2022 Best Private High Schools in California

The College Preparatory School

• Private School•
• OAKLAND, CA•
• 9-12
• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  84 reviews

Senior: I've absolutely loved my time at College-Prep. It's the perfect place for students to be challenged intellectually, yet it's in a safe and welcoming environment. In my experience, there isn't really a culture of competitiveness/cutthroat environment, but, as with everywhere you go, you'll undoubtedly find exceptions to the rule. College-Prep has been perfect for me and has been a place where I've succeeded. I've grown academically, socially, and emotionally, and I am forever grateful for the faculty, peers, and friends I have met along the way...We get a pretty bad rep for sports, but it's a great place to try out new sports! If you're not an athlete and you want to start a sport, everyone's super nice and there aren't many expectations haha. Still, we do have some teams that tend to do pretty well in league or you could always play club so def not a dealbreaker in my opinion!...Read 84 Reviews

• grade A+

• 373 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Nueva School

• Private School•
• HILLSBOROUGH, CA•
• PK, K-12
• •
  Rating 4.53 out of 5  60 reviews

Sophomore: Nueva is an amazing school! There are so many opportunities all just waiting for anyone who is motivated. There is a 230+ page course catalog and a wide range of extracurriculars to take your passions to the next level. The students are kind and cool (everyone's smart but not everyone's a nerd). There are fun social events like dances, coffeehouses, musical performances, sports games, spirit rallies, and more! Nueva provides excellent STEM education (humanities as well), and the teachers are genuinely interested in you and want you to succeed...Read 60 Reviews

• grade A+

• 967 Students
• 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Harvard-Westlake School

• Private School•
• LOS ANGELES, CA•
• 7-12
• •
  Rating 4.45 out of 5  155 reviews

Junior: Throughout my five years at Harvard-Westlake, I have come to realize what a unique place it is. Anyone can find a path that suits them: regardless of whether you're a math superstar, a polyglot, or a talented thespian, there's something for everyone! With top-notch academics, incredible clubs and a dedicated student body, anyone can succeed and find their- so to speak- niche at HW...Read 155 Reviews

• grade A+

• 1,620 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Stanford Online High School

• Online School•
• REDWOOD CITY, CA•
• 7-12
• •
  Rating 4.66 out of 5  154 reviews

Parent: Stanford Online has been a great experience for our son. The school is supportive, flexible, and motivating. It is a complete high school experience. Stanford is more of a community than we thought possible through an online school. The upper-division classes are challenging, but the instructors are amazing. They challenge students but they also inspire them. My son has developed a passion for science that I didn’t have until much later in life. A year ago he was resigned to college, but uncertain and nervous about what it would involve. Now he is insistent on going to Berkeley and has decided he wants to major in chemistry. He has developed a new certainty and purpose that make us confident he will do great in college. Most schools have good classes, but few build such a complete, inspiring experience. We are grateful for the passion, confidence, and joy in learning we found at Stanford Online...Read 154 Reviews

• grade A+

• 903 Students
• 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Castilleja School

• Private School•
• PALO ALTO, CA•
• 6-12
• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  57 reviews

• grade A+

• 430 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Crystal Springs Uplands School

• Private School•
• HILLSBOROUGH, CA•
• 6-12
• •
  Rating 4.41 out of 5  44 reviews

Senior: Crystal prepares students for college! The only major downside is that I wish that there was more racial/ethnic diversity. There are only a few African-American students, roughly 5% of the entire school population, and it can be extremely isolating. Additionally, it has also been hard for me due to the fact that I am transitioning to male and as much as the school is trying to support me and understand, I think there is still A LOT of work to be done in regards to supporting LGBT(+) students. ...With that said, the academics are world-class. It definitely gives (and gave) me an advantage in testing, access to higher-level education, study skills, and essay writing. To those who are looking to apply, the biggest advice I would give is: Don't be afraid of the cost. The school gives excellent financial aid to those who truly need it.Read 44 Reviews

• grade A+

• 539 Students
• 9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Flintridge Preparatory School

• Private School•
• LA CANADA FLINTRIDGE, CA•
• 7-12
• •
  Rating 4.66 out of 5  102 reviews

