Eighth-graders across Chicago face an important decision on Saturday, December 7–where they will spend their high school years? For many, that choice hinges on the Mount Carmel Entrance exam, a test that will set the stage for their future careers, lifelong friendships, and more.

The entrance exam will take place at Mount Carmel High School, bringing in students that are eager to secure their spot at one of the more respected all-boys Catholic schools in Chicago. The exam marks the work done months in advance led by Mr. Jeff Stur, Mr. Noel Bax, and Mrs. Jennifer Auguste, all members of the Mount Carmel Admissions team.

“Chicago is one of the most challenging landscapes when it comes to the amount of schools available to eighth-grade students,” said Mr. Stur, Director of Enrollment Marketing and Management, reflecting on the year-long effort to attract candidates. “There are over 20 Catholic schools they can choose from. So really honing in on the ones who know this is the right fit for them can be challenging.”

Hosting lots of events, clinics, and camps for the grammar school students plays a big role in bringing them to MC. 

“By design, having shadow days, open houses, and events like Grammar School Night at the football game lets students see what life at Mount Carmel is like,” Mr. Stur explained. “This year, we had over 200 grammar school students come out for the grammar school night game, all in sixth, seventh, and eighth grades. We’ve also hosted clinics for baseball, volleyball, lacrosse, and basketball, giving students more opportunities to visit.”

Beyond the events, Mr. Stur emphasized the importance of building personal connections with the students.

“Building relationships with families and their children is very important,” he said. “Knowing their name when they arrive here makes them feel comfortable and helps Mount Carmel feel like a home to them.”

The MC Admissions team has also promoted the use of test preparation materials to help the students feel ready and prepared when it comes time for the exam. “There are test preps online, and we encourage families to use those resources,” Mr. Stur said. “Many grammar schools also offer test prep programs, so we refer them to those as well.”

For many eighth-graders, the entrance exam will be their first experience with a standardized test, and nerves are to be expected. On the day of the exam, Mount Carmel tries their best to make a welcoming and supportive environment.

“We meet all the students in the gym before dismissing them to their classrooms,” Mr. Stur shared. “I always give a little pep talk to calm their nerves. The biggest advice we give is just to answer as many questions as possible.”

Mr. Stur is showing a lot of enthusiasm and excitement for the incoming class of 2029, many members of which he has already met through events, shadow days and more.

“We’ve met a bunch of really great students who will be taking the test here on Saturday,” he said. “A lot of them come to football or basketball games wearing Mount Carmel shirts or hoodies. We’ve seen familiar faces repeatedly, and that bodes well for students who are not only taking the test here but are fully committed to coming.”

“I’m very excited to meet these students,” he added. “It’s going to be awesome.”

The entrance exam is more than just a test, it is a step towards becoming a part of the MC tradition. With lots of time in preparation and enthusiasm from staff and families, attending Mount Carmel promises to be a memorable milestone for students.