Compare Catholic Schools in the Chicago Area

Best Schools

333 results

Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart
Private School
Lake Forest, IL
9-12
51 reviews
#1 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Parent: We looked for a faith based education and chose Woodlands for three reasons: small class sizes, the ability to participate in many activities simultaneously, and unique opportunities offered by the school. Our daughter is a sophomore and in all areas we are extremely happy.

Small classes are taught by caring teachers who made the decision to be at this particular school. They personally connect with each girl and make certain she gets the most from her education.

Woodlands’ schedule allows students to take orchestra before school, several clubs during lunch, and both choir and sports or theater after school. My daughter plays a sport, is a class officer, sings in two choirs and participates in four clubs. This level of involvement is common.

Students enjoy unique global experiences - foreign students boarding at school and visiting on exchange, educational and service trips abroad, and the ability to go on exchange to over 100 schools in the Sacred Heart Network around the world.
Read 51 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
131 Students
6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
St. Ignatius College Prep
Private School
Chicago, IL
9-12
330 reviews
#2 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Parent: We are so fortunate to have our daughter attend this exceptional school. It’s incredible and you really have to go there to truly experience for yourself it’s outstanding academics, community and stunning campus.

My daughter tells us all of the time how grateful she is that she was able to go to school here,and my husband and I wish we’d had the opportunity to go here as well! I cannot express that this school knows how to educate students and prepare them for college. They also leave with a special bond to the school and community that they will have for a lifetime in addition to having the the honor of being a graduate.
Read 330 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,404 Students
16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Benet Academy
Private School
Lisle, IL
9-12
237 reviews
#3 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Junior: “College preparatory” doesn’t even begin to describe Benet. Over the past three years, I have grown so much as a student. The way I view school has changed completely- I actually want to understand everything I’m learning and not just memorize the pages, scribble it all down on the tests, and then forget it all. This school has challenged me and accustomed me to harder work loads, which makes college seem a lot less scary than it did before I came to Benet. If someone is thinking of enrolling in this school, they are definitely not making a mistake. Just be warned- a good mindset is key. If a student decides to just blow off their homework and use their iPad for just games during class, then they definitely should go here! If anyone is looking for good preparation for college and building close relationships in a tight-knit community that feels like family, consider becoming a Redwing!
Read 237 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,357 Students
20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Northridge Preparatory School
Private School
Niles, IL
6-12
48 reviews
#4 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Alum: Every teacher is more than qualified to teach in their respective fields. Each class provides its own unique challenges, but huge opportunities for personal and academic growth. Teachers will address any problem a student may have to ensure their success. Classes instill valuable skills that are necessary for college classes and provide enough opportunities through the required AP courses to further a student's preparedness. Outside of classes, there are plenty of opportunities for self discovery through the many clubs and activities. When a certain activity may not be available, the administration is happy to try and work out an alternative or even start something new. Northridge Prep's size plays to its advantage in that each student receives personal attention, succeeds in extracurriculars, and forms meaningful relationships in ways that may not otherwise have happened at larger institutions.
Read 48 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
261 Students
14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Fenwick High School
Private School
Oak Park, IL
9-12
157 reviews
#5 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Alum: Attending Fenwick High School was the best choice my mom could have made. I am a Chicago resident. The best schools in the city are only attainable by the "selective enrollment" process. Yes, I tested into one of the top schools and even attended a program for incoming Freshman students. After weighing the options, my mother chose Fenwick. Fenwick provided a great learning environment. It's a smaller school with a better teacher-student ratio. Everyone knows one another. It feels like a family atmosphere and no one got lost in the cracks. I feel like my class started together and not that it was easy for everyone but we worked hard and we finished together. I'm forever a Fenwick Friar!
Read 157 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,197 Students
14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Loyola Academy
Private School
Wilmette, IL
9-12
256 reviews
#6 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Junior: This school is just fantastic! It has all the clubs and activities in the world for anyone to be involved with. Most sports, such as basketball, football, volleyball, are a viable to all students to tryout for and play. The school is completely ingrained into the sports culture because we ar so great at them. We have recently won a football state championship and many lacrosse state championships. Overall, it is a sport-oriented school that prepares every student to succeed in college and life the moral way.
Read 256 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
2,052 Students
14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
St. Viator High School
Private School
Arlington Heights, IL
9-12
161 reviews
#7 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Alum: Loved my experience! The teachers and faculty truly prepared me for my college experience. Every day I felt comfortable in the classroom which was very important for me. I made friends that I will have until the day I die. The small, close-knit community is something that I will always hold close to my heart. I know I am always welcome back and always am excited to see old faculty and staff. The extra-curricular activities I was involved in shaped my entire experience. My coaches were respectable and highly trained athletes who pushed us to constantly do our best in order to succeed.
Read 161 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
875 Students
16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
The Willows Academy
Private School
Des Plaines, IL
6-12
25 reviews