Parent: So far, so good. Son chose this school over other top schools because he liked the community there. Happy to report that he is loving school and the food and getting acclimated very well. The HS academics are challenging which is a plus but I never got the sense that he is stressed out. It is a healthy and manageable level for him but could be difficult if student is not used to the rigor. The teachers and admins are very supportive and available and most of the students are friendly, nice, and well rounded. We love the school so much that we are excitedly waiting to get our younger one there for 7th!...Read 102 Reviews

• grade A+

• 530 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Bishop's School

• Private School•
• SAN DIEGO, CA•
• 6-12
• •
  Rating 4.56 out of 5  82 reviews

Senior: Bishop's is a good place for self-motivated people to take advantage of the variety of resources. With the Center for Creative Sciences, access to the Adobe suite, and other opportunities, it is easy to discover activities that aren't usually available to high schoolers. There is a campus attitude of pressure to do well, which can be benign if families and students are on the same page of being proud of themselves for their effort vs. always trying to "catch up" with everyone else. For anyone considering going to Bishop's, my advice is to not psych yourself out of a class because a teacher won't give you an A; first of all, that usually isn't true - you just have to put in more effort. Secondly, my favorite classes were the higher level ones in the English and STEM departments (except comp. science). In short, Bishop's is a great place for people who aren't afraid to try new things and take advantage of available resources!...Read 82 Reviews

• grade A+

• 800 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Polytechnic School

• Private School•
• PASADENA, CA•
• K-12
• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  104 reviews

Parent: As a parent of current poly students, I can attest to the quality of the teachers, faculty, student body and facilities. Poly is academically rigorous and sets high expectations for its students while providing the scholastic and emotional support needed to ensure every student has an opportunity to succeed. Poly also does an admirable job incorporating character building into their curriculum. Compassion, service, self awareness, diversity,...inclusion, tolerance and integrity are all modeled and reinforced throughout the campus at every grade level. Poly can of course continue to work on its diversity by reaching out to the larger Los Angles community to attract a more broad coalition of students. That said, we could not be happier. Most importantly our children (middle and high school) feel happy, proud, challenged, accepted, supported and seen...Read 104 Reviews

• grade A+

• 872 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Cate School

• Private School•
• CARPINTERIA, CA•
• 9-12
• •
  Rating 4.39 out of 5  49 reviews

Parent: Faculties are good. This school is very hard to get the admission acceptance because lot of legacy students. Some employees’ working attitude not friendly, especially the workers in the health center, no patient, no mercy. Also some dorm parents are ex-Cate students whose attitudes are very mean!...Read 49 Reviews

• grade A+

• 298 Students
• 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Thacher School

• Private School•
• OJAI, CA•
• 9-12
• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  95 reviews

Parent: My daughter graduated from Thacher last year and I must say that it was a truly transformational experience for her. While studying in a rigorous academic environment, she often spoke of how there was a spirit of cooperation amongst her peers and how her teachers were accessible. She was able to participate in many activities - athletics, performing arts, clubs, etc... during her time at Thacher. While busy, she wasn't overwhelmed. That is what I heard most often from her peers at other independent schools in our home town. Thumbs up to Thacher for preparing my daughter well for life!...Read 95 Reviews

• grade A+

• 259 Students
• 4:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Westridge School

• Private School•
• PASADENA, CA•
• 4-12
• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  126 reviews

Parent: When we were looking for private school, we were looking for a school not only offers robust academic curriculums, but also emphasizes on character and social-emotional learning. Our daughters have been with Westridge since 4th grade, and our experiences have always been positive. With more than 100 years of history under strong leadership, Westridge is very proficient in providing an environment that's best fit in shaping young, independent girls. The school continuously evolves and does an excellent job empowering young minds to meet new challenges of modern days. Our daughters are continuously challenged intellectually and never be afraid to make a mistake. We are especially impressed by how Westridge takes an early initiative with DEI and encourages the whole community to make a difference. Teachers and administrators are truly supportive and nurturing. With confidence, we know that we are raising intellectual and well-rounded daughters together...Read 126 Reviews

• grade A+

• 550 Students
• 5:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Head-Royce School

