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Quick Answer for Busy Parents
Saint Mary’s College High School is a coeducational, Lasallian Catholic college-preparatory school serving Grades 9–12 in Berkeley/Albany. All freshman applicants must take the High School Placement Test (HSPT). Applications close in early January; the HSPT is administered in mid-January, and admissions decisions are emailed in mid-to-late March. 88% of graduates matriculate to a four-year college.
Why Do Families Choose Saint Mary’s College High School?
Saint Mary’s traces its roots to 1863, when Archbishop Joseph Sadoc Alemany founded it near Mission Dolores in San Francisco; the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools took over its management in 1868, and the school moved to its current Peralta Park location in Albany in 1927.
Families are drawn to its academic identity built around a three-course Epistemology series, an intellectual hub taken across grades 9, 10, and 11, and a long theatrical and athletic tradition. The school’s most prominent recent alumnus is filmmaker Ryan Coogler ’03 (Fruitvale Station, Creed, Black Panther, Sinners), whose film Sinners earned a record-breaking 16 Oscar nominations in 2026, and who has publicly credited a Saint Mary’s teacher with encouraging his path into film.
Saint Mary’s core humanities curriculum blends classical and progressive education, using the three-course Epistemology series as an intellectual hub and requiring students to select from the History Through Another’s Eyes elective set (Islamic, African, Latin American, East Asian, or American Social History) after completing World History and U.S. History.
How Hard Is It to Get Into Saint Mary’s?
Saint Mary’s does not publish an official acceptance rate; third-party estimates place it around 40%, notably more selective than the national private-school average. Every applicant takes the HSPT, and admission also weighs academic records, recommendations, and fit with the school’s Lasallian mission.
Because the admissions team evaluates candidates so holistically, strong HSPT scores alone rarely guarantee a spot. With limited openings for each incoming class and a large pool of well-qualified applicants competing for them, securing acceptance requires a stand-out file across every category.
Top Tips for a Competitive Application
- Register for the HSPT as early as possible after the application window opens.
- Apply well ahead of the early-January deadline, since the subsequent timeline moves quickly.
- Contact the admissions team early about testing accommodations if your child has a documented learning difference.
Best Practices for Prospective Families
- Confirm test registration details carefully if testing at a different Catholic high school than Saint Mary’s.
- Watch for two separate communications: HSPT results from Scholastic Testing Service and the school’s own admissions decision.
- Transfer applicants (Grades 9–10 only) should confirm academic and disciplinary standing before the April transfer application opens.
What Is Saint Mary’s College High School Admission Process?
The first step in Saint Mary’s College High School’s admissions process is completing an inquiry form. This will help admissions get to know your family and stay connected to the admissions team.
- Attend Admissions Events
- Submit Online Application
- Application Fee
- Student Questionnaire
- Parent/Guardian Questionnaire
- Register & Take the High School Placement Test (HSPT)
- Designate Recommendations
- Current math & English teacher
- Principal or school counselor
- Request Transcripts
- Current year and prior two years
- Attend Interview Night
What Are Saint Mary’s Application Requirements?
Student Questionnaire
Submitted via the Finalsite portal, the Student Questionnaire lets 9th-grade applicants share their personal goals, interests, and alignment with Lasallian values through short-answer prompts. Writing skills are further evaluated via the HSPT essay rather than a separate proctored writing sample.
How to write a compelling personal statement: Focus on a specific moment of personal growth and alignment with Saint Mary’s values rather than listing activities. Academic tutoring and writing support help students refine their ideas and build a distinct voice. Learn how to develop an authentic writing voice that helps your statement stand out.
Parent/Guardian Questionnaire
The Parent/Guardian Questionnaire provides insight into the student from their family’s perspective. Parents share candid observations regarding their child’s strengths, personal character, learning style, household values, and specific reasons for choosing a Saint Mary’s Lasallian education.
How to write a compelling parent/guardian statement: Share anecdotes that demonstrate your child’s maturity and values rather than repeating their resume. Keep your tone authentic and collaborative. Learn how to write a compelling private school parent statement.
