Admissions FAQ.
Answers to the questions families ask most as they consider AIA, from ages and timing to tuition and tours. Can't find what you need? Contact us directly.
Applying, timing, and the process.
What's the first step to apply?
Book a tour online through our School Tours page, no phone call needed. We recommend every family tour before applying so you can experience a Montessori classroom in person. Have questions first? Email admin@aiamontessori.com, or call (770) 475-0558 if you prefer to talk.
How long does the admissions process take?
After your tour and online application, we'll schedule a classroom visit (if applicable), review transcripts, and communicate an admission decision. Timing varies by program and time of year, our Admissions team can give you a more specific estimate.
Can I tour before applying, or do I need to apply first?
Tour first. Visiting our campus and classrooms is the best way to understand our Montessori approach before submitting an application. Visit our School Tours & Open House page to book a time.
Do you accept applications year-round?
We accept applications on a rolling basis throughout the year as space allows. Contact our Admissions team for current openings in your child's age group.
Ages, grades, and program fit.
What ages does AIA serve?
We enroll children from 18 months through Grade 8 (age 14), across four programs: Pre-Primary (18 months–3 years), Primary & Kindergarten (3–6 years), Elementary (6–12 years), and Middle School (12–14 years).
Is a classroom visit required for my child?
Yes, for Kindergarten through Grade 6 applicants. We schedule a time for your child to visit an AIA classroom as part of the application process.
My child is transferring from another school. What do I need?
Elementary applicants authorize their current school to release transcripts to AIA as part of the application process. Our Admissions team will guide you through any additional steps for your child's age group.
Do you host Open House events?
Yes, periodically throughout the year. Check our Calendar & Events page for upcoming dates, or contact Admissions to ask about the next one.
Understanding the approach.
What is Montessori education?
Montessori is a child-centered approach to education that emphasizes hands-on learning, independence, and self-directed activity within mixed-age classrooms guided by a trained teacher.
How is Montessori different from traditional schooling?
Rather than whole-class lectures, children work individually or in small groups with specialized materials at their own pace, building focus, independence, and a genuine love of learning.
Do Montessori students transition well to traditional schools later?
Montessori education is designed to strengthen independence, organization, problem-solving, and the ability to take responsibility for one’s own work. During the admissions process, our team can also discuss how students transition into or out of a Montessori setting.
What materials do Montessori classrooms use?
Montessori classrooms use specially designed, hands-on materials for math, language, sensorial exploration, and practical life skills, each one built to isolate a single concept and invite repetition.
Understanding the cost.
How much is tuition?
Tuition varies by program and schedule. Visit our Tuition & Financial Aid page for current rates, payment plans, and sibling discounts.
Is financial aid available?
Please reach out to our Admissions and Finance teams early in your application process to discuss payment plans and any assistance that may be available for your family.
What about care outside school hours?
Yes. Daily care (Early Arrival, After School, and half-day plans) is registered through our Extended Day Registration and is billed through your FACTS account. After-school electives and school-break camps are listed on Beyond the School Day.
What a day at AIA looks like.
What does a typical day look like?
Each program follows an uninterrupted work cycle where children choose activities from Montessori materials, with outdoor time, group lessons, and specialty classes woven throughout the day.
What should my child wear each day?
AIA has a uniform dress code. See our Family Handbook for full uniform details for your child's program.
What about meals and snacks?
AIA does not offer meal service at this time; families send lunch and snacks from home each day. A Friday pizza order is available during the school year.
Is there an after-school program?
Yes. Register for daily care on our Extended Day Registration, and browse after-school electives and school-break camps on Beyond the School Day.
Getting to and from campus.
Does AIA offer bus or van transportation?
No. AIA does not offer bus or van transportation for daily drop-off and pick-up; families arrive by carpool. Buses are used only for off-campus field experiences.
What are the carpool procedures for drop-off and pick-up?
Our team will walk new families through carpool lanes, timing, and safety procedures before your child's first day. See the Family Handbook for the full carpool map.
Is parking available for visitors and events?
Visitor parking is available in the lot in front of the main school building. A member of our team will greet you at the entrance.