• Private School•
• OAKLAND, CA•
• K-12
• •
  Rating 4.48 out of 5  64 reviews

Parent: My daughter has had an outstanding high school experience at Head-Royce - I can't imagine a better school for her. I remember thinking, at my initial parent tour, what a remarkably smart, involved, caring, switched on group of adults running this school and inspiring and supporting the kids - this first impression was spot on. The teachers, administrators, deans, advisors, counselors, librarians, etc are superb. The overall vibe of the kids seems great too - lively and fun but also really bright, hardworking and engaged. Go Jayhawks!...Read 64 Reviews

• grade A+

• 900 Students
• 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Quarry Lane School

• Private School•
• DUBLIN, CA•
• PK, K-12
• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  149 reviews

Middle School Student: Good school! Has a very fun-filled community with everyone greeting you and getting to know you. Within the first month of the year, many people can talk to me outside of class and engage in fun activities such as sports. I have even made some friends being the new kid at this school. Great experience and would definitely recommend this school to whoever reads this!...Read 149 Reviews

• grade A+

• 775 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Windward School

• Private School•
• LOS ANGELES, CA•
• 7-12
• •
  Rating 4.51 out of 5  78 reviews

Senior: Windward excelled my expectations in every possible way. Their sports teams are intense and insane going against the best competition in the country. And the offer and endless stream of activities for your children. The relationship between parents, students, and faculty are all around great. Lots of communication and preparation to ready your children for higher education. The only downside I did notice was every so often our community would be put inside a bubble. Although it’s great to have a nurturing community, someonetimes our children have to see reality for what it is...Read 78 Reviews

• grade A+

• 625 Students
• 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Marlborough School

• Private School•
• LOS ANGELES, CA•
• 7-12
• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  157 reviews

Parent: As a parent, I can not say enough wonderful things about Marlborough. It is truly a top-notch school and affords students not only a superb education but a deep sense of community. The academics are rigorous but the support the students receive to be successful is second to none. The teachers, administrators, faculty, staff, and coaches are beyond excellent. The community is diverse, welcoming, kind, curious, and intelligent. I would highly recommend Marlborough without reservation!...Read 157 Reviews

• grade A+

• 533 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Harker School

• Private School•
• SAN JOSE, CA•
• K-12
• •
  Rating 4.39 out of 5  149 reviews

Senior: Harker has provided me with fantastic preparation for college. The facilities are state of the art, especially the athletics dept/trainers. The food is amazing and the students are all incredibly gifted. The culture, however, can be toxic and harmful to kids mental health at times. There is high involvement from parents and a lot of test score/grade comparison between students. There is a plethora of extracurricular activities and clubs for students to choose from, from robotics to sports to STEM to humanities. The teachers are incredibly devoted and create strong bonds with their students. School spirit is dwindling but with recent athletic success has begun to spark up again. The student body is not incredibly diverse, both from a socioeconomic and from a racial standpoint, but same goes for most Bay Area schools. Overall my experience has been positive, and the connections that I've made and the personal growth have been tremendous...Read 149 Reviews

• grade A+

• 1,951 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Branson School

• Private School•
• ROSS, CA•
• 9-12
• •
  Rating 4.47 out of 5  80 reviews

Parent: Branson is wonderful school. It's academically challenging, but the teachers and faculty go above and beyond to support the student's success. Our son had an amazing experience throughout his four years at Branson. Some ups and downs? Of course, but all teaching moments for our teens!...Great arts and music program, competitive sports, and a gorgeous campus!Read 80 Reviews

• grade A+

• 320 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Lick-Wilmerding High School

• Private School•
• SAN FRANCISCO, CA•
• 9-12
• •
  Rating 4.62 out of 5  102 reviews

Freshman: The community at Lick Wilmerding is so strong and beautiful. Everyone on campus is always very welcoming and kind. LWHS is an amazing learning environment, and I’ve loved every second of it!Read 102 Reviews

• grade A+

• 490 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Menlo School

• Private School•
• ATHERTON, CA•
• 6-12
• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  76 reviews

