Step 1: Nomination

Oliver Scholar nominees are selected in the seventh grade from schools throughout New York’s five boroughs. Students must be nominated by their middle school guidance counselor, educator, principal, or other community-based youth service practitioners. Nominations are due by the first of the year in which the student wishes to participate in the program. [LINK TO NOMINATION FORM]

In addition, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• African American or Latino descent
• Academic grade point average of at least 90%, however we will consider a slightly lower GPA depending on Middle School and students extracurricular activities. 
• Level 3 and 4 city-wide reading and math scores, with a minimum combined score of 1350 (or the equivalent in other standardized tests).
• Passion for learning, leadership potential, desire to help others, and integrity.

Step 2: Attend an Open House Session

After a student is nominated, the Oliver admissions team will invite preliminary candidates to attend a mandatory Open House Session with a parent or guardian. These sessions take place in January and February. 

Step 3: Complete Family Application

Both the student and the family must complete the Oliver Scholars Program Family Applcation.  While we know that parents may want to assist their children in the completion of the whole family application, we require that you allow your son/daughter to complete their part of the application on their own.

Step 4: Take the Secondary School Admissions Test (SSAT)

Applicants must take the Secondary School Admissions Test (SSAT) administered by the Oliver Scholars Program in March.

Step 5: Participate in Interview Week

The admissions team will then select students to attend the Interview Weekend in April. Parents will be interviewed along with Oliver candidates to discuss the importance of the partnership they will form with The Oliver Scholars Program.

Step 6: Admissions Decisions Made

In late May, 50-55 students will be invited to join Oliver’s 5-week Summer Immersion Program I. [LINK TO SUMMER IMMERSION PROGRAM]

Application Timeline

January: Completed nomination forms are due by the first week of the year for which the 7th grader is applying to the program. Open House Sessions for applicants and families begin in January.
February: Open House Sessions for applicants and their families continue in February.
March: Applicants take the Secondary School Admissions Test (SSAT) in early March.
April: Group and individual interviews take place in April.
May: Decisions regarding acceptance into the Summer Immersion Program I will be mailed out in May.