Mater Dei High School
California's Premier Catholic High School - Excellence in Academics, Athletics, and Innovation
Founded in 1950, Mater Dei High School is a renowned Catholic coeducational college preparatory high school located in Santa Ana, California, near Irvine. Known nationally for its exceptional athletic programs and designated as an Apple Distinguished School, Mater Dei implements a 1:1 iPad program and provides world-class facilities and academic excellence.
Our Mission
"Mater Dei High School exists to develop the student's faith and gifts in a challenging and supportive Catholic college preparatory environment. We are dedicated to cultivating well-rounded individuals who excel academically, athletically, and spiritually, prepared to make meaningful contributions to society.
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Key Info
Grades
Grades 9-12
Language Requirement
TOEFL 60-80 or equivalent
Cost of Attendance
$25k - $65k+
Accommodation
Boarding and Homestay
Admission Information
Fall Admission
August/September Start
•Application Deadline: Rolling
Primary admission season offering full academic year experience with complete access to all courses, athletics, and extracurricular activities.
Spring Admission
January Start
•Application Deadline: October
Limited mid-year admission available for qualified students and transfer applicants.
Application Requirements
- Completed online application
- Official transcripts from all previous schools
- English proficiency test (TOEFL 60-80 or equivalent)
- Teacher recommendations
- Personal statement and essays
- Student interview (virtual or in-person)
- Immunization records
- Catholic baptismal certificate (if applicable)
Why Study at Mater Dei High School?
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Technology
Mater Dei features exceptional facilities including an aquatics center, athletic fields, track, gyms, baseball complex, and golf practice facilities. As an Apple Distinguished School, all students use iPads in a cutting-edge 1:1 technology program. The campus provides a modern learning environment that prepares students for the digital age.
Nationally Renowned Athletic Programs
Mater Dei boasts one of the most prestigious high school athletic programs in America, with 28 CIF (California Interscholastic Federation) sports teams and 7 club sport teams. The school has won 10 national championships, 120 CIF championships, and 387 Trinity League championships. Notable achievements include producing 23 Gatorade Players of the Year and 12 Olympic alumni.
Outstanding STEM Programs
The school offers a comprehensive four-year STEM program allowing students to pursue interests in medicine, engineering, computer programming, animal science, forensics, biology, chemistry, and physics. Through the science department, students can customize their STEM experience to match their academic goals and career aspirations.
Life at Mater Dei High School
Study in Orange County, California - Near Irvine
Mater Dei High School is located in Santa Ana, California, near the highly desirable Irvine area. Students enjoy proximity to beaches, top universities, restaurants, shopping centers, and Southern California attractions.
Population of 309,000
Thriving Irvine area with excellent quality of life, safety, and cultural diversity
Easy Airport Access
Convenient access to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and John Wayne Airport (SNA)
Close to Top Universities
Near Caltech (#7), UCLA (#15), USC (#28), UC Irvine (#33), and other prestigious institutions
Campus Life at Mater Dei
Experience our world-class campus and championship facilities
Mater Dei Campus
Modern campus with state-of-the-art facilities in Orange County
Mater Dei High School Facts
By the numbers: Excellence across all dimensions
Academic Excellence
Mater Dei's rigorous college preparatory curriculum combines Catholic values with academic innovation, preparing students for success at the nation's top universities.
75 AP and Honors Courses
Apple Distinguished School with 1:1 iPad Program
Four-Year Customizable STEM Program
Catholic College Preparatory Education
Average Class Size of 25 Students
Advanced Placement Program in All Subjects
Comprehensive College Counseling
Engineering and Computer Science
Medical Science and Pre-Med Programs
Business and Entrepreneurship
Visual and Performing Arts
World Languages (Spanish, French, Mandarin, Latin)
Theology and Faith Formation
Service Learning Opportunities
$142 Million in Scholarship Awards
Admission to Top 30 Universities