Compare International Schools in Syracuse, United States

Bishop Ludden-Grimes Junior-Senior High School

Instructs in English

Ages 12 - 18 years

Fees $7,400 - 8,450

Pupils 350

Type Co-educational

Bishop Ludden-Grimes Junior-Senior High School is a private Catholic school in Syracuse, New York, and an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School for students aged 12 to 18. The curriculum blends the IB Diploma Programme with Advanced Placement courses, leading to a Regents Diploma or Advanced Regents Diploma with credits across English, Social Studies, Science, Mathematics, Theology, World Language, The Arts, Health, Physical Education, and Electives. IB subjects include English, History, Mathematics, Biology, Environmental Systems and Societies, Psychology, Visual Arts, and Theory of Knowledge; AP offerings include English Language, Statistics, and Calculus. College-credit opportunities exist through Le Moyne College, Syracuse University SUPA, and Onondaga Community College's Early College Now. The Center for Artful Expression houses instrumental music, vocal music, and Visual Arts; the on-campus chapel hosts Mass; the library provides NOVELNY access and Google Classroom. Since 2025, an independent Board of Trustees governs the school in partnership with diocesan advisors, preserving the Catholic mission and community links.

Location

815 Fay Road, Syracuse, NY 13219

Stages

Junior/Senior High School

Type

Private Catholic school

Country affiliation

United States

Religious affiliation

Catholic

Bus service

Your home school district is responsible for busing to Bishop Ludden-Grimes. Many Syracuse City School District students ride Centro buses to and from BLG. Bus passes are issued by the Syracuse City School District Transportation Office; after a brief start-of-year period, passes are required (around October 1). Passes may be free during the initial period. If needed, a daily temporary pass or daily token can be issued by BLG until the pass is delivered.

Application fees

- International applicant fee: USD 300 required with the international student application.
- Scholarship exam fee (for students seeking academic scholarships, grades 7–9 entry): USD 30.
- Re-registration (returning-student) fee schedule: USD 30 (Nov 1–Jan 1), USD 50 (Jan 2–Mar 1), USD 100 (Mar 2–Apr 1), USD 150 (Apr 2 and later).

Tuition fees by year group (annual and common payment-term breakdowns)

All amounts below list annual tuition plus the Student Activity Fee (USD 600) unless otherwise noted. Payment-plan options are available (single payment or multi‑payment plans); the school applies a USD 39 administration fee for multi‑payment plans (plans other than the one‑payment option). Exact per‑payment amounts shown are the annual total divided by the number of payments and do not include the one‑time USD 39 administration fee where that applies.

Parishioner rates (annual tuition):
- Grades 7–8 (first child): USD 6,400 (annual tuition); with Student Activity Fee included: USD 7,000 per year. Typical payment splits: 1 payment = USD 7,000; 4 payments = USD 1,750 each; 10 payments = USD 700 each; 12 payments = USD 583.33 each.
- Grades 7–8 (second child): USD 6,100 (annual tuition); with Student Activity Fee: USD 6,700 per year. Typical payment splits: 1 payment = USD 6,700; 4 payments = USD 1,675 each; 10 payments = USD 670 each; 12 payments = USD 558.33 each.
- Grades 7–8 (third child): USD 5,800 (annual tuition); with Student Activity Fee: USD 6,400 per year. Typical payment splits: 1 payment = USD 6,400; 4 payments = USD 1,600 each; 10 payments = USD 640 each; 12 payments = USD 533.33 each.

- Grades 9–12 (first child): USD 7,450 (annual tuition); with Student Activity Fee: USD 8,050 per year. Typical payment splits: 1 payment = USD 8,050; 4 payments = USD 2,012.50 each; 10 payments = USD 805 each; 12 payments = USD 670.83 each.
- Grades 9–12 (second child): USD 7,150 (annual tuition); with Student Activity Fee: USD 7,750 per year. Typical payment splits: 1 payment = USD 7,750; 4 payments = USD 1,937.50 each; 10 payments = USD 775 each; 12 payments = USD 645.83 each.
- Grades 9–12 (third child): USD 6,850 (annual tuition); with Student Activity Fee: USD 7,450 per year. Typical payment splits: 1 payment = USD 7,450; 4 payments = USD 1,862.50 each; 10 payments = USD 745 each; 12 payments = USD 620.83 each.

