Admissions Process

List of 11 frequently asked questions.

• How do I begin the admissions process for my daughter at Hutchison?

  To get started, families complete an online application for each child applying to Hutchison. The admissions process officially begins once we receive the completed application and the non-refundable $85 application fee. If you prefer a paper application, you may request a printed packet from the Hutchison Admission Office by calling (901) 762-6672. Apply Online Now

• How many students attend Hutchison, and what is the average class size?

  Hutchison enrolls approximately 800 girls, ranging from our Little Hive program for 2-year-olds through 12th grade. This size allows us to offer a broad range of academic and extracurricular opportunities while maintaining a close-knit school community.

• When is the best time to apply to Hutchison?

  Our priority application deadline is December 1. We continue to accept applications for grades where space is still available, but we strongly encourage families to apply early—ideally by the fall before the year you hope your daughter will enroll. Once an application is on file, our Admission Office will share updates and information about life at Hutchison.

• What is the birthday cut-off for girls entering Hutchison’s early childhood programs?

  Hutchison follows a June 1 birthday cut-off for early childhood enrollment. Girls must be:
  

  • 2 years old by June 1 to enter Little Hive
  • 3 years old by June 1 to enter pre-kindergarten
  • 4 years old by June 1 to enter junior kindergarten

• What does the Admission Committee look for, and how important are test scores?

  The Admission Committee reviews each applicant as a whole child, focusing on her individual strengths, interests, and potential. Admission is selective and considers prior school performance, teacher recommendations, entrance testing or evaluations, and an interview. While test scores are important for applicants to grade one and above, every part of a candidate’s file plays a critical role in the acceptance process.

• When will we hear about an admission decision after testing or assessment?

  As a member of the Memphis Association of Independent Schools (MAIS), Hutchison releases admission contracts to new students in mid-February on a date agreed upon by all participating schools. This shared timeline allows families to consider multiple options before making a final decision. After the February contract date, Hutchison moves to rolling admissions as space becomes available.

• Does Hutchison have a waitlist, and how does it work?

  Yes, Hutchison maintains a waiting pool, which is similar to a waitlist but is not ranked. If your daughter is placed in the waiting pool, she may be offered admission if a space opens before the school year begins. The waiting pool does not carry over from year to year, and placement one year does not guarantee admission the next. Families who wish to be reconsidered for a future year do not need to submit a new application, but the student will be re-evaluated.

• Does Hutchison offer financial assistance or need-based aid?

  Hutchison offers financial assistance to deserving students who otherwise would not be able to attend our school, and all Hutchison families pay a portion of tuition. Hutchison offers financial assistance to families who might not otherwise be able to attend, and all families contribute a portion of tuition. Our Financial Assistance Committee reviews information submitted through Clarity, an independent third-party service, along with additional materials provided by the family. Financial assistance decisions are made separately from admission decisions and are reflected in school contracts. Families with questions are encouraged to contact the Admissions Office at (901) 762-6672. Learn More

• How many AP courses are available in the Upper School?

  Hutchison’s Upper School offers more than 20 Advanced Placement courses, along with more than 50 Honors and Advanced Honors classes. Courses span a wide range of disciplines, from Calculus AB and BC to AP Sculpture, allowing students to pursue both academic depth and creative interests.

• How does Hutchison support students with college placement and admissions?

  College preparation at Hutchison is highly personalized. Our experienced college counseling team works one-on-one with each student to identify colleges that align with her academic goals, interests, and aspirations. Graduates attend a wide range of institutions, including Ivy League universities, large public universities, and small liberal arts colleges across the country. Learn More

• Do students at Hutchison wear uniforms?

  Girls in Little Hive, pre-kindergarten, and junior kindergarten may wear comfortable clothing of their choice. All girls in kindergarten through 12th grade wear school uniforms in Hutchison’s colors of black, white, and gold.