Admissions Timeline and FAQs


Admissions FAQ

Helping You Navigate the Journey to High School at Fr. Tolton Catholic

When should we apply?

Applications for the next school year open each fall. We recommend applying by January 15 to receive priority consideration.

Financial aid and scholarship applications are due by March 15. Admission decisions are typically shared in late February.

Can my child visit the school?

Yes! We offer Shadow Days for 8th graders from September through April. These visits let students experience a real school day at Tolton, meet teachers and students, and get a feel for the community.

We also host an Open House in October, and individual tours can be scheduled year-round.

What if we are not Catholic?

All students are welcome at Tolton. About 25 percent of our students come from other Christian traditions or faith backgrounds.

While we are a Catholic school, we value each student’s unique perspective and invite all families seeking a strong college-prep education rooted in values to consider Tolton.

How much is tuition?

Yes, we charge tuition. For the current school year, tuition is:

  • $9,332 for registered Catholic families
  • $11,636 for all other students
  • $17,025 for international students

Families with more than one student enrolled at the same time receive a $2,000 discount per additional child. There is also a $50 annual technology fee.

You can choose to pay tuition in one, two, or monthly installments. Discounts are available for full-year and semester payments.

Tuition does not cover the full cost of a Tolton education. We rely on generous donors and community partners to help bridge the gap—ensuring every student receives the best possible academic and faith-based formation.

If cost is a concern, we encourage you to talk with us. Financial assistance is available and tailored to your family’s individual needs. Let’s explore options together before deciding Tolton isn’t the right fit.

Is financial aid available?

Yes. We’re committed to helping families make a Tolton education possible. Need-based financial aid and scholarships are available to all families who apply. Assistance is based on individual family circumstances.

We encourage every family to apply. The deadline for financial aid and scholarship applications is March 15 each year for the following school year.

Do all students attend Mass and take theology classes?

Yes. All students, regardless of faith background, participate in school-wide Masses, theology courses, retreats, and faith-based activities.

These experiences are meant to build character, encourage reflection, and strengthen community—not to pressure belief.

What is the dress code?

Tolton students wear a standardized uniform that reflects pride, professionalism, and unity. The dress code supports a focused learning environment and simplifies mornings at home.

Basic expectations include:

  • Tolton logo polo
  • Khaki or navy pants, shorts, or skirts
  • Closed-toe shoes
  • School-approved outerwear

We also offer spirit days and dress-down opportunities throughout the year.

➡️ View the Full Dress Code Policy (PDF)

What extracurriculars are available?

About 95 percent of Tolton students are involved in at least one club, sport, or activity. From fine arts and academic teams to service clubs and faith-based groups, there’s something for every student to explore.

Opportunities include:

  • Athletics and Activities (20 teams)
  • Theater, band, choir, and visual arts
  • Academic teams like Scholar Bowl, STEM Club, Speech and Debate
  • Clubs focused on faith, leadership, service, and fun

If something doesn’t exist yet, students are encouraged to work with a faculty advisor to start something new. Blazers don’t just join—they lead.

If my child transfers to Tolton, will they be eligible to play sports?

Transfer students may have limited athletic eligibility during their first year, depending on Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) rules.

If a student transfers after beginning 9th grade at another high school, they may be ineligible to compete at the varsity level for 365 days unless certain exceptions apply.

We recommend reviewing the MSHSAA eligibility guidelines and contacting our athletic office to discuss your individual situation. 

➡️ MSHSAA Eligibility Standards

Can a student transfer into Tolton mid-year?

Yes. Transfer applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Interested families should contact Ashley Moore at amoore@toltoncatholic.org to begin the process.

We’ll ask for your student’s most recent report card, standardized test scores, and a discipline record to ensure a good fit.

What is the diversity of your student body?

Tolton welcomes students from all backgrounds. Our community includes families from a range of racial, cultural, and faith traditions.

A recent breakdown of our student population:

  • Caucasian: 86%
  • Hispanic: 5%
  • African American: 5%
  • Asian: 2%
  • Native American/Alaskan: 1%

We believe every student brings something valuable to our school, and we work to foster a community where all belong.

How can parents get involved?

Parents are a vital part of the Tolton community. Whether you’re cheering from the sidelines, helping with teacher appreciation, or volunteering at events, you belong here too.

Tolton parents are invited to join:

  • Blazer Nation, our inclusive school community of parents, alumni, grandparents, staff, and friends
  • TPA (Trailblazer Parent Association), which supports student life, events, athletics, and more
  • TEN Club (Tolton Empty Nesters), for parents of alumni who want to stay connected even after graduation

➡️ Learn More About Parent Involvement