Non‑parishioner rates (annual tuition):
- Grades 7–8: USD 7,400 (annual tuition); with Student Activity Fee: USD 8,000 per year. Typical payment splits: 1 payment = USD 8,000; 4 payments = USD 2,000 each; 10 payments = USD 800 each; 12 payments = USD 666.67 each.
- Grades 9–12: USD 8,450 (annual tuition); with Student Activity Fee: USD 9,050 per year. Typical payment splits: 1 payment = USD 9,050; 4 payments = USD 2,262.50 each; 10 payments = USD 905 each; 12 payments = USD 754.17 each.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Payment plans administered through the school's tuition manager include: Plan A — one payment (August, no administration fee); Plan B — 10 payments (July–April, USD 39 administration fee); Plan C — 4 payments (July, October, January & April, USD 39 administration fee); Plan E — 12 payments (July–June, USD 39 administration fee); Plan F — 10 payments (August–May, USD 39 administration fee). Payment may be by check, telephone, online, automatic bank debit, or credit card through the tuition manager.
- Late payment charges and failed‑payment fees: USD 45 late fee for each late payment; USD 30 fee for each failed auto‑debit or dishonored check. Accounts 30 days past due receive notices and may have portals suspended and transcripts withheld; accounts 60 days past due risk suspension and potential permanent withdrawal and collection action. Seniors must have all balances paid at least 10 days prior to graduation to participate and receive diplomas/transcripts.

Boarding fees

- Not applicable — Bishop Ludden‑Grimes operates as a day junior/senior high school (grades 7–12); the school does not list boarding or on‑campus residential programs.

Other costs and typical additional fees

- Student Activity Fee: USD 600 yearly applied to all students (listed separately from base tuition).
- IB and AP exam/test fees: IB and AP exam charges are assessed separately (the school has noted that IB/AP test fees are billed, typically in the fall). Specific exam fees are charged in addition to tuition.
- Uniforms and dress code: a designated uniform is required. Certain uniform pieces must be purchased through the school's vendor (Global Schoolwear/Tommy Hilfiger via the school partner code); some items (oxfords, shoes, socks, belts) may be purchased elsewhere. Uniform costs vary by item and vendor.
- Re‑registration fees for returning families (see schedule above).
- Financial‑aid application processing fee: USD 45 per family charged through the FACTS Grant & Aid financial‑aid application process.

Refund information and withdrawal billing

- Pro‑rations: tuition and any scholarship are pro‑rated for students who enter after September 30. A student who withdraws or is dismissed will be charged tuition for the remainder of the month in which the student leaves. If actual tuition payments received exceed the tuition due for the period enrolled, the difference will be refunded. Financial aid awarded for the current school year is forfeited if a student is asked to leave. Transcripts and records are withheld until outstanding balances are paid.

Fee payment options

- Accepted payment methods: check, telephone payment, online payment via the tuition manager, automatic debit from a bank account, or credit card. The school uses a third‑party tuition management service for billing and payment processing.

Notes

- The school offers financial aid and tuition assistance programs; families apply for aid through FACTS Grant & Aid (processing fee applies). Deadlines and award processes are published annually by the school's Tuition & Financial Aid office.

Uniform Requirement

Uniforms are required. All students wear uniforms purchased through the exclusive vendor Tommy Hilfiger; Lands' End uniforms remain acceptable for students enrolled prior to the 2024-2025 academic calendar.

Food Options

Food Services are subsidized by the USDA and the New York State Department of Donated Foods; meals meet one-third of daily nutritional requirements and are prepared in Bishop Ludden-Grimes Kitchen. Most items are homemade and baked (not fried); the cafeteria operates as a self-sufficient program and offers catering services; candy and soda are not sold during the school day.

Governance and Ownership

The school became an independent New York Educational Corporation on July 1, 2025, and is governed by a Board of Trustees. The Board meets quarterly and uses committees for finance, facilities, alumni, fund development, marketing, enrollment management, and mission effectiveness; ex officio members include the Head of School and the Superintendent and Deputy Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Syracuse.

Curriculum

BLG is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School with a Catholic mission. As an IB World School, inclusion is embraced as a process aligned with the IB Learner Profile. The 2026-2027 Program of Studies lists a curriculum featuring Religious Studies (Theology), English, Social Studies, Mathematics, Science, The Arts, World Language, and Physical Education, with AP and IB courses available. Graduation requirements provide a Regents Diploma or Advanced Regents Diploma with core credits in English, Social Studies, Science, Mathematics, Theology, World Language, The Arts, Health, Physical Education, and Electives. AP courses in English Language, Statistics, and Calculus are offered, and IB Diploma Programme courses in English, History, Mathematics, Biology, Environmental Systems and Societies, Psychology, Visual Arts, and IB Core/Theory of Knowledge are available, with internal and external assessments. There are college-credit opportunities through Le Moyne College, Syracuse University (SUPA), and Onondaga Community College (Early College Now), including pathways to college credits while still in high school.

