Compare International Schools in Fairfield, United States

Notre Dame Prep of Sacred Heart University

Instructs in English

Fees $22,100

Pupils 550

Type Co-educational

Notre Dame Prep, a four-year Catholic, co-ed college-preparatory program, is located at 220 Jefferson Street, Fairfield, Connecticut, within Sacred Heart University's campus. It offers a blend of rigorous academics rooted in Catholic identity, including the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for juniors and seniors and an array of Advanced Placement courses, with the option of a bespoke curriculum. Senior and junior students may enroll in college-level courses for credit through partnerships with Sacred Heart University and the University of Connecticut, with transcripts issued by SHU and/or UConn. The Distinguished Scholars Program provides a four-year high-honors sequence across Theology, English, Mathematics, History, Modern Language, Lab Science, and Technology, integrated with AP or IB options and a required Senior Experience. The school emphasizes hands-on learning via collegiate laboratories and access to SHU facilities, a 1:1 Chromebook program, and two computer labs with Apple iMacs. Outcomes for graduates include universal college placement and merit scholarships.

Location

The school is located at 220 Jefferson St, Fairfield, CT 06825, United States. It sits in Fairfield on a campus area associated with Sacred Heart University and is part of the Sacred Heart University community. The campus is off the Merritt Parkway (Exit 29) at the junction of Fairfield, Bridgeport, Easton, and Trumbull, across from Sacred Heart University.

Stages

High School

Type

Co-ed

Country affiliation

United States

Religious affiliation

Catholic

Bus service

ND provides private bus transportation from several towns. Availability is determined by family interest. Routes run eastbound to Stamford and Norwalk and westbound from the Orange-West Haven line. There is also a shuttle to and from the Fairfield-Black Rock Metro Train Station; there is an additional cost for private bus transportation.

Application fees
- Application fee: USD 60.00 (non‑refundable).
- Financial aid application fee (FACTS processing): USD 30.00.
- FACTS family account setup / registration fee (for payment plans): USD 45.00.

Tuition fees (2026–2027 academic year)
- Standard high‑school tuition (all grades): USD 18,600 per academic year.
- Learning Academy (specialized support program) tuition: USD 22,100 per academic year.

Per‑term / installment examples based on published payment plans:
- One‑time annual payment: USD 18,600 (one‑time payment by June 30 qualifies for a USD 500 early‑payment discount). Example one‑time amount with discount: USD 18,100.
- Two‑payment plan: two equal installments on May 15 and November 15; each installment for standard tuition would be USD 9,300.
- Twelve‑month plan: monthly payments from May 15 through April 15; monthly amount for standard tuition would be USD 1,550.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Payment plans are established and managed through each family's FACTS account; families select one‑time, two‑payment, or twelve‑month plans when they enroll.
- New‑student tuition deposit: a non‑refundable USD 1,000 tuition deposit is required to secure a spot in the freshman class. Deposit deadlines vary by admission round (examples shown in the admissions calendar).

Boarding / residency
- Notre Dame Prep is a day school; the school does not provide boarding or host‑family placement for students.

Other recurring or expected costs
- Annual fundraising fee: USD 175 (can be offset by participation in fundraisers).
- Estimated books/supplies: USD 300–400 per year (estimate).
- Estimated uniform costs: approximately USD 100 (depending on number of items purchased).
- Private bus / transportation: additional cost when transportation is provided; availability and routes depend on family interest.
- College‑credit registration fees: students who take college courses through Sacred Heart University or UConn pay the registration/credit fees required by those institutions (per course).

Refund information
- The USD 1,000 tuition deposit required to secure a freshman place is explicitly non‑refundable.

Fee payment options and mechanics
- All family payment plans and tuition billing are administered through FACTS; families set up their chosen payment schedule (one‑time, two installments, or monthly) within their FACTS account. Specific payment methods (credit card, bank transfer/ACH, etc.) are those supported by the FACTS platform and by the school's FACTS billing setup.

