Carrollwood Day School Admissions | Discover Excellence in Education

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Admissions

As you explore the exciting opportunities that Carrollwood Day School offers, please know that our admissions team is here to support you every step of the way. We understand how essential it is for families to find the right fit for their children’s educational journey, and we take great care in selecting each new student who joins our community. Our admissions process is personal and individualized, helping you determine if CDS aligns with your goals and values for your child’s education. Starting with our website is a wonderful introduction, but we encourage you to experience our school firsthand by visiting our campuses. In the fall, we host special admissions events at both locations: our VIP Series at the Bearss Avenue Campus and Open Houses at the Early Childhood Campus. We also welcome you to schedule a personal tour at either campus throughout the year. We look forward to getting to know you and sharing what makes Carrollwood Day School truly unique!

APPLY NOW!

Your Carrollwood Day School Journey Starts Here

Your journey at Carrollwood Day School begins with our dedicated Admissions team, who are here to guide you every step of the way. From your first inquiry, to campus visits and application support, our team ensures you feel welcomed and informed. We’re excited to partner with your family as you explore the vibrant and transformative educational opportunities that CDS offers.

Applications Timeline

Michelle Caceres, Director of Admissions for Lower School

Michelle Caceres

Director of Admissions for Lower School
Dawn Schweitzer, Director of Admissions for Middle & Upper School

Dawn Schweitzer

Director of Admissions for Middle & Upper School
Charlotte Benziger, Assistant Director of Admissions

Charlotte Benziger

Assistant Director of Admissions
Vianca Danner, Admissions Associate for Middle and Upper School

Vianca Danner

Admissions Associate for Middle and Upper School
Jes Nugent, Admissions Associate for Lower School, Student Records

Jes Nugent

Admissions Associate for Lower School, Student Records
Rachel Paggio, Admissions Assistant

Rachel Paggio

Admissions Assistant

Theresa Capitano

Welcome Center Receptionist

Michelle C

Dawn S

Charlotte B

Vianca D

Jes N

Rachel P

Theresa C

Academic Process

Two siblings standing and smiling and hugging each other

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Schedule a Tour

Experience the Carrollwood Day School difference! Schedule a tour today to explore our campus, meet our dedicated faculty, and see firsthand how we inspire students to excel and make a difference in the world.

Schedule a Tour

Boy smiling and looking at camera

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Complete an online application

Ready to join the CDS community? Complete our online application today and take the next step toward an exceptional educational journey! 

Apply Now

Three senior students smiling

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Schedule an assessment & observation or shadow day

Take the next step in the admissions process! Schedule an assessment, observation, or shadow day to experience life as a CDS student firsthand.

Contact us

Two 9th grade students

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Submit Info

Submit teacher recommendation forms (PreK 4-8), two for grades 9-11. Include two years of report cards and standardized test scores (1-11) to complete your application.

Contact Us

Two senior students in front of 2025 balloons

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Register for the SSAT

Register for the SSAT using CDS code 2137 to ensure your scores are sent directly to Carrollwood Day School.

Register here

Have Questions?
Get in touch...

Based on your selections, here's a glimpse of what your day at Carrollwood Day School could look like:

Admissions Team

Send us Your Questions

Email us

ES student

Tuition & Affordability

Investing in Your Child’s Future

Thank you for considering Carrollwood Day School for your family’s educational journey. We understand that choosing an independent school requires thoughtful financial planning, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. Families consistently find exceptional value in the CDS experience and our commitment to preparing students for a dynamic and ever-changing future.

At CDS, we aim to admit talented, motivated students while fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community. Research shows that diversity enriches the learning experience for all students, which is why we encourage families who may feel the full tuition is beyond their means to explore our admissions process. We’re here to help you navigate this important investment and find the best path for your family’s educational goals.

Discover Tuition & Fees

Middle school students smiling

Financial Accessibility

Merit and Need-based Aid

Carrollwood Day School offers both merit scholarships and need-based assistance to qualified students. For incoming 9th graders, CDS has two merit scholarships (one internal and one external) that are awarded annually if certain criteria are met. 

Financial assistance will be provided to academically qualified students who demonstrate need through FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment. Assistance is available for grades 1-12 based on merit and availability. Financial aid is awarded annually and requires reapplication each year. CDS follows a need-blind admissions policy, meaning financial need does not impact admission decisions.

At this time CDS does not accept any state-funded scholarships.

EC student

Middle school student smiling

Elementary Courtyard, Bridge, and Quad

Visit Carrollwood Day School 

Experience what it means to be a CDS Patriot

Planning a visit to Carrollwood Day School allows you to experience firsthand the dynamic, supportive environment that sets us apart. You’ll have the chance to explore our campus, meet our dedicated faculty, and see how our programs inspire students to reach their full potential. 

Come ask questions, learn about our unique curriculum, and discover how CDS can be the perfect fit for your child's future. We look forward to welcoming you and showing you everything our school has to offer!

Tour CDS

Visit Carrollwood Day School 

Experience what it means to be a CDS Patriot

Planning a visit to Carrollwood Day School allows you to experience firsthand the dynamic, supportive environment that sets us apart. You’ll have the chance to explore our campus, meet our dedicated faculty, and see how our programs inspire students to reach their full potential. 

Come ask questions, learn about our unique curriculum, and discover how CDS can be the perfect fit for your child's future. We look forward to welcoming you and showing you everything our school has to offer!

Tour CDS

ECC Campus Shot

Visit Carrollwood Day School 

Experience what it means to be a CDS Patriot

Planning a visit to Carrollwood Day School allows you to experience firsthand the dynamic, supportive environment that sets us apart. You’ll have the chance to explore our campus, meet our dedicated faculty, and see how our programs inspire students to reach their full potential. 

Come ask questions, learn about our unique curriculum, and discover how CDS can be the perfect fit for your child's future. We look forward to welcoming you and showing you everything our school has to offer!

Elementary Courtyard, Bridge, and Quad

Interior Campus Shot

ECC Campus Shot

Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. It shapes their future, influences their development, and sets the foundation for lifelong learning and success.