FAQs
Application Process & Visits
How do I apply to LFA?
Students may apply using the LFA application or the SAO application.
What if I am unable to visit campus for an interview?
We understand that on-campus interviews might pose a logistical challenge. Interviews conducted through video conferencing will be equally accepted. Please contact the Admission Office to schedule a virtual interview.
What is the application deadline?
January 15, 2025
Applications received after the deadline are reviewed on a rolling basis, depending on space and availability.
Can prospective students visit classes?
Yes! Current eighth graders and older are able to “shadow” a current student. For more information about scheduling a Shadow Day see our Visit page.
Can parents schedule meetings with an admission counselor during Shadow Days?
Yes, we offer Parent Chats for parents to meet with a member of LFA’s Admission Office during their child’s Shadow Day. Schedule a Shadow Day and Parent Chat on our Visit page.
What is the goal of the interview?
The interview generally lasts about 30 minutes and helps us gain a sense of the student’s fit in the LFA community and what he, she, or they hope to achieve in high school.
How do I schedule and prepare for the interview?
Interviews will be conducted in-person or through video conferencing. While the applicant will be asked questions about their schooling, activities and interests, it is also a great time for the applicant to ask any questions about LFA.
Student Life
What is life like for Day Students?
The only difference for Day Students is that they go home at night. Day Students are encouraged to participate in all opportunities offered on campus, whether that’s a weekend activity, meals in the dining hall, or resources during study hours (8-10 pm). See a day in the life of two of our day students!
What is life like for Boarding Students?
LFA has five dorms on campus, each with its own personality and team of dorm parents. Weekday nights are filled with extracurricular opportunities, and weekend activities include fun trips in the local communities and Chicago. See a day in the life of two of our boarding students!
What can I do during weekends at LFA?
There is always something to do for all students! Every weekend, we host activities on and off campus from trips to downtown Chicago to movie marathons on the big screen in The Cressey Center for the Arts. See a sample of weekend activities.
What clubs are offered at LFA?
With over 60+ clubs at LFA, the opportunities to pursue your passions are limitless. The annual Club Fair at the beginning of each year is a great way to discover and join an organization. See a list of clubs at LFA. There is always an opportunity to start a club yourself!
What are LFA’s athletic requirements?
Freshmen and sophomores participate in all three seasons of athletics (team sport or PE), and juniors and seniors participate in two. All students play at least one team sport a year but are encouraged to play more than one. Learn about our team and PE options.
What is a Caxy?
The Caxy is our mascot and is visually represented by a frog. Its name was derived from the ancient Greek work for “ribbet.” You’ll see our energetic, green frog jumping around our athletic events and other campus activities. We are proud to be Caxys!
What is the House Cup?
LFA’s House Cup is a school-wide competition in which all students, faculty and staff participate. There are multiple games and mini-competitions throughout the year to earn House points. Check out the current standings of our four Houses as well as the winners from past years.
Academics
What does a typical school day look like?
LFA operates on a 7-day cycle schedule that was designed to provide students with flexibility but also help to develop time management skills and responsibility. See a sample of LFA’s cycle schedule.
What will my schedule look like?
We will work with new students in late spring and early summer to create their schedules for next year. There are standard classes that every student must take at LFA, but we try to be as flexible as possible to meet individual academic needs. Learn more about our class offerings.
What are LFA’s athletic requirements?
Freshmen and sophomores participate in all three seasons of athletics (team sport or PE), and juniors and seniors participate in two. All students play at least one team sport a year but are encouraged to play more than one. Learn about our team and PE options.
What type of Academic Support does LFA provide?
LFA provides a comprehensive academic support program for our students with the help of the Academic Support Team, which provides further assistance in helping students reach their full potential!
What is the dress code?
Students who identify as male should wear collared shirts and ties with dress or khaki pants. Students who identify as female should wear dresses and skirts or dress pants with blouses. More detailed information about our dress code can be found in our Student Handbook.
LFA Parent
How do we stay “in the know” about our child’s experience?
Students are paired with an advisor who is the main point of contact for parents concerning their child’s grades and overall experience at LFA. Advisories have about seven students, meet twice a week as a group, and sit together during Morning and All-School Meetings.
What support services are available for my child?
LFA has many support services available to its students. Learn more about our school nurses and counselors, and our Learning Resource Specialists.
How do parents get involved?
Parents are encouraged to join our Parent Association to build connections with other families and stay up-to-date with community events. Families have the opportunity to be an ambassador for international and new families, help plan events, and get involved in various committees.
Financial Aid
What is your financial deadline?
January 15, 2025
Find more information on our Tuition & Financial Aid page.
How much financial aid is administered each year?
We offer $6.3 million in need-based financial aid each year to assist qualifying students whose families are unable to cover costs of an LFA education. You must apply for financial aid by January 15.
How do I apply for financial aid?
Please visit the School and Student Services (SSS) website to apply for financial aid. It is a separate application from LFA’s admission application.
International Students
What is the application process for international students?
In addition to the application requirements, international students who have not been studying in an English-speaking country during the past two years are required to submit a TOEFL score. Visit our international page for more information.
Do you offer English Learning Language (ELL) classes?
Students in grades 9 or 10 who need intensive English training will take ELL courses instead of history and other English courses. Students will also take math, science, and art courses. Learn more about our ELL courses.
What percentage of the student body are international students?
LFA’s student body is 27% international, and 41 different countries and territories are represented. Learn more about our student body.