Admissions Process – Stella Maris Academy

A Personal Welcome

At Stella Maris Academy, we value getting to know each family personally. Before enrollment, parents meet with the principal for a friendly conversation about our shared goals and the special partnership between home and school. This pre-admission interview is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about our mission, philosophy, and community expectations while discussing how we can best support your child’s growth—academically, spiritually, and personally.

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2025-2026 Tuition

Registration and other fees apply. Click “Financial Agreement” to view details

Transitional Kindergarten

Per Student

$15,107.00

With participating parishioner discount *

$14,107.00

Multi-child discounts do not apply for Transitional Kindergarten.

Financial agreement

Kindergarten – 8th Grade

First Student

$13,759.00

With participating parishioner discount for the first student *

$12,759.00

Second Student

$12,383.00

Third Student

$12,108.00

Fourth Student

$10,319.00

Financial agreement

*Participating Parishioner Discount is offered to those families who are registered at a Catholic parish and meets the requirement of stewardship (time, talent, and treasure ($1000 in contributions to the parish)) as defined by the pastor. A completed Verification of Participating Parishioner Form from the parish is required for the participating parishioner rate.

participating parishioner form

Financial Aid

Stella Maris Academy is dedicated to making our enriching educational programs accessible to as many students as possible. Families are required to complete the FACTS Grant & Aid application by February 28 to be considered for financial aid. Applications for financial aid for the upcoming school year will be available on January 1.

FACTS GRANT & Aid Application

FINANCIAL AID at SMA

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you prioritize admissions?

As a parish school, priority enrollment is given first to families who are active members of Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church, followed by practicing Catholic families from other parishes, and then families of other faith traditions who embrace our philosophy and values.

What are the admission requirements?

Transitional Kindergarten and Kindergarten Readiness

Children must be four years old by September 1 to enter Transitional Kindergarten and five years old by September 1 to enter Kindergarten. For our youngest learners, prospective Transitional Kindergarten and Kindergarten students are invited to spend a “shadow day” on campus, where teachers gently assess readiness for school in a fun and engaging way.

Admissions for Grades 1–8

Students entering grades 1–8 also enjoy a shadow day, meeting teachers and classmates to ensure a smooth transition and the right placement. This experience helps both families and staff determine how we can best support each child’s continued success.

Is there a probationary period?

What records would I need to provide?

What are the family involvement expectations at Stella Maris Academy?

At Stella Maris Academy, we believe that children thrive when home and school work together. Through our Family Involvement Service Hours (F.I.S.H.) program, parents are encouraged to share their time and talents in ways that enrich our classrooms, support teachers and staff, and strengthen our school community. Your participation not only benefits students but also creates meaningful connections and helps our school flourish.

What is the purpose of the PTO events fee and the annual Gala?

Upon acceptance to Stella Maris Academy, a $500 PTO events fee helps fund the many activities and community-building events our Parent Teacher Organization provides for students and families throughout the year. The annual Gala is our major fundraiser, supporting tuition assistance and providing additional resources that directly benefit our students and school programs. Together, these efforts strengthen our community and help sustain the exceptional educational experience offered at Stella Maris Academy.

NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATORY POLICY
Schools part of the Diocese of San Diego, admit students of any race, color, and national and/or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities made available to students at the schools. Diocesan schools do not discriminate on the basis of race, color and national and/or ethnic origin, age, sex or disability in the administration of educational policies, scholarships, loan programs, athletic and other school-administered programs. Likewise, Diocesan schools do not discriminate against any applicant for employment on the basis of sex, age, disability, race, color and national and/or ethnic origin.