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2020 Best Magnet High Schools in AmericaAbout this List

The 2020 Best Magnet High Schools ranking is based on rigorous analysis of key statistics and millions of reviews from students and parents using data from the U.S. Department of Education. Ranking factors include state test scores, college readiness, graduation rates, SAT/ACT scores, teacher quality, and magnet school ratings. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

1 – 25 of 930
Best Schools
930 results

  1. Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology

    • Fairfax County Public Schools, VA
    • 9-12
    • 477 reviews
    #1 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: In terms of academics, I liked being challenged, going more in depth on some topics, and the idea of a more project-based environment (even when some of the projects weren't organized well by the teachers). There are so many opportunities available for students - the number of clubs is comparable to some colleges. The community I found was wonderfully supportive, most likely because we were all more arts-oriented. I know that there are always the show-offs and the jerks and they were definitely present, but I could avoid them. It's always a plus not having the bathrooms smell like drugs! However, the school is pretty notorious for being a breeding ground for mental health problems.
    Read 477 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,789 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  2. Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy

    • Public School
    • Aurora, IL
    • 10-12
    • 264 reviews
    #2 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: I think that, overall, the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy is a great school. The teachers I have had are super nice and always supportive, and are willing to help outside of the classroom. The curriculum is challenging and there are many fun student-run events! I love the opportunities that are offered here and I think that the school has really helped me grow as a person with all the hard work we have to do and also the mandatory activities outside of the classroom.
    Read 264 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 647 Students
    • 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  3. Walter Payton College Prep

    • Chicago Public Schools, IL
    • 9-12
    • 340 reviews
    #3 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Junior: Walter Payton College Prep is an amazing Liberal Arts school from which students leave ready to tackle the challenges of today. Here, you can play the trombone in front of hundreds of students. Here, you can swing swords and climb mountains. Here, you can do challenging math way above your pay grade. Here, you will learn about the history of our country from a multitude of perspectives, and read substantive essays from magnificent authors. The teachers at Walter Payton College Prep never cease to pique your curiosity. Faculty, in its entirety, has a great spectrum of wisdom and is a pillar of support for everyone who seeks their aid. And the students, from the 1st day freshman wondering the halls to the senior taking his last glance of the school, have a burning passion to learn and play 'till the bell strikes 3:30P.M.everyday. We can't wait to meet with you, share with you, and learn from you here at Walter Payton College Prep!
    Read 340 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 977 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  4. Bergen County Academies

    • Public School
    • Hackensack, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 455 reviews
    #4 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: One's time spent at BCA will heavily be influenced by their academy. Even though each academy has different workloads, there are some academies with bigger workloads than others, meaning students in those academies have to sacrifice more of their time to get the same high grades as students of other academies. Some classes are geared to a specific academy, meaning students only of a certain academy are allowed to take them. However, there are many clubs, electives, societies, and sports students can take to enrich themselves in various ways. Also, the school is structured like college, having multiple free times throughout a day, allowing students to relax, have fun, take extra classes, or work on schoolwork throughout the day. BCA's student environment can get very competitive, but at end of the day all the students are respected by others. The students thrive with the help of teachers, administrators, and, of course, their peers.
    Read 455 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,069 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  5. The Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science

    • Public School
    • Columbus, MS
    • 11-12
    • 130 reviews
    #5 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: MSMS is such an amazing school. My first year at this school was pretty good. I will admit, this school is NOT for everyone, and even still, you need to do a little adjusting. Upcoming juniors: take advance of every opportunity and stay focused on your work. I know the first semester will seem terrible (or maybe not) but it gets better. The teachers and staff work so hard to make sure we all succeed. My peers are so intelligent and creative; it's really mindblowing. This school is just really good!
    Read 130 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 245 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  6. Maggie Walker Governor's School

