It's a Great Day to be an Eagle!
ADMISSIONS NEWSLETTER
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You can also text "Join" and your email to 949-844-2625.
Admissions Process
How to Become an Eagle
The path to SMCHS is straightforward — and our admissions team is with your family every step of the way. Here's what to expect for the Class of 2031.
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1
Now — Summer 2026
Request Information & Visit Campus
- Schedule a summer tour to experience life at SMCHS firsthand.
- Sign up for our monthly newsletter to stay up to date with all upcoming admissions news.
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2
September 2026
Complete the Application
- Submit your online application.
- Submit tuition assistance applications (for those who qualify).
- Applications open September 1.
Visit Campus
- Attend an Open House or Information Night.
- Schedule a shadow day and parent tour.
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3
Deadline: November 15, 2026
Priority Admissions / Tuition Assistance
- Applications received by November 15, with all required materials, will be reviewed for priority admission.
- Tuition Assistance Applications received by November 15, with all required materials, will be reviewed for priority consideration.
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4
December 1, 2026
(until capacity is reached)Admissions Decisions & Enrollment
- Priority applicants receive admissions decisions and financial aid award letters.
- Complete enrollment promptly to secure your spot and avoid the waitlist.
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5
December 2, 2026
(until capacity is reached)Rolling Admissions
- Applications submitted after November 15 will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Decisions are issued as applications are completed.
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6
January 2027
Placement Exam (HSPT)
- All applicants complete the High School Placement Test (HSPT).
- Multiple test dates are available.
- Registration is included with your online application.
- Optional prep courses are available.
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7
March 2027
Freshman Scheduling Night
- Attend Freshman Scheduling Night to prepare for your first year at SMCHS.
Questions
Thank you for your interest in Santa Margarita Catholic High School. Please fill out the inquiry form by clicking on the link below and our Admissions team will be happy to assist you.
Campus Tours For International Students
If you are an International student or carry a green card and you are interested in a campus tour, please visit our International student page.
Shadow Days
Sign ups for shadow days for the 2026-2027 school year will open on September 1, 2026 at 9 a.m.
Rally Day Experience
Thursday, October 8
Sign ups for shadow days for the 2026-2027 school year will open on September 1, 2026 at 9 a.m..
| Upcoming Important Dates | |
|---|---|
| September 1 | Shadow Day Sign Ups Open |
| September 1 |
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| September 15 | Tuition Assistance Information via Zoom Meeting, 7:00 PM |
| September 18 | Football Middle School Night: RSVP COMING SOON |
| September 23 | Auxiliary Studies / International Baccalaureate Programme Information Night ASP Info Night, 5:30 PM: RSVP HERE IB Info Night, 6:30 PM: RSVP HERE |
| October 8 | Rally Day Sign-ups will open Sept. 1 |
| October 19 | Open House 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM |
| October 27 | Online Academy Open House |
| November 9 | Athletic Information Night |
| November 9 | Tuition Assistance Information via Zoom Meeting, 12:00 PM |
| November 15 | Priority Admissions Deadline (Application & Tuition Assistance Applications) |
| December 1 | Acceptance Packets & Tuition Assistance Awards sent out |
| January 9, 2027 | HSPT Prep Course 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
| January 10, 2027 | HSPT Prep Course 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM |
| January 16, 2027 | HSPT #1 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM (Students will select one date as part of the application process) |
| January 17, 2027 | HSPT Prep Course 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM |
| January 20, 2027 | HSPT #2 3:30 PM to 7 PM |
| January 23, 2027 | HSPT Prep Course 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
| January 24, 2027 | HSPT Prep Course 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM |
| January 30, 2027 | HSPT #3 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM |
| February 23, 2027 | Freshmen Drive-Thru Welcome Celebration |
| March and April 2027 | Shadow Days open for current 7th graders |