#8 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Senior: My experience at the Willows Academy was amazing! I have close relationships with my teachers who I see as role models and mentors. The teachers truly care about each individual and the small environment really allows for a bond of all of the girls in each class. At the end of my four years, I can say these girls are my sisters and family.
Read 25 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
205 Students
8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Carmel Catholic High School
Private School
Mundelein, IL
9-12
336 reviews
#9 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Senior: I love Carmel because it is a community. We all work together for the greater good, and I couldn't have asked for a better school. There have been some controversies in the past, but overall, Carmel is a school that truly cares about each and every student. When one person struggled, it was felt by the whole community, who worked together to lift them up. The faith at this school is amazing. I feel like Carmel has made me a better student and a better person. Although the Christian service can be overwhelming, it is ultimately very rewarding.
Read 336 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,200 Students
15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
St. Francis High School
Private School
Wheaton, IL
9-12
112 reviews
#10 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Parent: We are relatively new to the Chicago area and chose St. Francis on the recommendation of some middle school parents. It has been a wonderful fit for our daughter. The academics are rigorous and our daughter routinely does a few hours of homework each evening, which is what we wanted. The teachers are up to date on technology use and all students have a surface pro and use One Note extensively. But in addition to the academics St. Francis has a wonderful welcoming culture. Our daughter has so far tried two new sports and the play. Everyone is kind and accepting. The junior and senior girls are wonderful role models and really take the lead in showing the girls what it is to be a Catholic woman in the 21st century: kind and gracious but strong in academics and activities. A wonderful choice!
Read 112 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
782 Students
15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Marmion Academy
Private School
Aurora, IL
9-12
104 reviews
#11 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Senior: From Freshmen year to now, Marmion was a great fit for me. I would’ve never thought attending a Catholic Benedictine private high school, during middle school, but my parents and I really admired this school. The reason why this school fit for me was because of how it strives to get you out of your comfort zone and to try something new. I joined the choir which I’ve never participated in school prior to Marmion; now I’m the president of the chorus. Ive done musicals, Special Olympics, school supply drives, and so much more while at Marmion. There’s Mass offered here everyday and all school Mass every month. Plus many clubs that are offered; Spanish club, guitar club, etc. This school is unique in so many ways and it’s incredible that a school like this even exists.
Read 104 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
527 Students
15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Montini Catholic High School
Private School
Lombard, IL
9-12
90 reviews
#12 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Niche User: The academics, faculty, and sports teams are all top-notch. However, Montini is not without its fair share of shortcomings. Unlike many Catholic Schools, Montini lacks the family atmosphere that one would expect. The students are grouped into separate cliques which leads to an overall sense of school spirit that is heavily lacking. Many kids are also prone to act spoiled and mischievous for no apparent reason while at school. Nonetheless, it is a great place to learn in the classroom, compete on the athletic fields, and prepare for college—just don’t expect the student section to rival those of other CCL schools.’
Read 90 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
645 Students
11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
IC Catholic Prep
Private School
Elmhurst, IL
9-12
75 reviews
#13 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Senior: IC Catholic Prep is an amazing school. At IC, we offer honors and AP classes, allowing students to test their knowledge. These classes may be rigorous, but it only pushes us to work harder. The teachers at IC are extremely friendly, always having open doors, they are ready to assist any student. Additionally, at IC we are not only active in the classroom, but we are also active outside of the classroom. Whether you are on the field or the stage, there are many ways to get involved. There are many sports where you can develop friendships with your teammates. Furthermore, we have a musical where everyone is involved. Lastly, IC offers many clubs ranging from leadership to service. Many of these clubs are fun ways for students to be involved in the school. In all, IC is a fantastic school which not only fosters students’ education but also helps students be involved in everything the school has to offer.
Read 75 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
350 Students
15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Nazareth Academy
Private School
La Grange Park, IL
9-12
157 reviews
#14 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Alum: I loved Nazareth Academy, it was such a close knit “family” where everyone knows everyone. You truly feel at home and are always treated with great respect among peers and teachers. I feel like Nazareth Academy prepared me greatly for college!
Read 157 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
763 Students
17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Regina Dominican High School
Private School
Wilmette, IL
9-12
173 reviews
#15 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Junior: Regina is an excellent high school for girls! The college preparatory course offerings, offered at multiple levels is key to your daughter's success. It is a tailored made schedule which is a huge PLUS! Your daughter will be given a tremendous amount of academic opportunities, something my local public high school did not offer! Teachers treat the students with respect and are available to meet with students when they need extra help, another plus. My daughter takes the Regina bus in the morning and this is an easy route to school whether you are coming from the city, or the suburbs! Regina encourages students to get involved and they do! My husband and I could not be happier, our daughter is at the right school, don't overlook an opportunity to visit Regina, your daughter will be prepared for college and she will make a ton of friends too! Parent involvement is growing and there is a great vibe at the school!
Read 173 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
300 Students
10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Marian Catholic High School
Private School
Chicago Heights, IL
9-12
506 reviews
#16 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Senior: It’s a very diverse and substantial community. The teachers there are extremely helpful and patient with students, that are in need of help. I recommend joining clubs and sports, such as, Equestrian, International Club, Art Club, and Fencing, because it’s not often every high school offers or provides these opportunities for students to join, which is why this makes Marian Catholic High School a great to learn and explore!
