More Than Admissions

A MINISTRY

Your child is so much more than a name on a class roster. During our admissions process, we intentionally pray God guides you to discover the school that best supports your child’s academic success, spiritual growth, and love for Christ.

Choosing a Christ-centered school where your child will thrive and flourish is a journey; we are honored to walk alongside you on it. For us, admissions is more than a process — it’s a ministry and a commitment to supporting your child’s future.

Accepting Applications For The 2026-2027 School Year

Still Accepting Applications for the 2025-2026 School Year

Admissions Timeline

EARLY DECISION

October 1-January 31


Application Fee: $125

Decision: Within 10 business days


  • Priority Tuition Assistance: Apply by February 3. ($45 fee)
  • K-12 New Student Fee: Due at contract signing. ($1,325 fee)
  • Includes Free Spirit Pack

This is the best time of year to apply! Accepted applicants are guaranteed placement (if wait pools allow).

OPEN APPLICATIONS

February 1-April 30


Application Fee: $175

Decision: Within 15 business days


  • Priority Tuition Assistance: Apply by February 3. ($45 fee)
  • K-12 New Student Fee: Due at contract signing. ($1,325 fee)

The school year will be here soon! We are actively filling our remaining seats. Wait pools are likely.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION

May 1-July 31


Application Fee: $225

Decision: 15+ business days


  • Tuition Assistance: After February 3, awards are based on remaining funds. ($45 fee)
  • K-12 New Student Fee: Due at contract signing. ($1,325 fee)

It’s not too late! Summer applications are welcome. Anticipate wait pools in multiple grade levels.

MID-YEAR TRANSFERS

After October 1


Application Fee: $225

Decision: 15+ business days


  • Tuition Assistance: After February 3, awards are based on remaining funds. ($45 fee)
  • K-12 New Student Fee: Due at contract signing. ($1,325 fee)

Mid-year transfers are considered on a per-application basis.

Deposits and fees are non-refundable.

PRESCHOOL APPLICATION PROCESS

STEP 1: Application

Submit records within 10 days

To complete the application, submit the items below, including all supplemental forms. Records may be uploaded via the parent portal. 

  • Copy of birth certificate 
  • Copy of immunization records required; conscientious exemption forms not accepted.
  • Copy of proof of health insurance 
  • Ministry leader recommendation (pastor, small group leader, elder, deacon, etc.)
  • Preschool/kindergarten recommendation form (not needed for three-year-old preschoolers) 
  • Copy of custody decree, if applicable 

STEP 2: ASSESSMENT

Participate in a play-based assessment. 

Preschool applicants participate in a play-based assessment to help determine their compatibility with the academic environment at Hill Country. We will contact applicants to schedule an assessment. 

STEP 3: INTERVIEW

Attend a family interview. 

Once testing is complete and all student records are received, the admissions review committee reviews the student’s file and determines whether the family will be invited for an interview. We request that both parents attend the interview, as well as students applying to 4th through 12th grade. 

STEP 4: ADMISSION’S DECISION

You’ll hear from us within two weeks.* 

 We will communicate official acceptance (or non-acceptance) in writing within two weeks of the family interview or admissions review committee decision. 

*For grades in a wait pool, we may send decisions such as “accept to wait pool” or “decline.” We issue final acceptance decisions the first week of March. 

STEP 5: ENROLLMENT & TUITION AGREEMENT

Complete within 10 days. 

After receiving acceptance notification, we will send parents information to complete the enrollment process, which they will need to finish and submit within 10 days. 

K-12 APPLICATION PROCESS

STEP 1: Application

Submit records within 10 days

To complete the application, submit the items below, including all supplemental forms. Records may be uploaded via the parent portal. 

  • Copy of birth certificate 
  • Copy of immunization records required; conscientious exemption forms not accepted. 
  • Copy of proof of health insurance 
  • Copy of standardized test scores (3rd grade and up) 
  • Copy of most recent report card (1st grade and up) 
  • Recommendation forms:
    • All applicants: ministry leader recommendation (pastor, small group leader, elder, deacon, etc.) 
    • Kindergarten applicants: preschool/kindergarten recommendation (if applicable) 
    • 1st-6th grade applicants: teacher recommendation 
    • 7th-12th grade applicants: administrator and three teacher recommendations (must include math and English) 
  • Copy of custody decree, if applicable 

STEP 2: TESTING

Take an admissions test.

