Learn and Explore Andover Program (LEAP)

Phillips Academy is pleased to announce our new fly-in program, LEAP (Learn and Explore Andover Program)! The goal of LEAP is to provide an opportunity for talented students from underrepresented backgrounds to visit our campus and discover what a boarding school community can offer. Students, along with a parent/guardian, will spend two days on campus and will learn more about academics, athletics, residential and extracurricular life at Andover.

Andover will cover the cost of participating in LEAP, including transportation and lodging, for each student and one parent or guardian. In addition, students who are invited to participate in LEAP and who are accepted to Andover will also be eligible to attend our Spring Visit program for admitted students at no additional cost.

The program will take place December 6-7, 2024.

Eligibility:

Students who are eligible to participate in our program should match the following criteria:

  • Identifies as a member of a historically underrepresented group
  • Student’s permanent home address is in the United States or U.S. territory
  • Will enroll in 9th or 10th grade in Fall 2025
  • Intends on applying for financial aid
  • Has a strong academic record (i.e., a school transcript with mostly A’s or equivalent)
  • Demonstrates a genuine love of learning, curiosity, and a growth mindset
  • Exhibits strong leadership skills in school and/or their local community
  • Embodies strong character and our Non-Sibi (“not for self”) spirit

Application Steps:

  1. Educator submits Nominator Form: Nominators can be from a school, non-profit, community-based organization, or similar institution/program. Nominators may nominate more than one student. Please submit a separate form for each student.
  2. Student submits LEAP Application: Nominated students will receive an email with instructions on how to complete a brief application.
  • Unofficial transcript or report card: Students must submit a transcript/report card from the current academic year, if available.
  • Optional: Students may submit unofficial copies of testing. Andover will accept unofficial copies of the SSAT, ISEE, or most recent state exams.

Application Timeline:

  • Early September : Educator Nominator Form available
  • November 1: Deadline for students to submit LEAP Application
  • November 11: Students who are invited to participate in LEAP will be notified
  • November 13: Deadline for invited students to accept LEAP invitation
  • December 6: Arrival to campus
  • December 7: LEAP Program

If you have any questions, please contact our Assistant Director of Admission & Assistant Director of DEI Outreach, Lela Paultre, at [email protected]