Admissions

Three unique programs. One transformative purpose.

Inspiring hearts and minds through faith, character, academic excellence, and service — at every age and stage. 

Welcome to Nardin Academy, where faith, character, academic excellence, and service come together to foster leadership and confidence in every student.

Choosing a school can feel like making a thousand small decisions all at once. You want to get it right for your child now and for the years ahead. At Nardin Academy, one of Western New York’s top independent Catholic schools, we understand how much thought goes into selecting the right educational environment. That’s why our admissions process is built on real conversations, honest insight, and a shared commitment to what’s best for each student.

Whether you're exploring a Montessori program for toddlers and early childhood, a co-ed elementary and middle school for grades K-8, or a college-preparatory high school experience for young women in grades 9-12, we take the time to understand your child as more than a name on paper. You’ll find a welcoming school community ready to listen, answer your questions, and guide you through every step of the private school admissions process.

Find Your Path

Explore admissions by age and stage.

- Stephanie D., Class of ’24, attending University of Pittsburgh 

“The things I learned both inside and outside of Nardin's classrooms have prepared me very well for my life in college. I am more confident than my peers when speaking to professors, more willing to ask questions or make mistakes, and have much better study habits than many of my friends. It all just makes me realize how special of a place Nardin is!”
 
 

Admissions Process Overview

 
 

Nardin Montessori

Toddler - Grade 3 | Co-ed 
For toddlers through age 3, our Montessori program provides a nurturing foundation for lifelong learning. Children may join as toddlers, or begin at age 3 or 4. However, direct enrollment into the Capstone year, Kindergarten, or Lower Elementary (grades 1-3) is only available to students transferring from another Montessori program. We encourage early applications, as space is limited.

Ideal for families seeking an accredited (American Montessori Society) Montessori school in Buffalo, NY, rooted in personalized care and a strong start to their child’s academic journey. 
 
 

  • Nardin Montessori Admissions

    How to Apply to Nardin’s Montessori Program:

    • Submit the Inquiry Form to begin the Nardin Academy admissions process
    • Schedule a tour or admissions conversation. Click here to schedule your visit. 
    • Attend the tour with your child: See them engage with our community
    • Complete the online application through our parent portal
    • Provide a teacher recommendation (if applicable)
    • Waitlist decisions may apply depending on demand
 

Nardin Academy

Kindergarten - Grade 8 | Co-ed
Our co-ed Lower (Kindergarten - Grade 4) and Middle School (Grades 5-8) offers a strong academic and faith-based foundation, small class sizes, and a vibrant learning community.
What makes these years truly special at Nardin is our commitment to joyful, well-rounded growth. Students enjoy daily outdoor recess, begin world language in Kindergarten, express themselves through a rich performing arts program, and benefit from Chef Julie’s healthy, scratch-made lunches served fresh each day.
Steps for Applying to Nardin Academy (K-8):

This process is designed to support families exploring private Catholic schools for K-8 in Buffalo, NY, where values, academics, and student growth come together.

High School

Grades 9-12 | All-girls
Our all-girls high school (Grades 9-12) is known as one of the best all-girls high schools in Buffalo, offering a challenging college-prep experience grounded in faith, leadership, and service.
Nardin Academy Application Process for High School:

  • Schedule a family tour. We invite you to schedule a tour and join for a Shadow Day
  • Apply for Grade 9, begin by completing the Catholic High Schools of WNY application and selecting Nardin Academy as your first choice. Then, create an account in the Nardin Admissions Portal to continue the application process through Blackbaud.
  • Submit 7th & 8th-grade transcripts, a personal statement, and a letter of recommendation.
  • Complete the Entrance Exam in the fall at Nardin Academy on November 22. Families are notified of admissions decisions in January.
If you're exploring private school admissions in Buffalo, NY, or seeking a high school that prepares young women to lead with purpose, Nardin offers a truly distinctive path.

Interested in transferring to Nardin? We welcome transfer applicants and invite you to reach out to our admissions team to learn more about next steps by email admissions@nardin.org. 
 
 

Why Nardin?

At Nardin Academy, learning reaches beyond textbooks and test scores, preparing students not only for college, but for the complexity of the world they will shape. Their experience is grounded in faith, which gives them purpose, and shaped by character, which guides how they lead. From the earliest steps to the final walk across the graduation stage, students are called to think boldly, lead with integrity, and live meaningful lives.

Belief in Every Student

As a Catholic school inspired by the Daughters of the Heart of Mary, Nardin is grounded in the belief that every child is created with purpose. Faith is woven into the school day through prayer, service, and reflection.

Boundless Learning

Academic excellence starts early and builds with every grade. From Montessori discovery to K-8 foundations to High School AP courses, students are challenged and supported to pursue their full potential.

Belonging That Lasts

Nardin is a vibrant community where students are known and celebrated. Small class sizes, strong relationships, and student life opportunities create connections and memories that last a lifetime.

Nardin by the Numbers

  • Top-ranked private Catholic school in Buffalo, NY
  • 100% of graduates accepted to four-year colleges
  • 1,000+ student-led service hours completed annually
  • 30+ visual and performing arts courses offered school-wide
  • 20+ athletic teams competing across multiple grade levels
  • 19 AP courses offered in High School




Frequently Asked Questions

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We’re excited to see you soon!

As you imagine the right place for your child to grow, we’re here to walk alongside you. Some families begin with a visit. Others reach out to start a conversation. However you begin, our admissions team will meet you there — with care and a genuine commitment to your family’s journey. Take the next step at Nardin today.
A private, independent, Catholic school in Buffalo, NY, with coed Montessori, Lower and Middle Schools and a college preparatory High School for young women.

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