2024 Best Catholic Schools in the San Francisco Bay Area

• Portola Valley, CA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  76 reviews

Middle school student: Everyone here is so nice. For the admissions process, I understand that it's difficult to get into but that's because it is such a great school and lots of people want to get in. We have so much fun activities and people there would help you in a second. + the beautiful campus. It isn't a very serious catholic school in case you are wondering. Theology is basically talking about what you are spiritual.... Read 76 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 426

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• San Francisco, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  85 reviews

Alum: Convent is a great school for college-driven students. Due to the small size of the school, you are able to have more opportunities to take advanced courses (AP/IB). These types of students have the ability to excel academically and receive all the support they need. In that regard, 10/10. Only reason I did not provide a five star review is due to a lot of the blatant favoritism to students who went to the school for all of their education (K-12) as opposed to students who joined in high school. Convent and Stuart Hall is an amazing institution all around.... Read 85 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,100

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Atherton, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.51 out of 5  107 reviews

Senior: This is a great school with a booming community. Everyone here is so welcoming and contributed to the tight-knit community while everyone explores their interests, hobbies, and passions with the many many opportunities here whether it be the arts, sciences, robotics, politics, and much more.... Read 107 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 639

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• San Francisco, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.26 out of 5  375 reviews

Senior: SI is such a fun school! There is always something to do after school whether that be clubs, sports, arts, or other extracurricular and you are strongly encouraged to participate in the student life and attend the many fun events. SI has great school spirit and the teachers want you to succeed. The academics are also modern and prepare you for college, relating the classroom material to the rest of your life. In addition, you have room in your schedule to pursue your own passions as well, from computer science to jazz band, to yearbook! There is a wonderful Community Service program with a life-changing Immersion experience as well as Campus Ministry both with Frosh and Soph retreats and senior Kairos! Saint Ignatius’s Jesuit values inspire students to lead lives of generosity, called to service, to leadership and love. Even though SI is a Jesuit school, it is open to all religions and spiritualities. SI really does care for the whole person and I am so glad that I chose to go here!... Read 375 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,476

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• San Jose, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.55 out of 5  220 reviews

Senior: I have enjoyed my experience here at Bellarmine, it has taught me to be an active learner and has definitely prepared me for College. There are so many activities to get involved in and they do a great job of trying to make sure everyone feels included and represented. Just like any school or institution you will get out what you put in so step out of your comfort zone and try new things to hopefully discover your passion. Go Bells!... Read 220 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,667

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• San Jose, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  265 reviews

Junior: The Notre Dame environment has been welcoming and inclusive from the start. The teachers and staff truly care about the students, and everyone is so supportive. Some teachers have had an especially positive impact on me and my education, and I've met some wonderful people through extracurriculars and clubs. I truly appreciate the variety of ethnic groups and leadership programs, as well as the variety of classes that are open to us. One thing I'd like to see change, however, is more initial information about the college application process. It would be great to have more of a heads-up as to what students might want to start doing earlier rather than later in regards to applying to college. Overall, Notre Dame is an amazing school with great students and staff, and I look forward to going to school every day!... Read 265 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 655

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• San Jose, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.3 out of 5  188 reviews

Junior: Archbishop Mitty's overall culture is phenomenal. Mitty is a very spirited and close knit community which provides a safe learning environment for the students. The faculty are approachable and supportive. Mitty offers many clubs and has an excellent sports program! I feel that Archbishop Mitty is a very diverse, well rounded school with many opportunities for all students academically and socially.... Read 188 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,768

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Oakland, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  214 reviews

