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St. Bernard Preparatory School strives to create an environment that encourages student growth in self-discipline, respect for self and others, and mature social interaction.
The college preparatory curriculum is based on the liberal arts: languages and literature, history, mathematics, science, theology and the arts.
This program emphasizes the ability to think, to read with understanding, to express oneself with precision and grace, and to solve problems creatively.
Courses not only provide the transmission and reception of facts, they encourage the development of mental and physical discipline, of breadth and depth of view, of responsible thought and action, and of critical thinking.
The school motto, Corpus, Mens, Spiritus (Body, Mind, Spirit) indicates the mission of St. Bernard Preparatory: "St. Bernard Preparatory School is committed to fully engaging students in learning for the whole person: body, mind and spirit.
St. Bernard pursues this mission through the search for truth and the striving for goodness in the classroom, through participation in religious, social and athletic events, and by involvement in mentoring and community service activities.
Founded and administered by the Benedictine Monks of St. Bernard Abbey, the school stands on 1,500 years of monastic history and experience of the love for learning.
Quick Stats (2025)
Grades: 7-12
Enrollment: 131 students
Yearly Tuition (Boarding Students): $34,000
Yearly Tuition (Day Students): $13,000
Acceptance rate: 80%
Average class size: 13 students
Application Deadline: None / Rolling
Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
St. Bernard Preparatory School ranks among the top 20 boarding schools (out of 276 schools) for:
St. Bernard Preparatory School admits students who seek to prepare for college and university studies and who are academically capable of excelling through standard college prep instructional and testing methods. The school endeavors to challenge each student to academic excellence through a rigorous and reasonablecollege preparatory program, including AP courses and dual-enrollment in college courses.
St. Bernard graduates are accepted to numerous prestigious colleges and universities.
ACT and SAT scores consistently rank well above the national average.
Cultural diversity is promoted through our international student population.
Highly-educated and experienced faculty of Monks and Lay personnel.
Extensive athletics program as well as a full spectrum of visual and performing arts.
Safe, secure environment on the picturesque 900 acres of St. Bernard Abbey.
Located in North Alabama in the quaint community of Cullman (originally founded by German immigrants in 1877),an hour drive north of Birmingham,an hour south of Huntsville, two hours from Nashville, TN,and three hours from Atlanta, GA.
Residential life that promotes growth, maturity and the self-knowledge that comes through a healthy measure of independence and self-reliance.
St. Bernard Preparatory School accreditations: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS), The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS), Secondary Schools Admissions Test Board (SSATB)
How much does St. Bernard Preparatory School cost?
St. Bernard Preparatory School's tuition is approximately $34,000 for boarding students and $13,000 for day students.
What is the acceptance rate of St. Bernard Preparatory School?
The acceptance rate of St. Bernard Preparatory School is 80%, which is higher than the boarding school average of 64%.
What sports does St. Bernard Preparatory School offer?
St. Bernard Preparatory School offers 9 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cheering, Cross Country Running, Soccer, Tennis, Track and Field and Volleyball.
The concept of outdoor education dates back to the early 20th century as educators sought ways to engage students beyond traditional methods. Early efforts initially focused on direct, experiential learning in nature, but later evolved to incorporate academics, collaborative skills, and a focus on environmental responsibility. Outdoor education today equips students with critical life skills, preparing them for the world beyond the classroom.
This article highlights the diverse range of sports offered in boarding schools, emphasizing how athletics are an integral part of a comprehensive educational program. It explores various sports such as crew, football, field hockey, golf, ice hockey, lacrosse, indoor racquet sports, riding, soccer, swimming, and track, showcasing the opportunities available for students to develop physically and emotionally.
Explore the distinguished world of America's top Catholic boarding schools, where academic excellence, athletic achievement, and Catholic values create a transformative educational experience. This comprehensive overview highlights ten institutions that exemplify the finest in Catholic secondary education.
