Welcome!
We're so glad you found us.
At Steamboat Mountain School you’ll discover a dynamic K–12 day and boarding experience in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. At SMS we bring the classroom into the world and the world into the classroom. We would love to take the time to show your family around our campuses. You can experience not only the classroom and educational experience of SMS but also see the connections that students have with one another and with our world-class faculty. You will be able to see the environment in which they will learn to pack for a three-day backpacking trip, the stages they will perform on, the collaborative classroom settings where new ideas will come to life, and the open workspaces where the Global Studies programs will be planned. Schedule your visit to learn more about what makes the Emerald Campus and the Mountain Campus unique places to foster and inspire learning!
Check out our upcoming admissions events in person and online!
Admission Process:
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
Submit the admissions application, which includes general student information and a few grade-specific questions.
You may begin the application, save your progress, and return to complete it at any time.
Access the application here.
Step 2: Schedule Your Visit & Interview
Connect with Pearson Alspach or Kristen Heard to schedule your campus visit and family interview.
- Grades K–8: An in-person visit is required.
- Upper School: Visits are strongly encouraged, but online interviews are acceptable.
This step allows us to build a meaningful connection and ensure SMS is the right fit for your student.
Step 3: Submit Recommendations
Use our dedicated recommendation forms to request input from your student’s current teachers and school administrators. These forms provide valuable insight into your child’s academic experience and character.
Upper School applications must submit a recent graded essay from your current school. This helps us better understand your student’s writing ability and academic readiness.
Step 4: Confirm Completion
Ensure all required materials have been received. Your application is considered complete once all components are submitted. There is an application fee to apply to SMS. After our application deadline of February 15 we accept applications on a rolling bases.
February 15: Complete ALL steps of the process by February 15, applications submitted after this date will be considered on availability and on a rolling basis.
February 15: Deadline to apply for tuition assistance on Clarity. Families from all backgrounds should consider SMS, no matter their financial circumstances.
Late February and March: Admission decisions are sent out early March for Grades 1-12, and on a rolling basis starting in late February for Kindergarten.
Steamboat Mountain School Admissions FAQ
What is Steamboat Mountain School?
Steamboat Mountain School (SMS) is a dynamic K–12 day and boarding school in Steamboat Springs. Our program blends rigorous academics with outdoor education, global travel, and experiential learning, bringing the classroom into the world and the world into the classroom.
How do I apply?
Our application process includes four simple steps:
- Complete the online application
- Schedule a visit and family interview
- Submit teacher recommendations (and a graded essay for Upper School)
- Confirm all materials are received by the deadline
What is the application deadline?
- February 15: Priority deadline to complete your application and apply for tuition assistance
Can I apply after the deadline?
- Yes, applications submitted after February 15 are reviewed on a rolling basis, as space allows
When will we receive an admissions decision?
- Grades 1–12: Decisions are released in early March
- Kindergarten: Decisions are released on a rolling basis starting in late February
Is a campus visit required?
- Grades K–8: An in-person visit is required
- Upper School (Grades 9–12): Visits are strongly encouraged, but virtual interviews are available
What will we experience during a visit?
Families will tour our Emerald and Mountain Campuses, observe classes, meet faculty and students, and get a feel for daily life at SMS—from collaborative classrooms to outdoor and global programs.
Does SMS offer financial assistance?
Yes. About 35–40% of students receive financial assistance through our Flexible Tuition program. We encourage families from all financial backgrounds to apply. Learn more about these here.
Are scholarships available?
Yes. SMS offers merit scholarships for students who demonstrate excellence in academics, athletics (including snow sports), leadership, and alignment with our school values. Learn more about these here.
What makes SMS unique?
SMS offers:
- Small class sizes and strong student-teacher relationships
- Outdoor and experiential learning, including backpacking and global travel
- A focus on character, leadership, and real-world skills
- A vibrant, connected community
How can I learn more or get started?
We’d love to connect! Schedule a visit, attend an admissions event, or submit an inquiry to begin your journey with SMS.