A tuition-free, nonreligious education that creates opportunities for girls in grades 5-8 from eligible families.

Check Your Financial Eligibility
Watch “A Look at Our Sisters’ School”
Complete Inquiry Form

EXPLORE ADMISSIONS

What is OSS?

Our Sisters' School is a tuition-free, nonreligious middle school for girls in grades 5-8 from economically under-resourced backgrounds. We're named after the brave "Sister Sailors" who ventured out of New Bedford's harbor in the 1800s. We stand for courage, community, and a future full of opportunity.

Student Demographics

Number of students

up to 84

Average class size

17

Number of alumni

over 230

We Serve a Diverse Student Body

Open to all students in the Greater New Bedford and South Coast region

Approximate Annual Costs

  • Annual Activities Fee: $250

  • Uniforms: $130

  • School supplies: $30

Assistance is provided as needed

Why Families Choose OSS

  • Rigorous academics are paired with real-world learning that makes school come alive. Through a rich blend of core subjects, creative arts, and hands-on experiences, students develop critical skills, curiosity, and confidence, preparing them to excel in high school, college, and beyond.

  • In a single-gender environment, girls take risks, speak up, and lead – without the social pressures that often hold them back.

  • OSS’ small classes are led by caring teachers who foster every student’s learning and growth. Social-emotional learning is woven into everything we do.

  • Learning extends beyond the classroom here. We embrace the idea of Community as Campus, building strong ties with local organizations that enrich our students’ experiences. We are proud to collaborate with many organizations (see our Community Partnerships), including: weekly sailing at Community Boating Center, field trips to the Whaling Museum and Buttonwood Park Zoo, and 7th and 8th-grade internships across the community.

  • Our graduates don't just survive — they thrive. Our Graduate Support Team supports students through high school, college, and beyond, cultivating curious, compassionate, and courageous young people equipped to lead and serve.

What Our Parents Say

  • "I have seen firsthand the impact of this school. Watching our child transform from a timid and reserved young girl into a confident young woman who knows what she wants—and how to pursue it—has been incredible. I am truly grateful for the role you played in her growth."

  • “I was surprised by how many opportunities the students have outside of the classroom. They get to experience and try so many different things.”

  • “I love the small class sizes. It feels like the teachers really know the students and can give them the attention they need.”

  • “I really appreciate how much OSS challenges the students academically. They expect a lot from them, and I love seeing how much they’re capable of.”

Check Your Financial Eligibility

It's simpler than you think.

Our Sisters' School uses the Massachusetts Fuel Assistance income limits and taxable income reported on federal income tax returns as our guideline for determining financial eligibility (see chart)

We know every family's financial situation is different. If parents live separately, share custody, pay or receive child support, or have other special circumstances, we will work with you to determine your family's eligibility.

Number of People in Household Total Household Income Limit

Still not sure if you qualify? We're here to help.

Contact us at admissions@oursistersschool.org or 508-994-2028

Getting Started 

  1. Watch “A Look at Our Sisters’ School”

  2. Check Your Financial Eligibility

  3. Submit an Inquiry Form 

  4. Attend a Campus Visit (90 min)

  5. Submit Application and Supporting Materials

Upcoming Campus Visits

  • September 19th @OSS 10-11:30 am

  • October 17th @OSS 10-11:30 am

    • (Spanish translation available)

  • November 7th @OSS 10-11:30 am

  • November 18th virtually, 5:30-6:00 pm

  • December 12th @OSS 10-11:30 am

Contact us if these don’t work for you.
Childcare and snacks provided at all campus visits

Key Dates at a Glance

Our admissions process is rolling, but we encourage families to apply early as spots will fill. We aim to complete our admissions process no later than April 15, 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still Have Questions?

  • We have no religious affiliation. This is a common question due to our proximity to the Synagogue and our name, which honors the "Sister Sailors" of New Bedford's whaling history.

  • There is an annual cost per student, including:

    • Annual Activities Fee: $250

    • Uniforms (approximate): $130

    • School supplies (approximate): $30

    Assistance can be provided as needed.

  • We currently use New Bedford Public Schools busing. If you live in New Bedford, you would qualify for free transportation. If you live outside of New Bedford, you would need to provide your own transportation.

  • We provide an overview and a student-led tour. Then, while your student is completing their Academic Snapshot (writing, math, reading), adults can receive application support (if needed) or have independent time.

    Should I bring anything? If possible, bring financial verification to receive support completing the application (1040 form, pay stubs, or SSI documentation). We can also collect it later.

    What we offer during the visit:

    • Childcare for younger siblings

    • Snacks for everyone

    • Spanish translation available on select dates

    • Help completing your application on the spot

Ready to take the first step?

This tells us you're interested in learning more about OSS and lets you select your preferred campus visit date.

Have questions? Contact Admissions admissions@oursistersschool.org, (508) 994-1255

Complete Our Inquiry Form