HSPT
All incoming 9th-grade applicants must take the High School Placement Test (HSPT). The exam measures reading, language, verbal, and quantitative skills, giving the admissions committee a standardized academic benchmark to review alongside grades and recommendations.
How to prepare for the HSPT: Because the HSPT moves quickly, targeted preparation is essential. Dedicated HSPT test prep helps students master fast-paced sections, build effective pacing strategies, and become comfortable with the exam format.
Recommendation Letters
Delegated electronically through the portal, applicants must submit standardized recommendation forms from their current 8th-grade math teacher, English teacher, and principal or counselor. Saint Mary’s serves grades 9–12 only, so recommendations are strictly required for 9th-grade applicants (or 10th/11th-grade transfer applicants).
How to get the best recommendation letter: To secure a strong recommendation letter, your child must build genuine relationships with teachers. Recommenders should highlight your child’s leadership, behavior, and academic impact on the school community.
Transcript
Parents submit an official release form through the portal authorizing middle schools to send transcripts directly to Saint Mary’s. Requirements include current 8th-grade fall grades plus official report cards, attendance, and conduct records from 6th and 7th grade.
How to improve grades: If grades have been a genuine struggle, improving them before applying requires targeted, consistent support—not last-minute cramming. This is where tutoring and academic coaching help strengthen the student’s key skills months before applications are due, allowing students to demonstrate meaningful, sustained academic growth.
Admissions Interview
Prospective 9th graders attend an on-campus Interview Night during the winter cycle to meet with faculty and discuss community fit. Parents accompany their child to campus but do not sit for a formal parent interview.
How to prepare for the admissions interview: Treat the interview as an open conversation. Students should practice discussing their interests, past challenges, and reasons for applying. Practice with comprehensive interview preparation to build natural confidence.
Have Questions About Your Child’s Application?
Cardinal Education’s consultants help families prepare for the HSPT and track every deadline in Saint Mary’s admissions timeline.
What Is Student Life Like at Saint Mary’s College High School?
Student life at Saint Mary’s College High School is a vibrant blend of rigorous academics, athletic tradition, and a welcoming Lasallian Catholic community.
Beyond the classroom, students are encouraged to pursue their passions through a diverse array of extracurricular activities, spiritual programs, and experiential learning, fostering both personal growth and lasting connections within the school community.
Academics
Academic life at Saint Mary’s College High School balances a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum with practical, real-world experiences rooted in the Lasallian educational tradition.
| Metric | Overview & Academic Feature |
| Academic Tradition | Lasallian Catholic college-preparatory framework |
| Advanced Pathways | 26 Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors courses available |
| Signature Curriculums | Enrichment Week (E-Week): Experiential coursework, domestic/international travel, and service learning |
| College Outcomes | 88% 4-year college matriculation rate |
This academic structure prepares students for higher education by emphasizing critical thinking, personal integrity, and active scholarship.
Clubs & Organizations
Saint Mary’s offers a dynamic range of student-led clubs designed to nurture hobbies, celebrate diversity, and spark leadership opportunities.
- 40+ Active Student Organizations: Comprehensive options spanning interest areas in art, technology, culture, and recreational fellowship.
- Special Interest & Creative Clubs: Hands-on interest groups including Art Club, Aviation Club, Bakers Club, BBQ Club, Chess Club, and Film Club.
- Academic & Leadership Groups: Honor societies and academic networks such as the California Scholarship Federation (CSF) and Finance Club.
- Performing Arts & Theater: Hands-on stagecraft and performance opportunities centered around the school’s renowned O-ditorium.
- Cultural & Service Organizations: Community-building clubs like Celebrating Cultures and Traditions (CCAT) and student affinity networks.
Students gain social connections and practical leadership experience, expanding their interests alongside faculty advisors and peers.