Read 506 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
956 Students
14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Mount Carmel High School
Private School
Chicago, IL
9-12
131 reviews
#17 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Alum: I love that I've found lifelong friends at Mount Carmel. I transferred out of my previous high school after only one year there, and I was welcomed into the new school with open arms. I like how everyone had a place to connect and grow with all kinds of people. Students come from over 100 zip codes to attend Mount Carmel, so the network of peers I've come to know across Chicagoland has been extensive, and the connections run deep. I hope to find another place like my high school so that I might encounter the same level of community, friendship, education, and love.
Read 131 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
650 Students
13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Mother McAuley High School
Private School
Chicago, IL
9-12
365 reviews
#18 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Senior: Attending Mother McAuley was the best decision I made in high school. I thrived in this environment because the school community strengthens young women’s intelligence, confidence, and kindness. Go Mighty Macs!
Read 365 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
887 Students
11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Joliet Catholic Academy
Private School
Joliet, IL
9-12
77 reviews
#19 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Senior: Joliet Catholic Academy has been a huge part of my life. I have always been excited to attend because my whole family attended. It has such a great family environment and feel. There is a club or sport for absolutely everyone. The school is based a lot off of tradition. Obviously, nothing in life is perfect but majority of the teachers are phenomenal. There is always someone willing to help the students. Athletics are also great here as well. Students come to support all of the sports teams. One downside about Joliet Catholic is a select couple of teachers and administration don't apply the rules to all students equally. Punishments for the same act are not always equal. To end on a good note. I could not dream of attending any other high school. It has been the best four years of my life. The smaller community gives the possibility to develop more of a relationship with everyone whereas I feel at other institutions it may be different.
Read 77 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
629 Students
11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Trinity High School
Private School
River Forest, IL
9-12
264 reviews
#20 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Senior: From starting out as a shy freshman to becoming a senior who is involved in numerous leadership roles and activities, the past four years at Trinity have certainly helped me grow as a person, as a leader,and as a passionate young woman. Trinity allows young women to have a voice of their own, and the amount of confidence that seems to grow in each student is truly beautiful. Trinity has shaped the person I am today, and I could not be more grateful. The academics are rigorous which truly helps each student prepare for college, and the teachers are always willing to help a student in need. There are numerous activities and clubs each student has the ability to take part in, and I know from experience that getting involved is the best thing to do at Trinity! Overall, the students, teachers, and staff all come together to create a wonderful environment to enrich our Trinity community, and luckily, I have the honor of calling Trinity High School my home.
Read 264 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
460 Students
10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Marist High School
Private School
Chicago, IL
9-12
408 reviews
#21 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Parent: Marist has been a very good environment for my daughter, who is a senior. She went from a very small grammar school (32 kids in the entire class) to high school with a freshman enrollment of almost 600! I thought the adjustment would be difficult for her but everyone was very welcoming. The academics are tough! But I feel it is preparing her for college. The counselors are very helpful and easy to talk to. The teachers are great, very very helpful. Of course if I had the opportunity to change anything it would be the tuition, but it's a private school therefore they get no money from the government so it falls on parents and alumni, which is completely understandable.
Read 408 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
1,750 Students
16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
DePaul College Prep
Private School
Chicago, IL
9-12
76 reviews
#22 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Senior: Depaul college prep is a wonderful school. Every teacher and faculty member makes it their mission to help you with anything you may need. The teachers are nice but there are of course a few special teachers that are honest and real with the students, and those are my favorite. There are always counselors around if you need help with college or just feeling stressed and need to talk. If you need help with homework or just understanding the subject better, there are programs such as our EDGE program to help. It’s a smaller school compared to most public schools but its growing. There will be a new campus with whole new facilities next year. The student at Depaul prep are very kind and active in the school. There are many different clubs for everyone if you need somewhere to learn more or just share an interest in something. Depaul Prep is diverse, safe, and has everything you need to succeed.
Read 76 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
550 Students
11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Andrean High School
Private School
Merrillville, IN
9-12
128 reviews
#23 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Sophomore: Andrean has prepared me for my future. It has given me a myriad of opportunity that I would not have otherwise been able to partake in. The teachers have helped me to develop and strengthen both my study and academic ability. It has allowed me to get 99th percentile test scores that will open doors for me. This is a fantastic school!
Read 128 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
550 Students
13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Notre Dame High School College Prep
Private School
Niles, IL
9-12
71 reviews
#24 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Works Here: Over 60 years of proud tradition, Notre Dame College Prep is one of the top high schools in Illinois. Sponsored by the Brothers of Holy Cross, ND is a Catholic, All-Male, Inclusive school. 4 distinct Academic programs - Hesburgh Scholars, College Prep Core, St. Andre Scholars, & Burke Scholars. Average ACT in the Hesburgh Program has been 32. ND has a 28-acre campus and on-campus facilities in a safe neighborhood, very accessible location by public transportation. 16 sports, 35 clubs, 3 bands, Theater & Arts programs offered.