Summary of key 2026–2027 fee figures (USD)
- Tuition (standard): USD 18,600 per year.
- Learning Academy tuition: USD 22,100 per year.
- Application fee: USD 60.00.
- FACTS registration / set‑up: USD 45.00.
- Fundraising fee: USD 175.
- Books: USD 300–400 (estimated).
- Uniforms: ~USD 100 (estimated).
- Tuition deposit to secure a freshman place: USD 1,000 (non‑refundable).

Curriculum

Notre Dame Prep offers a four-year college-preparatory program rooted in Catholic identity. It provides the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for juniors and seniors, with the option to take individual IB-level courses. The school offers fifteen Advanced Placement programs. Sacred Heart University and the University of Connecticut partner with Notre Dame Prep to provide college-level courses for credit for juniors and seniors, with transcripts issued by SHU and/or UConn. The Distinguished Scholars Program provides a four-year high-honors sequence across Theology, English, Mathematics, History, Modern Language, Lab Science, and Technology, with AP or IB options and a required Senior Experience. The program is designed to prepare students for success in college and beyond.

Exam Results

Nearly 100% of the Class of 2026 is pursuing higher education, and they earned nearly $37 million in scholarships/grants. 100% of graduates matriculate to four-year colleges.

Higher Education Progression

Graduates pursue higher education at four-year colleges and universities. Nearly 100% of the Class of 2026 pursued higher education, earning substantial scholarships. The Sacred Heart University and University of Connecticut partnerships allow eligible students to earn college credit while still in high school.

Gifted and Talented

Distinguished Scholars Program offers a four-year High Honors track with a rigorous, interdisciplinary sequence in Theology, English, Mathematics, History, Modern Language, Lab Science, and Technology, with AP or IB options and a required Senior Experience. Notre Dame Prep also offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for advanced students. Through the availability of fifteen Advanced Placement programs, students have multiple options for advanced study.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The Guidance & Counseling Office assists students to discover and develop their aptitudes and opportunities so they may enrich their lives and attain their maximum potential in education or the world of work. The staff encourage self-discipline to support a realistic and positive self-image and an appreciation of the uniqueness of others; the College & Career Counselor helps with college and career plans. Workshops on college testing, financial aid, and college selection are held annually for students and their parents. Notre Dame serves as a testing center for the SATs during the school year, and representatives from dozens of colleges visit in the fall and winter. The Student Assistance Team provides support for students with emotional difficulties, substance abuse, eating disorders, physical abuse, and family problems, referring them to appropriate professionals.

Mental Wellbeing

The Guidance & Counseling program supports mental wellbeing by fostering self-discipline, a positive self-image, and constructive decision making. The Student Assistance Team provides support for emotional difficulties and crisis situations and refers students to appropriate professionals when needed.

Safeguarding

The Notre Dame Health Office is staffed from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. by a full-time registered nurse provided by the Fairfield Health Department to promote health and well-being and support students so they can learn. The nurse collaborates with Guidance and faculty to develop appropriate care plans. Connecticut requires a current health assessment for entering students. Medication administration is governed by specific forms, including self-administered medication, and the Health Office coordinates with families and school staff to ensure safe and appropriate support.

History

Notre Dame Prep is part of the Sacred Heart University community, providing university resources, mentorship, and support to students. The mission is to nurture the overall development of young people in character, faith, and intellect, cultivating a love for knowledge, truth, and excellence within a Catholic framework. The diverse and caring community helps students discover their God-given purpose and live as imitators of Christ. Nearly 100% of the Class of 2026 pursued higher education and earned about $37 million in scholarships, with 100% of graduates matriculating to four-year colleges. The school is located in Fairfield, Connecticut at 220 Jefferson St, Fairfield, CT 06825.

