Frequent Questions
Yes, we are still taking applications for the Fall of 2010! Please contact the Admissions Director, Mary McAlevy, at 703-237-1433 for information!
1. When is the application deadline for Fall 2011?
The priority deadline for rising ninth graders is January 24, 2011. The priority deadline for transfer students is May 1, 2011 but we will continue to accept applications as we have space.
2. Do I have to take a test?
Possibly, based on the year for which you are seeking admission. All applicants to grade 9 must take the High School Admissions/Placement (HSAPT). Please see Required Test.
3. What kind of scores do I need on the HSAPT?
We do not set a minimum national score on the HSAPT; it is one factor used in determining admission. Over 50 percent of the Class of 2013 scored in the 70th percentile or higher on the HSAPT. Over 40 percent scored in the 80th percentile or higher.
4. How big is the school?
Our student population is around 1,200 in grades 9 through 12. The Class of 2013, for example, is comprised of 309 students from 89 different elementary/middle schools and home schooling. We are presently 51% female and 49% male.
5. Do I have to be Catholic to attend?
In 1957 we were founded as a Catholic high school by six parishes in the Diocese of Arlington. Our mission will continue to be one which emphasizes the educational growth of Catholic residents of the Arlington Diocese. Given the size of our school, however, we have the opportunity to admit students who are not Catholic and who live in DC and Maryland. Ninety percent (90%) of our current students are Catholic.
6. How much is tuition?
For the 2010-11 school year, a Catholic student residing in the Diocese of Arlington pays $9,995 in tuition. If an older brother or sister also attends Bishop O’Connell, there are multi-student Catholic family discounts for Arlington Diocese residents. Catholic residents of Maryland or DC pay $11,775 per year in tuition. The amount for non-Catholic students is $14,665. In order to receive the tuition discount for Catholic students, a photocopy of the student’s baptismal certificate must be submitted. Tuition does not include the $275 annual registration fee, the $70 annual Parent/Teacher Organization fee, the $100 freshman orientation fee or books and uniforms.
7. Is there financial aid?
Bishop O'Connell High School offers two types of need-based aid and one type of merit-based aid. There are not scholarships for athletics. Additional information can be found on our Tuition Assistance page.
8. What type of clubs do you have?
Over 50 different clubs, organizations and interest groups are available to our students. We encourage every student to get involved in a few extracurricular activities. It’s a great way to meet other students as well as spend time with an activity you love. For additional information, please visit Clubs and Organizations.
9. Will there be an Open House program?
Definitely! If you are interested in applying for the 2011-12 school year, mark your calendar for our program on Wednesday, November 10 from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm.
10. Can I come tour Bishop O’Connell High School?
We encourage all prospective students (grade eight and higher) to schedule a time during the school year when you can spend a full or half day attending Bishop O'Connell. For additional information on our Spend a Day with a Knight Program, visit How/When to Visit.
11. What type of sports do you have?
A wide range of athletic teams, from Freshman and Junior Varsity to Varsity are offered for both boys and girls. Sports vary by season; we offer a full complement of fall, winter and spring choices. We are strong competitors of the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference. Learn more by visiting Athletics.
12. What colleges and universities do your graduates attend?
With a strong college preparatory curriculum, it is not surprising that our seniors are admitted to some of the nation’s most prestigious schools. Take a look at where the Class of 2010 is attending!
