Does Bellarmine College Prep accept non-Catholics?

Of course! Bellarmine welcomes students of all faiths and all beliefs. While it is a Jesuit Catholic school, the curriculum and many activities and events are centered around Jesuit Catholic beliefs, but it does not mean that the school is exclusively for those believing in that faith. While Bellarmine College Preparatory maintains a strong affiliation with the Catholic faith, with approximately 75% of its students identifying as Catholic, the school fosters an inclusive environment that welcomes students from all walks of life. The remaining 25% of the student body represents a rich tapestry of diverse faith backgrounds, contributing to a vibrant and pluralistic community where students can learn from and grow with one another, regardless of their religious beliefs.

Are all students required to engage in faith-based retreats?

No! Students who do not identify with Catholic teachings are not forced to engage in religious-based activities or events. However! They are, of course, welcome to do so if they ever want to. This kind of freedom is not common among catholic schools, let alone top-ranking ones. This shows that Bellarmine College Preparatory, while grounded in Jesuit tradition and values, upholds an environment that respects everyone’s right to freedom of belief and religion. This means that students and staff, regardless of their religious affiliation or personal convictions, are encouraged to explore their own beliefs and engage in open and respectful dialogue with others who may hold different views.

Does Bellarmine College Prep offer theology courses based on Jesuit teachings?

Yes, Bellarmine College Preparatory offers theology courses grounded in Jesuit teachings. As a Jesuit institution, the school integrates Catholic faith and Ignatian spirituality into its curriculum, ensuring students engage in theological studies. Here are a few of the theological courses offered by the school that might interest Christian students: Christian Ethics Church History, Scripture, & Sacraments Ignatian Vocation through Film Theology, Spirituality & Nature World Religions Creed, Community, Call Most theological courses span one semester. These courses are designed to foster critical thinking in the context of holy Christian scriptures. BCP doesn’t want your child to aimlessly follow whatever teaching they give, they want to develop faith-centered reasoning.

Top 3 Reasons Why Bellarmine College Preparatory Is The Best Jesuit School In The Bay Area

Search the web for “best Jesuit schools in the bay area,” and I guarantee you that Bellarmine College Preparatory will be on that list. With a legacy dating back to 1851, the school has built a reputation for academic excellence and brotherhood rooted in the strong Jesuit foundation. Find out why BCP is one of the top private Jesuit schools below!

1. Rigorous Academics That Lead To High Matriculation Rates

BCP consistently ranks among the top private high schools in California, offering over 23 Advanced Placement (AP) classes, as well as numerous honors and specialized electives. And because of this wide selection of AP classes, students graduate from the school confident and competent.

The school lives up to its name, BCP, and has an astounding 99% matriculation rate! Year after year, Bellarmine graduates gain admission to the nation’s top universities including but not limited to Stanford, Harvard, MIT, and many more! If you want your child to be ready for the nation’s top universities, then Bellarmine College Prep is the best place for you!

2. A Deep Commitment to Jesuit Values and Leadership

With more than 10 million adults in California following the Catholic faith, parents want an environment where their religious values can be fostered in their children. Guided by the motto “Men for and with Others,” BCP gives Catholic families this exact opportunity.

Jesuit values aren’t just emphasized in Bellarmine, they’re the foundation of the school. The main approach to academics, for instance, is rooted in cura personalis or “the care of the whole person”. This means that education isn’t only concerned with cognition; rather, it’s a holistic approach that includes the affective and psychomotor domains. Simply put, lessons will be learned and taught inside and outside the classroom!

For the extracurriculars, the AGAPE student club is focused on hands-on service to the underserved by following their religious values. Students encouraged and at times even required to engage in community outreach, with many participating in immersive service trips to underserved communities. Bellarmine also offers a four-year leadership formation program that challenges students to become ethical decision-makers, both inside and outside the classroom.

3. One of The Most Comprehensive Extracurricular and Athletic Programs

Bellarmine also offers one of the most dynamic extracurricular programs in the region. The school is home to over 100 clubs each distinct from one another, a nationally recognized speech and debate team, and a top-tier robotics program that has won numerous national and international competitions.

Athletically, BCP is in a league of its own. The school has one of the most successful high school sports programs in Northern California, with championship teams across multiple sports, including football, basketball, swimming, cross country, and track and field.

Aside from sports, Bellarmine also fosters an appreciation for the arts, offering students the chance to participate in award-winning fine arts programs. This well-rounded experience ensures that every student finds a way to develop their passions and talents outside the classroom.

How Cardinal Education Can Strengthen Your Admission

Interested in applying to one of the best Jesuit schools in the Bay Area? The independent admissions consultants at Cardinal Education can offer expert guidance on private school admissions, helping students apply to top private schools like Bellarmine College Preparatory. With academic coaching, test prep, and private school admissions support, we ensure students present themselves as top candidates!

For expert insights on maximizing your child’s chances at Bellarmine College Preparatory, contact us today and let our experts guide you through the process.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Bellarmine College Prep accept non-Catholics?
Of course! Bellarmine welcomes students of all faiths and all beliefs. While it is a Jesuit Catholic school, the curriculum and many activities and events are centered around Jesuit Catholic beliefs, but it does not mean that the school is exclusively for those believing in that faith. While Bellarmine College Preparatory maintains a strong affiliation with the Catholic faith, with approximately 75% of its students identifying as Catholic, the school fosters an inclusive environment that welcomes students from all walks of life. The remaining 25% of the student body represents a rich tapestry of diverse faith backgrounds, contributing to a vibrant and pluralistic community where students can learn from and grow with one another, regardless of their religious beliefs.
Are all students required to engage in faith-based retreats?
No! Students who do not identify with Catholic teachings are not forced to engage in religious-based activities or events. However! They are, of course, welcome to do so if they ever want to. This kind of freedom is not common among catholic schools, let alone top-ranking ones. This shows that Bellarmine College Preparatory, while grounded in Jesuit tradition and values, upholds an environment that respects everyone’s right to freedom of belief and religion. This means that students and staff, regardless of their religious affiliation or personal convictions, are encouraged to explore their own beliefs and engage in open and respectful dialogue with others who may hold different views.
Does Bellarmine College Prep offer theology courses based on Jesuit teachings?
Yes, Bellarmine College Preparatory offers theology courses grounded in Jesuit teachings. As a Jesuit institution, the school integrates Catholic faith and Ignatian spirituality into its curriculum, ensuring students engage in theological studies. Here are a few of the theological courses offered by the school that might interest Christian students:
- Christian Ethics
- Church History, Scripture, & Sacraments
- Ignatian Vocation through Film
- Theology, Spirituality & Nature
- World Religions
- Creed, Community, Call
Most theological courses span one semester. These courses are designed to foster critical thinking in the context of holy Christian scriptures. BCP doesn’t want your child to aimlessly follow whatever teaching they give, they want to develop faith-centered reasoning.