The Admissions Process

Apply to Holden, the revolutionary high school experience where student’s unlock their innate potential!

Thank you for your interest in applying to Holden

Holden is an open and affirming school that provides a student-centered educational experience, embraces diversity, and nurtures students' unique gifts and talents. Applications are processed in the order they are received.

Application Quick Facts

  • Applications for current 9 - 12th graders are processed throughout the school year on a rolling admissions basis as space allows.
  • Families are able to apply for tuition reduction during the application process.
  • Families are strongly encouraged to tour Holden before applying.
  • The Admissions Committee may require additional information .

Application Timelines

  • Applications for prospective 9th graders for the 2025-26 school year are due no later than February 13, 2025, for a March 14, 2025 notification.
  • Applications received after the specified due dates are processed on a rolling admissions basis as space allows.

Applications for 9-12th graders for the current 2023-24 school year are processed throughout the school year on a rolling admissions basis. 

Tuition reduction applications are accepted on a rolling admissions basis. Click here to learn more.

Application Process

Schedule a tour, attend an Information Session, or arrange a one-on-one call with our Admissions Director.

Complete and submit Holden’s online application.

Use the link on this page to submit the $87 application fee.

Click the link to the Confidential Teacher Recommendation form and forward it to your student’s instructor.

ONLINE APPLICATION
PAY APPLICATION FEE
TEACHER RECOMMENDATION FORM

Testimonials

changing lives since 1969

"Holden has helped me feel confident enough to open up and share my ideas and opinions. I plan to enroll in community college to study aviation and graphic design."
Holden sweatshirt
CoreyHolden Graduate
"The Transition Counselors at Holden have helped me organize my path to college. It's been very productive. This fall I'll attend Sacramento Community College."
Jack
JackHolden Graduate
"Holden supports but doesn't coddle. It pushes me to be my best. I have to earn my privileges through things like community service and clean-up crew that prepare me for life outside of school."
Ari
AriHolden Graduate
"Graduating from Holden is bitter-sweet. I'll miss the close-knit feeling of being in such a small community. I'm excited to start at Prescott College to study Wilderness Leadership."
Holden sweatshirt
ZaylaHolden Graduate
"My favorite Holden memory was our school field trip to Kennedy Park. After my gap year, I'll attend the College of Alameda and take a mechanics class."
sweathshirt
WalterHolden Graduate
"I didn't do well in traditional schools because my ADHD means I learn differently. Holden gave me lots of support to pursue my passion for engineering and science."
Gabe
GabeHolden Graduate
"I am forever grateful. This school not only saved my life, but gave me a safe place to explore, grow, and heal."


Krystal
KrystalHolden Graduate
"Holden is a real community. Everyone belongs. I love the freedom I have to express myself. I feel respected here."


Kayla
KaylaHolden Graduate
"Before Holden, I struggled in crowded public school classrooms with teachers who could not support a student with ADHD. I've grown so much at Holden"

Carlo
CarloHolden Alumnus
"Holden gave me a better understanding of myself and how I affect the world around me. It gave me direction, and guided my creativity"

Elliot "Oden"
Elliot "Oden"Holden Graduate
"I am so grateful to work in a school with a collaborative staff that truly respects and supports each individual student."


Abby
AbbyHolden Director
"Holden helped me learn to really enjoy life and express my feelings. Holden helped me through a lot of dark times and I'm forever thankful."

Beatrice
BeatriceHolden Graduate
“I have matured in ways that wouldn’t have been possible without the community at Holden.”


Brandon
BrandonHolden Graduate
"Holden is a community. We check in with each other, teach and learn from one another, and help each other succeed. I love working here!"

Libby
LibbyHolden Teacher
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HOLDEN HIGH SCHOOL

  • 925-254-0199
  • 925-254-6130
  • 10 IRWIN WAY, ORINDA, CA 94563
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