2023 Best Catholic Schools in the Chicago Area

• Lake Forest, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  71 reviews

Parent: I am not going to sugar coat this. I was skeptical of Woodlands at first. It is small, tucked away in Lake Forest, and single gender. Maybe this was an environment that was too protected, sheltered, and "hand holding" for a young woman in high school? And while it is small, the experience has been anything but "too reserved or safe". The school is diverse and composed of students from the City, the burbs, and international locations that span the socio-economic spectrum. The academics are great and exceed expectation. If a student seeks challenge, the answer is always yes! If a student tries to back away from their potential, a teacher is on it. Students appreciate that WA will not let potential go unfulfilled. Girls learn to advocate & take pride in their accomplishments. Upon graduation they leave WA self-sufficient & confident women. They are ready to define their unique place in society. Despite school size, college placement is amazing! Deserves all the accolades!... Read 71 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 131

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Chicago, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  382 reviews

Senior: Diversity has definitely improved since my freshmen year. The school has become more inclusive towards minorities and the LGBTQ+ community. Academics are tough. How hard your class is doesn’t depend on the level of class you take (Honors, AP) but the teacher you have. Some teachers give loads of homework and tests, and some don’t give any homework. Be prepared for a lot of homework. Ignatius prepares you well for college. Teachers are a hit or miss. There are amazing teachers but also some horrible ones. I have never had a good math teacher. Food is way too expensive and unhealthy but it tastes great most of the time. Ignatius needs to build more bathrooms and expand the cafeteria because they accepted way too many students. Overall, Ignatius has many ways it can improve on, but It has given me so many resources and opportunities to become a better student and person. I wouldn’t have chosen any other school!... Read 382 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,512

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Niles, IL•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.42 out of 5  69 reviews

Alum: Northridge was a once in a lifetime experience for me. I walked in the halls as a young boy not knowing what to expect and came out as a man. That includes knowing my goals in life, learning my faith, as well as having opportunities set up for a well rounded future. The basketball program was something that will always have a spot in my heart. The brotherhood between past, former, and future players isn’t even describable. Coach Rey helped me in so many ways on and off the court. I’m now a basketball manager at the University of Louisville, a Division 1 school! I often find myself reminiscing about walking the halls, catching up with my classmates, and talking as well as getting mentored my the excellent faculty and staff. Northridge is something that is truly special, I would go back in a heartbeat. -Jack Figliuolo... Read 69 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 330

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Wilmette, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  306 reviews

Senior: Loyola Academy is a great school as long as you can foot the bill and desire Jesuit values in education. Loyola’s strengths are its athletics and college readiness. Athletics are a huge part of the culture at Loyola. Most students participate in at least one sport during their time here. There is a wide variety of sports to choose from and most a “no cut” freshman year which allows all to participate. Students also get a helping hand through their college process during all the steps. No matter the student, Loyola will find a college for them. Loyola does have some drawbacks. While it is getting better, because of the steep tuition and location, diversity is low. The music and arts are also neglected in favor in sports. They are underfunded and not many kids participate. A new theater is being built, so in the future, the program might have more life in it. Overall though, Loyola is a great school as long as you can pay the steep tuition. Go Ramblers!... Read 306 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,000

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Oak Park, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  192 reviews

Senior: Fenwick is an amazing place! I am so grateful to have attended my high school years at Fenwick and my experience has been life-changing. As a highly motivated and achieving academic student, the faculty were consistently supportive and demanding and I always felt that I was learning. Sports are excellent and a large part of student life and the clubs and activities are unparalleled. Go Friars!... Read 192 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,197

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Lisle, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  277 reviews

Senior: I love Benet! It is a place that is focused on academics and athletics, but it is also a place full of awesome people and teachers who genuinely care about the students. While the work load can be overwhelming and sometimes very stressful, it is honestly a place that follows the rule "work hard play hard". For every hard or challenging part that Benet has to offer, there is 5 more extracurricular activities or clubs to enjoy yourself in. I honestly have really loved having such a tight knit community of hard working and fun-loving people. Go Redwings baby :D... Read 277 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,357

