Saint Joseph Catholic School is a coeducational parish school serving students from K4 through sixth grade.
We are committed to providing a high-quality education grounded in Gospel values, preparing our students to excel academically and grow into mature Christians.
Through our values, inspiring minds, building charcter and living faith, we offer opportunities for our students to worship, learn, and grow in character, ensuring that their spiritual development is as robust as their academic progress.
Our academic approach goes beyond textbooks, incorporating diverse teaching strategies, creative tools, and technologies to create an engaging learning environment where children are excited about their education.
With small class sizes and low teacher-to-student ratios, our faculty is dedicated to meeting and exceeding the individual learning needs of each child, fostering an educational experience that engages all their senses and supports their unique learning styles.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked SC School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-6
- Enrollment: 261 students
- Acceptance rate: 95%
- Average class size: 16 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
St. Joseph School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in South Carolina for:
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-6
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1954
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
First Day of School
Mon. Sep 1, 2025
Last Day of School
Mon. May 25, 2026
School Motto
Inspiring Minds. Building Character. Living Faith.
Student Body
Total Students
261 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
24%
State avg.: 18%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
25 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
10:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
71%
Average Class Size
16 students
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Uniform
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Tuition Notes
Tuition is $7,200 for parishioners (5K-6th grades) and $9,480 for non-parishioners (5K-6th graders). 4K Tuition 7,200
% on Financial Aid
47%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$1,500
Acceptance Rate
95%
National avg.: 81%
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
7 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
5 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Cheer & Tumble, Dance, Drama Club
Arts and Music Programs:
Art Club, Bel Canto
Cheer & Tumble, Dance, Drama Club
Arts and Music Programs:
Art Club, Bel Canto
School Notes
- Saint Joseph Catholic School, a coeducational parish school serving students in grades K4 through 6, is dedicated to providing the highest quality Catholic education to the children of parishioners and residents of the Columbia area. Our program is centered on the spiritual development and academic excellence rooted in Gospel values. We prepare our students to be lifelong learners who embody and live their Catholic, Christian values. Recognizing the importance of innovative teaching and the diverse ways in which students learn, Saint Joseph Catholic School ensures that our academic experience extends beyond traditional textbook instruction. We actively engage diverse teaching strategies, creative tools, and technologies to cultivate an environment where children are inspired and excited to learn.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate of St. Joseph School?
The acceptance rate of St. Joseph School is 95%, which is higher than the national average of 87%.
What sports does St. Joseph School offer?
St. Joseph School offers 7 interscholastic sports: Ballet, Basketball, Cheering, Dance, Gymnastics, Indoor Soccer and Soccer.
What is St. Joseph School's ranking?
St. Joseph School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in South Carolina for: Largest student body and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for St. Joseph School?
The application deadline for St. Joseph School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is St. Joseph School located?
St. Joseph School is located in the Shandon neighborhood of Columbia, SC. There are 1 other private schools located in Shandon.
School Reviews
Endorse St. Joseph School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

Podcasts That Will Change the Way You Think About Education
This article highlights a curated selection of podcasts that offer thought-provoking discussions, expert insights, and innovative ideas on various aspects of education. From exploring new teaching methods and technologies to discussing policy changes and social issues, these podcasts provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for anyone interested in education. Each podcast is briefly described, highlighting its unique focus and tone.

For-profit vs. Not-for-profit Schools
This comprehensive guide explores the differences between for-profit and not-for-profit private schools, discussing their organizational structures, advantages, and key considerations for parents. It emphasizes that a school's success is determined by its educational quality and management rather than its profit status.

2023-24 Best SSAT Prep Courses Reviewed
This article reviews the top SSAT prep courses, including Test Innovators, Enrollment Management Association (EMA), Princeton Review, Ivy Global, and Kaplan. Each course is evaluated based on its price, in-person and online services, officially licensed materials, instant normative scoring, and free trial options. We'll dive into the features and benefits of each course, helping you understand which one best fits your student's needs and learning style.