FAQs for Parents

How rigorous is the curriculum?
The curriculum is a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum that meets or exceeds college admissions standards.  Students will be challenged and will be expected to work hard to attain the skills that will lead them to success in college and beyond.

Must students have above average grades to attend? Is there an Entrance Exam?  
Christ the King is committed to working with students who lack some academic skills but are willing to work hard to achieve the high expectations that we hold. We recognize that some students may be below grade-level while others may be above. At Christ the King we are committed to working with students to ensure that they are college-ready and challenged to excel to their full potential.

Do all students participate in the Corporate Work Study Program?
Yes, as a requirement for admission, all students must be 14 years old and have the necessary documentation to be legally employed in the USA. Students who cannot hold a job cannot remain in the academic program.

Are there extra-curricular activities and sports?
Yes, CtK Gladiators Athletic Department offers sports such as, basketball, track, and volleyball. Clubs and other activities will be determined based on student interest and the availability of sponsors. It is essential to understand, however, that work and academics always come first. Students’ first commitment on the days they work is to their job and they may not miss work to participate in sporting events or other activities. Likewise, students who are struggling academically will be placed in tutoring and may be unable to participate in extracurricular opportunities until they are able to improve their academic performance.

What are the requirements for admissions?

• Financial: The school is designed for students who desire a quality Catholic education but who could not otherwise afford one. Students should come from a family with sufficient financial need to qualify for the federal free or reduced lunch program. Families who are near this level but slightly over are still encouraged to apply. The PSAS financial aid application will be used to verify need on a case-by-case basis as the first criteria for admission.
• Age: Students must be 14 years old by September 1 of the year they enroll.
• Scholarship: Students must have at least average grades and very good attendance and be willing to work hard to achieve the high academic expectations and the work obligations of the school.
• Employability: Students must possess the maturity and work ethic necessary to be successful in an office environment working with adults. All students must also be able to present legal verification of their citizenship or residence and either have or be able to obtain a social security number.
• Desire and Dedication: The most important quality a student can bring to Christ the King Jesuit College Prep is the desire and dedication to work hard on the job and at school.  You do not need to be Catholic to attend Christ the King.

What is the average tuition paid by the family?
Because the majority of a student’s tuition is financed through the corporate work study program, families are expected to contribute up to $225 per month; however, significant financial aid is available and the actual amount will be determined based on a family’s need.

What are the important dates and deadlines?

• Admissions application submission opens September 6^th, 2011

• Early Application Deadline January 13^th, 2012

• Application Deadline March 23^rd, 2012

• Final Application Deadline May 11^th, 2012

CtK’s school year calendar  and holidays schedule is influenced by the Corporate Work Study Program, therefore it may not reflect CPS or other Catholic School calendars.

What is the application process?
1. Fill out the school and financial aid (PSAS) applications and return both to the Director of Admissions:
Christ the King Jesuit College Preparatory School
5088 W. Jackson Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60644
2. Household income will be evaluated by PSAS and Christ the King.
3. Student Academic record including report card, recommendations, and standardized testing results will be evaluated.
4. Student and parent(s)/guardian(s) will be scheduled for an interview.

Opportunities to visit CTK and shadow a current student are available for students during the Fall and Spring Quarters.  Please click here for details.