Admissions

Why Burke

List of 1 items.

What makes Burke different?

List of 4 items.

  • You can be multifaceted.

    At Burke, we hope that experienced musicians will play basketball, or longtime softball players will delve into ceramics or musical theater. Opportunities are vast and varied here – and everyone can access the full range of Burke’s offerings. You won't have to compete for a spot just to do what you enjoy. Students also have the space and support to pursue longtime interests, both within and outside the classroom.
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  • You can be yourself.

    Our students are diverse, creative, kind, and witty, with a penchant for exploration. They like to try new things and meet new people. They bring incredible energy (and often strong opinions) to class, sports, and arts. We like to say, "You don't have to leave any part of yourself outside when you enter Burke."
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  • We support student agency.

    Central to our mission is supporting students' growth as skilled and independent thinkers. As a progressive school, we believe that students should be active participants in their learning and have a real voice in their school community. Our urban campus also enables substantial independence – students can get themselves to school via Metro and enjoy "open campus" starting in 9th grade. This way, they also get used to managing free time prior to starting college!
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  • We're a small school.

    With 300 students and 50 faculty members, we truly get to know one another. Our campus may be (comparatively) small, but the connections are big and lasting. At Burke, students also form inter-grade friendships, through classes, extracurriculars, or just casual interactions. We don't have isolated homerooms, and common areas are open to all students in that division.
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"Smaller schools can make learning, participation, and relationships more accessible; students in small schools are often more likely to feel connected to one another and to adults. [... This] gave our kids room to take healthy risks, build strong relationships, and find real joy in learning. The outcome was not just academic success but three capable, curious young adults who believe they have something to offer."
- Why We Chose a Small Independent School (NAIS, August 18, 2026)

List of 7 frequently asked questions.

  • What grade levels does Burke serve?

    We serve 6th-12th grade. Grade size generally doubles between the middle and high school divisions.

  • What is the average class size at Burke?

    Our average class size is 12 in both middle and high school. In the middle school, grades generally divide into 2 or 3 sections for core academic classes. In the high school, courses often combine students from different grades. Upper level courses in the World Languages, Math, and Visual Arts may skew smaller as well.

  • Does Burke offer AP or advanced courses?

    Burke offers a combination of Advanced Placement (AP) and advanced-designated (Adv.) courses in the high school. For some advanced-designated courses, students also elect to sit for the corresponding AP exam. In the middle school, we provide different pathways in World Language and Math, including three different algebra courses in 8th grade.

  • What extracurricular or athletic opportunities are available?

    Both by design (rotating schedule) and philosophy ("no cut"), Burke offers an extensive and inclusive extracurricular program. That includes:

    • 24 athletic teams across 11 sports
    • 1-2 fall plays, 2 annual musicals, student one-acts
    • Extensive band and chorus program
    • 20+ student-run interest clubs and 13 affinity groups
    • Student government and leadership program
    • Student-run newspaper and yearbook
    Learn more here!

  • What colleges and universities do Burke graduates attend?

    Our 57 members of the Class of 2026 will attend 49 different colleges and universities in 20 US states and in Canada, including liberal arts colleges, colleges of engineering, business schools, and architecture programs. Explore acceptance and matriculation data here.

  • What is the admissions process and timeline?

    Our application for Fall 2027 entry opens on Tuesday, September 8, and the preliminary forms are due on January 5, 2027. Supplemental materials (e.g., recommendation letters and testing) are due on January 22. Learn more about our process here! 

  • Does Burke offer financial aid?

    Yes, approximately 35% of Burke families receive financial aid annually. Our financial aid program is need-based, and we use a secure 3rd party system to determine aid awards. Learn more.
Co-ed, progressive, college prep school in Washington, DC featuring a challenging curriculum in an inclusive environment for grades 6-12.
4101 Connecticut Ave NW Washington, DC 20008    |    Phone: 202-362-8882    |    Fax: 202-362-1914