Frequently Asked Questions
What makes BSHS unique?
Bishop Shanahan High School, the premier Archdiocesan Catholic High School in Chester County, is known for its academic excellence, robust student life, and faith-centered community. It is a co-ed school that assists students through their faith journey and grows leaders. We are “People of God; People for Others.” It offers twenty-one AP courses, dual enrollment with three universities, twenty-one Varsity sports, and a renowned Fine Arts Department, all in a faith-filled environment.
What classes are offered?
Click here to view our full course catalog.
What clubs are available?
Click here to view the many wonderful opportunities for your child to get involved. There’s something for everyone at BSHS!
What does the Fine Arts Department offer?
Bishop Shanahan is known for its excellent Fine Arts Department that encourages students to become more creative! From choir to band to the fall musical, students have many opportunities to hone in on their musical abilities and have chances to perform. Click here to read more about the Fine Arts Department.
What sports do you have?
The athletics department offers boys and girls sports throughout the fall, winter and spring. Click here to view the full list and click here for coaches’ contact information.
Do you have to be Catholic to attend Shanahan?
No, you do not have to be Catholic or Christian to attend. Students of all faiths are welcome!
What opportunities do I have to visit Shanahan?
We encourage 8th grade students to take part in a Shadow Day, where they will become immersed in the full Shanahan experience for a day. They will meet teachers, new friends, and enjoy lunch on us! BSHS also hosts an open house each fall and spring - all are welcome!
What is the admissions process like?
The full admissions process is outlined here. It is simple and convenient! The BSHS Admissions Team is here to assist you with each step, as well as answer any questions you may have. We love welcoming new families to the Shanahan community!
What is the tuition?
The tuition for the 2022 - 2023 school year is $11,300. Click here to view all tuition information.
Are there scholarship opportunities?
Yes! We encourage your 8th grader to take the 8th Grade Scholarship Exam, which is held each year in October. Additional scholarship and financial assistance is available here.
Is there financial aid?
Yes! Please apply for financial aid through FACTS. Additional scholarship and financial assistance is available here. There are also sibling discounts as well as discounts for 11th and 12th graders who dual enroll with TCHS.
What courses do Freshman students take?
The Freshman Year Core Courses are as follows: Theology I, English Language Arts I, Themes in World History, Algebra or Geometry, Conceptual Physics or Biology, World Language/Communication Skills, Related Arts/Introduction to Studio Art, and Information Technology I.
How many Shanahan graduates go to college and receive scholarships for higher education?
100% of students who apply to college are accepted and attend higher level institutions. Click here to view college resources as well as our graduate profile. The most recent graduating class received more than $41 million in college scholarships.
What are the class sizes?
The student to teacher ratio is 20:1. There are about 20-27 students in a class and approximately 250 students per grade.
Are there tutoring opportunities?
Yes, peer-to-peer tutoring is provided by students in the National Honors Society. They are available before school, after school, and during their lunch period to offer assistance. Many of our students take advantage of this wonderful opportunity. Faculty also offer support one-on-one, or in a small group setting.
Can my child receive hands-on experience and learn about future career opportunities?
11th and 12th have the opportunity to participate in the Technical College High School (TCHS). Through this program, they can earn college credit with hands-on experience. This dual enrollment at the TCHS Brandywine Campus is popular at BSHS for Allied Health and Teacher Leadership Academy. Click here to learn more.
What is the STEM Pathways program?
STEM Pathways inspires the next generation of innovators by empowering students to be creative, collaborative and critical-thinking problem solvers. This program takes an interdisciplinary approach to learning, where rigorous academic concepts are coupled with real-world applications. Click here to learn more.
What is the Eagle Business Academy?
The Eagle Business Academy is a four-year academic pathway that addresses college and career readiness skills. Students will gain knowledge in the business field of study and cover all high school prerequisites for acceptance into competitive post secondary institutions. Graduates will leave prepared to commit to business as developed leaders in the ever-changing global economy. Click here to learn more.
How does the financial aid process work?
