Application Info

Step 1: Visit

Grade 8 students can be a Bell for a day during a "shadow" visit with a current Bell as their guide. Students also have the option to shadow together with a friend. 

Learn More About Shadow Visits

It is recommended that all applicants shadow to see firsthand what it means to be a Bell. 

Register to shadow

Step 2: Apply

Bellarmine accepts applications and all materials online. Click below to begin your application as a Grade 8 student applying to enter Grade 9 in the 2027-2028 school year.

Apply now

The following application steps are due by Friday, December 11, 2026 at 11:59 pm.

• Application form including $75 application fee. If this fee is a burden to your family, please contact admissions@bcp.org.
• Accessibility Information
• Student essay
• A parent/guardian statement
• Registration for the High School Placement Test (HSPT) administered in January
• Student video (optional)

The following application steps are due by Monday, February 1, 2027 at 11:59 pm.

• Official transcript and other school records grades 7-8 sent by current school
• 2 teacher recommendations
• One non-academic recommendation (optional)

 

Step 3: High School Placement Test (HSPT)

Bellarmine and other high schools in the Catholic Diocese of San José offer the 2027 High School Placement Test (HSPT) January 9 and January 23. At Bellarmine, both are scheduled 1:00 – 4:00 pm.

Registration is available through the online application.

For more information and frequently asked questions, see the HSPT FAQ.

Testing Accommodations

To request testing adjustments such as extended time, please contact Bridgit McGarry, at bmcgarry@bcp.org by October 30, 2026.