Sophomore: I have been attending Bishop O'Dowd Highschool for two years now, and safe to say I love it. I am involved in the theater department, have run varsity cross country, joined many and started one club, performed in school-wide events, and enjoyed every moment. O'Dowd's academics have been challenging yet engaging. I never find myself struggling in class with the resources available to me, like tutoring and counseling, and you can tell that the teachers truly care about their profession. The community is supportive and the upperclassmen in leadership positions did a great job of welcoming and hyping everyone up for school! Especially during spirit week! My favorite place on campus is the living lab where students like me get to learn about growing and harvesting produce that is later used in the cafeteria for lunches and sustainable activities like eco club. In conclusion, I'd give my high school a five out of five rating and recommend any rising freshman, or transfer students to apply!... Read 214 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,259

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Alameda, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  124 reviews

Parent: I am impressed with SJND. It is very well run, a friendly and kind community on a peaceful and beautiful campus. So far, as we just started this year, I am impressed with the enthusiastic teachers, the competent administration and the school culture. The communication is solid and clear and academics are challenging and supportive. It is a very integrated school from administration to faculty and support services. The Learning Services department is outstanding and the after school support is impressive. The diversity is great and the campus life is wonderful. The school also feels very safe which is so comforting during these times.... Read 124 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 390

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Mountain View, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  310 reviews

Alum: Attending Saint Francis filled my high school years with opportunity. A good selection of classes allowed me to challenge myself and pursue my interests in a variety of scientific fields. Most of my teachers were very helpful and I felt cared for and supported as a student. I did have two that were quite unresponsive over COVID however which was difficult. Saint Francis is very strong athletically as well, which improved my experience as a track and field athlete. I believe this contributes to school spirit as a whole, since many students participate in football games and spirit weeks which is always very fun! Some of my best high school memories have been from these events along with my time spent with my team. The counseling department could use some work, since I did not feel entirely supported by my assigned counselors. Many kids at this school have private tutors, so that could be the reason. Overall, I had a good time at this school and would recommend it to others.... Read 310 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,760

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• San Francisco, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  188 reviews

Alum: Having spent four years at SHC, I can confidently say that I made the right choice to attend SHC over other schools that I was admitted to like SI, Urban, Drew, and Lick. SHC makes it a priority for freshmen to feel engaged in the community. There are a plethora of clubs and teams for students to enroll and the lunches were surprisingly decent, dare I even say quite good. Practically every teacher I had was very knowledgeable, driven, and willing to work with me when I required help (additionally, each one knew my name by the end of the third week of school). SHC offers over 20 AP classes and makes it easy for sophomores and up to enroll in these courses, unlike rival schools which make enrolling in numerous challenging courses nearly impossible. If you chose to study hard, you will end up in a great top college (just like my friends and I did (T20s)). The opportunities are bountiful, it's on the student to seek them out! Overall I felt welcome, at home, and loved my SHC experience!... Read 188 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,411

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• San Jose, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.02 out of 5  257 reviews

Parent: My wife and I have two daughters that attended Presentation High School. One graduated in 2023 and the other will graduate in 2025. They both absolutely love their experience at Pres. The education, community, staff and faculty are truly fantastic. What amazed us most is how many of the staff and faculty are actually past alumni. What better testimonial is there when graduating students choose to come back and serve at the school they once attended? Go Panthers!... Read 257 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 550

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Hayward, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  252 reviews

Parent: We would like to see more practice teams at Moreau. There are so many kids that love playing sports and need to keep up with physical exercise but get cut from teams like basketball. Hope that they can consider something to make sure the kids have somewhere to play and practice and develop the same important skills that the players do. I would also love to see more opportunities for the parents to get to know each other or the creation of a Parent mentor to guide those parents who are new or have challenges participating in most events. Also asking parents about any special need for themselves for additional support. Our family loves that our kids receive great academic learning but more than that we value to importance of a religious education, compass and developing their compassion and empathy. We are very happy with the teachers, they are engaged, non-judgmental , supportive and in tuned with the students. We also appreciate that they offer shuttle services. Thank you!... Read 252 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 793

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Belmont, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  127 reviews

