schedule.  Upper School clubs take place throughout the week according to students’ schedules and interests.  

At BWL there are 39 Athletic Programs. We provide a menu of sports atypical for a small school, such as squash, tennis, golf, and ice hockey. We belong to the ISAL (Independent School Athletic League) and in the Upper School we offer both Junior Varsity and Varsity teams. 

BWL is a mainstream environment which maintains small class sizes, low student to teacher ratios, and extremely devoted and supportive teachers. We are not able to accommodate support services during the school day, (such as SEITs, OT, Speech and Language therapists). However, as needed, faculty are able to communicate with outside tutors and specialists (provided by the parents) in order to ensure the best success of the students. 

We have a full-time learning specialist (in each division) as part of our faculty who can help coordinate documented accommodations for extra time, waiver for foreign language, and classes to develop organizational skills if requested.

Kindergarten students are generally 5 years old by the time school starts in September, but we are willing to meet and assess the readiness of younger applicants on a case by case basis. 

The BWL Application is available through Ravenna starting September 1. 

BWL does offer Spring Tours.  Dates/times are listed on the website.  We prefer to  conduct small, individualized tours as opposed to large open houses.  This way all questions can be personally addressed. 

Yes, we receive applicants from a wide array of schools both national and international. Students come to BWL from all over the city, the tri-state area, the country, and the world.

Yes, families with siblings, legacies, and other close connections to BWL can be eligible to enroll in our Early Decision (ED) program.  

We continue the admissions process until all spots are filled.  Always check in with us for updated information: admissions@bwl.org.

Our tuition is commensurate with the independent schools in the area.  It ranges from $54,000 - $56,000 plus fees.

Yes, we have a waitlist whenever we have more applicants than spaces available. We reach out to families immediately if a spot opens up.  If you are placed on a wait list,  please do let us know that you wish to remain on the list. 

Yes, the business office can assist your family with setting up a payment plan.  Payments can be made online through our website in one lump sum, two installments, or 10 monthly installments.

Approximately 18% of BWL families receive financial aid.  Parents should note their request on their application and complete the Parent Financial Statement (PFS).  

Students are required to submit a completed health form that includes proof of all mandatory vaccinations including COVID vaccinations and boosters.

Upon request, we put families in touch with a separate private bus transportation company. 

Tours are offered to families regardless of application status.  Interviews are conducted for applicants only.

BWL is accredited by the National Association of Independent Schools NAIS, the New York Association of Independent Schools NYSAIS, and the Independent Schools Admissions Association of Greater New York. ISAAGNY. 

Public transportation:

Bus stops going uptown, downtown, and crosstown are all within a 2-block radius.

Subway stations nearby include the 6 train (2 blocks away) and Q train (6 blocks away).

Private bus transportation:

TDM Express

347-231-9454

tdmexpressinc@aol.com