At Aurora we understand that small is mighty. Small class sizes mean that every student matters. Our teachers empower young minds to think for themselves and to stand up for others. As an independent school rooted in Oakland, we focus on being inclusive, diverse and anti-racist in our instruction as we move to be the change we want to see in our communities.
Our students leave Aurora self-aware—poised to communicate with confidence and to solve problems collaboratively.
The Application Process

Step 1: ~30 minutes
Application
Register in our system and complete the online application (please include an $80 application fee and a family photo).

Step 2: ~15 minutes
Recommendation
Filled out by current teacher who submits directly to Aurora:
40 Dulwich Road
Oakland, CA 94618
Download Kindergarten teacher recommendation

Step 3: ~15 minutes
Progress Reports
Required for grades 1-5 applicants. Submit report cards from last two years. Request report cards directly from your school
Have them emailed to our Admissions Director or mailed directly to Aurora:
40 Dulwich Road
Oakland, CA 94618

Step 4: ~60 minutes
Flexible Tuition
Apply online at solutionsbysss.com/parents. Submit tax forms for last two years, including PFS, 2021 and 2022 tax filings and 2022 W-2s.
Go to solutionsbysss.com/parents

Step 5: ~60 minutes
Student Assessment
Once we receive your application, our Admissions Director will contact you to schedule your child’s assessment.
Questions? Call or email Aurora’s Admission’s Department.
* Please note that Kindergarten applicants must be five years old by December 1, in order to apply. Teacher Recommendation forms and applications for flexible tuition are good for all EBISA schools.
Aurora is accepting K-8 applications for Fall 2023
Come Visit!
We’d love to show you what Aurora is all about! Please contact our Admissions Director Lisa Piccione to schedule a tour or virtual information session.
2023-24 Academic Year
Priority Admission Application Deadlines
Student Assessments
Admissions FAQ’s
Top 9 Frequently Asked Admissions Questions
Why is Aurora Multi Graded?
- Every day, students of different ages are given opportunities to work together side-by- side and learn from one another what it means to step up academically and socially.
- Students are in the same classroom for two years so teachers get to know them deeply, in a way that is not possible when students pass through a classroom in just one year. This allows for greater academic and social/emotional gains.
- Students who gravitate socially or academically above or below their grade level are surrounded by like students and can stretch in either direction comfortably.
- Students form friendships with children in their grade as well as in the grades above and below. In this way, students quickly get to know everyone in the school.
- “Only children” get to experience the pros and cons of having siblings.
Where can I view your Annual Report?
You will find our most recent Annual Report in the Giving section of our website.
What is the tuition, and does Aurora offer flexible tuition?
The tuition for the 2021-22 school year is $29,379 in grades K-5 and $32,500 in the middle school, and yes, Aurora offers flexible tuition.-An Aurora education is an investment in your child’s future. We understand that it is also a significant financial commitment. We are committed to maintaining socio-economic diversity by making tuition affordable to as many students as we possibly can. We realize that the applying for flexible tuition can be a time consuming process and that you want to complete the application fully and accurately. To help make the process easier, be sure to check out these free informational webinars that provide valuable tips.
What is the deadline for Admission?
Although Aurora had a priority application deadline of Friday, January 14, 2022, we accept applications for admission on a rolling basis, as space permits.
What are the hours of Extended Care?
Morning: 7:30 am – 8:30 am
Afternoon: 2:20 pm – 6:00 pm
What is the Parent Volunteer requirement?
Per Single Parent ($25/hour “buy out” option) 15 Hours
What is the average number of years staff and faculty have been at Aurora?
- Approximately 43% of staff and faculty have been at Aurora for 5 or more years
- Lead Teachers and Specialists average 9 years of teaching experience
What specialist teachers are there and how often do they see them?
K/1 students attend Spanish class twice a week.
2-5 students attend art, music, and library once week.
2-5 students attend computers and woodshop once a week for half the school year.
2-5 students attend P.E. and Spanish twice a week.
What’s your diversity like at Aurora?
We’re proud of our reputation as a school where students truly feel comfortable and supported for who they are. Open mindedness and an appreciation for differences uniquely prepares students to be compassionate leaders in their adolescent and adult years. Read more about diversity and inclusion at Aurora.