How to Apply
Mercy High School seeks students who demonstrate a willingness to commit to a challenging academic program, as well as be an active participant in all areas of school life. When reviewing applications, the Admissions Committee considers all aspects of an applicant's file.
Application Steps
- Start the Online Application
- Attend a Shadow Day
- Send Transcripts and Recommendations
- Take the HSPT at Mercy
- Attend the Family Interview
- Decision Dates
Start the Online Application
Access and complete your online Application HERE.
Early Bird Application Deadline: Monday December 9, 2019
All AMES applicants are required to apply by December 9.
Final Application Deadline: Monday January 15, 2020
Application fee: $75.00
Application fee goes up to $100 after December 9, 2019
To apply to the AMES Program, use the application link listed above. On the application there is a page to indicate your interest in the AMES program on the application. AMES applications are due by December 9, 2020. AMES applicants must include with their application:
- a currently active IEP, 504 Plan or other professional evaluation documentation done within the last three years.
For more information on our AMES program for students with documented learning differences, please click here.
Financial Assistance Applications
Financial Assistance applications are due by January 15, 2020.
Attend a Shadow Day
Spending a shadow day is the best way for you to experience Mercy High School! All applicants are required to participate in a Shadow Day in order to be considered for admission.
For more information, visit our Shadow Day page.
Send Transcripts and Recommendations
All transcripts and recommendations are due January 30.
The Transcript Request Form should be sent to your daughter's current school. This is a "fillable" PDF form which the school can complete and email back to us.
Recommendation Forms
These forms can be submitted electronically or in hard-copy, however electronic submissions are preferred. These forms are found in the online application.
Confidential Recommendation Form (required) – From one current teacher, school administrator or counselor.
Mathematics Placement Form (required) – To be completed by current math teacher.
Clergy Recommendation Form (Required for Archdiocesan FA* / Optional for others) – Submit this form to your church or faith community if you are actively involved in your community or church.
* This form is required for financial aid applicants in order to be considered for Archdiocesan assistance.
Take the HSPT at Mercy
Mercy will hold the High School Placement Test (HSPT) on January 11, 2020. To test at Mercy, submit your online application and then register for the HSPT on your checklist.
Doors will open at 8:00 a.m. for check in. Testing begins promptly at 8:30 a.m. at Kohl Mansion, Mercy High School. The test runs until approximately 12:00 p.m.
Details on what to bring and where to go on the day of the exam will be sent to each student the week before the exam date.
Although the High School Placement Test is offered at other Bay Area Catholic high schools, taking it at Mercy is an important first step in becoming a member of Mercy’s Class of 2024.
Applicants applying to more than one Catholic High School in the San Francisco Archdiocese may take the test at any Archdiocesan school but should take the test only once. Scores will be sent to the other schools the student provides on the day of the exam.
AMES applicants wanting to test with extended time require documentation. Applicants will be notified by the Admissions Office by early January. Extended Time test runs from 8:30 a.m. until approximately 2:00 p.m.
For more information, please contact the Admissions Office at 650.762.1114 or admissions@mercyhsb.com.
Attend the Family Interview
Applicants and their parents/guardians are required to attend an Admissions Family Interview on either February 1, 4 or 5, 2020. Select your date and time preference online after you complete the application.
Decision Dates
Key Application Dates
Sept. - Jan. • Shadow Days
Dec. 9 • Early Bird Application Deadline
AMES Applicant Deadline
Jan. 6 • Final Application Deadline
Jan. 15 • Financial Assistance Application Deadline
Jan. 30 • Transcripts and Recommendations Due
Feb. 1, 4 or 5 • Family Interviews
Mar. 13 • Electronic Decision Notification