FAQs
- What is the class size?
- How many MMA students matriculate at four-year colleges?
- How many Sisters of Mercy are on the faculty?
- Will my child fit in at a private school?
- What sports do you offer?
- Do you offer athletic scholarships?
- What is the process for applying?
- When are all materials due at MMA?
- Does it matter when the application is received? Is it a "first come, first served" basis for acceptance?
- How much does the entrance exam count in the acceptance process?
- Does MMA offer financial aid?
- Is tuition due in one lump sum?
- Can my daughter visit MMA for the day?
- When will my daughter get her test results?
- When will I know if my daughter has been accepted?
- How many students will be in the class of 2011?
- How do I get information on the Open House and on testing?
- Do you offer art and music classes?
- Do you have a brother school?
- Do you provide transportation?
What is the class size?
In freshman and sophomore years, most classes average 18 to 22 students; in junior and senior years, most classes range in size between 15 and 18 students. Some classes are smaller than these numbers.
How many MMA students matriculate at four-year colleges?
All seniors are accepted to and attend four-year colleges.
How many Sisters of Mercy are on the faculty?
Sixteen Sisters of Mercy serve in the school in administrative positions, on the teaching faculty, and in auxiliary services.
Will my child fit in at a private school?
MMA's student population is diverse, not only ethnically but also geographically, socio-economically and academically. The school is a very open and welcoming environment where it is easy for new students to find their place.
What sports do you offer?
MMA fields 15 team sports, one club sport and an active intramural program.
Do you offer athletic scholarships?
No. If a student is accepted based on her academic ability, is a strong athlete, and has financial need, she may apply for financial aid. Special talents in all areas such as leadership, music, athletics, dance, etc., are strongly considered in this process.
What is the process for applying?
For all the guidelines on applying see How to Apply
When are all materials due at MMA?
The target date for all forms, recommendations, and fees is November 15 ( report cards not later than December 15.)
Does it matter when the application is received? Is it a "first come, first served" basis for acceptance?
All applicants with a completed folder by November 15 will be equally considered for admission.
How much does the entrance exam count in the acceptance process?
While it is a major factor in the decision-making process, it is not the only criteria used to determine acceptance. Teacher recommendations, seventh and eighth grade marks, other standardized tests, and the activities and interests of the applicant are seriously considered.
Does MMA offer financial aid?
Yes. Contact the Admissions Office by November 15 to obtain the necessary forms.
Is tuition due in one lump sum?
No. There are payment plans. Tuition can be paid in full, two payments, or ten payments over ten months.
Can my daughter visit MMA for the day?
Absolutely! We encourage all serious applicants to visit our school for an entire school day, if possible. This can be scheduled in the admissions office any time after October 2nd. The student visitor generally arrives about 8:10 and is matched with a freshman student who takes her to all of her classes and lunch. Student visitors may wear either their uniform or an appropriate outfit such as a skirt or dress slacks. Students will receive their lunch free-of-charge. The visit concludes at 3:05 p.m. Student visitors are encouraged to visit MMA on days when they have off from their own schools.
When will my daughter get her test results?
The test results are usually sent to each student around Thanksgiving.
When will I know if my daughter has been accepted?
Formal acceptances are mailed in late December.
How many students will be in the class of 2011?
We will aim to have a class size of approximately 115 students.
How do I get information on the Open House and on testing?
If your daughter is in a parochial school or Catholic, private school, she should receive information from her eighth grade teacher during the first few weeks of school. If she is in a public school or a school not likely to receive information from MMA, you should call us for additional information at 610.664-6655, ext. 116.
Do you offer art and music classes?
Yes. We offer a strong college prep curriculum in both areas. Students majoring in either art or music take classes every day in these areas as part of a three-year program, beginning in the sophomore year.
Do you have a brother school?
No. There is no official affiliation with any of the all-male private high schools in the area. We have very good working and social relations with a number of other private schools including St. Joseph's, LaSalle, Malvern and Devon Prep.
Do you provide transportation?
Students residing in a Pennsylvania school district, other than Philadelphia, that is within 10 miles of MMA can receive school district busing free-of-charge from that district. In addition, for a variety of fees, we have two private vans which run from South Philadelphia, the availability of St. Joseph's Prep busing from New Jersey and South Philadelphia in the morning and to most all areas in the afternoon. Public Transportation stops at the school's gate-Septa's 44 bus. The Paoli local train runs to Merion and Narberth stations. There is van service from Narberth station in the morning.