
YOU BELONG HERE
Join Lab for a world-class journey of learning and growth built on the foundations of progressive education
In 1896, just two years after the University of Chicago was founded, Professor John Dewey—now known the world over as one of the great minds in education—established the Laboratory Schools as a place to explore and implement his educational theories. Within a few years of starting the school, Dewey outlined the values that continue to guide teaching and learning at Lab:
- Students grow in confidence, curiosity, and creativity by learning through experience, observing the conditions and outcomes of experiments and activities.
- Mutual respect between teachers and students helps young people attain a joyful, lifelong love of learning.
- Through collaboration, students develop both their individual gifts and their capacity to contribute to the common good.
- A great school community reflects principles of democracy, thus preparing students to become leaders and stewards of a healthy democratic society.
Just as they did when Lab started with only 16 students, these values still shape what we do for the 2,200+ students, age 3 to 18, who come here to learn and be inspired every day. Learn more about Lab's academic program here.
The greatest testament to the power of a Laboratory Schools education has always been our graduates. They remind us regularly that the precollegiate life they experienced at the Laboratory Schools contributed to their achievements as adults. Lab alumni have a knack for making a difference in the world as professionals, academicians, artists, educators, researchers, public servants, and more.

Application Process
Initial application and materials due November 12, 11:59 p.m.
Priority consideration for school tours and visits will be given to those who are able to complete the initial stage of the application process by November 10.

The Laboratory Schools are home to the youngest members of the University of Chicago's academic community
Because the Laboratory Schools are part of the world-renowned University of Chicago, the importance of intellectual life—of thought and exploration—infuses everything we do across all aspects of our curriculum. Families who choose to send their children to Lab care deeply about curiosity, inquiry, and education. All are attracted to this environment that creates and nurtures the hallmark habits of expansive thinking and complex problem-solving. Learn more about Lab’s academic program and experience Lab for yourself.

Meet Lab's admissions team
Irene M. Reed, ’92
Director of Admissions and Financial Aid (Nursery 3 through Grade 12)
ireed@ucls.uchicago.edu
Lynn Sasamoto, ’79
Associate Director of Admissions, Nursery, Kindergarten, and Primary School
lsasamoto@ucls.uchicago.edu
Manali Barua
Assistant Director of Admissions, Grades 3 through 8
mbarua@ucls.uchicago.edu
Kerry Tulson
Assistant Director of Admissions and Financial Aid, High School
ktulson@ucls.uchicago.edu
Arcelia Guerrero Wolfe
Admissions Associate
aguerr2@ucls.uchicago.edu
Addie Clomax
Admissions Assistant
aclomax@ucls.uchicago.edu
Thank you for your interest in our school. Applications for the 2024-25 academic year were due on November 12, 2023, and are no longer being accepted. We invite you to complete an inquiry form to let us know of your interest should we accept furthers applications. If you are a recruited University of Chicago faculty member interested in apply to Lab for your child, please contact Irene Reed.
Visit Lab
Tuesdays with Admissions (Virtual)
Drop in to our live Zoom room on select Tuesdays from noon–12:45 p.m. to ask any questions you might have regarding the admission process.
Register here for November 14
Register here for November 28
Register here for December 12
Earl Shapiro Hall Tour
(Pre-Kindergarten) Nursery 3–Grade 2
Next tour: Wednesday, December 6, 8:45–11:30 a.m.
5800 S Stony Island Avenue
Reserve your spot here.
Historic Campus Tour
Grades 3–12
Judd Hall
5835 S Kimbark Avenue
Contact Admissions Directly to set up your Historic Campus Tour.