Community

Notre Dame Prep has a diverse, caring community rooted in Catholic teachings, with Sacred Heart University affiliation enriching student life with university resources, mentorship, and support. ND Life features Campus Ministry and Clubs & Activities, service to the community, and global learning opportunities such as study abroad in Dingle, Ireland, with the International Baccalaureate program available. The school serves 550 enrolled students across 32 towns and cities, offers 26 after-school clubs and activities, 15 Advanced Placement programs, and 20 athletic teams. 100% of graduates matriculate to four-year colleges.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The Notre Dame Parent Association includes parents, faculty, staff, and friends of Notre Dame; it builds community and creates meaningful opportunities for families to connect with one another and with the school. Through events, activities, and volunteer opportunities, the Parent Association brings the community together while raising funds to support Notre Dame programs and initiatives. Grounded in faith, service, charity, and respect, it welcomes parents who share their time, talents, and ideas. To learn more, contact Kim Wardlow in the Advancement Office or Melissa Walko Nunez, Parent Association President (kwardlow@notredame.org; melissawn@yahoo.com).

Facilities Overview

Notre Dame Prep is affiliated with Sacred Heart University, providing students with university resources, mentorship, and access to campus facilities. The campus offers a 1:1 connected environment with Chromebooks for every student. There are two classroom labs equipped with Apple iMacs connected to the school network with internet access, email, and printers. Students benefit from hands-on learning in collegiate laboratories and facilities, and have access to Sacred Heart University's library and athletic fields. Lunch is served in the Dining Hall on campus.

Sports Facilities

Athletic facilities include access to Sacred Heart University's athletic fields and related campus resources.

Academic Facilities

Notre Dame Prep issues Chromebooks to all students for use at school and home, and each classroom is connected to the school network. The school has two computer labs with Apple iMacs linked to the network, with Internet access, email, and networked printers. The affiliation with Sacred Heart University provides access to collegiate laboratories and facilities for hands-on learning, and to SHU's library and other campus resources. The campus emphasizes up-to-date technology as part of its academic program, and students benefit from a connected, device-enabled learning environment.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Notre Dame Prep offers a wide range of clubs and activities beyond the classroom, including Chess Club, Band and Chorus, The Spring Musical, E-Sports, Student Council, Yearbook, Drama Club, Dance Team, Latinos Unidos, Culture Club, Model UN/Debate, Peace by Justice, Horizons Club, Creative Writing Club, STEM Club, and more. These activities foster leadership, teamwork, service, cultural appreciation, and creative expression.

Academic & Intellectual

Chess Club fosters critical thinking through local competitions. STEM Club provides hands-on exploration of science, technology, engineering, and math. The Model UN Club/Debate Club develops research, public speaking, and teamwork; the National Honor Society and Language Honor Societies (French and Spanish) recognize scholarship, leadership, and service.

Arts & Creative

Band performs at school concerts and community venues, and Chorus performs with the Band in two annual concerts. The Art Club supports set design for the spring musical and displays student artwork. Drama Club produces the fall drama, winter arts celebration, spring musical, and spring arts festival.

Cultural & Language

Latinos Unidos celebrates Latino culture, heritage, and traditions and fosters community and inclusion. The Language Honor Societies (French and Spanish) promote language excellence and related activities; French Club and Spanish Club support language learning and cultural experiences. Culture Club engages in liturgies, class retreats, and service projects to connect faith and culture.

Social & Hobbies

Pop Culture Club explores trends in movies, music, television, social media, and current events. Craft Club offers hands-on projects and DIY designs. Link Crew is a student leadership program that welcomes and mentors freshmen.

Community & Service

Horizons Club works with the Horizons summer enrichment program and organizes year-round events for program families. Campus Ministry celebrates and educates about the diversity of the school community and hosts cultural celebrations. Peace by Justice is a club focused on Catholic social teaching and social justice initiatives.

Leadership & Professional

Student Council provides a student-led leadership platform. The Frank and Marisa Martire Student Leadership Institute offers transformational leadership training for a cohort of students. The Tri-M Music Honor Society coordinates a yearly benefit performance and leads service projects.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Dance Team builds school spirit and fitness through performances at games and events. E-Sports is a competitive program that participates in PlayVs across multiple titles. Horizons Club and Campus Ministry promote community and wellness through family events, celebrations, and faith-based activities.

