Early Learning Admissions

We are thrilled that you and your family are considering St. Mary's Academy. Below is the application process and timeline for Early Learning Preschool and Prekindergarten classrooms. The Early Learning Program at St. Mary's Academy is a full-day schedule that takes place five days per week on the academic year calendar.

Preschool: Your child must be three years old by August 1 in the anticipated year of enrollment to matriculate. SMA offers two classes with two full-time teachers. Preschool enrolls a total of approximately 30 students.

Prekindergarten: Your child must be four years old by October 1 in the anticipated year of enrollment to matriculate. SMA offers two classes with two full-time teachers. Prekindergarten enrolls a total of approximately 30 students.

Admissions Process

Inquire Online & Create Admissions Portal

Student Application, due Jan. 15, 2026

Initiate your prospective student's application through the admissions portal . St. Mary's Academy charges a $60 application fee.
Please be aware that the financial aid application process is separate from the admissions process. Financial aid is offered for students in grades K-12. Preschool and Pre-K students are not eligible for financial aid. For more information about financial aid, please click here.

Parent Interview

Log into your admissions portal to schedule your in-person or virtual parent interview. Or, contact Lindsey Lopez at 303-762-8300, ext. 241 to coordinate a time to connect.
Campus tours are not always available during individual parent interview times. We encourage you to participate in events throughout the fall to become more familiar with the campus, academic program, and community.

Student Visit

Log into your admissions portal to register for a Group Visit for Preschool or Prekindergarten applicants.
Several Denver independent schools work together to streamline the admission process for families. As part of the admission process, we offer you the opportunity to submit a series of short videos to help us get to know your child and demonstrate fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and general playtime. Visit your admissions portal for more details.
SMA does not require entrance exams or formal testing for Lower School admission. Students demonstrate skills and Preschool or Prekindergarten readiness throughout the admissions process.

Teacher Recommendations

Financial Aid Application, due Dec. 31, 2025

Lower School Admissions Decisions

The Admission Committee reviews all applications completed by the standard Jan. 31st deadline. In conjunction with other Denver area ACIS (Association of Colorado Independent Schools), SMA informs families of Lower School admission decisions via email at 4 p.m. on February 27, 2026.
Any applications received after this date are reviewed on a rolling admissions basis.

Early Learning Admissions Events

Lower School Preview: November 6; 9-11 a.m.

Prekindergarten and Kindergarten Group Visits: January 23, 27 & February 3; 8:30-10 a.m.
Please register through the admissions portal

Preschool Group Visits: February 5 & 10; 8:30-9, 9:30-10 and 10:30-11 a.m.
Please register through the admissions portal

Tours are also available by appointment!
Please contact Anne Hinder at ahinder@smanet.org

Questions?

Anne Hinder
Director of Early Learning and Kindergarten Admissions
ahinder@smanet.org
303.762.8300 x 398