Senior: Notre Dame was the perfect choice for me. Due to the pandemic, I ended up going to Notre Dame due to troubles on zoom with my public middle school. This ended up being one of the best decisions my parents and I had made. At first, I was skeptical of the all-girls concept, but as a soon to be senior, I love it. I feel more comfortable in the classroom, feel more free to make mistakes, and I can simply announce to my class that I need a tampon or pad. It has truly empowered me to take more advanced classes than I would have been able to take at public school, as mine only went based off testing.... Read 127 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 440

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Oakland, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  94 reviews

Alum: I really liked the diverse student population, the supportive nature of the students and faculty, and the small classroom environment. Holy Names offers a stellar experience for women in the Bay Area who are looking to focus on academics, develop their leadership skills, and make amazing connections with counselors and teachers. Before coming to Holy Names, I was terrible at math and science. Holy Names empowers women to go into STEM and offers fabulous math and science departments. I would say that my only criticism of the school is that the administration should try to build a connection with a local all-boys school. Girls here don't have a lot of social connections outside of school.... Read 94 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 121

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• San Francisco, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  152 reviews

Junior: I walked into riordan, leaving my closest friends behind at other schools, I was nervous and scared, but little did I know Riordan would open doors of opportunity, lessons, and most importantly, a new family. At riordan, no type of student is better than another. Everyone has a place and is apart of the SAME diverse community/family, hence our motto— “family spirit”. I’m going into my junior year with more self-awareness, academic confidence, and friends I cannot live without. I’ve received much support from my teachers. When I was going through a rough patch in my personal life, teachers constantly checked in on me and let me know I was loved and heard. Student-teacher communication is very strong and valued. At riordan, I’m on Student Parliament, where us students work to make the school a fun and growing place through our unique House System. The thing is, you don’t have to be on parliament to have a voice at Riordan, ANYONE can suggest and make a change. No one is unheard at ARHS!... Read 152 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,107

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Concord, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  301 reviews

Senior: So many people (including myself) come to this school thinking it's a cult. As a senior, I can say it kind of is, in the sense that everyone who comes here feels a deep sense of community, belonging, love, support, and growth. This is a Catholic school, rooted in the values of the CSJ sisters: Sisterhood, Unifying Love, and Social Justice. Much of my religion classes, retreat experiences, and everyday life at Carondelet have focused on these values, and I can proudly say that I have learned how to cultivate them in my life. I also know that lots of people are worried about it being all girls, but I promise you get the best of both worlds. If you want to interact with boys, they're right across the street! We do lots of school activities w them like football games and lunch, but we also love doing retreats and rallies just us girls. If you play Water Polo or basketball, know what you're getting into. They are both incredibly difficult, but SO REWARDING <3... Read 301 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 800

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Richmond, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  94 reviews

Senior: My freshman year was done remotely and as you could imagine, it was difficult to integrate myself into the community. The worst part was not being able to meet my classmates in person, causing a disconnect in student life. Luckily, Salesian College Preparatory's best attribute is its welcoming environment. During my sophomore year when I finally step foot on campus, I was immediately greeted by friendly staff and students. It didn't take long for me to find my clique and befriend my teachers. Though the journey was not entirely smooth sailing, I wouldn't change anything. Every mistake and every event throughout my high school career happened for a reason and has shaped me into the individual I am today.... Read 94 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 416

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Berkeley, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  236 reviews

Senior: Saint Mary's College High School is an excellent school that has helped me to progress as a person. Ever since touring the school in 8th grade, I fell in love with the campus because it really does feel like a college campus. Now, as a rising senior, I feel that I have grown in my academics, social life, and thinking skills. The teachers are always there for their students and the school itself feels like a welcoming community. They also offer many academic opportunities like A-block, allowing around an hour of time for students to go to different teachers to ask for help, as well as using that time for clubs. Saint Mary's College High School is also very diverse and provides an inclusive community for everyone!... Read 236 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 630

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Concord, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.52 out of 5  103 reviews

