Application Process
Cardinal Newman High School is committed to helping families find the perfect educational fit for their child. Our admissions process is designed to provide you with the information and support you need to make an informed decision.
Welcome to Cardinal Newman High School
We are a vibrant, diverse community of students who are inspired to achieve and supported by a dedicated, compassionate faculty. Our two full-time college counselors guide students through every step of the admissions and scholarship process. In fact, last year’s graduates earned an impressive $13.9 million in college scholarships. We also offer confidential tuition assistance for qualifying families—and our tuition remains among the most affordable of Catholic high schools in the Bay Area.
Getting Started
Follow the steps below to begin your inquiry, register for Admissions events like Preview Day and Open House, and begin your application.
1. Complete the Inquiry FormThe first step is to let us know about you! Click the button below to begin your journey. We're looking forward to getting to know you!
2. Set Up Your ProfileAfter you complete the form, you’ll receive an email with an invitation to set-up your a profile for Cardinal Newman's application management portal, MySchoolApp. This app will help you navigate every step of the Admissions process, and will generate a checklist for you to follow.
3. Log in and review your Admissions ChecklistOnce you're set up, you'll be able to login and find your next step in the checklist, register for events, and begin your application.
Admissions Timeline
Find the Admissions Timeline That Fits You
Cardinal Newman offers two application options for prospective 9th graders: Early Decision and Regular Decision.
Early Decision is for incoming 9th graders who know CNHS is their first choice and are ready to commit early. This accelerated process has higher academic standards and lets you secure your space before January 2026.
Regular Decision is best if you’re applying to multiple schools, a transfer student, or want more time to strengthen your application.
Consider our Early Decision Application if:
- CNHS is your first choice school
- CNHS is a solid match for your family - academically, geographically, etc.
- You are applying to the 9th Grade
Requirements:
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA, with an A or B in Math and English in 6th and 7th grade
- Strong academic and citizenship record in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades
- Submit up to four Letters of Recommendation, Math, English, and Principal/Counselor are required. Pastor Recommendation and Adult Recommendation are optional
- Submit Standardized Test Scores (STAR, ERB, CAASPP, etc.)
- Complete the High School Placement Test
Consider our Regular Decision Application if:
- You are applying to multiple schools and would like to compare other Admissions offers
- You are applying as a Transfer Student
- You do not currently meet the Early Decision requirements and feel you can submit a stronger application in December
- You began the application process late in the season
Requirements:
- Minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA, and submission of transcripts/report cards for 6th, 7th, and 8th grades
- Submit up to four Letters of Recommendation – Math, English, and Principal/Counselor are required. Pastor Recommendation and Adult Recommendation are optional
- Submit Standardized Test Scores (STAR, ERB, CAASPP, etc.)
- Complete High School Placement Test