Taking the Christopher Columbus Entrance Exam: A Step Toward Brotherhood, Faith and Scholarship

By Carlos Gutiérrez

The Columbus C statue (Source: Columbus website)

On Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, hundreds of eager eighth graders arrived at Christopher Columbus High School to take the highly anticipated entrance exam, a key step for admission.

The exam serves as a gateway for students who aspire to join a community rooted in the Marist tradition, where education transcends the classroom and shapes young men academically, socially and spiritually. For many, this day marks the beginning of a journey toward excellence and brotherhood.

Admission to Columbus as a freshman is based on a combination of factors: performance on the entrance exam, recent grades and standardized test scores. The application process begins in September, followed by an Open House in November, giving families a chance to experience the school’s campus and values firsthand. Columbus’ mission is clear, to develop young men of character who thrive in all aspects of life. With its Mission Statement of Brotherhood, Faith and Scholarship, the school promises an environment that fosters leadership, service and lifelong learning.

The entrance exam itself measures verbal, quantitative, reading, math and language skills, providing a baseline for academic readiness.

“Everyone is testing under the same conditions on the same day,” explained Michael Marinelli, Columbus’ Admissions Director. “The exam gives us a local and national percentile to gauge grade-level mastery.”

Marinelli also noted an uptick in applications in recent years, a testament to the school’s reputation for rigorous academics and a strong sense of community.

“We offer a well-rounded experience, great extracurriculars, sports and academics which makes Columbus so attractive," he said.

For students, the day was filled with anticipation and hope.

David Del Valle, a student who took the exam, said, “What motivates me would be the thought of attending the same school as so many of my family members. Columbus is an amazing school that could truly help me get into a prestigious college.”

His pre-exam ritual?

“Eggs, toast and bacon…to get my brain going.”

Similarly, Christian “Cuco” Sarria expressed a mix of excitement and nerves.

“I have studied and prepared for months. Now I just want the day to come so I can do my very best,” he said.

For Marc Perez '30, the goal was clear: “My biggest goal is to earn a place in Columbus’ prestigious Mas Program."

Parents echoed the significance of this milestone beyond academics.

“I hope my son walks away from this experience knowing how capable he is,” said Christy Sarria, Christian's mom. “No matter the outcome, his effort and dedication already make him a success.”

For many families, the exam represents more than a test; it’s a step toward joining a legacy of faith and brotherhood.

As the test concluded, students left with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for what lies ahead. For those who earn admission, the next four years will be filled with opportunities to learn, lead and serve, hallmarks of the Marist tradition.

At Christopher Columbus High School, the journey toward greatness begins with a single step: the entrance exam.