The Ignatian Scholars Program is a two-year track designed for intellectually gifted and academically motivated young men. Ignatian Scholars pursue a rigorous course of honors study and, if they continue to excel, are invited to take the many Advanced Placement courses Xavier offers. Additionally, Ignatian Scholars are encouraged to apply for Xavier's innovative co-curricular offerings such as the Holocaust Studies Program.
Ignatian Scholars
Fast Facts
of the incoming freshmen class
15%
of Ignatian Scholars
100%
honors courses
11
AP courses
18
All Ignatian Scholars take Honors English, History, and Science for their first two years. At a minimum, freshman Ignatian Scholars take Honors Algebra, although many qualify for more advanced mathematics course offerings. Most Ignatian Scholars apply to and are accepted into the National Honor Society.
As part of the program, Xavier invites Ignatian Scholars to attend lectures from special guest speakers, visit cultural and artistic landmarks, and attend theatrical events in New York City. We are intent on making sure that our Ignatian Scholars build deep and lasting connections, both among themselves and with our alumni. Ignatian Scholars often connect with alumni to discuss college and career paths beyond Xavier.
Ignatian Scholars are also exposed to the broad range of opportunities that New York City affords. In recent years, Ignatian Scholars have visited the East Coast Headquarters of Google and Facebook. They also participate annually in Basecamp Expeditionaries, a social entrepreneurship course.
Approximately 20% of accepted students are offered a place in our Ignatian Scholars Program. All applicants who wish to be considered for the program are required to have exceptional grades in sixth, seventh, and eighth grades. Applicants accepted into the Ignatian Scholars Program must score above 90% on the HSPT, overall and in sub-categories. Every Ignatian Scholar admitted into our freshman class receives some form of a merit scholarship upon their acceptance. If you have specific questions about this program, please contact a member of our Admissions Team at admissions@xavierhs.org.
Co-Curricular Programs
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John Torraca '26
“One academic offering that has majorly impacted me is the Holocaust Studies Program. The reason I chose to join this program is because I do not want the same thing to happen again. I wanted to gain knowledge on the subject in order to actively prevent prejudice against any group of people."