Senior: I attended De LaSalle High School for the last 4 years. I really enjoyed the brotherhood aspect of the school. The school holds you accountable for making decisions and is there to help if you start to become complacent or not interested. Their is a good amount of diversity as the school attracts people from up to 40 miles away so you get to meet peers from all over the bay area. The majority of teachers care and have good methods for teaching although a few were "my way or the highway" attitude. I am not part of the school sports and thought it would be an issue but they really focus more on having each others backs then the actual sports. I didn't see any bullying and everyone was respectful to all students. I do feel like Ive probably made friends for life. The focus and help when applying to colleges was very good. The counselors made sure we completed essays and helped us work through what we may want to pursue in college. Overall, I recommend the school.... Read 103 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,036

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Kentfield, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  123 reviews

Senior: I love all the teachers that I have had at MC. They've supported me and made me feel ready for college. The girls at MC are difficult to say the least. Most girls here are extremely materialistic, entitled, selfish, spoiled, and rude. Because of this, there is a small amount of girls that I have actually connected with and feel like are real friends to me. The Campus Ministry department is my favorite part of this school! I have gotten much more involved in Campus Ministry this year and it has been so amazing.... Read 123 reviews

• grade A

• Students 772

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Vallejo, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  136 reviews

Alum: I was heavily involved at SPSV all throughout high school. I did leadership and sports as well as other extracurriculars. Unfortunately, my family was paying for a Catholic education while it was anything but that. At the time, it wasn't as apparent but retrospectively, I remember having a very liberal education in the worst way. Attending a Catholic school, we learned about social justice issues but we learned about how abortion and birth control are health rights. Issues such as these were not a Catholic approach, and it was very lax teaching. I understand it is important to give students the freedom to think how they desire to, but it is important to teach about foundation as well. Objective truth was not given any importance, rather subjective truth trumped and was encouraged. Too liberal, and is more similar to a private or charter school education.... Read 136 reviews

• grade A

• Students 479

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• San Mateo, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  328 reviews

Alum: One of the best aspects of Junipero Serra High School is its commitment to academic excellence. The school offers a wide range of courses, including honors and advanced placement (AP) classes, to challenge and engage students. The dedicated faculty members strive to create a supportive learning environment and often go above and beyond to help their students succeed. The school's rigorous curriculum prepares students well for higher education. If there were areas for improvement, it could include enhancing diversity and inclusivity efforts to ensure that all students feel represented and supported. Schools should strive to create an environment that embraces students from different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives.... Read 328 reviews

• grade A

• Students 870

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Burlingame, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  125 reviews

Senior: Mercy High School is an enriching, uplifting institution that empowers the women it educates and facilitates independence, compassion, community service, and innovation. As a Catholic all girls school, immense emphasis is placed on the value of kindness and service. Students work with and for one another, creating bonds to rival sisterhood and lifelong friendships. The school offers numerous extensive programs for students with learning differences or students who wish to challenge themselves with rigorous course loads. Mercy also has a wide range of clubs and honors societies that students can be involved in. I have been able to thrive and succeed in the loving, uplifting community of Mercy, being supported in every aspect of my life.... Read 125 reviews

• grade A

• Students 365

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• San Francisco, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  274 reviews

Senior: I am a senior currently in ICA and have been applying to colleges that I would like to attend. ICA has there super helpful college counselors that guide us in the right direction for what, how, where, and when we are supposed to submit these applications for our colleges. My experience that I have learned from the last 4 years that I've spent in this highschool were leadership skills, responsibility, and hard work. Leadership, to me, means being a role model. The type of role model that I want to be is to show courage, overcome challenges, and prioritize academics. It is not about being out front to be seen. It is more about having the valuable experience to offer others who may need encouragement to do their best and never give up. Furthermore, ICA has placed me in internships such as Salesforce, and Manatt Phelps & Philips. I used to work there to gain knowledge of the "real outside world" and understand how opportunities like this can work. ICA is great and fun just the way it is!... Read 274 reviews

• grade A

• Students 355

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1