Pictured: Peter Helbling (’23) and his mother, Kelli Helbling, visiting Belmont Abbey College

Catholic Diocese of Arlington Office of Vocations: General information about & practical suggestions for discerning one’s vocation

Catholic Diocese of Arlington FIAT (Women) & Quo Vadis (Men): Diocesan events for high schoolers discerning their future

USCCB Prayers for Vocations for Parents and Young Adults

Newman Guide to Choosing a Catholic College, Catholic Campus Ministry Finder, and Diocese of Arlington Catholic Campus Ministry: Resources for locating Catholic colleges and Catholic campus ministries

“A Short Guide to the Purposeful College Decision” by Alvaro De Vicente, Headmaster of The Heights School in Potomac, MD

“You Can Become a Better Person by Going to College—But It’s Not Automatic” by Alvaro De Vicente, Headmaster of The Heights School in Potomac, MD

The Teacher Recommendation Request Form and Transcript Request Form are available here or on our Forms page for download.

Please read the directions on the Teacher Recommendation Request Form carefully. Note that you should give your teacher at least 2-3 weeks to complete your letter, and carefully review each college application deadline before you initiate a request.

Please allow 5-7 business days for transcript processing.

First Week of School
Mr. Sicam speaks to parents of upperclassmen about the college application process. Later that week, he gives a proportionate presentation to upperclassmen to initiate this student-led process.

August—November
College admissions representatives visit campus throughout the fall. During this time, seniors receive individualized guidance in Trivium, and Mr. Sicam conducts periodic check-ins while students assume primary responsibility for meeting deadlines and completing their application materials.

Early November
Most Early Action applications are due.

Mid-November—February
Most Regular Decision applications are due.

Spring
Parents of rising seniors attend the Spring Information Session, during which Mr. Sicam outlines important dates and deadlines for next year’s college process. 

Summer
Rising seniors are encouraged to finalize their college lists, draft application essays, and request letters of recommendation.

Throughout the process, Mr. Sicam provides periodic guidance and check-ins, but students bear primary responsibility for managing applications, meeting deadlines, and seeking assistance when needed.