About MD
Mater Dei is a distinguished destination of excellence in academics and technology, the arts, faith and service, campus life, and athletics. We are proud to be Orange County’s oldest and largest Catholic high school.
Admissions
Your journey to becoming a Monarch starts here! Tour campus, schedule a shadow day, begin your application, and more. We are excited for you to join the MD family!
Programs
Built on Catholic fellowship and intellectual rigor, our programs in academics, technology, athletics, faith and service, and the arts provide unlimited opportunities for student success. Comprehensive counseling and wellness resources educate and bolster families throughout the high school journey.
Campus Life
Through avenues of leadership, faith, shared interests, and extracurricular activities and events, students can make Mater Dei their own. Get involved today!
Community
- Students
- Parents
- Faculty
- Alumni
- Grandparents
- Videos
Tradition never graduates. Alumni, lifetime parents, grandparents, and friends are a vital and vibrant aspect of our community. Once a Monarch, always a Monarch.
Giving
Behind every achievement, success, and championship, stand the alumni, parents, faculty, staff, and friends who fortify our future. We invite you to support MD in a variety of ways with a gift that is meaningful to you.

At a Glance

1950
Founded
Scarlet and Gray School Colors
Monarch Mascot
Apple Distinguished School
Located in Santa Ana, CA
24/7
Campus Security/ Closed Campus
2,149 Students
52% Female 48% Male
Comprehensive Academics 53 Honors Courses 22 AP Courses 109 Electives
75+ Clubs
25 Sports/Teams
2021 College Placement 81% 4 Year 18% 2 Year 1% Gap Year
Religiously Diverse 75.3% Catholic and 24.7% Non Catholic
Culturally Diverse
39% Caucasian 29% Hispanic 18% Asian 3% African American 11% Other Race
140
National Merit Finalists
1 to 1 iPad Program
20%
of faculty/staff are alumni
50%
of students who receive financial aid
Drug testing program
95%
Student Involvement
STEM Distinction Program
8
College and Career Counselors
3
CHOC Psychology Team Members
4
Learning Support Specialists