Athletics
The Panthers athletic program focuses on character development, sportsmanship, and competitive excellence across regional and state leagues.
| Athletic Metric | Program Statistics |
| Mascot & Identity | Panthers |
| Interscholastic Teams | 17 varsity sports teams |
| Sports Offered | Football, Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Volleyball, Cross Country, Track & Field, Soccer, Golf, Tennis, Flag Football, Water Polo, Cheer, and Lacrosse |
| Core Values | Teamwork, perseverance, and character development |
The athletic department provides dedicated coaching to foster athletic growth and team camaraderie for student-athletes at all skill levels.
Community & Faith
Rooted in Lasallian Catholic values, the campus community emphasizes spiritual growth, service to others, and shared Christian values.
- Five Lasallian Core Principles: Guided by Faith in the Presence of God, Concern for the Poor and Social Justice, Respect for All Persons, Quality Education, and Inclusive Community.
- Campus Ministry & Retreats: Inclusive ministry programs, spiritual reflection days, and class-level retreats that support individual and communal faith growth.
- Social Justice & Community Service: Direct service opportunities and outreach partnerships aligned with helping those in need.
- Inclusive Environment: A welcoming culture welcoming students of all backgrounds to engage in purposeful community life.
These core faith initiatives build civic responsibility, compassion, and a strong sense of purpose throughout the student experience.
Notable Alumni of Saint Mary’s College High School
Saint Mary’s College High School prepares students to lead with integrity, creative vision, and a dedication to community leadership. Graduates excel across diverse fields, including filmmaking, professional athletics, technology, and music, reflecting the school’s mission to foster purposeful, Lasallian-minded global citizens. Notable alumni include:
- Ryan Coogler (’03): An Academy Award-nominated film director, producer, and screenwriter best known for directing Black Panther, Creed, and Fruitvale Station. His groundbreaking cinematic work highlights the school’s emphasis on creative expression and storytelling with strong social impact.
- Bobby Murphy (’06): A tech entrepreneur and billionaire co-founder of Snap Inc. (Snapchat). His pioneering role in global communication software reflects the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit cultivated at Saint Mary’s.
- Marcus Semien (’08): A Major League Baseball (MLB) All-Star second baseman and World Series champion. His achievements in professional athletics demonstrate the dedication, sportsmanship, and discipline fostered through the Panthers athletic program.
- Paul Kantner (’59): A legendary rock musician, songwriter, and founding member of the iconic 1960s bands Jefferson Airplane and Jefferson Starship. His lasting legacy in American music culture exemplifies the artistic passion nurtured by the school’s foundation.
- Lorenzo Alexander (’01): A former NFL Pro Bowl linebacker who enjoyed a distinguished 15-season career in professional football. His leadership both on the field and in community philanthropy showcases the Lasallian values of service and character.
These alumni showcase how a Saint Mary’s education empowers individuals to explore their passions, demonstrate leadership, and make lasting contributions to society.
Master the Saint Mary’s Admissions Process with Cardinal Education
With an estimated 40% acceptance rate and a holistic, highly competitive review process, Saint Mary’s requires applicants to stand out. Cardinal Education’s consultants provide the strategic edge families need, guiding you through the tight, ten-week winter window—from HSPT preparation and strategic application planning to tracking critical deadlines. We help you present a compelling file that reflects your child’s unique potential, ensuring you navigate every step of the process with confidence.
Related Articles
Inside Saint Mary’s Epistemology Series and History Through Another’s Eyes
Theater at Saint Mary’s: The O-ditorium and the Stagecraft Club
Did You Know?
Saint Mary’s auditorium is affectionately nicknamed “the O-ditorium” by students and alumni, in honor of longtime theater instructor Antone Olivier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Saint Mary’s a religious school?
Does Saint Mary’s require standardized testing?
What is the Saint Mary’s acceptance rate?
What is Saint Mary’s College High School known for?
Are transfer students eligible to apply?
Choosing Saint Mary’s was the best decision for our family. Cardinal Education was right there with us through every step of the admissions process. Their HSPT prep, steady guidance on the application, and interview practice gave our child the push they needed to really stand out and get accepted.
— Saint Mary's Parent