I’m with @chubwagon. It’s not binding, you’re paying the application fees, so go for it and see if you like it. What exactly is the religious affiliation? Can you elaborate on what the reason is that your parents dislike the school? Also, would your parents be helping pay any tuition? That could be a factor. If Mom and Dad are paying, then certainly they have the right to have input. Either way, if you did get accepted and wanted to attend, you would have to explain to your parents why you chose the school and how it would benefit you. You will be an adult and will be able to make your own choices (This is YOUR education). While it is certainly respectful to abide by your parents wishes and concerns, your opinion of a school is really the only opinion that matters.