Apply / Enroll

Take the first step to becoming a McNicholas Rocket!

The admission application for the 2025-2026 year is open.

McNicholas High School admits qualified young men and women of any race, color, nationality, and ethnic origin. The Enrollment Committee looks for students who are committed to spiritual growth, service to others, and academic achievement. Students must demonstrate the ability to be successful within the McNicholas High School curriculum and possess a satisfactory disciplinary record.

Application Process

Incoming Freshmen

STEP 1: Learn more about McNicholas

STEP 2: Submit an Application

To access the admission application, please click on “Apply Now” below to create a parent portal account. After creating an account and applying, you will be able to view your student's admission checklist and all requirements to complete the application.

Apply Now

If you are applying to the SAIL Program, you must also submit a separate SAIL Application, which will populate on your parent portal admission checklist after applying to McNicholas.

For questions about the application, please contact

Laurie Carigan

Director of Enrollment and Communications

School: 513-231-3500 x5809

Melissa Boston

Enrollment Coordinator

School: 513-231-3500 ext. 5817

STEP 3: Submit a Records Release Form

McNicholas requires academic records from the current or prior school of all applicants. 8^th graders applying to McNicholas from an Archdiocese of Cincinnati grade school will be provided a Records Release Form in the fall from their current school and records will be sent directly to McNicholas.

Applicants attending a non-Archdiocesan school will need to complete a Records Release Form to provide to their school. Please download the form below and submit it to your student’s current school. Your school will send the records directly to McNicholas High School.

Release of RecordS FOR 8TH GRADE STUDEnTs
Release of RecordS FOR TRANSFER STUDEnTs

STEP 4: Take the HSPT

STEP 5: Learn about Scholarships & Financial Aid

McNicholas Scholarships for Class of 2029

McNicholas believes in providing opportunities for students with a wide range of passions and talents and offers four types of scholarships/awards to incoming freshman candidates.

The deadline to apply for McNicholas scholarships available to incoming freshmen was November 15, 2024. Applications are now closed.

State of Ohio Scholarships

McNicholas High School accepts both EdChoice and Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarships funded by the state of Ohio. These are separate scholarship programs and students are eligible to apply for one or the other. Students must reside in the state of Ohio to qualify.

All students enrolled at McNicholas are expected to apply for a state scholarship.

Please read below to learn more about your eligibility:

EdChoice

There are two types of EdChoice Scholarships: Traditional and Expansion.

EdChoice Traditional Scholarships are awarded to students whose residential school district is on the State of Ohio’s designated list of schools in academic distress. The full Traditional Scholarship amount for the 2024-25 school year is $8,408. A family’s adjusted gross income is not a factor in receiving a Traditional Scholarship; it is based solely on residential school district.

EdChoice Expansion Scholarships are based on a family’s adjusted gross income and are awarded to families who reside in any Ohio school district. There are two types of EdChoice Expansion scholarships:

For families with an adjusted gross income above 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, the scholarship amounts for high school students for the 2024-25 school year range from a minimum of $840 to the full award amount of $8,408.
For families with an adjusted gross income below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, the scholarship will cover full tuition at McNicholas.

You can use this CALCULATOR to estimate your EdChoice Expansion award amount for the 2024-25 school year.

More information on how to apply will be provided after enrollment at McNicholas.

Learn more about EdChoice

Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship OR Jon Peterson Special Needs Autism Scholarship

The Jon Peterson Special Needs (JPSN) Scholarship program through the Ohio Department of Education provides scholarships to students who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) from their district. To qualify, a student must have a current IEP from his or her district of residence and all parties, including the parent, must be in agreement with the IEP.

The scholarship typically covers the price of the SAIL Program.

For more information on the scholarship and award qualifications and amounts, please visit the Ohio Department Education’s website.

Financial Aid

Thanks to the generosity of the McNicholas community, we are able to offer financial assistance to families.

Need based financial aid is based on the recommendations of our financial aid service company, FACTS. Factors that are taken into consideration are income, number of people in your household, amount of debt, medical expenses, and other financial situations.

McNicholas expects state scholarship funds (EdChoice or Jon Peterson) to be the first dollars applied towards a family’s need for tuition assistance as demonstrated through FACTS. McNicholas financial aid funds will be applied toward helping with demonstrated need that remains after the state of Ohio scholarship has been applied. Learn more about EdChoice and Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarships in the tab below.

Families in need of financial aid must apply every year; the aid amount may change from year-to-year based on the number of requests we receive and your current financial situation. Incoming families must have an application on file with the admissions office prior to applying for aid.

To apply for financial assistance, please fill out an application via FACTS.

FACTS

Financial Aid applications for the 2025-2026 school year were due November 30, 2024.

