Harrisburg Academy's admission process is designed to admit qualified students who are capable of benefiting from the school’s college preparatory program and making a positive contribution to the school community. The Office of Admission works to identify, attract, and retain a diverse group of students who possess the following characteristics: intellectual curiosity, willingness to serve others and community, self-motivation and a solid work ethic, admirable character, special talents, and an enthusiasm for involvement in the school’s co-curricular offerings.

Parents as Partners
We stress the need for parents of Academy students to trust our curriculum, program choices, and the professionalism of our employees. We ask that parents demonstrate patience and realistic expectations for their child in the learning process. We seek parents who share our common goal of educating the whole child – emotionally, intellectually, and physically.

Profile for Success
The Academy offers a challenging academic curriculum and provides a rigorous academic program, designed for students who have the talent and ability to succeed in school, in college, and beyond. We also strive to understand and appreciate each student and his/her educational needs. One of our main educational goals is to have the student assume responsibility for learning. Students who attend the Academy possess a range of gifts and talents. The Office of Admission seeks students who would benefit from and thrive in the educational environment the school offers; unfortunately, we cannot provide for those students requiring exceptional attention or significant learning accommodations.
We want students to have a happy, successful experience as they explore and develop into young adults. Characteristics most consistently found in successful Academy students are:

• Self-motivation and assumption of responsibility
• Above-average aptitude and achievement
• Intellectual curiosity
• Analytical and creative thinking skills
• Independent reading skills
• Effective time management
• Well-rounded talents and interests
• Physical and emotional wellness

Admission Policy for "Connected" Applicants
In the Academy's admission process, every effort is made to accommodate qualified applicants who are siblings of currently enrolled students, children of alumni, or children of full-time faculty/staff. However, admission decisions are based primarily upon the composite qualifications of the individual candidate, space available, and gender balancing. In the event of a wait pool, a "connected" applicant will be given priority.