Doesn’t matter. They look at two things: 1. Will you pay full tuition 2. HSPT scores.

I think 3 weak references is a bad look. But if you actually have 2-3 strong relationships, then go for us. More realistically, an 8th grader might have a coach, scout leader, instrument lesson teacher, etc. that could write a good one. Bottom line, quality over quantity.

The Visitation application requires three references (Math Teacher, English Teacher, and Principal or Counselor) for students coming from non-ADW schools. There are three additional "optional" references a student can submit for Character, Service, and Leadership. During the information session there wasn't a lot of direction on the optional references other than using someone that wasn't a teacher since the other references were coming from teachers.

Does anyone have insight into whether an applicant should endeavor to include all three optional references or just stick with the main references plus one optional (unless the applicant has something compelling where 2-3 extra references make sense)?