For questions about financial aid, please contact

Kelly McCullough

Director of Finance

School: 513-231-3500 x5804

STEP 6: Become a Rocket! ENROLL

New Students

STEP 1: Review Your Acceptance Package

We have mailed your acceptance packet via U.S. Mail. Please read all documents included in this packet when received. To view select documents digitally, please click below:

Anticipated Financial Commitment - Available by accessing your online Enrollment Contract (instructions below).
Tuition, Fees, Discounts, and Payment Plan Information
EdChoice anticipated award income table and calculator link

STEP 2: Submit Your Enrollment Contract

Log in to your parent portal to access your Enrollment Contract, view your anticipated financial commitment, pay the required deposit, and select your tuition payment plan for next year.

Registration Deadline: January 31, 2025

Parent portal

Use the same login credentials you created to apply. If you have any difficulty logging in, please contact admissions@mcnhs.org.

Access your Enrollment Checklist:
- Once you have logged into your parent portal, click on your Enrollment Checklist and under “Contract” click on “Complete Form”. You will have the option to “save and return later”. If your contract is not visible on your portal, please enter the authorization code provided on your acceptance email.
Complete your Enrollment Contract and submit.
Complete FACTS Tuition Management:
- Return to your checklist and click on the “Go to FACTS Tuition Management” blue button to be directed to FACTS, where you will select your payment plan preference and pay the required deposit. This is the only payment required at this time. All families must create a FACTS account to complete enrollment.
Upload your birth certificate if required:
- If “Birth Certificate” is marked as incomplete on the checklist in your portal, this means a copy of it was not included with your school records. Please upload a copy to the parent portal or email to admissions@mcnhs.org by February 1.
Once your checklist shows 100% complete, you are officially enrolled as McNicholas Rocket!

State Scholarships: The new and renewal applications for EdChoice and Jon Peterson state scholarships are anticipated to by the state of Ohio on February 1, 2025. McNicholas will contact all enrolled students with more information on how to apply/renew once the applications are available.

STEP 3: Celebrate With the Class of 2029!

Friday, January 31 5:00-7:00 p.m.

Stop by McNicholas on Friday, January 31 anytime between 5 - 7pm so that we can congratulate you in person! You will have the opportunity to pick up your Class of 2029 t-shirt and other fun items, meet some of your future classmates, and visit the Rocket Shop to purchase Class of 2029 and McNicholas spirit wear.

rsvp

Please RSVP for a time you will most likely be arriving to the celebration between 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Attend your first basketball game as an Official Rocket!

We invite you to join us in the Launch Pad after the Celebration on January 31 for the boys varsity basketball game against Badin at 7:30pm. Class of 2029 Rockets are admitted FREE!

STEP 4: Schedule Your Classes

February 12 or 13

Meet one-on-one with a McNicholas teacher or counselor to plan your class schedule for the 2025-2026 school year. Bring at least one parent or guardian with you to your appointment.

make an appointment

Please choose an appointment day and time no later than February 10.

Girls' Uniform Skirts:

Schoolbelles, our uniform skirt provider, will be available on campus both class scheduling nights to measure and order.

STEP 5: Learn More and Follow McNicholas

Current Student Reenrollment

STEP 1 - Access your Enrollment Checklist

STEP 2 - Complete the Enrollment Contract and Submit

Once logged into your Parent Portal, you will see your enrolling student's name (or names of all siblings reenrolling).

Under a student’s name, click on "View Checklist."
Under “Enrollment Contract,” click on “Complete Form” to view your Enrollment Contract.
Complete your Enrollment Contract and submit.
If you have more than one student to enroll, repeat for each student. You will not be able to complete the FACTS requirement until all sibling contracts are completed.
You will have the option to “save and return later” to complete contracts in more than one sitting.

Signed contracts are due on February 28, 2025.

STEP 3 - Complete FACTS Tuition Management

All returning students must access FACTS Tuition Management to choose a payment plan and set up a payment method for 2025-26.

After your student's contract is completed, return to your checklist and click on the “Go to FACTS Tuition Management” blue button to be directed to FACTS, where you will select your payment plan preference and pay the required deposit. This is the only payment required at this time.

Please note: The payment plan selected must be the same for all siblings.

STEP 4 - Confirm your enrollment

STEP 5 - Schedule your courses

As part of our commitment to customized learning, McNicholas offers a wide variety of programs and pathways for students. To help you and your student to plan for 2025-26 in an informed and intentional way, we are providing the following resources as a guide. As you explore the options and make choices for 2025-26 and beyond, please do not hesitate to reach out to our counselors for support.

McNicholas counselors will begin meeting with students in February to offer information and guidance for course selection for the 2025-26 school year. Students will receive a course scheduling form to complete; please work with your student to make intentional choices!

Course Offerings and Directories

The Course Directory contains important considerations and policies for selecting courses for 2025-26, as well as information about new courses and electives. The Course Offerings document is an overview list of all McNicholas courses. For detailed descriptions and prerequisites for each course, consult the Course Directory.

Course Offerings

Course DIRECTORY

College Credit Plus

College Credit Plus (CCP) is a dual enrollment program that allows students the opportunity to earn college and high school credits at the same time at little or no cost. Courses are offered at McNicholas, online, and on the college campus. Details about CCP can be found in the Curriculum Guide or you can contact school counselor Margaret Vonderhaar.

For questions about course scheduling, please contact

Ms. Amanda Duffy

School Counselor, for students with last names A-F

B.A., Morehead University
M.A., Wake Forest University

School: 513-231-3500 ext. 5816

Mrs. Erica Stablum

School Counselor, for students with last names G-O, Counseling Department Chair

B.A., Millersville University
M.S., University of Scranton

School: 513-231-3500 x5810

Mrs. Margaret Vonderhaar

School Counselor, for students with last names P-Z

B.S., Kent State University
M.Ed., Xavier University

School: 513-231-3500 ext. 5811

Mrs. Katie Hambly

Director of Curriculum

B.S., University of Cincinnati
M.Ed., University of Cincinnati
Ed.S., Wright State University
Principal Licensure, Miami University

School: 513-231-3500 x5823

STEP 6 - Apply for State Scholarships

All students enrolled at McNicholas are expected to apply for a state-funded scholarship for the 2025-26 school year.

EdChoice Scholarships

EdChoice applications are due February 28, 2025.

If you received an EdChoice Scholarship for the 2024-25 school year, use this EdChoice Scholarship Renewal Form to renew your scholarship for 2025-26. If your adjusted gross income is above 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, you do not need to complete the income verification process, but you will need to show proof of residence.
If you did not receive an EdChoice Scholarship for the 2024-25 school year, use this EdChoice Scholarship Request Form to apply. You will need to complete the income verification process (for Expansion only, not Traditional) as well as show proof of residence.

Learn more about EdChoice

All EdChoice renewal and new applications must be emailed to edchoice@mcnhs.org, as well as a copy of a current utility bill showing proof of residency. McNicholas will process the applications and forward to the state of Ohio.

Questions about EdChoice? Please email Kathy Bryll at edchoice@mcnhs.org or call 513-231-3500 x5178.

Kathy Bryll

Accounting Assistant

School: 513-231-3500 x5178

Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship

The Jon Peterson Special Needs (JPSN) Scholarship Program through the Ohio Department of Education provides scholarships to students who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) from their district. To qualify, a student must have a current IEP from his or her district of residence and all parties, including the parent, must be in agreement with the IEP. The amount of each scholarship is based on the disability identified on the student’s Evaluation Teacher Report (ETR).

The scholarship typically covers the cost of the SAIL Program.

Use this Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship Application to apply for or renew a JSPN Scholarship for 2025-26.

JSPN applications are due to McNicholas by February 28, 2025.

For questions about Jon Peterson, please contact

Megan Bayer

Administrative Assistant, Jon Peterson Coordinator

School: 513-231-3500 ext. 5128

PLEASE NOTE

McNicholas High School accepts both EdChoice and Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarships funded by the state of Ohio. These are separate scholarship programs and students are eligible to apply for one or the other.
Awards are applied to tuition only. Fees cannot be covered by EdChoice Scholarships. The Jon Peterson Scholarship can be applied to the SAIL Program fee.
Awards are contingent upon the parent/guardian completing the state scholarship application and income verification.
Families are required to apply/renew for this state funded program each year and eligibility is based on current state legislation.

STEP 7 - Apply for McNicholas Scholarships (optional)

Thanks to the generosity of donors, McNicholas High School is able to offer numerous scholarships for current students. Please refer to the Scholarship Guide for eligibility, criteria, and award amounts for each scholarship.

All scholarships are one-time grants for the 2025-26 school year and are non-renewable.
Students are permitted to apply for multiple scholarships.
All scholarships require two teacher recommendations and either a personal statement or essay. Students must also verbally request a recommendation from the teachers listed on the application.
A scholarship selection committee will review entries and select the recipients.
Recipients will be announced during the Academic Awards Ceremony in May.

The deadline to submit an application is February 28, 2025.

2025-26 Scholarship Guide

2025-26 Scholarship Application

For questions about McNicholas Scholarships, please contact

Jenni Tumser

Administrative Assistant to the Principal

School: 513-231-3500 x5803

Visit the full Reenrollment Checklist or current students here!

International Students

Welcome to the McNicholas International Cultural Program, where global connections meet transformative learning experiences.

The McNicholas International Cultural Exchange Program cultivates a dynamic environment where students from around the world converge to engage in a rich cultural exchange and academic exploration. Through our comprehensive curriculum and supportive community, students embark on a journey of global understanding, personal growth, and academic excellence.

At this time, McNicholas High School is only accepting students working in cooperation with an agency.

Application and Acceptance Process

Complete the Application

Submit Documents and Application Fee

Submit the following and the $50 non-refundable application fee.

TOEFL or IELTS Exam 9-12 Results. The McNick TOEFL code is D888.
English translated transcripts and recorded grades for 3 years
Letter or recommendation (addressing English proficiency)
Personal statement/Student Profile
Agency support materials
Birth Certificate
Copy of Visa
Submission of I-20 and pay SEVIS fee

Online Interview

Once all application materials have been reviewed, a friendly and professional online interview will be scheduled via Teams or Zoom. During this interview, we will assess your character strengths, academic abilities, and English proficiency, including advanced skills in writing, listening, and speaking. This interview is an important step in ensuring you are well-prepared for the exciting journey of studying abroad.

Tuition Information

Included

Tuition Fees, Textbook Rental Fees, Facility Fees, Tablet/Computer, and Retreat Fees

Not Included

McNicholas is not a boarding school and does not provide housing.
Miscellaneous School Fees (sports, field trips, clubs, or printing and technology or additional school material)
Any Extracurricular Activities
Additional Extra Fees (lost or damaged textbooks, tablets/computer, AP Exam Fees, online classes, or any private tutoring)
McNicholas does not provide assistance or merit scholarships for international students.
McNicholas does not have an English as a Second Language (ESL) program.

Support for International Student

Orientation Program | Check-In’s

Our dynamic orientation program is crafted to ensure exchange students integrate smoothly into our school community. From day one, students will get acquainted with crucial resources, including counseling services, campus facilities, school policies, uniforms, academic standards, and the student handbook.

We conduct regular check-ins to monitor students' well-being and address any concerns they may have. To offer optimal support, we create personalized plans that cater to each student's unique needs and challenges, ensuring they feel welcomed and supported throughout their journey with us.

Language Mentors

McNicholas Culture Club

Welcome to the McNick Culture Club! We’re passionate about celebrating diversity, fostering cultural exchange, and expanding our horizons. Our vibrant lineup of activities includes delicious cultural potlucks, engaging language exchanges, and eye-opening world cinema nights. Get creative in our dynamic workshops, explore global heritage on museum trips, and immerse yourself in a journey of discovery and appreciation. Join us and uncover the rich tapestry of cultures—there’s always something exciting and enlightening waiting for you!

For information on our admission process for International Students, please contact our International Exchange Coordinator, Mel Gaskins

Mel Gaskins

Teacher, Art Department Chair, International Student Coordinator

SAIL Students

The SAIL Program addresses the needs of identified students of all academic levels whose learning styles require tutorial assistance to learn the material presented in a mainstream classroom. Full-time SAIL intervention specialists work 1:1 with students to achieve the best from their learning styles and improve their strengths.

If you are interested in applying for our SAIL Program, we ask that you first apply to McNicholas and indicate you are interested in the program on your application. The SAIL application and accompanying requirements will then appear in your Parent Portal checklist for completion. There is a $50 fee to apply to the SAIL Program.

SAIL applications for incoming freshmen for 2025-2026 are due November 15, 2024.

Please contact the Admissions Department for more information about applying to SAIL and program availability.

*There is an additional fee for this program. Visit Tuition & Financial Aid to learn more.

For questions about the SAIL program, please contact

Renee Herndon

Intervention Specialist, SAIL Department Chair

Transfer Students

If you are entering 10th grade or above, please contact our Admissions Team to discuss your interest in transferring to McNicholas High School.

Please note that McNicholas does not admit transfer students entering their senior year from the Greater Cincinnati area unless the student has moved or there are extenuating circumstances necessitating a transfer.

Transfer Student Admission and Enrollment Process

Submit an Application for Admission. You will first set up an account on our Parent Portal to access the application.
If you are interested in our SAIL program, submit an additional SAIL Application which will be reviewed by the SAIL Director and faculty. Students must first apply to McNicholas before submitting a SAIL application. After applying, the SAIL Application and other requirements will appear on your Parent Portal checklist to complete. Visit our SAIL page to learn more about this program.
Provide copies of current academic records and standardized test scores by submitting a Release of Records Form to your current high school. Your school will send the records directly to McNicholas.
Participate in an admissions interview with the Enrollment Team.
Receive an acceptance decision.
Upon acceptance to McNicholas, sign our Enrollment and Tablet PC Contract, create a FACTS account, and set up a meeting to schedule your courses.

We love McNick! The sense of community, faith based education, collective leadership of the school, longevity of key teachers, and focus on communication in classes were the top reasons we chose to send our sons here.Susan, McNicholas parent

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