Admissions

Marist’s exceptional middle school Foundations program provides a supportive community tailored to the unique needs of middle schoolers, helping them build strong academic habits and confidence for a smooth transition to high school. This thoughtful approach ensures students enter high school feeling settled and ready to take on new challenges. Additionally, Marist offers a wide range of middle school activities to enrich the experience. While 7th grade is a great time to join, Marist also welcomes students entering in 9th grade or as transfers, with a strong history of success for all.

Yes. Each year, we welcome 50–60 new 9th graders and create opportunities for them to connect and belong. Programs such as Camp 3790, Peer Leaders, and retreats help students build friendships, grow in faith, and become part of the Marist community. Hospitality is central to who we are, and new students are warmly welcomed.

Yes. Marist welcomes families of many faiths who value our mission of forming the whole person in the image of Christ through academic excellence, character formation, and service. Students do not have to be Catholic to attend, and we encourage families to be active in their own faith traditions. Our community is intentionally 70% Catholic and 30% other faiths, and we value dialogue and respect across traditions.

Yes. Marist is a large and diverse community where our students connect through affinity groups, clubs, and activities, including sports and arts. We are intentional about promoting character formation and nurturing a culture of belonging and kindness so that all students can flourish, grow in confidence, and share their gifts with the community. There’s something for every student at Marist, and our students are often the first to show kindness and welcome to new students.

Yes. Many students come from families new to Marist and quickly become vital members of our community. While about 20% of students are legacies, every application is reviewed thoughtfully. Above all, we seek families who value our mission.

Yes. Students of many ability levels thrive here, not just top achievers. What matters most is being motivated and supported in learning. With resources like the Marist Academic Center, tutorials, and personal and academic counselors, students are challenged to grow while keeping balance in their lives.

Marist offers a wide range of supports to foster student health and well-being. Rooted in our mission, teachers, coaches, and moderators provide personal care while encouraging a “communal pursuit of excellence.” Each student is paired with a personal and academic counselor for guidance on course selection and overall discernment and remains with the same advisor throughout their Marist years. Supportive practices include an “off and away” cell phone policy during the day, after-school tutorial to begin homework before activities, and coursework that emphasizes physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health. Parents also benefit from expert-led presentations designed to help them support their children.

We deeply value our Marist families and make every effort to accept siblings. Each application is reviewed with care for the well-being and growth of the individual child. Our goal is for every student to be successful and thrive.

Yes. Marist provides shuttle service to and from the Dunwoody MARTA station, and many families carpool from across Atlanta. We continue to explore additional transportation options and welcome family input.

Yes. Marist offers need-based tuition assistance; about 16% of students receive aid, with an average award covering 60% of tuition. Aid can also reduce fees and cover certain activities and trips. Admissions decisions are always made independently of a family’s ability to pay.

No. While Marist has a highly successful athletics program, we offer 19 sports and 75 teams, including many no-cut options. About 86% of students participate in athletics, and many balance sports with theater, service, robotics, or other interests. We value participation and joy as much as competition.

Absolutely. Marist offers a wide range of non-athletic opportunities—including visual and performing arts, robotics, debate, clubs, community service, and campus ministry. With a vibrant extracurricular scene and supportive faculty, every student can find their place to belong, lead, and grow.

We take a holistic approach, balancing academics with character and mission alignment. We seek students who are curious, motivated, and supported by families who value partnership in faith and learning.