Application Preparation
Prepare for the pieces Taft reads
The application mixes essay questions, recommendations, required test scores and an optional Character Skills Snapshot.
Checked against Taft's published admissions pages on November 5, 2026.
Testing
Testing.
- Testing policy
- Taft requires standardized testing for all applicants.
- Which tests
- Grade 9 and 10 applicants take the SSAT or ISEE. Grade 11 applicants may submit SSAT, PSAT, SAT or ACT scores. Grade 12 and postgraduate applicants may submit PSAT, SAT or ACT scores.
- School codes
- The Taft SSAT code is 7600 and the TOEFL code is 3834.
- English-language tests
- For applicants whose primary language is not English, Taft looks for an internet-based TOEFL score of 105 or higher. It also accepts IELTS (minimum 7.5) and Duolingo (minimum 140).
- Character Skills Snapshot
- Taft recommends but does not require the Character Skills Snapshot.
- 01
Taft requires scores, so pick the 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.
Essays
Essays that sound like your student.
- Essay questions
- Both accepted applications include essay questions.
- Application parts
- Both applications include biographical data and essay questions. Teachers and school staff submit recommendations. Portfolios are optional.
- 01
Pick specific moments from the last year, not a list of achievements.
- 02
Get the substance right before polishing the style.
- 03
Read the essay questions inside your chosen application before drafting, since they were not public when we checked.
Interview
Visits and interviews.
- Scheduling
- To schedule an on-campus visit, an online interview or an off-campus interview, fill out the inquiry form and then log into the admission portal to register.
- Questions
- Questions about visits can go to the admission office at 860-945-7700 or admissions@taftschool.org.
- 01
Taft's pages do not say whether an interview is required, so ask the admission office before you assume either way.
- 02
If your student does interview, have two or three stories ready that show how they think.
- 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
Submit the inquiry form and set up your accounts
You need a Taft Admission Portal plus an SSAT or Gateway to Prep Schools account. Use the portal to schedule a visit or interview.
Early
Register for testing
Taft requires scores. Grade 9 and 10 applicants take the SSAT or ISEE, so plan the sitting well before January.
Next
Draft the essays
Both applications include essay questions. Read them inside your chosen application first, then write.
Fall and winter
Ask for recommendations
Taft asks for a principal or guidance counselor and English and math teachers. Teachers submit by January 15.
By February 1
Submit the financial aid application
Families who want aid complete the Clarity application, with supporting documents, by February 1, 2027.
After submitting
Watch for March 10
Decisions are emailed March 10, 2027, and the enrollment deadline for admitted students is April 10.