Admissions :: FAQ's
Q. How does my son apply for admission to Archbishop Riordan?
Please visit the Archbishop Riordan website at www.riordanhs.org. The on-line application will be
available September 1, 2011. After you create an account; both you and your son will be asked to
complete different portions of the application. You may save and review the application often before
it is submitted. The Admissions Office does not receive the application until you submit the form.
THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS DECEMBER 12, 2011.
Please do not assume the application has been received until you receive confirmation via email.
Q. How do I apply if I don't have access to the Internet?
We encourage all applications to be submitted on-line. However, if you do not have Internet access,
please call the Admissions Office and we will happily set up a time to walk you through the process.
Q. What kind of entrance exam is required?
The Catholic high schools use the High School Placement Test (HSPT). If your son is applying to more
than one Catholic high school, he takes the test only once at any of the schools to which he has applied.
The HSPT will be offered at ARHS on Saturday, January 7, 2012. Doors open at 8:00 a.m. for the three-hour
test
Q. How do I prepare my son for the HSPT?
Your son should already know how to take standardized tests that use scantron-type answer sheets. We
discourage attending external preparation courses or using HSPT practice tests. We use the HSPT score to
determine your son's current academic abilities. The HSPT is one of several admissions components
Q. Does ARHS require the applicant to write an essay?
Yes, a handwritten essay is part of the application. Please download the
essay form from the on-line application. We want to review your son's
writing skills when he has the time and energy to compose a thoughtful
essay. After he writes his essay, please attach a recent photo of the
applicant and mail it to the Admissions Office. The essay deadline is
the same as the application, December 12, 2011.
Q. How can we apply for tuition assistance?
All families interested in applying for financial aid must complete a TADS form. TADS forms are available
through the Admissions or Main Office beginning mid-October. Completed TADS forms must be mailed in by January
31, 2012. Financial aid awards will be included in your admissions decision packet (March 18, 2012).
Q. What if my son has a learning disability?
Students with valid, identified learning disabilities may be eligible for our Resource Specialist Program
(RSP). Please contact the Admissions Office for more information on the RSP. Students who have documentation
(I.E.P., 504 Plan, or a Psycho-Educational Assessment) may be eligible for extended time on the HSPT. Please
contact the Admissions Office for an HSPT extended time application. Please contact the Admissions Office for
an HSPT extended time application.
Q. How do I apply for Financial Aid?
You can apply for financial aid by completing an online application via the secure TADS system by January 31,
2012. We recommend completing the Financial Aid Worksheet prior to beginning the online application. ARHS
families currently receiving assistance need to re-apply each year to be considered.