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Wheaton, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.3 out of 5  128 reviews

Parent: As a new Freshman parent I've been continually impressed with each interaction with St. Francis. The onboarding process is organized and informative, not only for the Freshman students, but the parents as well. All of the junior high events they offer students and parents to learn about what St. Francis offers are exceptional. The parent information session was a game changer. Hearing from staff AND students was great. Hearing about all of the great elective classes that neighboring Catholic High Schools do NOT offer, was also an eye opener. The feeling you get when you arrive at St. Francis is awesome. The community feeling is contagious. Everyone is happy. Father John is such an incredible asset to the school! The academics are challenging which is what we want! The athletics and coaching are top notch and we can't wait to switch back to the Chicago Catholic League next year as St. Francis continually outperforms its current competition. A+ for Faith, Academics, Athletics & Family!... Read 128 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 698

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Wilmette, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  210 reviews

Parent: Regina provides academic rigor in a supportive, safe,fun environment. The small class sizes provide interactive learning with highly educated, caring instructors. "All- girls" gave our D the confidence to try new things, pursue leadership roles, science, sports, theater. Participation in clubs/ sports is very high and the quality of programs is excellent despite the small size. School spirit is plentiful; there are weekly rallies where students applaud eachother! Staff values every student and is mindful of overall wellness. Community service opportunities are offered to enrich their faith . Girls are friendly and attend from all over the Chicago. Parents are supportive and involved. There is an exciting new building project which will further enhance the facilities. Campus is secure and transportation safe which provides peace of mind for us as parents. We are happy to have chosen Regina which educates young women to be confident learners and prepares them well to be future leaders.... Read 210 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 258

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Arlington Heights, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  180 reviews

Senior: I love SVHS! The teachers are all amazing, and super willing to help students individually. The faculty and administration are all really helpful and really friendly, and the counselors do a great job checking in on students. The classes are challenging without being overwhelming and enough electives are offered that students have choices.... Read 180 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 875

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Lombard, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.29 out of 5  113 reviews

Parent: Montini is an outstanding high school, with an excellent prinicipal who is vested in the success of all students. The teachers are largely caring and supportive of the students, the resources are outstanding, and the students are a close-knit group who care about and support each other. Academics are rigorous, school spirit is high, friendships are strong, students feel safe, and an attitude of positivity is constantly cultivated. There are a variety of extra-curricular activities and students are encouraged to be involved. As a college professor, I feel very strongly that Montini is successfully preparing my child for the rigors of college, and she is very much enjoying her high school experience. I cannot imagine a better high school for her. Thank you, Monitini!... Read 113 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 525

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Mundelein, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  398 reviews

Junior: I am currently a junior in Carmel Catholic High School. I couldn’t have picked a better school. In fact it doesn’t even feel like a school. It feels like a second home. All my friends are there and are very supportive. And not all of them are students! You’re teachers aren’t just teachers, they’re friends! Not only that, but Carmel also has various sports, arts, clubs, activities, resources, and more that have really prepared me for the real world. The best part of Carmel is the community. It’s like a second family to me! Everyone there is so loving and kind. Carmel also pays a lot of attention to the faith of students at Carmel. Although, it has been the year of COVID, the masses we’ve had still continue to feel like family gatherings. I’d recommend Carmel to those seeking out high schools with a large and loving community.... Read 398 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,150

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Aurora, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  119 reviews

Niche User: Marmion Academy is a great college prep christian high school. Our three sons have had wonderful christian experiences at Marmion Academy. The religious aspect of their education was outstanding, and still plays a, all three, day to day part of their everyday lives. They were quite ready for college, and all three did very well. They have done very well in their professional lives, are raising beautiful families, and have become valuable members of society. We are very proud of them, and extremely happy with their Marmion Academy experiences.... Read 119 reviews