Parent: As both an alum and a current parent of Menlo School, I can say that it is a very special place. Menlo provides so many wonderful things, but one that stands out the most is its teachers. I have never seen a faculty so dedicated, interesting, involved, passionate and caring as the ones at Menlo. They are top notch and provide an education unlike any other. They truly make Menlo so incredibly special and prepare its students for not just college, but life beyond school. I am beyond grateful to have been a student at Menlo and to now have my children at Menlo...Read 76 Reviews

• grade A+

• 795 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Sage Hill School

• Private School•
• NEWPORT COAST, CA•
• 9-12
• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  93 reviews

Senior: Sage offers a Socratic style of learning. I often converse with my peers and I am never afraid to ask questions if I do not understand. Most of my peers are brilliant. If I ever need to know something I can just simply ask, and even if they do not know the teachers are always there to help you. The college counselors are also really good. They review your college essay with you and really helps you make a great one. Of course, they will not write it for you or offer you suggestions of what to put or not to put, but simply advise you and that has been super helpful. They make the college process 10 times easier. All in all, the campus is beautiful, learning is a breeze, and the college counseling staff are awesome!...Read 93 Reviews

• grade A+

• 545 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

San Francisco University High School

• Private School•
• SAN FRANCISCO, CA•
• 9-12
• •
  Rating 4.02 out of 5  62 reviews

Junior: At San Francisco University Highscool, SFUHS, I had an amazing experience. I made friends quickly through the student of color clubs. The social dynamic of UHS is inclusive, anyone can be anyone they want to me. The academics are rigors and students easily spend 4 hours a night of work. I learned to think at UHS, instead of being a human calculator or grammar checker I was able to learn how to express my ideas and thoughts through literature or use unique methods to solve complex math problems. UHS helped shape me into the person I am, Its an amazing place to spend high school...Read 62 Reviews

• grade A+

• 410 Students
• 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Webb Schools

• Private School•
• CLAREMONT, CA•
• 9-12
• •
  Rating 4.46 out of 5  87 reviews

Alum: Recent alum here, fantastic school for academic development. The teachers here are top notch and the relationships they foster with students is extremely unique at the high school level. We were spoiled at Webb and I constantly am reminded of how much I was blessed to attend a school that is so enriching in several areas. By FAR the best school academically in the area, and nothing within a 40 mile radius offers anything better or even remotely close to the quality and personalization of a Webb education. Beautiful campus, quality location, top notch. ...The ONLY negative gripe I have with Webb is the college admissions staff and their deceiving system that is inherently unequal. They claim to use a system based on "fit," but instead cater to a practice reliant upon getting as many seniors into 10% of colleges as they can. Telling seniors to not apply to a certain school by claiming lack of "fit," when in reality, they want to cut down competition and cater to their quota...Read 87 Reviews

• grade A+

• 399 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Chadwick School

• Private School•
• PALOS VERDES PENINSULA, CA•
• K-12
• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  93 reviews

Sophomore: Chadwick is a great school. It is challenging, welcoming, supportive, and so much more. I feel at home at Chadwick, I have many friends and great relationships with my teachers. Chadwick has SO MANY opportunities, it's not a question of if there are opportunities, it's a question of how many of them will you take. The only thing I will say is that it is hard to manage pressures and insecurities as a minority, a first-generation Latina, in a predominantly white school. I find myself trying to fit in with everyone, not speaking Spanish, saying words as white as I could make them, and making myself sound as rich as I can (when I'm not). As bad as this might sound, recently Chadwick has started to make slow but sure progress in their diversity aspect. I can say for myself that I'm feeling more at place here than I was at the beginning. Overall, Chadwick is my dream school, with flaws and all, and I would never think otherwise...Read 93 Reviews

• grade A+

• 867 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Urban School of San Francisco

• Private School•
• SAN FRANCISCO, CA•
• 9-12
• •
  Rating 4.41 out of 5  58 reviews

Alum: Urban teaches you what it means to interact thoughtfully with the Bay area and the world! The resources at Urban (trips, community engagement, teachers, clubs, etcetera) empower students to take charge and become leaders. Most importantly, Urban teachers teach you how to think, not what to think...Note: Urban also lets students interview teachers, be on the board of trustees, help with strategic planning, etcetera! There is a huge amount of trust between the students and administration that further empower students to find their place in the world and make a tangible impact!...Read 58 Reviews

• grade A+

• 420 Students
• 9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio