Admissions
Applications for the 2025-2026 School Year Now Open!
The Cristo Rey Difference
We are a Catholic, coed, high school located in Santa Ana, CA. Our mission is to provide a college preparatory education to students who otherwise couldn't afford a Catholic education. We do this through a very generous scholarship program and our innovative Corporate Work Study program.
Cristo Rey Orange County provides students access to a top-quality Catholic education, four years of professional work experience, and a proven path to college. Cristo Rey students work five days a month at top Orange County companies. This hands-on experience brings classroom education together with real world experience, giving students an educational experience unlike any other. We are the ONLY school in the area offering this opportunity.
Interested in becoming a Cristo Rey student? Click here to receive more information!
Characteristics of a Cristo Rey Student
Cristo Rey Orange County considers a variety of factors during the application process. Our application process allows us to get to know students and their families on a personal level in order to make the best admissions decision for each student. The most important characteristics we are looking for in an incoming freshman:
Motivated and mature - Studying AND working as a high school student is not easy, students should show the maturity and motivation to be able to handle both aspects of our curriculum.
Open to Catholic religious values - While students do not have to be Catholic to attend, they should be open to a faith based education.
Employable - All students participate in the Corporate Work Study program and must be eligible to work in the US.
Earned grades of C or above - Seventh grade and eighth grade grades will be reviewed for admission purposes.
Limited economic resources - Because our mission is to provide an education to students who otherwise could not afford a Catholic high school, we look at family income in the admissions process. Families who do NOT qualify for free or reduced lunch should contact the admissions office prior to applying.
Demonstrated strong discipline and attendance record - Seventh and eighth grade discipline and attendance records will be reviewed for admission purposes.
Comfortable conversing with adults - Students should be comfortable working with adults in an office environment.
Opening Day 2023 at Cristo Rey
Become a Cristo Rey Student
Interested in becoming a Cristo Rey student? Click here to receive more information or contact our admissions team at apply@cristoreyoc.org.