• grade A

• Students 510

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Des Plaines, IL•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  39 reviews

Junior: There isn't a school quite like the Willows Academy. Since my first day there, I have been surrounded by a friendly and familial atmosphere. The small class sizes allow for quick bonding and one is able to immediately form long-lasting friendships. The teachers are incredibly understanding and patient; they make time for each individual student. To be surrounded by so many hard-working and faithful women is truly a blessing, and many of them treat their students as friends. In an all-female environment, a girl is able to learn and develop into a woman with ease and pursue virtually and career path she can dream of. However, because of its close-knit community, TWA doesn't offer as many outside opportunities as other schools, but it continues to expand throughout the years and develop its curriculum in the interest of the students. Going to the Willows was the best decision I have made!... Read 39 reviews

• grade A

• Students 205

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• River Forest, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  287 reviews

Freshman: I really love the sense of community at Trinity! Everyone is like a family! I also really like the academics. The international baccalaureate program is amazing in preparing everyone for college and the professional world. The arts at trinity are also amazing! From dance to choir it is all spectacular! Trinity has a fabulous art room complete with pottery and painting stations. Trinity also has a brand new gym with a dance studio inside. Overall trinity tries very hard to make everyone’s time at trinity very enjoyable.... Read 287 reviews

• grade A

• Students 460

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Chicago, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  151 reviews

Alum: Greatest high school in the world! All my family went there from my father, brother and nephew. I couldn't have been happier and it prepared me for everything in life! Mount Carmel isn't a school, it's a family and if you go there, you'll understand that the family is there for you ALWAYS! Any other Catholic school is a school and that will be proven when Mount Carmel, a 100 year old family succeeds for another 100 years and more while other Catholic schools like Br Rice disappear.... Read 151 reviews

• grade A

• Students 603

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Elmhurst, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  81 reviews

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 81 reviews

• grade A

• Students 350

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• La Grange Park, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  177 reviews

Sophomore: Nazareth is a really good sports school, but in the general academic area there aren’t many options for classes.... Read 177 reviews

• grade A

• Students 763

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Chicago Heights, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  577 reviews

Senior: Couldn't ask for a better high school experience. Every single teacher I had was extremely patient, enthusiastic, and overall just willing to work with the class. I know I can't speak for everyone, but this was at least my experience. Faith life is also very good, especially having the experience to go on Kairos and to school masses. The introduction to community period really helped me to stay a little more on top of my work, definitely helping with stress levels. Honestly, campus is extremely easy to navigate after a few days and although it isn't top tier facilities, everything gets the job done. I've been able to notice subtle improvements across the whole school throughout the time I've been there, so I know there are always going to be small improvements here and there to keep everything rolling smooth.... Read 577 reviews

• grade A

• Students 837

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Joliet, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.47 out of 5  90 reviews

Senior: It has been a great experience for me. I grew as a person and a student as the years go by. I have made friends that i can consider close brothers to me. The lacrosse team at JCA was a brotherhood to me because we were always there for each other no matter win or lose. The band and drama club were the best thing to happen to me because I became close to everyone there. The Kairos experience is once and a lifetime opportunity and i grew more as a person over there. The education here is great because the teachers make the lessons easy to learn and are helpful if you ask questions. it is a great community to be a part of, so i highly reccomend attending.... Read 90 reviews

• grade A

• Students 624

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Chicago, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  95 reviews

Sophomore: I absolutely love DePaul College Prep and what they stand for. My sophomore year has been amazing. I have made so many new friends, while having the opportunity to participate in Varsity cheer, Varsity lacrosse and competitive cheer at DePaul. I love being involved in sports, as it keeps me active, I have the opportunity to meet so many more people and I love my coaches. Academics at DePaul are amazing and you have the opportunity to take AP classes, Honor classes and IB. DePaul feels like home and I am so excited to be an upperclassman so I can help the younger kids feel comfortable and confident walking into school everyday. I have a lot to do my junior year to get ready for my ACT/SAT but I will continue to work hard so I can attend an amazing University.... Read 95 reviews