Higher Education Progression

Guidance and support for college applications is provided by the School Counseling Office, with assistance on college selection, essay writing, standardized test preparation, and financial aid resources. Students use platforms such as the Common Application and SUNY Application, and transcripts are prepared for college admissions. BLG maintains partnerships for college credit through Syracuse University (SU) and Onondaga Community College (OCC) via the Early College Now program, and offers additional college-credit opportunities through Le Moyne College, SUPA, and OCC.

Gifted and Talented

BLG is an IB World School and offers AP and IB Diploma Programme coursework, providing advanced opportunities for students. AP and IB courses carry a weighted credit of 1.1 on the transcript. Students may pursue a second IB Diploma by completing a two-year IB program, with an IB Coordinator available for guidance. College credit is available through IB and AP pathways.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Counseling is dedicated to the care and development of each student. The Counseling Office provides academic and personal counseling throughout a student's years at Bishop Ludden-Grimes Junior/Senior High School. Counselors coordinate the guidance program and involve staff to meet three goals: Educational Development, Personal/Social Development, and Career Development and College Readiness. Representatives from over 75 colleges visit campus, and there are college information nights, essay workshops, and SAT preparation. The program aims for every student to be admitted to the college that best serves their talents and interests.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Special Education Support is provided through the Counseling Office. It is listed as a service offered by the Counseling program. The Counseling Office offers a broad range of services that include Special Education Support.

Mental Wellbeing

Counseling supports students' mental wellbeing through personal and academic counseling. Personal Counseling and Academic Counseling are provided, along with College Search and Application Support. Grief Counseling is offered, and Substance Abuse Counseling is available. Peer Mediation and collaboration with parents, teachers, and students support social and emotional growth.

Safeguarding

The school maintains Safe Environment, a central policy focused on safeguarding. Clear procedures address concerns about student safety and respectful interactions. When there is reasonable suspicion that a child has been the victim of abuse or maltreatment, school personnel will contact the State Central Registry via the Child Abuse Hotline; if imminent danger exists, CPS or 911 will be contacted. For sexual matters, the Diocesan Safe Environment Office or the Catholic Schools Office conducts investigations, with a two-person team visiting the school. Families are notified after investigations, and open communication with families is emphasized to ensure the well-being of every child in our care.

History

On July 1, 2025, Bishop Ludden-Grimes Jr-Sr High School became an independent New York Educational Corporation. A newly formed independent Board of Trustees governs the school in partnership with the Bishop and diocesan advisors in making decisions for Bishop Ludden-Grimes. This governance structure enables input from alumni, students, and faculty in enrollment, fundraising, development, and the overall stewardship of operations. The bylaws require the Board of Trustees to meet on a quarterly basis, and the Board operates through committees focused on finance, facilities, alumni, fund development, marketing, enrollment management, and mission effectiveness.

Community

Mass and daily prayer are central to BLG life, with the student body sharing liturgies monthly and daily prayer led by students. Campus Ministry oversees liturgical life, including a May Procession, Candlemas, Mass on the Grass, St. Joseph's Mass, and Blessing of the Pets. Penance services occur in Advent and Lent with priests and student ministers, and altar servers and Eucharistic ministers join monthly Mass. Service hours are part of Faith & Service and Theology, tracked through a log; hours must come from at least two organizations, and by senior year students will accumulate at least 120 hours; those with 300+ hours receive a white service cord at graduation.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

P4LG (Parents for Ludden-Grimes) promotes parent camaraderie, fellowship, and school spirit through social events coordinated with administration and staff. By promoting these activities, P4LG aims to make each school year more promising. The members organize events such as a Welcome Back Social and a Homecoming Bonfire. Parent involvement is considered the key to the success of students and the school. For more information or to get involved, contact Sandy Craner at slcraner69@gmail.com or 315-450-4560.

Facilities Overview

The Center for Artful Expression opened in 2004 and is home to instrumental music, vocal music, and visual arts programs. The art rooms are 1,100 square feet each and include storage and cleanup facilities, a dark room for film development, a digital photography area, and a kiln for firing clay. An on-campus chapel hosts Mass and other services. The Bishop Ludden-Grimes Library provides NOVELNY access, is staffed by Library Media Specialist Alexa Kulak, and uses Google Classroom codes for students and staff. A library media center was developed to support large-group classes and online interaction alongside the school's computer labs. The on-site Art Wing is referenced as part of the arts facilities on campus.

