Palma Scholars Program Application

Applicants to the Palma Scholars Program must formally designate their interest in the program when completing the online application. Please note that only students applying to grade 9 are considered. No current or former Catlin Gabel students are eligible to apply. To learn more about the Palma Scholars Program please visit our program overview page.

Admission Criteria

Admission to the program is based on both demonstrated achievement and potential in the program’s four key pillars: academics, athletics, leadership, and service.

Finalist Process

Approximately a dozen applicants are selected as finalists and are asked to return to campus for a full day of activities with current Palma Scholars, the Palma Scholars Program Director, and Catlin Gabel faculty and staff.

key dates for 2026-27 palma scholar Applicants
January 15, 2026: Palma Scholars Program application deadline
January 16, 2026: Palma Scholars Program financial assistance application deadline
January 30, 2026: Palma Scholars Program finalists notified
February 12, 2026: Palma Scholars Program finalists day
February 20, 2026: Palma Scholars Program and financial assistance decisions delivered
March 5, 2026: Palma Scholars Program enrollment deadline

Application Checklist

All items marked with an asterisk (*) are required.

Get To Know Us

Create an admission portal account*

Register for events

  • Upper School Admission Overview, October 23, 12-12:45 p.m.
  • Upper School Open House, October 26, 1-4 p.m.
  • Palma Scholars Alumni Panel, November 18, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
  • Palma Scholars Program Breakfast, December 4, 8-10 a.m.
  • Financial Assistance Overview, January 8, 6-7 p.m.
  • Parent Coffee & Conversation (various dates, see event listings)
  • Catlin Gabel Affinity & Discussion Groups, January 20, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Explore campus through a private guided tour on a regular school day

Application Process

 Pay $75 Application Fee*

Submit Online Forms*

  • Family Information Forms
  • Applicant Profile
  • Questions for Parents/Guardians
  • Questions for Students
  • Student Video
  • Palma Scholars Addendum

Upload Student Writing Sample*

Send Teacher Evaluation Forms to Current Teachers (after November 1)*

Send Coach Evaluation Form to the coach of each sport you play at a competitive (non-recreational) level*

Submit School Records*

 Register for a Shadow Day*

  • Your Shadow Day will include taking a tour of the Upper School, attending classes, lunch, and breaks with a student host, and participating in a fun team challenge activity with other applicants.
  • Please complete the Interests and Shadow Day Form* found under the Shadow Day section in the admission portal prior to registering
 

Start Application Continue Application

Have Questions?

Contact Mary Braun
Director of Upper School Enrollment
us-apply@catlin.edu
(503) 297-1894 ext.5052

2026 Niche Best Schools award badge with Best private high school and college prep text overlay

Learn More

Palma Scholars Program Overview

Learn More

Fee Waiver

To request a need-based application fee waiver, please complete the fee waiver request form.

Request A Waiver

Palma Scholars Program Alumni Panel