Students must take a grade level admissions test to help determine their compatibility with the academic environment at Hill Country. Test dates are on our website under the Admissions tab, “How to Apply,” and “Admissions Testing Information.” 

  • Students applying for preschool through 4th grade take an admissions test at Hill Country. The admissions office will contact applicants to schedule testing. 
  • Students applying for 5th grade and above take the Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) at Hill Country Christian School, at another Austin-area school, or online. Parents must register the student through ISEE’s website at iseeonline.erblearn.org. Hill Country’s school code is 447616. You may find fees for ISEE testing on their website. 

STEP 3: INTERVIEW

Attend a family interview. 

Once testing is complete and all student records are received, the admissions review committee will review the student’s file and determine whether the family will be invited for an interview. We request that both parents attend the interview, as well as students applying for 4th through 12th grade. 

STEP 4: ADMISSION’S DECISION

You’ll hear from us within two weeks.* 

 We will communicate official acceptance (or non-acceptance) in writing within two weeks of the family interview or admissions review committee decision. 

*For grades in a wait pool, we may send decisions such as “accept to wait pool” or “decline.” We issue final acceptance decisions the first week of March. 

STEP 5: ENROLLMENT & TUITION AGREEMENT

Complete within 10 days. 

After receiving acceptance notification, we will send parents information to complete the enrollment process, which they will need to finish and submit within 10 days. 

Frequently Asked Questions

View all FAQs
  • Do you have full-day or part-day child care?
    Early Education Admissions

    We offer full-day schooling for preschoolers and kindergarten-age children with a structured schedule designed to nurture their growth. Our Preschool and Kinder Bridge programs run Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., providing a Christ-centered environment with hands-on learning and plenty of play. For families needing earlier drop-off, Monday morning childcare is available from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at no extra cost. After school, Knights After School Care is fee-based and runs until 6 p.m., offering homework help and enriching activities. Learn more about our Preschool programs and After School Care. Tuition for PreK 3’s and 4’s is $13,515, with current pricing available on our Admissions page.

  • What age does my child need to be to start [ PreK / Preschool ]?
    Preschool Admissions

    Children must be three years old by September 1 to start our PreK-3 program and four years old by September 1 for PreK-4. Our Preschool serves three- and four-year-olds with a full-day, 5-day program from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. We focus on a nurturing, Christ-centered environment that supports your child’s spiritual, academic, social, and physical growth. All preschoolers must be fully potty trained before school begins. Learn more about our Preschool programs and environment.

  • What age does my child need to be to start Kindergarten?
    Kindergarten Admissions

    Children must be five years old by September 1 to start Kindergarten. We understand this is an important decision, so we offer individual kindergarten screenings to assess readiness in academic skills and social development. To help you prepare, you can download our comprehensive Kinder Ready Packet, which outlines skills to practice at home. We’re here to support your child’s smooth transition into a nurturing, Christ-centered Kindergarten experience.

  • Can we schedule a shadow day so our child can visit the school?
    Elementary SchoolMiddle SchoolHigh School Admissions

    We invite families to schedule a visit so your child can experience our Christ-centered, classical education firsthand. Whether your child is in Preschool, Elementary, Middle, or High School, tours offer a great chance to explore classrooms, meet teachers, and get a feel for our supportive community.

    How to schedule:
    – Preschool and Kinder Bridge families can join a Preschool Group Tour.
    – Elementary, Middle, and High School families may sign up for grade-specific Group Tours.
    – You can also arrange a discovery call for quick questions.

    Tours typically last about an hour and include visits to classrooms, playgrounds, and enrichment spaces.

    Shadow Days:
    For middle and high school students, we offer “Discover HillCo” half-shadow days throughout the year. Please note that completing a school tour is required before scheduling a half-shadow day.

    Additional Opportunities:
    – Preschool and Elementary families can attend an interactive “Family and Friends Night” event to meet grade-level teachers, explore STEM, PE, and Art enrichments, and connect with other Hill Country families.
    – Preschool families may also join “Preschool Preview” mornings, featuring centers-based activities, a Bible story from our weekly chapel, meetings with Principals, and preschool classroom tours.