If your family is eligible, we encourage you to apply for financial assistance as soon as possible. Applications for the following school year are available on October 1. The first round of applications closes on December 31. Awarding continues on a rolling basis until funding is depleted. Therefore, early applications are recommended.
Applications are initially reviewed by FACTS and then their review is sent to the financial aid committee at BSHS. Awards are then determined and families are notified if they are eligible to receive financial assistance for the following school year. Please click here to view more information on financial aid and to access the application.
What does BSHS look for in its applicants?
At Bishop Shanahan, we are “People of God; People for Others.” Students who choose to attend Bishop Shanahan are academically driven, enjoy student life activities, and appreciate value-based education. Our students come from various backgrounds, but have something in common: they all have chosen to attend BSHS. As students, they enjoy deepening their faith, growing as scholars, and participating in interesting activities.
Does BSHS require an entrance exam?
There is no entrance exam; rather, we request academic transcripts for review before acceptance. We do encourage rising freshmen to participate in the 8th Grade Scholarship Exam, which is an opportunity to earn a merit scholarship. 7th graders are welcome to take a practice exam the spring prior. While this is by no means required, it is a wonderful opportunity for all 8th grade applicants to sit for this exam.
When do we receive admissions decisions?
8th grade students attending partner schools who have applied before mid-December will receive their decision letter in the mail by early January. 8th grade students who do not attend partner schools will interview with BSHS President, Sister Regina Plunkett, IHM, and will be made aware of their acceptance soon after their scheduled interview.
If my child has never taken a Theology course, will he/she be far behind?
Students who attend BSHS come from various educational backgrounds. Some students have attended Catholic school, while others have attended PREP programs, and still others might not have taken any Catholic courses. Our Theology faculty members are aware of the variety of backgrounds, and are happy to meet students where they are. Each year, the Theology curriculum introduces a new theme, allowing all students to begin on the same page.
Bishop Shanahan High School, the premier Archdiocesan Catholic High School in Chester County, is known for its academic excellence, robust student life, and faith-centered community. It is a co-ed school that assists students through their faith journey and grows leaders. We are “People of God; People for Others.” It offers twenty-one AP courses, dual enrollment with three universities, twenty-one Varsity sports, and a renowned Fine Arts Department, all in a faith-filled environment.
What classes are offered?
Click here to view our full course catalog.
What clubs are available?
Click here to view the many wonderful opportunities for your child to get involved. There’s something for everyone at BSHS!
What does the Fine Arts Department offer?
Bishop Shanahan is known for its excellent Fine Arts Department that encourages students to become more creative! From choir to band to the fall musical, students have many opportunities to hone in on their musical abilities and have chances to perform. Click here to read more about the Fine Arts Department.
What sports do you have?
The athletics department offers boys and girls sports throughout the fall, winter and spring. Click here to view the full list and click here for coaches’ contact information.
Do you have to be Catholic to attend Shanahan?
No, you do not have to be Catholic or Christian to attend. Students of all faiths are welcome!
What opportunities do I have to visit Shanahan?
We encourage 8th grade students to take part in a Shadow Day, where they will become immersed in the full Shanahan experience for a day. They will meet teachers, new friends, and enjoy lunch on us! BSHS also hosts an open house each fall and spring - all are welcome!
What is the admissions process like?
The full admissions process is outlined here. It is simple and convenient! The BSHS Admissions Team is here to assist you with each step, as well as answer any questions you may have. We love welcoming new families to the Shanahan community!
What is the tuition?
The tuition for the 2022 - 2023 school year is $11,300. Click here to view all tuition information.
Are there scholarship opportunities?
Yes! We encourage your 8th grader to take the 8th Grade Scholarship Exam, which is held each year in October. Additional scholarship and financial assistance is available here.
Is there financial aid?
Yes! Please apply for financial aid through FACTS. Additional scholarship and financial assistance is available here. There are also sibling discounts as well as discounts for 11th and 12th graders who dual enroll with TCHS.
What courses do Freshman students take?