• grade A

• Students 725

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Chicago, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.66 out of 5  175 reviews

Parent: School is a vibrant learning environment in both scholastic and social arenas. The course curriculum is challenging and offers the opportunity to learn based not only on personal abilities but how much time the student wishes to invest in his own success. There are ample opportunities for personal instruction and teachers are more than willing to give help when solicited. The spiritual development is the cornerstone to learning right from wrong and how to deal with those trying issues facing the youth of today. The athletic programs try to develop the student to maximize his potential - whatever that may be. The Rita experience is a launching pad that truly prepares the kids for the challenges of life after High School. Of all the choices in the area, St. Rita is, by far, the best developmental opportunity for boys on the south side of Chicago. Both of my sons went here and both are Rita success stories!... Read 175 reviews

• grade A

• Students 570

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Chicago, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  106 reviews

Alum: Went to Saint pats all four years and overall enjoyed my experience. There were many ups and downs but by the end of my four years I wasn’t ready to say goodbye. I participated in many different school activities both during the school day and after school. Whether it was participating it a school play or joining a sports team or other extracurricular, there was always something for everyone at the school. I cannot recount the numerous amounts of clubs that were constantly forming each year. I didn’t know a single person that had not attempted to join at least one club. For the longest time I hated attending class but once i started making friends and becoming an active part of the school, that hate turned into joy. I will never forget my four years of high school at Saint Patrick High School and I do not ever want to. The school helped me grow as a person and also allowed me to help others grow as well. I am forever grateful for my time at Pats and I always will be.... Read 106 reviews

• grade A

• Students 697

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Chicago, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  397 reviews

Alum: I really loved how McAuley created a community whose outreach had no bounds. Alum and current students are easily identifiable not just by the uniforms, but rather by the confidence and skills developed at this school. I credit McAuley to my faith in myself and my overall thirst for knowledge and equality. McAuley teaches you that you will never be alone no matter when or where you are as someone will always be there to find and guide you when you’re lost. Besides all of the community based accords, this school has some of the most dedicated and connected teachers who promote learning and fairness in and out of classrooms. Obviously as a liberal arts school they do very well in theater, musical, and art departments with several students and alum receiving awards and acclaim, but many sports programs are up to par as well. Overall this school leaves a lasting legacy that any who are connected to hold forever.... Read 397 reviews

• grade A

• Students 887

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Merrillville, IN•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  147 reviews

Senior: My whole life I knew I was going to attend Andrean. I have had countless cousins that have gone through Andrean and are now Alumnis. Honestly, I anticipated Andrean to be like any other school. The only thing I expected to get from Andrean was a diploma at the end of my four years. However, I quickly learned this school had so much to offer me. I am a senior now, and I am a completely different person than I was 4 years ago. I find myself to be more charitable. Andrean has monthly service projects that allow students to give back to their communities. These opportunities have taught me the power of helping those in need. I am also more organized. Andrean is tough, but gives you resources to be successful! Overall, Andrean is an very good and welcoming school that feels like family.... Read 147 reviews

• grade A

• Students 550

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Burbank, IL•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.57 out of 5  310 reviews

Junior: Overall, St. Laurence has been the best choice I have ever made. The teachers and faculty are so welcoming and friendly. Extracurriculars and special events are always fun, bringing in that school cheer! Everyone is very supportive and there is never a worry that comes to mind when preparing for college or other exams. St. Laurence not only challenges students, but also incorporates team work and the ability to expand on new ideas. I enjoy working with my fellow classmates and creating new memories at St. Laurence. Accessing help and other resources has never been an issue. St. Laurence is the perfect example of “becoming a leader.”... Read 310 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,008

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1