Saint Mary's University has developed alliances with several Catholic high schools. The participating students have the opportunity to enroll in several entry level courses offered by Saint Mary's University. These courses follow approved syllabi and are taught by a combination of adjunct professors and full-time Saint Mary's University faculty.
Advanced placement is determined by department chairs.
Saint Mary's accepts advanced placement credits under the International Baccalaureate High School Program. Examinations must be in subjects which are comparable to courses in Saint Mary's curriculum. Incoming freshmen who choose not to participate in either of the above mentioned advanced placement programs may apply directly to Saint Mary's University for advance credit in mathematics, French, or Spanish. The student applies for the advance credit examination directly to the appropriate department and may receive up to a maximum of eight semester credits. The student should apply for advance credit at the time of matriculation but no later than the end of the first semester of attendance at Saint Mary's University.