When should I apply to Primary Day?
Families should apply in the fall/winter prior to the year they would like their child to attend Primary Day.
The application deadline for the 27-28 school year is January 15, 2027. Apply now.
Are visits to Primary Day required?
We encourage parents/guardians to come for an Admission Coffee, Open House, or individual tour to best understand our philosophy and program. Click here to learn about the admission process.
Do you have new students at every grade level?
Yes. While we welcome new students at every grade level, most children begin their Primary Day journey in Pre-K. We also enroll a small number of new students in Kindergarten through Grade 2 as space becomes available. As our primary entry point, Pre-K offers families the greatest opportunity to join the Primary Day community, while openings in the later grades are limited and vary from year to year.
How do I know when my child’s visit will be?
Once you submit your application, we contact you to set up your child’s visit to the school. Individual assessments occur weekday mornings in January and February. There is also a required Saturday classroom play date. You will receive a confirmation email once these visits are scheduled. Please call the Admission Office for additional information regarding your child’s visit.
How long are the Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten Applicant Visits?
The Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten individual assessment lasts approximately 45 minutes. The Saturday classroom play date lasts 75 minutes. A parent is required to stay on campus during these visits. Please plan to arrive a few minutes early so that your child has time to get comfortable before we begin.
How long are the First and Second Grade Applicant Visits?
Children applying to First and Second Grades are dropped off for the morning (8:30 am–12:30 pm). They will spend the majority of their time in the classroom and will also do a one-on-one assessment. First and Second Grade applicants should bring a lunch and snack with them (please note that we are not a peanut free school).
How can the teacher recommendation form be filled out if my child does not attend school?
This scenario is handled on a case-by-case basis. A child may be enrolled in a class (art, dance) or may attend a church or synagogue where an adult is able to provide the necessary information.
How do I apply for financial aid?
For detailed information about the financial aid process, please read Financial Aid.
Does applying for Financial Aid influence the admission decision?
No. Primary Day accepts students based on academic merit, personal visits, teacher recommendations, and personal qualities. Financial aid files are reviewed and awards made only after a student is admitted. However, financial aid requests must be made by the February 1, 2027 deadline in order for an award to be considered.
What is the student-teacher ratio at Primary Day?
The student-teacher ratio at Primary Day is 8:1.
Does Primary Day have a uniform or dress code?
No, Primary Day does not have a uniform or dress code. Comfortable school clothes and sneakers are recommended.
Does Primary Day have an after care program?
Yes, Beako’s Golden Rule After School Program (GRASP) meets Monday-Friday from 3:00–5:30pm. There is a separate fee for GRASP. Specific information is found in After School Programs.
Are there any feeder schools to Primary Day?
No, we receive applications for children who attend over 25 preschools in Maryland, DC, and Virginia.
What schools do children attend after Primary Day?
Most of our graduates are accepted at their first choice school. Our graduates currently attend the following schools: Bullis, GDS, Holton-Arms, Landon, Maret, Montgomery County Public Schools, Norwood, Sidwell Friends, Stone Ridge and St. Patrick’s Episcopal. Detailed information about next school placement is located in After Graduation.