    • Public School
    • Richmond, VA
    • 9-12
    • 75 reviews
    #6 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: Over the course of the past four years, I have found that Maggie Walker is most definitely a make-your-own-experience kind of school, but regardless, its student end up very prepared for college. While it has an extremely competitive environment and poor mental health, your general experience at MW are defined by the classes, clubs, and people you choose to surround yourself with. MW has hundreds of clubs, from our acapella group Deadbeats to dance teams to our many competitive academic teams like Model UN and Debate, so every student can be sure to find a club that interests them. Compared to most other local schools, MW has a much larger array of classes with classes like Arabic and VCU Web Design. Ultimately, I would never trade my experience at MW. I have found that each class is its own tight-knit community of 180 students, which is something you can find at no other school. This school provides many incomparable opportunities, so if you get in, I encourage you to join us!
    Read 75 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 746 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  9. Massachusetts Academy of Math & Science

    • Public School
    • Worcester, MA
    • 11-12
    • 62 reviews
    #7 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: I absolutely loved MAMS! The teachers were kind, but there was a lot of work. Ultimately, I think that MAMS brought out the potential in me as I was motivated to work harder from friends and teachers and stop doing the minimum to get by as I had done for my sending school. Overall, great experience 10/10 would recommend!
    Read 62 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 97 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  10. Northside College Preparatory High School

    • Chicago Public Schools, IL
    • 9-12
    • 524 reviews
    #8 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: Northside College Prep is an amazing school! Teachers here are good and counselors really help you prepare for college since it is a college preparatory high school. There are a lot of extracurricular activities like dance clubs and sports to join. However, we do not have a football team, but if you don't mind, it's okay! Since our school is part of the selective enrollment process in Chicago and is usually top in ranking, things can be competitive sometimes in terms of academics. However, this competitiveness can be encouraging and motivating you to do better and keep up your grades!
    Read 524 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,069 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  11. Union County Magnet High School

    • Public School
    • Scotch Plains, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 123 reviews
    #9 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Junior: Union County Magnet High School is an excellent school! The student community feels like family and the teachers are available to their students often. It’s a very safe environment both physically and emotionally. There are no sports through Magnet, but students can participate in the programs of their “sending districts”, which is nice. It would be great if they fixed the sinks in the bathrooms, but other than that there isn’t much to complain about.
    Read 123 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 298 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  12. School of Science & Engineering

    • Dallas Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 184 reviews
    #10 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Parent: The staff are expert and caring! Students, parents and the community are a high priority. Students leave with a first rate education! Parent and community involvement is highly encouraged.
    Read 184 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 418 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  13. School for the Talented & Gifted

    • Dallas Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 150 reviews
    #11 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Sophomore: I am currently a sophomore at the School for the Talented and Gifted, and I have not regretted choosing to come to this school. TAG not only has a challenging curriculum, but the environment is also welcoming. The faculty tale the time to get to know us as students, are dedicated to their jobs, and actually pay attention to how the feedback of the students. The school has created its own culture over the years where everyone is free to express their opinion, and TAG genuinely encourages you to show who you are as a person. I love my experience so far, and I know I'm receiving a great education!
    Read 150 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 261 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  14. The Davidson Academy

    • Online School
    • Reno, NV
    • 6-12
    • 58 reviews
    #12 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Parent: There is a reason families are willing to move to Reno for their kids to attend this school. The teachers are amazing! The administration cares more for the kids than any other school we've known.
    Read 58 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 160 Students
    • 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  15. Whitney M. Young Magnet High School

    • Chicago Public Schools, IL
    • 7-12
    • 1,002 reviews
    #13 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: I like WY for its pride in racial diversity among the students and teachers. I love the school and the entire design of it, the classrooms not being too hard to find considering how large the school itself is. Even with three buildings it is pretty simple to get around. I love that most of the students are so nice and respectful and really take initiative in their learning, it’s such a healthy environment. My only complaint is the huge chunk of teachers who do not teach at this high school and then give hard tests that everyone fails. I’ve run into at least one of these teachers every year I’ve been attending Whitney, but maybe that’s just me. Anyways, good high school overall that I definitely do not regret attending!
    Read 1,002 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,153 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  16. Liberal Arts & Science Academy

    • Austin Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 412 reviews
    #14 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Alum: I'm proud to be a LASA alum. I was constantly challeged by both my classmates and teachers. LASA is stressful/high-pressure as students are generally super focused on grades, so it's not for everyone. I had fun high school experiences with the marching band, homecoming, prom, traditions, etc. It's hard, but it will prepare you for the hardest of college programs. Taking 5+ AP classes in both junior & senior year is the norm. Students are equally competitive and supportive of each other. Most students participate in summer programs, study abroad, internships, competitions, etc.

