The St. Paul’s Foundation Selection Process consists of five main stages that take place over 18 months. Given the complexity of this process, designed to evaluate students individually, candidates and their parents may sometimes have questions. However, there are a few common inquiries that apply to all participants. Let’s clarify some of them in this post.
- What is the routine of the Prep Course?
The Prep Course is the longest and most intense phase of the Selection Process. It is divided into two semesters, during which students attend classes at St. Paul’s School with the school’s teachers:
– First term: Students have classes once a week, with a primary focus on learning English. Simultaneously, candidates may also have classes at Cultura Inglesa, funded by the St. Paul’s Foundation, depending on their current level in the language.
– Second term: The frequency of classes at St. Paul’s increases to three times a week, and the content covers a variety of subjects taught at the school, such as Science, Mathematics, and Global Perspectives.
During both semesters, students have access to the school library, which offers a vast collection of books in various languages. This encourages reading habits and provides additional study resources.
Throughout the course, candidates also have the opportunity to explore the school’s laboratories and classrooms. Occasionally, they will interact with current scholars or student leaders (prefects), fostering greater integration and understanding of St. Paul’s School life.
2. Why are the Prep Course classes only held in the afternoon?
The Prep Course classes are scheduled in the afternoon because St. Paul’s School is a full-day school, with regular classes running until 3:15 p.m. Therefore, the Prep Course takes place after the regular school hours.
Additionally, to maintain the immersive nature of this stage of the process, the Prep Course is taught by the same teachers who teach at St. Paul’s. As a result, the classes can only be held when these teachers are available, which is in the afternoon.
3. Are there any other activities that happen alongside the Prep Course?
Yes. During the Prep Course period, the Foundation conducts further evaluations of the candidate and their family. Students and parents will participate in interviews with a Foundation psychologist, and candidates will undergo neuropsychological tests. Families will also receive a visit from a social worker at their homes to better assess the family’s structure, environment, and support system.
4. How will I know if I have been accepted into St. Paul’s?
It is important to remember that candidates must maintain good attendance and grades in their regular school throughout all stages to remain in the process. The Prep Course is just one stage of the Selection Process and does not automatically guarantee admission to St. Paul’s School.
Once the two semesters of the Prep Course are completed, St. Paul’s Foundation and the school compile and review all the information and assessments on each candidate. They then make the final selection of scholars, also considering the number of places available for each school year. The results are announced in mid-June.
For more information about the Selection Process for the St. Paul’s Foundation Scholarship Programme, visit our website.