Start Your ICS Journey
Learn more about ICS and what to expect during the admissions process
Choosing a school is personal, and we know families arrive at Immanuel Christian School with their own unique stories. Perhaps you’re relocating to the D.C. area or transitioning from homeschooling. Maybe you want a school that is founded on faith and offers more personalized attention. Wherever your story takes you, you are welcome here.
From the first conversation, our admissions team takes time to listen. We want to understand your child, your hopes for their education, and how we can partner together to help your child grow into a confident learner and a Christ-centered leader.
Our admissions approach is designed to:
Our goal is for you to be informed and confident as you make your school decision.
Why Families Choose Immanuel Christian School
When parents consider Immanuel Christian School, they are often weighing faith, academics, and long-term fit. They find that through:
Strong Academics with Differentiated Learning
A comprehensive career- and college-prep curriculum prepares students for the future, with differentiated learning. Academic support is available for those working at grade level.
Biblical Integration Across the School Day
Each day begins with class devotions (K-8) or Bible class (HS). Bible is a core subject, and students are encouraged to connect Scripture to learning, relationships, and decision-making throughout the day.
A Clear Commitment to Partnership with Families
ICS views education as a partnership between school, family, and church. Our families are involved in their local churches, and we ask for a recommendation from a pastor or ministry leader as part of the admissions process.
A Community That Feels Personal and Connected
Families often describe ICS as a place that feels like an extended family. With students representing more than 90 churches, the school reflects a broad Christian community united by shared beliefs.
Location and Stability in Northern Virginia
Both campuses are conveniently located inside the Beltway, near the interchange of 395 & 495. We frequently serve families connected to military, government, and professional roles that often involve relocation. Our admissions team works closely with transferring families and communicates clearly about timing, placement, and next steps.
Accreditation and Accountability
ICS is fully accredited through the Association of Christian Schools International and Cognia, giving families confidence that the school meets recognized standards for academic quality, governance, and operations.
What to Expect During
the Admissions Process
While our admissions process is as personalized as possible, we want to help you understand what the process looks like in real life before you begin.
How Families Get Started
Most families begin by reaching out to the admissions team with questions or scheduling a visit. Admissions Preview Events are offered throughout the year, and on-campus tours are easy to arrange. Families who live farther away can request a virtual tour or video overview, including a high school walkthrough. Prospective students are also encouraged to attend school events, athletic games, or fine arts performances to experience campus life before applying.
What the Process Looks Like
Once an application is submitted, the admissions team begins its review.
Timing and Decisions
Priority applications due
Admissions operates on a rolling basis, but students who apply by the priority deadline — typically in mid-January — have a better chance at securing a spot.
Wait pools finalized
ICS uses a wait pool rather than a ranked waitlist, which allows flexibility as openings arise. Wait pools are typically finalized in February. Entry points such as kindergarten, fifth grade, seventh grade, and ninth grade tend to have the most flexibility in their classes.
Families notified of decision
The admissions review committee meets, and families are informed of their status by early March.
by the numbers
90%
of families at ICS choose to return each year
74%
of parents volunteer 10+ hours each school year
90
local churches are represented in our student body
Meet the Admissions Team
Lauren Gessner
Admissions Director
KAILEA HUNT
High School Admissions Coordinator
COLLEEN BROOKSTEIN
Community Engagement Coordinator
Our Admissions Team is here to answer your questions and help you through the application process. We take the time to get to know every family and serve as a consistent point of contact throughout. Reach out to us at (703) 941-1220 and via email at admissions@icsva.org.
Frequently Asked Questions About Admissions
ICS serves students who are academically ready to work at their grade level or beyond and who can thrive in a classroom setting with limited academic support. While limited support may be available, the school does not offer full special education services. Admissions conversations are designed to help families determine fit early and honestly.
A campus visit is encouraged but not required. Families who live out of the area can request a virtual tour or video walkthrough of both campuses. Admissions works with each family to find a visit option that fits their situation.
ICS does not offer shadow days. Instead, families are encouraged to attend school events, performances, or athletic games to experience campus life in a natural setting. Students are also welcome to join their families for tours.
Yes, but testing requirements vary by grade level. For example, kindergarten applicants participate in a small group readiness assessment, while first and second-grade students complete one-on-one admissions assessments. For students entering third grade and above, existing standardized testing is reviewed when available. Middle and high school students also take part in interviews with principals.
ICS uses a wait pool rather than a ranked waitlist. This allows the admissions review committee to consider each applicant individually as space becomes available. Placement from the wait pool depends on the availability of openings at each grade level and the overall composition of the class. The wait pool does not carry over from year to year.
ICS values a strong partnership between school, family, and church. Families are expected to communicate openly, support the school’s mission, and remain involved in school life. A pastor or ministry leader’s recommendation is part of the admissions process, reflecting this shared commitment.
Families apply for admission and financial aid at the same time and by the same deadline. Financial aid awards may cover up to 50% of tuition, depending on demonstrated need. Multi-student discounts and church-related scholarships are also available. Admissions and finance teams are available to help families understand options and plan ahead.Need more time? We are happy to work with you to provide you additional time, depending on circumstances, and additional information. We are here to help!
We were greeted with open arms and Christ-like hearts. From early on through our admissions process,
Mrs. Gessner was willing to field my every call and email with patience, understanding and joy allowing a stressful move and season to feel a bit more settled.
— NEW ICS parent