Cathedral School of Saint Mary has the great distinction of being the first school in continuous operation in Austin, established in 1866. The rich history of our school parallels the history of Austin. A history that stretches from the beginning of the state of Texas through the bleak years of the Depression and World War II, to the boom of the late twentieth century, when the Austin metropolitan area reached a population of a million. The unique history of the many generations who have attended Cathedral School of Saint Mary is present on our campus. While the building, curriculum, and faculty have changed over the last 154 years, the values we seek to instill in our students remain the same. The Sisters of the Holy Cross order concentrated on the three R`s and Catholic Church`s teachings in order to guide young lives on the path to Christ. Today, lay faculty members emphasize the same traditional values in order to accomplish the same goals: Christian formation and academic success.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked TX School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 170 students
- Yearly Tuition: $7,000
- Acceptance rate: 90%
- Average class size: 20 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Cathedral School Of St. Mary ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Texas for:
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1866
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
170 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
84%
State avg.: 41%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
16 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
11:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
20 students
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
School Uniform
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Yearly Tuition
Summer Program Cost
$250
Summer Program Cost Notes
Discounted rates for current students
Acceptance Rate
90%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Marian Alonso
Sports
Total Sports Offered
5 sports
Sports
School Notes
- Cathedral School of Saint Mary has the great distinction of being the first school in continuous operation in Austin, established in 1866. The rich history of our school parallels the history of Austin. A history that stretches from the beginning of the state of Texas through the bleak years of the Depression and World War II, to the boom of the late twentieth century, when the Austin metropolitan area reached a population of a million. The unique history of the many generations who have attended Cathedral School of Saint Mary is present on our campus. While the building, curriculum, and faculty have changed over the last 150 years, the values we seek to instill in our students remain the same. The Sisters of the Holy Cross order concentrated on the three R`s and Catholic Church`s teachings in order to guide young lives on the path to Christ. Today, lay faculty members emphasize the same traditional values in order to accomplish the same goals: Christian formation and academic success.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Cathedral School Of St. Mary cost?
Cathedral School Of St. Mary's tuition is approximately $7,000 for private students and $250 for summer students.
What is the acceptance rate of Cathedral School Of St. Mary?
The acceptance rate of Cathedral School Of St. Mary is 90%, which is higher than the national average of 84%.
Does Cathedral School Of St. Mary offer a summer program?
Yes, Cathedral School Of St. Mary offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What sports does Cathedral School Of St. Mary offer?
Cathedral School Of St. Mary offers 5 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cheering, Flag Football, Soccer and Volleyball.
What is Cathedral School Of St. Mary's ranking?
Cathedral School Of St. Mary ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Texas for: Highest percentage of students of color and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for Cathedral School Of St. Mary?
The application deadline for Cathedral School Of St. Mary is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Cathedral School Of St. Mary located?
Cathedral School Of St. Mary is located in the Downtown Austin neighborhood of Austin, TX. There are 1 other private schools located in Downtown Austin.
School Reviews
5 8/3/2022
We enjoy being a part of the Cathedral School of St. Mary`s. Our child has attended school at the Cathedral since Pre-kinder 3 (3-year-olds). We have enjoyed seeing the growth and learning our child has gained through the classical education curriculum.
5 7/26/2022
I have been pleased with the Cathedral School of Saint Mary. My child has attended this school for four years. This community is small enough to instill a strong sense of community/family; yet large enough to cover many subjects. Some of these subjects include but are not limited to, Literature, History, Religion, Art, Music, Sports, Spanish, and Mathematics. The Administration and Faculty are all extremely kind and involved in the success of your child. I highly recommend this school for your child(ren). Request a tour and see for yourself.
5 7/22/2022
Cathedral School of Saint Mary is a very good school with an excellent academic method. The education and atmosphere between students, teachers, parents, and staff are so wonderful. I strongly recommend this school for our new generations. Personally, my husband and I are very happy to have our children here.
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