Frequently Asked Questions

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, 2009. 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 $100 application fee (via credit card). If you do not want to use a credit card, please send a personal check for $100 (made out to ARHS) to the Admissions Office and we will provide you with a “waiver” code to be entered on-line.

THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS DECEMBER 11, 2009.
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?

All applications must be submitted on-line. If you do not have access, please call the Admissions Office and we will set up time for you and your son to use a computer here at Archbishop Riordan. Other options may be using a computer at your son’s current school or at your local public library.

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 9, 2010. 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 11, 2009.

Q. How can we apply for tuition assistance?

All families interested in applying for financial aid must complete a Private School Aid Service (PSAS) form. PSAS forms are available through the Admissions or Main Office beginning mid-October. Completed PSAS forms must be mailed in by January 31, 2010. Financial aid awards will be included in your admissions decision packet (March 19, 2010).

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.

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