Frequently Asked Questions

Applicants must take the High School Placement Test (HSPT) to be considered for admission. Merion offers the test on two dates in the fall. Applicants are encouraged to take the HSPT at Merion Mercy Academy to be automatically considered for merit based scholarships. We also accept HSPT scores from tests taken at other schools.

While the HSPT is a major factor in the decision-making process, it is not the only criteria used to determine acceptance. Teacher recommendations, attendance records, seventh and eighth grade report cards, other standardized tests such as the Terra Nova and the PSSA, and the activities and interests of the applicant are also seriously considered.

HSPT test results are usually sent to each student around the second week of November.

Mercy means loving kindness in action and it empowers us to Seek Justice; leading change to better our world, standing up for the right thing, and serving those less fortunate.

Following the teachings of Jesus, Sisters of Mercy foundress Catherine McAuley recognized the dignity of all people, believed that communities should be full of compassion and hospitality, and proclaimed that no person need be excluded from life-giving opportunities.

There were 397 students in the 2024-25 school year representing 80+ zip codes.

Getting here is easy! Our students come to school in many was: by car, by foot, by train, by van, or on a school district or SEPTA bus. Merion Mercy buses offer convenient pickup and drop off stops across Northwest Philadelphia, Center City, Fairmount, South Philadelphia, and New Jersey. Learn more about the options.

MMA offers 12 varsity sports and is a proud member of the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) and Athletic Association of Catholic Academies (AACA). Learn more about our robust athletic program here.
 

While Merion Mercy offers a variety of scholarships and need-based financial aid to families, we are unable to offer athletic scholarships because of our PIAA membership. Being a member of PIAA provides our athletes with a number of benefits, including the ability to participate and qualify for district and state competitions.

We offer a strong college prep curriculum in both music and visual art. Students majoring in either art or music partake in these areas as part of a three-year program, beginning in the sophomore year. Students may also opt to take electives in both of these areas beginning in ninth grade. Additionally, Merion Mercy has a long theater tradition, performing two shows per year.

The gospel is at the heart of Merion Mercy Academy's mission; and, diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are at the heart of the gospel.

Through our Belonging Through Service program, student-led affinity organizations, and the DEIB Student Leadership Team, we strive to create an environment where every student feels valued and empowered. By deepening our understanding of living mercy and seeking justice, we work to build a truly authentic and inclusive community. You can learn more about our commitment to DEIB here.

You can find a step-by-step breakdown of our application process here.

Yes, you can find details of our need-based financial aid here.

We have tuition payment plans available. Tuition can be paid in full, two payments, four payments or ten payments over ten months.

Formal acceptances are delivered to students in the first week of December.

Absolutely! We encourage all prospective students to visit our school. Visit Days for eighth graders are offered each year from October through mid-December. Visit Days for seventh graders are offered on select days in March through May.

All prospective students in any grade are invited to our annual fall Open House. Personal tours for students in all grades can be arranged any time of the year by contacting admissions@merion-mercy.com.