Applying for Catholic High School: A Timeline for Parents
So how early is too early to start thinking about applying to a Catholic high school? Trick question — there is no such thing as too early.
Even if your student is in fourth or fifth grade, it’s a great idea to start thinking about which of the 16 Catholic high schools in the Archdiocese best fits your family’s needs. It’s really a discernment process that involves getting to know individual schools’ cultures, academic offerings and extracurricular activities.
So whatever the age of your student, go to a fall musical, a football game, a summer camp or an open house — these are all important touchstones that can clue you in to what the vibe and mission is of each particular school.
Your child’s eighth grade year is when the application process will start to ramp up. September is when many high schools will make visits to local Catholic parish schools to connect with eighth-graders. They will talk about what their school has to offer, answer questions and illustrate what a day in the life of a student is like at their school.
Catholic high school open houses usually take place in October. These are family-friendly events — there are often fun activities planned, informational panels and more. Even for students younger than middle school, open houses are a great way to get some face time with the school and its teachers, spiritual leaders, coaches and current students.
November is when the majority of high schools begin to offer their placement tests. These tests will measure the students’ academic level so they are placed in the right classes. This is also a time when you can learn more about high schools’ financial assistance programs and scholarships. Within this timeframe, parents and their eighth-graders will also be starting to submit school application materials and financial aid applications.
It’s important to note that, while priority is given to families who adhere to the deadlines, the deadlines are not cut-offs, and students are still welcome to apply after they have passed.
The first round of acceptance letters could start coming as early as Christmas; however, some schools may start in January. The end of winter and early spring is when there’s parent preview nights, registration events and school events for incoming 8th graders such as trivia nights, tailgates, pizza parties and more. These are fun events for students and families to get to know one another and their new school.
February 1 is when the Wisconsin Parental Choice Program application period begins, and state funding is awarded in the spring to eligible families that apply.
During late winter and early spring, high school admission counselors are readily available to answer questions and make sure you remain “in-the-know” of what’s going on at your (future) school. You’ll receive invitations to school welcome parties and other events, so make sure to keep an eye on your email.
While this process may sound like a whirlwind, this is an exciting milestone in your family’s lives, and the high schools want to make it as easy as possible for you. Here are the two biggest takeaways from this timeline:
- Don’t wait! It’s never too early to schedule a tour or attend an open house.
- The admissions office of your preferred Catholic high school(s) will be your best friend and ally. They’ll be your sounding board, the keeper of knowledge and knower of deadlines. Reach out to them early and share any questions or concerns.