How to Get Into Cardinal Newman High School – Palm Beach Catholic College Prep Guide

Sapneil Parikh
Oct 21
2 min read

Why Cardinal Newman Is Among Palm Beach’s Leading Catholic High Schools

Located in West Palm Beach, FL, Cardinal Newman High School is a co-ed Catholic college-preparatory school serving grades 9–12, offering both AP and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, a robust arts and athletics experience, and leadership development grounded in Catholic values. 

Admissions Timeline & Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Submit Inquiry & Register for Preview Day or Shadow Visit

Complete the online inquiry form to receive an invitation to set up your profile and access events like Preview Day or Shadow Day for 8th graders. 

Step 2: Choose Application Type

Early Decision (binding):

Due by November 1
Interview Day: November 2
Notification: November 15
Enrollment contract due: December 1 (deferrable if applying for tuition aid)

Regular Decision:

Interview Day: February 1
Application Deadline: February 15
Notification: March 15
Enrollment agreements completed by April 1

Step 3: Admission Exam & Interview

Applicants take the High School Placement Test (HSPT)—typically offered December 7 & 14, followed by a student-family interview to review academic and course placement. 

Step 4: Submit Application Packet

Include transcripts (grades 6–8), standardized test scores (STAR, ERB, CAASPP, or HSPT), discipline history, recommendations, birth certificate, immunization form (Florida DH 680), and optional IEP/504 if applicable. A non‑refundable $100 application fee is required. 

Step 5: Decision & Enrollment

Early Decision decisions are issued November 15, Regular Decision on March 15.
Accepted families must complete enrollment contracts and pay the enrollment fee (e.g. $500) by April 1.
Tuition assistance decisions: financial aid applications by February 15, awards are communicated by March 15.

What Admissions Looks For

Cardinal Newman evaluates applicants with a holistic review, emphasizing:

High School Placement Test performance and standardized test scores
Strong academic transcripts and performance history (grades 6–8)
Thoughtful student-family interview and Shadow Day participation
Teacher and principal recommendations
Alignment with Catholic values and school culture, leadership, and service ethos

Admissions Checklist Summary

Step	Action & Deadline
Inquiry & Tour	Sign up, attend Preview Day or Shadow Visit
Early Decision (optional)	Apply by Nov 1; interview Nov 2; decision Nov 15
Placement Exam	HSPT on Dec 7 or 14
Regular Application	Submit by Feb 15; interview Feb 1
Decision & Enrollment	Regular Decision notifications Mar 15; contract due Apr 1
Tuition Aid	Submit by Feb 15; awards by Mar 15