98% of graduates go on to colleges and universities each year. Last year's senior class earned over $15 million in college scholarship money for college. Morning Bus Transportation is available. A ND Don is a man of Faith, Scholarship, and Service! Great faculty/staff/coaches make ND special! Over 14,000 alumni around the world support ND. ND has it all!
Read 71 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
780 Students
13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Rosary High School
Private School
Aurora, IL
9-12
223 reviews
#25 Best Catholic High Schools in Chicago Area
Senior: I have absolutely loved my time here at Rosary High School! My education at Rosary is something I value a lot and I would recommend Rosary to anyone who is willing to be hardworking, independent, and disciplined in order to be successful in the end. I would not trade my high school experience for anything in the world. Rosary has taught me who I am, how to be a good friend, how to work hard and be determined to achieve goals as well as everything I learned academically.
Read 223 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
313 Students
12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Sponsored
British International School of Washington
Private School
Washington, DC
PK, K-12
9 reviews
Parent: Young, enthusiastic teachers all trained in the British education system. Rather than focus on homework and multiple choice exams, this school trains students to both in research and how to actively participate in an international and multicultural world. The schools integrates well established programs such as Cambridge curricula/exams, MIT technical programs, and Juliard art training.
Read 9 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
510 Students
9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
- 2020 Best Boarding High Schools
- 2020 Best All-Girls Schools
- 2020 Best Private Schools
Review Your School
Sponsored
Saint Clement School
Private School
Chicago, IL
PK, K-8
1 review
Alum: I loved going here! The teachers were so supportive and taught me all I needed to know for high school, and more. Because of the way they prepared me for high school, I have gotten all A's at one of the best high schools in Chicago.
Read 1 Review
438 Students
8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes
Sponsored
British International School of Chicago, South Loop
Private School
Chicago, IL
PK, K-12
14 reviews
Parent: Our child loves BISC South Loop and every day can’t wait to go to school. That says a lot! It was the best decision we made. We have been impressed with their ability to put into practice differentiated learning and not just say they do it. They emphasize the positive & teach the children great values & social skills. It is highly academic in STEAM, while still having art, music, language, dance and sports for all grades. Having smaller class sizes allows teachers to truly know your child's strengths & challenges. And they really do! The school is diverse & the teachers & administrators really want to be at BISC and care about the students. I feel BISC South Loop develops the whole individual—academically and socially while at the same time is warm and nurturing. It truly is a family.
Read 14 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
620 Students
9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
View Nearby Homes

1 of 14

Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart

St. Ignatius College Prep

Benet Academy

Northridge Preparatory School

Fenwick High School

Loyola Academy

St. Viator High School

The Willows Academy

Carmel Catholic High School

St. Francis High School

Marmion Academy

Montini Catholic High School

IC Catholic Prep

Nazareth Academy

Regina Dominican High School

Marian Catholic High School

Mount Carmel High School

Mother McAuley High School

Joliet Catholic Academy

Trinity High School

Marist High School

DePaul College Prep

Andrean High School

Notre Dame High School College Prep

Rosary High School

British International School of Washington

Saint Clement School

British International School of Chicago, South Loop