Josephinum Academy of the Sacred Heart is a diverse college-preparatory learning community in the heart of Chicago that cultivates the leaders, change makers and visionaries of tomorrow. Dedicated to the five goals and criteria of the Sacred Heart, Josephinum celebrates students of all backgrounds, and empowers young people to use their unique perspective and voice to grow holistically, morally, and spiritually to bring about change in an ever-evolving world.
Josephinum has over 130 years of tradition and excellence as the longest-standing all-girls Catholic high school in Chicago, and is the one and only all-girls Sacred Heart high school in the city.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked IL School
- Grades: 9-12
- Enrollment: 132 students
- Yearly Tuition: $9,550
- Acceptance rate: 100%
- Average class size: 12 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Josephinum Academy Of The Sacred Heart ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for:
Category
Attribute
Extracurriculars
School History
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 9-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1890
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
Awards
Blue Ribbon School - Selected in n/a
Student Body
Total Students
132 students
Student Body Type
% Students of Color
92%
State avg.: 34%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
15 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
9:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
50%
Average Class Size
12 students
Number of AP Courses
6 courses
List of Courses Offered
Advanced Courses
AP Biology, AP Calculus, AP Composition, AP Literature, AP Spanish, AP US History
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
% on Financial Aid
90%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$5,700
Acceptance Rate
100%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Kathryn Bartholomew
Admissions Associate
Marlen Garcia
Application URL
Endowment Size
$3.3 million
Sports
Total Sports Offered
7 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
20 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Arts and Music Programs:
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Anime Club, Baking Club, Club of Social Action, Creative Writing Club, Debate Club, Josephinum Ambassador Council, Math Club, Model United Nations Club, National Honor Society, Skateboarding Club, Slam Poetry Club, Spanish Club, Yearbook, Yearbook Club
Arts and Music Programs:
Art Club, JAM Session, Theatre
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Dance Club, Fitness Club, Track Club
School Notes
- School Mascot: Josie The Cougar
- Josephinum is a college-preparatory high school and a proud member of the international Network of Sacred Heart Schools. Our mission is to empower young women to become confident, faith-filled leaders. We offer a world-class curriculum designed to prepare students to be successful at college and in life.
- As a Sacred Heart School, Josephinum measures its success one student at a time. We seek to provide an education that meets the needs of the whole child. Our small class sizes and exceptional faculty focus on understanding the unique educational needs of each student, helping her to discover her unique gifts and fostering a passion for excellence in education, service, and faith.
- Having educated more than 5,000 young women in over 120 graduating classes, Josephinum Academy is more than just a school; it is a community that stretches back in time, with Sacred Heart Network sister schools all across the globe.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Sandra Cisneros, author and activist, graduated in 1972. -
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Josephinum Academy Of The Sacred Heart cost?
Josephinum Academy Of The Sacred Heart's tuition is approximately $9,550 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Josephinum Academy Of The Sacred Heart?
The acceptance rate of Josephinum Academy Of The Sacred Heart is 100%, which is higher than the national average of 84%.
Who are famous alumni from Josephinum Academy Of The Sacred Heart?
Josephinum Academy Of The Sacred Heart famous alumni include: Sandra Cisneros, author and activist, graduated in 1972..
What sports does Josephinum Academy Of The Sacred Heart offer?
Josephinum Academy Of The Sacred Heart offers 7 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Bowling, Dance, Soccer, Softball, Tennis and Volleyball.
What is Josephinum Academy Of The Sacred Heart's ranking?
Josephinum Academy Of The Sacred Heart ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for: Highest percentage of students of color, Most extracurriculars offered and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for Josephinum Academy Of The Sacred Heart?
The application deadline for Josephinum Academy Of The Sacred Heart is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Josephinum Academy Of The Sacred Heart located?
Josephinum Academy Of The Sacred Heart is located in the West Town neighborhood of Chicago, IL. There are 9 other private schools located in West Town.
School Reviews
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