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High School Guidance

The high school admissions process can be an overwhelming experience. Know that we are here to help in any way we can. Please take advantage of the resources available to you!

High School Information for 8th Grade Families - 8th Grade families are able to attend an informational meeting that provides useful information regarding the Admission process. This meeting introduces parents to the application process and offers guidance to them on how to best support their children as they apply to high school.

High School Prep- Students in 8th Grade are well prepared for the Entrance Exams for high schools. Teachers introduce students to the shadow and application processes as well as how to choose the right school. Students will receive plenty of guidance in writing their essays both in this class and in their ELA courses. Plus, students use the online math program to review math skills in preparation for the HSPT exam.

HSPT After School Prep Class - Students who are applying to Catholic high schools are required to take the HSPT exam. Students can sign up for an after school class that reviews math and language skills while teaching test-taking strategies. Additionally students in this course are able to take a practice HSPT exams on a Saturday in order to prepare them for the testing environment.

  • Mondays from 2:10-4:00pm & Wednesdays from 3:10-5:00pm from mid-September - mid-November

After School Application Help- Students are invited to attend optional after school application help sessions. Students are able to receive one on one help in filling out their applications. Whether they need help starting an application or need some editing support in writing their essays, Holy Name staff is able to help!


Holy Name School has an outstanding reputation for preparing its graduates to thrive in high school. Our graduates are accepted to a wide variety of educational institutions throughout the Bay Area.

Each eighth grade family receives personalized high school guidance led by the eighth grade teachers and principal. Parents attend a preparation for high school meeting at the beginning of the school year and conferences are conducted with parents, students, and teachers to assist in the decision making and application process. Students are encouraged to explore the high schools through their shadow programs.

In addition, test preparation, critical analysis, and writing skills are regularly incorporated into all academic subjects. Holy Name graduates regularly place into advanced and honors level courses in their respective college preparatory programs.

Holy Name alumni consistently distinguish themselves within their secondary school communities as Christ-like, resourceful, outstanding citizens, who are scholarly and self-reflecting.

Throughout the years, graduates of Holy Name School have been accepted at the following Catholic, independent, and public secondary schools:

  • Acalanes High School
  • Archbishop Riordan High School
  • Convent of the Sacred Heart
  • Lincoln High School
  • Lowell High School
  • Mercy Burlingame High School
  • Pacific Bay High School
  • Sacred Heart Cathedral College Preparatory
  • Saint Ignatius College Preparatory
  • School of the Arts High School
  • Stuart Hall College Preparatory
  • Summit Shasta High School
  • Terra Nova High School
  • Washington High School
  • Westmore High School