Each year, accomplished students from across Staten Island, and the surrounding area, apply to become part of something extraordinary: the Staten Island Academy community.
Through the William Winter Scholarship Program, current Grade 5 and Grade 8 students with outstanding academic potential and a passion for learning earn a merit-based scholarship to attend Staten Island Academy with generous financial support.
This is an opportunity, not just for a unique school experience, but to step into a space that recognizes your achievements, challenges your potential, and invests in your future with state-of-the-art innovation, technology, and creative programs.
Why Staten Island Academy?
As one of the oldest educational institutions on Staten Island, and the borough’s only independent, non-religious school, Staten Island Academy has been setting the standard for academic excellence since 1884.
Our students are curious, creative, driven, and supported by a close-knit, intellectually vibrant community. With small class sizes, advanced courses, a dedicated college counseling program, and a rich selection of arts, athletics, and service opportunities, Staten Island Academy is where students feel curious, confident and capable.
When you join SIA, you’re not just attending a school. You’re becoming part of a community that nurtures your individuality, supports your goals, and challenges you to grow.
The William Winter Scholarship Program
The William Winter Scholarships are awarded annually to high-achieving students who will be entering Grade 6 and Grade 9 in 2026. This prestigious scholarship is open to applicants from public, private, and parochial schools and is based solely on merit.
Grade 6 students selected as William Winter Scholars receive:
● 50% of tuition covered in the year the scholarship is awarded
● The same dollar amount awarded each year through Grade 12
● Access to a transformative college preparatory education
● A welcoming, inclusive school culture focused on whole-child development
Grade 9 students selected as William Winter Scholars receive:
● 75% of tuition covered in their first year at Staten Island Academy
● The same dollar amount awarded each year through Grade 12
● Access to a transformative college preparatory education
● A welcoming, inclusive school culture focused on whole-child development
Renewal of the award is contingent on continued academic achievement, strong character, and meaningful contributions to the school community.
This is a competitive, merit-based scholarship designed for students who excel in the classroom, lead with integrity, and are ready to take full advantage of the opportunities SIA provides.
Grade 6 vs. Grade 9 Scholarships
Important Note: Staten Island Academy offers two William Winter Scholarships: one for students entering Grade 6 and another for students entering Grade 9. Traditionally, both scholarship cycles run simultaneously, however, this year we have adjusted the timing to better serve families.
The Grade 9 scholarship process is running in the fall (with applications due by October 31, 2025), while the Grade 6 scholarship application will be January 30, 2026.
Selection Criteria
Scholarship recipients are selected based on a comprehensive evaluation that includes:
● William Winter Scholarship Examination (ISEE) results
● Academic transcripts
● Teacher recommendations
● Demonstrated involvement in school and/or community
● A personal interview with the scholarship committee
Application Timeline + Key Dates for Grade 6 Applications
To apply, students must:
1. Submit the online application by Friday, January 30, 2026
2. Attend the William Winter Scholarship Open House:
● Wednesday, November 19 at 7:00 PM
● Find the APPLICATION HERE
3. Take the William Winter Scholarship Examination (ISEE)
● Saturday, January 24 at 9:00 AM
● Be sure to request that your scores be sent to SIA at code 335400
4. Schedule a Shadow Visit
Campus visits must be scheduled in advance. No walk-ins will be accepted. Shadow Days fill quickly. Call Joan George at 718-303-7802 to reserve your spot.
Available Shadow Dates:
● Wednesday, December 10 from 11:30–2:30 PM
● Tuesday, December 16 from 11:30–2:30 PM
● Tuesday, January 13 from 11:30–2:30 PM
Application Timeline + Key Dates for Grade 9 Applications
To apply, students must:
1. Submit the online application by Friday, October 31, 2025
2. Attend one of the William Winter Scholarship Open Houses:
● Thursday, October 9 at 9:30 AM
● Tuesday, October 21 at 7:00 PM
● Find the APPLICATION HERE
3. Take the William Winter Scholarship Examination (ISEE)
● Saturday, November 22 at 9:00 AM
● Be sure to request that your scores be sent to SIA at code 335400
4. Schedule a Shadow Visit
Campus visits must be scheduled in advance. No walk-ins will be accepted. Shadow Days fill quickly. Call Joan George at 718-303-7802 to reserve your spot.
Available Shadow Dates:
● Monday, October 6 from 8:30–11:40 AM
● Wednesday, October 8 from 1:00–3:20 PM
● Friday, October 17 from 8:30–11:40 AM
● Thursday, October 23 from 1:00–3:20 PM
● Thursday, November 6 from 1:00–3:20 PM
● Wednesday, November 12 from 8:30–11:40 AM
Award Notifications
Grade 6 Finalists will be notified by mid-February 2026 and recipients will be announced in March 2026
Grade 9 Finalists will be notified by mid-January 2026 and recipients will be announced by February 2026
The admissions process is highly selective. While not all applicants will be offered admission or receive an award, every application is reviewed thoroughly and thoughtfully by the selection committee.
Ready to Apply?
The William Winter Scholarship isn’t just a financial award, it’s a gateway to a school that will challenge, support, and inspire you. If you’re a motivated, high-achieving student ready to take the next step in your educational journey, we encourage you to apply.
Your future can start with Staten Island Academy.