    We look forward to welcoming you and helping your child see if Hill Country is the right fit!

  • What grade levels does the school serve, and what ages can apply?
    Admissions

    Hill Country Christian School serves students from Preschool through 12th grade, welcoming children at these key stages:

    • Preschool & Kinder Bridge: Ages 3-5, with programs designed to nurture curiosity, creativity, and kindergarten readiness in a Christ-centered environment.
    • Kindergarten: Age 5 by September 1, focusing on foundational academics and spiritual growth with individualized attention.
    • Elementary School: Grades 1-5, offering a rigorous, Christ-centered curriculum that builds strong academic and character foundations.
    • Middle School: Grades 6-8, where preteens grow in independence, leadership, and critical thinking within a supportive community.
    • High School: Grades 9-12, preparing teens for college and life with a classical curriculum and personalized guidance.
  • Is there an admissions deadline, and what if we miss it?
    Admissions

    Admissions deadlines vary by application period and grade level, but we accept applications throughout several windows:

    Early Decision (best for guaranteed placement): October 1–January 31 with a $125 application fee.
    Open Applications: February 1–April 30 with a $175 fee.
    Special Consideration: May 1–July 31 with a $225 fee.

    If you miss a deadline, you can still apply during later periods, though expect wait pools in some grades. For details on applying and deadlines, visit our How to Apply page.

    What if you miss it?
    – Late applicants are welcome but may face wait pools based on seat availability.
    – Priority tuition assistance application deadline is February 1. After February 1, tuition assistance will continue to be awarded until all funds are exhausted.
    – We encourage contacting admissions early to discuss your specific situation.

    We’re here to help you navigate the process and find the best fit for your child’s stage, whether preschool, elementary, middle, or high school.

  • Is there an application fee to be considered for enrollment?
    Admissions

    There is a non-refundable application fee to apply for enrollment, varying by timing and grade level:

    • Early Decision (Oct 1–Jan 31): $125
    • Open Applications (Feb 1–Apr 30): $175
    • Special Consideration (May 1–Jul 31) and Mid-Year Transfers: $225

    Additionally, a separate new student fee of $1,325 is due at contract signing for K-12 students. You can find details about the application process and fees there.

  • What paperwork or documents do we need to apply?
    Admissions

    To apply at Hill Country Christian School, please submit these documents within 10 days of applying, using our convenient parent portal:

    For Preschool:
    – Birth certificate
    – Copy of either immunization records or notarized affidavit exemption for reasons of conscience
    – Proof of health insurance
    – Ministry leader recommendation
    – Preschool/kindergarten recommendation (except for 3-year-olds)
    – Custody decree if applicable

    For Kindergarten through 12th Grade:
    – Birth certificate
    – Copy of either immunization records or notarized affidavit exemption for reasons of conscience
    – Proof of health insurance
    – Standardized test scores (3rd grade and up)
    – Most recent report card (1st grade and up)
    – Recommendation forms tailored by grade level
    – Custody decree if applicable

    Learn more about the full application process and get started with your application today.

  • Do new students need to take a placement test or academic evaluation?
    Elementary SchoolMiddle SchoolHigh School Admissions

    New students at Hill Country Christian School participate in grade-appropriate academic evaluations to ensure the best placement and a smooth transition.

    Preschool: We schedule a play-based assessment to understand your child’s readiness and fit.

    Kindergarten through 4th Grade: After applying, our admissions team will arrange a testing time. These assessments help us see how your child will thrive in our academic environment.

    5th Grade and Up: Students take the Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE), either here or online, to assess academic compatibility.

    We’ll guide you through scheduling and next steps after your application. Learn more about our admissions testing process.

  • When will we hear if our student is accepted?
    Admissions

    You’ll hear from us within two weeks of your family interview or the admissions review committee’s decision. We’ll send official acceptance or non-acceptance decisions via email during this time. At times, students may be placed in a wait pool when there are no available seats in their grade levels. In this case, students will be emailed the first week of March of final acceptances.

    After acceptance, parents have 10 days to complete enrollment and tuition agreements.

    If you want to learn more about the full application process, we’re here to help!