The Freshman Year Core Courses are as follows: Theology I, English Language Arts I, Themes in World History, Algebra or Geometry, Conceptual Physics or Biology, World Language/Communication Skills, Related Arts/Introduction to Studio Art, and Information Technology I.
How many Shanahan graduates go to college and receive scholarships for higher education?
100% of students who apply to college are accepted and attend higher level institutions. Click here to view college resources as well as our graduate profile. The most recent graduating class received more than $41 million in college scholarships.
What are the class sizes?
The student to teacher ratio is 20:1. There are about 20-27 students in a class and approximately 250 students per grade.
Are there tutoring opportunities?
Yes, peer-to-peer tutoring is provided by students in the National Honors Society. They are available before school, after school, and during their lunch period to offer assistance. Many of our students take advantage of this wonderful opportunity. Faculty also offer support one-on-one, or in a small group setting.
Can my child receive hands-on experience and learn about future career opportunities?
11th and 12th have the opportunity to participate in the Technical College High School (TCHS). Through this program, they can earn college credit with hands-on experience. This dual enrollment at the TCHS Brandywine Campus is popular at BSHS for Allied Health and Teacher Leadership Academy. Click here to learn more.
What is the STEM Pathways program?
STEM Pathways inspires the next generation of innovators by empowering students to be creative, collaborative and critical-thinking problem solvers. This program takes an interdisciplinary approach to learning, where rigorous academic concepts are coupled with real-world applications. Click here to learn more.
What is the Eagle Business Academy?
The Eagle Business Academy is a four-year academic pathway that addresses college and career readiness skills. Students will gain knowledge in the business field of study and cover all high school prerequisites for acceptance into competitive post secondary institutions. Graduates will leave prepared to commit to business as developed leaders in the ever-changing global economy. Click here to learn more.
How does the financial aid process work?
If your family is eligible, we encourage you to apply for financial assistance as soon as possible. Applications for the following school year are available on October 1. The first round of applications closes on December 31. Awarding continues on a rolling basis until funding is depleted. Therefore, early applications are recommended.
Applications are initially reviewed by FACTS and then their review is sent to the financial aid committee at BSHS. Awards are then determined and families are notified if they are eligible to receive financial assistance for the following school year. Please click here to view more information on financial aid and to access the application.
What does BSHS look for in its applicants?
At Bishop Shanahan, we are “People of God; People for Others.” Students who choose to attend Bishop Shanahan are academically driven, enjoy student life activities, and appreciate value-based education. Our students come from various backgrounds, but have something in common: they all have chosen to attend BSHS. As students, they enjoy deepening their faith, growing as scholars, and participating in interesting activities.
Does BSHS require an entrance exam?
There is no entrance exam; rather, we request academic transcripts for review before acceptance. We do encourage rising freshmen to participate in the 8th Grade Scholarship Exam, which is an opportunity to earn a merit scholarship. 7th graders are welcome to take a practice exam the spring prior. While this is by no means required, it is a wonderful opportunity for all 8th grade applicants to sit for this exam.
When do we receive admissions decisions?
8th grade students attending partner schools who have applied before mid-December will receive their decision letter in the mail by early January. 8th grade students who do not attend partner schools will interview with BSHS President, Sister Regina Plunkett, IHM, and will be made aware of their acceptance soon after their scheduled interview.
If my child has never taken a Theology course, will he/she be far behind?
Students who attend BSHS come from various educational backgrounds. Some students have attended Catholic school, while others have attended PREP programs, and still others might not have taken any Catholic courses. Our Theology faculty members are aware of the variety of backgrounds, and are happy to meet students where they are. Each year, the Theology curriculum introduces a new theme, allowing all students to begin on the same page.
Thank you for your interest in Bishop Shanahan High School. We look forward to helping your family learning more about our school community. Please feel free to contact the admissions office with any questions you may have:
Admissions Team | 610-343-6206 | admissions@shanahan.org
Thank you for your interest in Bishop Shanahan High School. We look forward to helping your family learning more about our school community. Please feel free to contact the admissions office with any questions you may have:
Admissions Team | 610-343-6206 | admissions@shanahan.org
