Marlborough has always been known to have a selective admissions process, and the 2026-27 cycle was no exception. But as more and more students choose to apply each year, the numbers aren’t the only thing changing — the intention be- hind each decision is too. Rather than simply admitting more students, Marlborough has become more deliberate about choosing those who are a strong fit for the community.
Over the past few years, interest in Marlborough has noticeably increased. This year alone, roughly 600 prospective families inquired about Marlborough, a significant jump from the typical 500. This heightened interest has reshaped the structure of ad- missions events. Open houses, once held jointly for Middle and Upper School prospective families, are now split across separate days to accommodate larger crowds. Still, the goal hasn’t shifted to become more exclusive. Admissions is focusing on refining how it identifies students who will thrive within the community.
Marlborough has made an effort to present itself as more authentic to prospective families, showing them a genuine glimpse of Marlborough and shifting away from rehearsed sales pitches. According to Director of Enrollment Management and Collegiate Partnerships Jawaan Wallace, authenticity starts with current Marlborough students them- selves.
In recent years, Wallace pushed for more inclusion of Violet Key Admissions Ambassadors, current Marlborough students who welcome visi- tors on campus during public events. This decision was to en- sure that all visitors experience the School through real student voices.
“We prepare students to present confidently, but we don’t give them a script,” Wallace said. “What [prospective families] see is real.”
This approach seems to be effective, as Marlborough has continuously been reporting high yield rates, with the incoming Class of 2032 reaching the highest yield in the School’s history. Even students who may have once followed siblings to other schools are now choosing Marlborough instead, suggesting that the refined admissions process is resonating with families. Still, the school refuses to frame this as competition with other schools.
“The students choosing to enroll — the ones we’re getting — are true fits,” Wallace said.
At the same time, there are limits. Marlborough’s campus isn’t physically expanding, and after several larger-than-aver- age classes, the school is mindful and has been conscious about balancing enrollment. This year’s smaller 9th-grade intake for the Class of 2029 and Class of 2030 is evidence of the decision. Even as interest grows, class sizes at Marlborough re- main controlled, upholding the school’s 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio and its emphasis on individualized support.
Beyond academic excellence, Marlborough increasingly has been looking for students who demonstrate character — those who are not only capable, but kind, collaborative and eager.
“The students who will thrive here are kids that are not only brilliant and highly academic, but the ones who are good human beings, kind and nice,” Wallace said.
Of course, not every student admitted ultimately enrolls. But post-decision surveys show that families who choose other schools mostly cite practical reasons, like commute or preference for coeducational environments. As a girls institution, Marlborough knows that it cannot meet everyone’s preferences. Still, the admissions team aims to make every applicant feel valued, regardless of their final decision.
“At the end of the day, the adults here want to see everyone successful,” Wallace said. “As interest grows, we’re just being more intentional about who we bring into our community.”
