The Catholic High School Admissions Process Explained
Explore Catholic high school admissions, from applications to visit days. Learn what families need to know to find the best fit for their student.
Choosing the right high school is one of the most important decisions families make, and the admissions process can feel overwhelming.
At St. Agnes Academy, we are here to make the Catholic high school admissions journey welcoming, clear, and filled with opportunities for your daughter to see what makes our community unique.
Learn more about what to expect during this exciting time for your family.
Understanding Catholic High School Admissions
High school admissions typically involve an application, recommendation letters, entrance exams, and opportunities to engage with the school through tours and visit days. While the process can vary from school to school, most Catholic high schools aim to provide families with ways to explore the community before making a decision.
At St. Agnes, we embrace this tradition with a process designed to help families feel informed, supported, and confident every step of the way.
Visit Opportunities at St. Agnes Academy
At St. Agnes, we believe that stepping onto campus is the best way to truly experience our community. That’s why we provide multiple opportunities for prospective students and families to visit, meet our students and faculty, and see our Dominican tradition in action.
- Feeder School Visits: Many of our feeder schools schedule group visits to St. Agnes during the fall. If your school isn’t already scheduled, you’re welcome to join our Open Visit Day.
- Campus Tours: Tours are available most Tuesdays and Thursdays in the fall, from 9:30–11:00 a.m. These visits are led by our admissions staff, giving families the chance to ask questions and get a close look at daily life on campus.
- Veritas Visits: For students who have applied, Veritas Visits offer the chance to shadow a current Tiger Ambassador, sit in on two classes, and enjoy lunch on campus. These visits are held January through early March and run from 9:45 a.m. –12:45 p.m. Registration opens in mid-November, and visits conclude on March 5.
- School Preview – Parent Edition: Parents of 8th-grade students are invited to learn more through a special preview event. This session includes student panels, curriculum highlights, financial aid information, and insights from our Director of Enrollment.
These visit opportunities are an excellent way for both students and parents to see why generations of families have trusted St. Agnes for their daughters’ education. To learn more and register for these events, please visit this page on our website.
Application Steps at St. Agnes
While each Catholic high school sets its own admissions timeline, the St. Agnes process follows a clear, family-friendly sequence:
1. Submit an Application. Complete the online application form through the St. Agnes Academy admissions portal.
2. Teacher Recommendations and School Records. Provide recommendations from current Math and English teachers, along with transcripts from the previous two years.
3. Entrance Exam. All applicants submit an Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) score. St. Agnes also hosts an on-campus exam in November for convenience.
4. Admissions Review. The admissions committee evaluates students holistically, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, teacher recommendations, and personal qualities.
Applications are now open. Find out how to apply for an incoming 9th grader.
Why Choose a Catholic High School Like St. Agnes Academy?
We understand you have options for your daughter’s education. We believe Catholic high schools are an excellent option because they combine rigorous academics with a strong foundation in faith and values.
At St. Agnes, we carry forward the Dominican traditions of excellence, service, and community. Students are challenged academically while also being encouraged to grow in leadership, compassion, and integrity.
Parents consistently share that St. Agnes provides not just a strong college-prep education, but also a community where their daughters are known, supported, and inspired.
Join the St. Agnes Community
If you’re considering Catholic high school admissions, we invite you to explore St. Agnes Academy. Attend one of our visit opportunities, meet our admissions team, and discover why St. Agnes is the right place for your daughter to grow academically, spiritually, and personally.
Learn more and begin your application today on our Admissions page. We look forward to supporting your daughter’s educational pursuits!