  • Do siblings of current students get priority in admissions?
    Admissions

    At Hill Country Christian School, the admissions committee reserves the right to give priority consideration to qualified siblings of current students and children of alumni. This reflects our commitment to valuing family connections while ensuring the best fit for each child. All applicants, including siblings and alumni children, undergo a review as part of the admissions process. Learn more about our admissions process and how we partner with families at every stage.

  • What payments are due to confirm our child’s enrollment?
    Admissions

    To confirm your child’s enrollment at Hill Country Christian School, the following payments are due:

    • Application Fee: A non-refundable fee ranging from $125 to $225, depending on when you apply.
    • K-12 New Student Fee: A $1,325 non-refundable fee due at contract signing for all new K-12 students.
    • Tuition: Annual tuition varies by grade and is payable according to your chosen plan.
    • After School Care Fee: If your child participates in after-school care (PreK-5th), additional fees apply.

    These payments secure your child’s spot and help us provide a nurturing, Christ-centered education. Learn more about tuition and fees.

  • What should parents expect during registration and orientation?
    Admissions

    During registration and orientation, parents can expect a welcoming, Christ-centered community where we partner closely with families to support your child’s growth at every stage. You’ll complete applications by submitting required records like birth certificates and immunizations/exemptions, and participate in assessments or testing depending on grade level. Family interviews help us get to know you and your child better. We encourage connecting with teachers and staff early to build strong relationships that support your child’s academic and spiritual journey. For details, explore our application process.

    Preschool & Kinder Bridge:
    – Submit records and join a play-based assessment
    – Attend a family interview
    – Experience a nurturing environment focused on early literacy, social-emotional growth, and spiritual formation

    Elementary:
    – Provide academic records and recommendations
    – Participate in grade-level testing and family interviews
    – Learn about curriculum and enrichment opportunities

    Middle & High School:
    – Complete standardized testing (ISEE for grades 5+)
    – Attend family interviews with both parents encouraged to participate
    – Receive admissions decisions within two weeks
    – Finalize enrollment and tuition agreements promptly

    After enrollment, families are connected with grade-level Parent Ambassadors and invited to join a “New Family” GroupMe page before the end of the school year. This provides a great way to ask questions and get acclimated to the Hill Country community. Additionally, grade-level coordinators organize fun summer events to help new families connect with current families, fostering relationships before school starts.

    We’re here to help you every step of the way as you prepare to launch your child into a thriving, faith-filled school experience.

  • What academic or behavior standards should new students meet?
    Admissions

    New students at Hill Country Christian School must meet specific academic and behavior standards tailored by age group to ensure success and a positive community fit:

    Preschool: Children must be age-appropriate (3 or 4 by September 1) and fully potty trained. They undergo academic and social-readiness screenings to determine developmental age and proper placement through play-based assessments.

    Kindergarten: Students must be five years old by September 1 and are given an early childhood assessment to examine developing reading knowledge, math, fine motor, and gross motor skills. A minimum score of 70 is required.

    Elementary (Grades 1-4): Students must demonstrate academic ability through reading and math assessments, including the Developmental Reading Assessment (DRA-2) and tests in reading, math, grammar, and writing administered by Hill Country faculty. Good behavior and social skills are essential.

    Elementary & Middle School (Grades 5-8): Students take the Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) to assess academic compatibility, with scores expected between Stanine 4 and 9 across all categories. Previous standardized test scores, report cards, and recommendations are also considered. A record of good behavior is required; chronic discipline issues may affect admission.

    High School (Grades 9-12): Students take the ISEE and submit prior academic records. Transfer students must have passed all core classes successfully. Behavior expectations remain high, with no tolerance for chronic discipline problems such as suspensions or expulsions.

    Across all stages, families must commit to supporting school standards, and students must reside with a parent or guardian who meets admission policies. Students with chronic discipline problems or multiple suspensions are not considered for admission.

    For families interested in gifted and talented programs, students are assessed using multiple measures and must score at or above the 95th percentile on nationally standardized tests to qualify.

    Learn more about our admissions policies and academic readiness.


Your Admissions Staff

We look forward to speaking with you! Contact us at 512-331-7036 or admissions@hccsa.org.