Academic Facilities

Bishop Ludden-Grimes offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. IB courses include English Literature, French or Spanish, History of the Americas, Psychology, Environmental Systems & Societies, Mathematics Analysis & Approaches, Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation, Visual Arts, and The Core Class which provides time to study Theory of Knowledge (TOK), develop Creativity-Activity-Service (CAS) projects, and complete the Extended Essay (EE). The Visual Arts program is offered as IB Visual Arts and includes Art 8, Drawing & Painting, and Studio Art. The Center for Artful Expression houses instrumental music, vocal music and visual arts; the art rooms are about 1,100 square feet with storage, cleanup facilities, a dark room for film development, a digital photography area and a kiln. The Bishop Ludden-Grimes Library provides NOVELNY access, is staffed by Library Media Specialist Alexa Kulak, uses Google Classroom for students and staff, and a library media center supports large-group classes and online learning.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Clubs and activities include Student Government, Big Knights Little Knights, Peer Ministry, Chess Club, Select Choir, Theater, Jazz Band, Robotics Club, LEGO Club, E-Sports, Ski Club, STEM Club, Quiz Bowl, Yearbook, and Book Club. The Arts offer Concert Choir & Band and Visual Arts opportunities, with activities such as gallery displays, recitals and ensemble performances. Bishop Ludden-Grimes also features Bishop's TV as part of its arts offerings. The school's clubs and activities span STEM, arts, service and student life, enabling broad student involvement.

Academic & Intellectual

The school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program in addition to the traditional NYS diploma. IB is recognized for its balance of rigorous academics and transferable skills, preparing students for success beyond high school. The school is an IB World School. Each year, graduates attend colleges across the country and beyond.

Arts & Creative

The arts program includes Concert Choir & Band and Visual Arts. The Center for Artful Expression houses instrumental music, vocal music, and visual arts. The art rooms include a dark room for film development and a kiln room for firing clay, with spaces for art storage and clean-up. IB Visual Arts is offered among the art courses.

Social & Hobbies

Students can participate in a wide range of clubs and activities including Student Government, Chess Club, Select Choir, Jazz Band, Theater, Robotics Club, Lego Club, E-Sports, Ski-Club, STEM-Club, Quiz Bowl, Yearbook, and Book Club. These options span performing arts, STEM, literature, and social clubs, supporting diverse interests. Participation in these clubs is encouraged as part of student life.

Community & Service

Faith in Action anchors service at Bishop Ludden-Grimes. Service hours are required and woven into Theology, with hourly targets by grade and a graduation “service cord” for students with 300+ hours. Hours are tracked through a Service Hours Log, and service activities should benefit people beyond the immediate family. The program encourages ongoing volunteer experiences as part of Catholic education.

Leadership & Professional

Peer Ministry provides leadership opportunities for juniors and seniors. Peer Ministers develop activities to promote faith formation, including retreats, service projects, liturgies, Penance Services, and Adoration. Peer Leaders study theological values, development stages, and motivational techniques and work with younger students. Each year has a spiritual theme, such as “Not me, But God” for 2025-2026.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

The athletics program includes numerous teams at modified, junior varsity, and varsity levels across many sports. Mass is celebrated monthly with the entire student body, and daily prayers open and close each day. Campus Ministry coordinates liturgies, Penance services, altar servers, and Eucharistic ministry as part of spiritual life. Counseling offers educational, personal, college and career guidance, test prep, and related support services to help students reach their goals.

Admissions

1) Apply to Bishop Ludden-Grimes. Priority consideration for admission and financial aid for the 2027-2028 school year requires applications to be received by January 1, 2027. Consideration will be given after that date, but availability for financial aid could be affected. Depending on class space, applicants could be placed on a waiting list. An online application is available. 2) Schedule a Visit. Families are invited to visit the campus, take a tour, meet admissions staff, talk to students and faculty, and attend athletic events and performing arts performances and traditions. Private tours are offered by appointment. Knight for a Day is an optional shadow day for students in grades six and above; sign up through the enrollment process. 3) Financial Aid and Academic Scholarship Exam. Financial aid information is available on the Financial Aid page; students must be accepted before applying for financial aid. Please apply for financial aid before February 22, 2027. An Academic Scholarship Exam is available for students entering 7th-9th grade; it is optional and not required for admission; results determine eligibility for academic scholarships. The scholarship exam dates for 2026-2027 are November 14, 2026 and January 30, 2027, with a $30 fee. To register, follow the online link.

Scholarships

Academic scholarships are awarded based on the results of the annual scholarship exam. The scholarship exam is open to students entering 7th-9th grade and is optional; taking the exam does not affect admission. The exam for 2026-2027 is scheduled for November 14, 2026 and January 30, 2027, with a $30 fee. To register, use the provided online form.

Waitlist

Waitlists may be used if class space is limited; depending on space, applicants could be placed on a waiting list.

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