    Sharing a campus with LBJ can be awkward/stressful, but many students (especially in fine arts and athletics) are friends with LBJ students. I think the exposure to this situation is good for students as they are faced with the reality of life every day and can make their choice on what they want to do about it. Of course, this will all change once LASA moves to a new campus in a few years.
    Read 412 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,111 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  17. Tesla STEM High School

    • Lake Washington School District, WA
    • 9-12
    • 70 reviews
    #15 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: STEM is an extremely challenging but worthwhile school. The school adds lots of rigor to courses that are even known to be easy by pushing students to assess deeper questions and explore solutions. The school also heavily promotes research and in-field experience by providing dozens of internship opportunities (especially to the juniors and seniors) and requiring certain classes to engage in year long student driven projects with which they compete at science fairs (CSRSEF and WSEF). In most events that STEM competes in, the school succeeds and takes home many awards all of which are published in the STEM journal which is released to the public yearly. Because STEM partakes in the items mentioned above, it leaves students with a great resume to propel them through their college search and results in students attending prestigious universities and ultimately prevailing in their dream occupations.
    Read 70 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 578 Students
    • 24:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  18. Poolesville High School

    • Montgomery County Public Schools, MD
    • 9-12
    • 271 reviews
    #16 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Parent: The quality of overall educational experience was outstanding. PHS develops the whole student in academically and socially as well as prepares them for college. I am very pleased with the opportunities that my child had to excel, become a leader and provide service!
    Read 271 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,180 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  19. Bergen County Technical High School - Teterboro

    • Public School
    • Teterboro, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 201 reviews
    #17 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: I have been going to Bergen Tech for the last four years. I will definitely say that for anyone looking to challenge themselves academically, this school is definitely worth applying to. There are AP classes for just about every subject being offered as early as freshman year. For the most part, the teachers are great and know the material well, as well as offer extra help if necessary nearly every day. The school is unique in that it has "majors", such as computer science, business, engineering, law, fashion, and others. These classes provide a basic look at what a major has to offer to help a student decide if this is something they might be interested in. There is a large amount of extracurricular activities and sports available as well. Overall, the school is definitely worth attending if you are willing to work harder than the average HS student to stay on top of your academics.
    Read 201 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 677 Students
    • 10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  22. Academy for Allied Health Science

    • Public School
    • Scotch Plains, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 101 reviews
    #18 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Junior: AAHS is very nice. If you are looking to go into the medical field, this high school is perfect. While most teachers are nice, there are a few bad apples. Plus, a few teachers teach things that they aren't qualified to teach. You also get certified in CPR and First Aid, which is beneficial for any job. The school itself is filled with nice people and is very strict when it comes to anti-bullying measures. It's also very, very safe. While it doesn't have sports besides intramurals, the funds not spent on sports is used towards other things, from keeping the building clean and safe to fun events, such as the big Relay for Life event we have once a year. There are people from a variety of backgrounds, which we and other schools on campus celebrate the cultures of on AHA day. They are very good at helping students prepare for college, from helping with college essays to having you take a Financial Literacy course. All in all, this is still a pretty great high school.
    Read 101 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 291 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  23. Jones College Prep High School

    • Chicago Public Schools, IL
    • 9-12
    • 610 reviews
    #19 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Sophomore: I loved the Jones community! Jones offered a 'Freshman Connection' program at the beginning of my freshman year, and it set me off to a great start with making friends and learning more about the school. I was very prepared and amazed by how hospitable the school was to me as well as all of its students. All classes at Jones are Honors (excluding AP), so I was worried I wouldn't do well at first. But the teachers and resources at my school helped me get high grades and skills on time management and studying. Many of the clubs offered at jones were suited to my tastes and were very welcoming! They had so many options to join, and I was glad a great majority of my schoolmates shared the same interests as me. Applying for this school is set in stone to be one of my proudest moments, because my high school experience so far has been one of a kind.
    Read 610 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,815 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  24. Academy for Information Technology