Christine Aguayo

Admissions Associate

Christine Aguayo

Admissions Associate

I’m originally from San Diego, California. My husband and I moved our family to Austin in 2016, and that’s when I began working at Hill Country. Before that, I studied business management at San Diego Mesa College and worked in bookkeeping, accounting, human resources, office management, and as an administrative assistant. We have two current Hill Country students, Classes of 2026, and 2029.

What is your favorite sport?
I’m a huge NFL football fan. Go, Chargers!

What is your favorite hobby or one of your favorite things?
Anything related to the water or beach. I just love being in the water!

What is your favorite food?
Salmon is my favorite food.

Growing up, you hoped to become…
an architect

Other than the Bible, what’s your all-time favorite book?
I can’t choose just one. I love to read!

What is an interesting fact about you?
I love adventure, hiking, and travel! On one of my favorite trips of all time, I hiked the Cinque Terre in Italy and then the Fira to Oia hike on Santorini in Greece. Being on trails with such beautiful views was a dream trip for me!

If you could meet one historical figure or famous person, who would it be and why?
C.S. Lewis. His books have always piqued my interest and inspired me in my walk with the Lord.

What song would be the soundtrack to your life?
“Awake and Alive” by Skillet.

What is your favorite Scripture or quote?
My favorite verse right now is Numbers 6:24-26, The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.

Who has had the greatest influence on your life and why?
Too many people to list. I’m grateful to have had so many people invest in and disciple me through the years. All of them love the Lord and encouraged me in my walk.

What do you believe makes Hill Country distinct?
The faculty and staff genuinely love one another and desire to serve the community and the Lord with excellence.

What do you love about working at Hill Country?
I love working for and getting to know the new families at Hill Country. In my role, I’m blessed to get to serve them as they go through the admissions process!

Diana Jones

Admissions Coordinator

Diana Jones

Admissions Coordinator

I grew up in Maryland and had the amazing opportunity to live in Thailand as a young teen. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Texas A&M University. I moved to Austin in 2014, and before joining Hill Country in 2025, I worked in a church and parachurch ministry—locally and overseas (in both Turkey and Greece!)—focusing on discipleship, mission, and mobilization.

What is your favorite sport?
Tennis

What is your favorite hobby or one of your favorite things?
Travelling

What is your favorite food?
Thai… or Mediterranean… or Middle Eastern… or Puerto Rican. I like food!

Growing up, you hoped to become a…
Figure skater

What is your favorite Scripture or quote?
But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” – 1 Corinthians 15:57-58

What do you love about working at Hill Country?
I’m always impressed by the caliber of students at Hill Country, demonstrated by their spiritual maturity, servant-heartedness, and leadership. They are so beyond where I was in school, and it’s a joy to play a small part in building up the next generation of Christ’s Kingdom.

Heather Jackson

Director of Admissions

Heather Jackson

Director of Admissions

I have a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communications from San Jose State University. Before moving to Austin and starting at Hill Country in the summer of 2022, I lived in Washington and California and was the Admissions Coordinator at Legacy Christian School in San Jose, California. My husband, Brian, and I have two children at Hill Country, classes of 2029 and 2032.

What is your favorite sport?
Football

What is your favorite hobby or one of your favorite things?
Hanging out with friends

What is your favorite food?
Coffee

Growing up, you hoped to become a…
Astronaut

Other than the Bible, what’s your all-time favorite book?
Voices From the Past: A Puritan Devotional

What is an interesting fact about you?
I have a twin sister.

If you could meet one historical figure or famous person, who would it be and why?
English Puritan, John Owen. He lived a horrible life of sin before coming to faith in Christ. When he became a pastor, he was so encouraging and gentle to those who struggled with their own sin. I would want to talk more with him about his relationship with Jesus.

What song would be the soundtrack to your life?
“Jesus Saves” by Jeremy Camp

What is your favorite Scripture or quote?
You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Trust in the Lord always, for the LORD GOD is the eternal Rock.” – Isaiah 26:3-4

Who has had the greatest influence on your life and why?
My mother; she introduced me to Jesus.

What do you believe makes Hill Country distinct?
The faculty and staff are committed to the purpose, mission, and vision of the school.

What is your favorite part about working at Hill Country?
We get to meet new families in the Admissions office that we can get to know and serve in a variety of ways each day.


Hill Country Parent Guide

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