Admissions

1. Submit the online admissions application. The Admissions Office provides assistance throughout the process, and families are encouraged to visit the campus and arrange a Shadow Day. The online application is accessible on the admissions page and marks the start of consideration for Notre Dame Prep. 2. Take the eighth-grade entrance exam to be considered for admission. The available test dates are Saturday, October 24, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. and Saturday, November 7, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. Applicants must have an admission application on file prior to testing; registration for the exam is required. 3. Prepare and submit the required materials. A signed Academic Release Waiver is part of the application, and seventh and first-marking period eighth-grade report cards will be requested. One letter of recommendation from a teacher, the Principal, or the Guidance Counselor is required, and a copy of any IEP or 504 Plan should be included if applicable. Some eighth-grade applicants are invited for an interview as part of the process. 4. Attend an interview if invited. The Admissions Office will contact invited students to schedule the interview, and the interview provides additional information for evaluation. 5. Submit the tuition deposit to secure a spot. A non-refundable $1,000 tuition deposit is required to secure a place in the freshman class and must be returned by the specified deadline. Early Decision deposits are due by January 8, 2027; Priority Admissions deposits are due by February 12, 2027; Rolling Admissions do not specify a separate deposit deadline in this schedule. 6. Understand the application deadlines and tracks. Early Decision has a deadline of November 13, 2026 with letters sent December 13, 2026 and a deposit due January 8, 2027; Priority Admissions has a deadline of November 13, 2026 with letters sent January 15, 2027 and a deposit due February 12, 2027; Rolling Admissions begin January 15, 2027. 7. Transfer applicants may apply. Notre Dame Prep welcomes potential transfer students in grades 10 and 11; transfer applications for January admission are accepted beginning November 1 and for September admission beginning March 15. Required items include the online application with a $60 fee, an official high school transcript, an interview, and two letters of recommendation (one from an English or Math teacher and one from a Guidance Counselor or Principal). 8. International applicants have special considerations. Notre Dame Prep does not offer an ESL program; all applicants must be proficient in English, and host families are not arranged by the school. If accepted, the school assists in obtaining an I-20. International applicants must complete the online application, pay the $60 fee, submit two letters of recommendation (one English teacher and one Math teacher), provide scores from any English proficiency tests, submit official transcripts from all education since 7th grade, and provide a copy of the passport; an interview is conducted. 9. Open houses or information sessions are recommended. Families are encouraged to join an Open House or Information Session to learn more about the program and the admissions process.

Scholarships

Academic Scholarships: $2,500–$8,000 per year. Awarded to students who meet academic requirements (B+ average in core subjects, a high entrance exam score, and teacher recommendations); awards are listed in the acceptance letter and there is no separate application. Presidential Scholarship: $10,000 per year. Awarded to students who score within the 98th percentile on the entrance exam and have an A average; awards are listed in the acceptance letter and there is no separate application. Distinguished Scholars Program: $1,500 per year. Selection is based on the entrance exam, elementary/middle school achievement, teacher recommendations, and a personal interview; qualified applicants are invited to apply to the program. Dance, Chorus, and Band Scholarship Program: $3,000 per year. These arts scholarships require an audition and are renewable annually provided the recipient participates in the program and maintains a B average. An application is due by 11/13/26. Drama Scholarship Program: $1,000 per year. An application and a two-minute video submission are required; recipients must participate in both fall and spring productions, and the scholarship is renewable annually with ongoing participation. Chess Scholarships: $750 per year. Applicants must have an online scholarship application and a chess rating of 1000 or higher; recipients must regularly participate in the Chess Club and compete in at least one chess tournament annually at Sacred Heart University; applications due by 11/13/26. Need-Based Financial Aid: Varies. Families may apply online for need-based aid via the established online system; aid is determined by financial need and must be applied for annually.

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Compare International Schools in Fairfield, United States

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