    • Public School
    • Scotch Plains, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 109 reviews
    #20 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Sophomore: AIT has the resources necessary to succeed for the two vocational paths offered there: Business & Information Technology. Introductory courses are provided such as Computer Applications in Business which combine IT and Business by getting the student certified in Microsoft Office and IC3. Sophomore year gives you the opportunity to experience an AP course (Computer Science Fundamentals) and a business course (Principles of Business & Finance). Computer Science helps in the logic behind programming and allows students to learn languages such as Javascript. Sophomore year is the year when the path you are pursuing is finalized by the end of the school year. business classes are still available to me Junior year as electives through the IT path. However, students planning to go the business path do not have the opportunity to go into some of the IT courses provided at AIT. The focus on these courses as well as the honors classes provided at the school make the school worthwhile.
    Read 109 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 287 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  25. Julia R. Masterman Secondary School

    • Philadelphia City School District, PA
    • 5-12
    • 213 reviews
    #21 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Freshman: I've been in Masterman since fifth grade and I can surely say that this school will really push you to be successful. Many of the teachers don't stress kids with amounts of useless homework and only give when necessary. Although the school is so small, you get to know and create strong bonds with the teachers and staff. It really does make you feel connected with everyone and one big family! I wished there was more diversity though because it's mostly a lot of white and asian kids than other races. I love the placement of the school since it's right above center city and close to a bunch of places to eat and the subway. I definitely recommend your kids coming here!
    Read 213 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,190 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  26. Dr. Ronald E. McNair Academic High School

    • Jersey City School District, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 242 reviews
    #22 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: McNair High School is a mosaic of cultural diversity unmatched to any other institution where students embrace different ethnicities through clubs that bring awareness to minority groups. McNair was named the #1 high school in New Jersey and it truly lives up to its name. The curriculum is rigorous -- offering almost every AP course -- and prepares students well for college. This year, students were accepted to Yale, Princeton, Cornell, Columbia and MIT. The teachers at McNair are what make the experience. They are the most caring individuals who work incredibly hard to make sure all students are taught to the highest of standards. Teachers stay after school until 8pm (all without pay too) to help students with their research projects in preparation for the annual county science fair. They truly love their job and students. Despite our accomplishments, we are a poorly funded school in dire need of better facilities.
    Read 242 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 685 Students
    • 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  27. Loveless Academic Magnet Program High School

    • Montgomery County Schools, AL
    • 9-12
    • 183 reviews
    #23 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: Going to LAMP throughout my high school years, I can easily say that this school is one of the best schools in Alabama to go to! From the friendly and dedicated teachers to the great range of cultures and ideas that could be found among the students and staff here, this school gave me experiences and relationships that I truly cherish. If you want intelligent, open-minded students, amazing teachers, an accepting environment, and an academic challenge, then this school is just for you!
    Read 183 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 499 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  28. Academic Magnet High School

    • Charleston County School District, SC
    • 9-12
    • 226 reviews
    #24 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: As far as receiving a quality education, this school is perfect---not only does it have knowledgeable teachers, the classes are challenging and require diligence and critical thinking. In this sense, it certainly prepares a student for college and beyond. However, this school is completely draining, and many students leave because it has caused them mental health issues, relentless stress, anxiety, and feelings of incompetence. If you're willing to potentially go through these issues, I would strongly recommend coming to this school. Despite its difficulty, Academic Magnet is a place of student unity and quality academics.
    Read 226 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 658 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  29. DuPont Manual High School

    • Jefferson County Public Schools, KY
    • 9-12
    • 661 reviews
    #25 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: DuPont Manual has many expectations for their students given that they are one of the best public high schools in Kentucky. They push for academic excellence and make sure each student is ready for college. There are many extracurricular activities to choose from also. The one thing that Manual can do is embrace their diversity even more. The school is filled with students of many backgrounds, but it does not seem like it's their top priority. Also, the climate can be pretty tense from the competitive nature of many students. Something should be done to prevent students from becoming toxic because of competition relating to academic achievement.
    Read 661 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,895 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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