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Founded in 1960 as Marian High School, Mater Dei Catholic has evolved into a thriving TK-12 Catholic school in San Diego.
With nearly 1,500 students, Mater Dei Catholic is the second largest private school in San Diego. We are committed to inspiring the hearts, minds, and souls of our student.
As Crusaders, we are dedicated to Christian service, academic excellence and innovation. Mater Dei is committed to creating well-rounded, faith-filled leaders.
We provide an exceptional Catholic education enriched with opportunities for STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math), athletics and spiritual development. Mater Dei Catholic is known as "The Place to Be" because we offer something for everyone.
Our Blessed Mother is revered as our patroness who intercedes to help lead us to her son, Jesus.
Mater Dei Catholic High School (9-12 Grade) has 1036 students
with an average class size of 23 and a 16:1 student/teacher ratio.
In 2021, we had 390 National Honors Society members, 19 Ford
Scholar recipients, and 89% of students taking the AP exam received
a passing score. More than 90% of our students participate in our
sports and extra-curricular activities. MDCHS is acclaimed for its
Academy of Science, which focuses on Last year, Mater Dei Catholic
High School was named the D2 State School of the Year in
California.
Mater Dei Juan Diego Academy (TK-8 grade) has 440 students with
an average class size of 23. We have the only Catholic 50/50 dual
language Spanish/English immersion elementary school in all of San
Diego County. The curriculum is rooted in the STEAM education model
(Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts and Math) with
the goal to educate the whole child while incorporating
spirituality and fostering faith.
Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
Mary Salas - An American politician who previously served in the California Assembly and currently serves as the Mayor of the Chula Vista. She graduated from San Diego State University. ?
John Carlos Frey - Renowned investigative journalist, documentary filmmaker and published author. His work has won him many awards, including six Emmys. He has also written articles for the Los Angeles Times, The Huffington Post, Salon and more. He graduated from University
Paul Arriola - Professional soccer player who plays as a midfielder for Major League Soccer club D.C. United and the United States national team.?
Mater Dei Catholic's tuition is approximately $18,210 for private students.
Who are famous alumni from Mater Dei Catholic?
Mater Dei Catholic famous alumni include: Mary Salas, John Carlos Frey and Paul Arriola.
What sports does Mater Dei Catholic offer?
Mater Dei Catholic offers 18 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cheering, Cross Country, Dance, Football, Golf, Lacrosse, Rugby, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball, Water Polo, Weightlifting and Wrestling. Mater Dei Catholic is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in California for most sports offered.
When is the application deadline for Mater Dei Catholic?
The application deadline for Mater Dei Catholic is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Mater Dei Catholic located?
Mater Dei Catholic is located in the Otay Ranch neighborhood of Chula Vista, CA. There are 1 other private schools located in Otay Ranch.
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Quick Facts (2025-26)
Grades: Kindergarten-12
Yearly Tuition: $18,210
Average class size: 23 students
Application Deadline: None / Rolling
Source: Verified school update
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Did You Know?
The average private school tuition in San Diego County, CA is $17,354 for elementary schools and $25,705 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
