Mercyhurst Preparatory School is a four year co-educational Catholic secondary school founded by the Sisters of Mercy to prepare students from all religious and ethnic backgrounds for a successful, productive, and compassionate life in an ever-changing and interdependent world.
Mercyhurst Prep education is based upon the teachings of Jesus Christ and a modeling of Judeo-Christian values; excellence in academic and co-curricular programs, service to our local and global communities, and the dedication and active support of the students, parents, faculty, staff, and alumni of the Mercyhurst community.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked PA School
- Grades: 8-12
- Enrollment: 497 students
- Yearly Tuition: $11,365
- Acceptance rate: 99%
- Average class size: 23 students
- Application Deadline: Nov. 9 / Jan. 4 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Mercyhurst Preparatory School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for:
Category
Attribute
Student Body
Sports offered
Extracurriculars
School History
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 8-12
Year Founded
1926
Colors
White, Green
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
First Day of School
Fri. Aug 15, 2025
Awards
Blue Ribbon School - Selected in 1993, 1998
Campus Size
7
Student Body
Total Students
497 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
26%
State avg.: 27%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Average Class Size
23 students
Number of AP Courses
15 courses
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Grey skirt/slacks and white polo shirt
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Nov. 9 / Jan. 4 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$11,365
Tuition Notes
This is tuition for the 2023-2024 school year. This includes a $250 technology fee, $75 iPad insurance, a $300 fundraiser, and a $40 activity fee.
Acceptance Rate
99%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Allison Orlando
Admissions Associate
Michelle Intrieri
Sports
Total Sports Offered
15 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
34 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Arts and Music Programs:
Baking Club, Calamari's Thanksgiving Dinner for the Homeless, Chrysalis, Critical Concerns, DIY Club, Fashion Club, Feed the Hungry, Fitness Center, French Club, Junior Achievement, Math Club, Mercy Service Project, Minecraft, Model United Nations, National Art Honor Society, National Honor Society, Reading Club, Robotics and Technology Club, Serteens, Ski Club, Spanish Club, Speech and Debate, Spirit Club, Student Council/Student Government, The Joseph of Arimathea Society, The Ophelia Club, Travel Club, Ultimate Frisbee Club, Women in Motion
Arts and Music Programs:
Concert Choir, Dance Company, International Thespian Society, Orchestra Ensemble, Show Choir
School Notes
- School Motto: MPS: Marked by Pride and Spirit
- School Mascot: Lakers
THE MERCY CHARISM CORE VALUES: compassionate presence, justice, service, hospitality, and concern for the dignity of all persons.
BELIEF STATEMENTS:
We believe that:
- God is the center of our existence and Christ is our model for truth and compassion.
- Compassionate presence, justice, service, and concern for the dignity of all persons (the charism of our foundress, Catherine McAuley) are the foundation of our school and of a moral and enlightened society.
- Positive moral and religious values lived out inethical conduct and service are fundamental to an interdependent society.
- All children can succeed in a positive educational environment.
- Everyone has an obligation to offer his or her gifts in service to others.
- Education is the responsibility of the entire community.
- The dignity and worth of each individual must be recognized and valued.
- The family is the most significant institution in society.
- Understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity are critical to world peace and global harmony.
- Lifelong learning is essential to fulfillment of one`s potential in a changing, interdependent world.
- Individual actions influence the world and its people.
- Each person must assume stewardship of this planet.
- Appreciation of the arts enlightens the human mind and spirit.Intellectual honesty is the cornerstone of the academic community.
- Those who have much are obliged to share their resources with those who have less.
- The active pursuit of wellness enhances one`s quality of life.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Mercyhurst Preparatory School cost?
Mercyhurst Preparatory School's tuition is approximately $11,365 for private students.
What schools are Mercyhurst Preparatory School often compared to?
Mercyhurst Preparatory School is often viewed alongside schools like Cathedral Preparatory School by visitors of our site.
What is the acceptance rate of Mercyhurst Preparatory School?
The acceptance rate of Mercyhurst Preparatory School is 99%, which is higher than the national average of 81%.
Does Mercyhurst Preparatory School offer a summer program?
Yes, Mercyhurst Preparatory School offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What sports does Mercyhurst Preparatory School offer?
Mercyhurst Preparatory School offers 15 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cheering, Crew, Cross Country, Diving, Football, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field and Volleyball. Mercyhurst Preparatory School is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for most sports offered.
What is Mercyhurst Preparatory School's ranking?
Mercyhurst Preparatory School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for: Largest student body, Most sports offered, Most extracurriculars offered and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for Mercyhurst Preparatory School?
The application deadline for Mercyhurst Preparatory School is Nov. 9 / Jan. 4 / rolling (applications are due on Nov. 9 / Jan. 4 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
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