Skip To Main Content

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

Principal and students in class.

We want to make learning about and applying to Cristo Rey Orange County High School an easy process. Please contact us if you have any questions, want help with the application, or want to schedule a tour, school visit, or Shadow Day.

Ms. De Leon, Admissions Counselor

Two Cristo Rey students

01

Age

We issue a work permit for participation in the Corporate Work Study program. Thus, students applying to the 9th grade must be 14 years old by September 1, 2025. Students interested in transferring for 10th grade should contact us to determine if spots are available.

 

02

Financial Need

All families must meet the income criteria of the Cristo Rey Network, the national organization which sets the standards for Cristo Rey schools. Cristo Rey Orange County High School is committed to providing an affordable, high-quality, Catholic college preparatory education to qualified students from families with limited economic resources. Cristo Rey doesn’t cost less than other private schools. Our unique funding model ensures we are accessible:

  • Donor-funded scholarships: Scholarships cover 50% of the educational costs. These can come from various sources, including individual donors, foundations, corporate giving, and other organizations.

  • Corporate Work Study Program: Students contribute approximately 45% of the educational costs through participation in our innovative Corporate Work Study Program.

  • Family Tuition: The remaining 5% of the educational costs is the family's responsibility. The family contribution starts at $25 per month based on household size and income, as determined by FACTS, a third-party income verification provider.

 If you have a special circumstance and believe your income may exceed our eligibility criteria, please contact the admissions office. 

 

03

Academics

Cristo Rey Orange County High School is a college preparatory school. Therefore, students must have a willingness to work with purpose to meet high academic expectations and the work obligations of the school. Students must be in good academic standing with grades higher than a C and good attendance throughout the school year. 

 

04

Employability

Our work-study program requires students to demonstrate maturity and a strong work ethic. This is assessed through a scheduled interview, letters of recommendation, and behavior reports. Students must be legally eligible to work in the U.S. by September 1st of the year they are admitted.