2024 Best Private High Schools in Pennsylvania

• Philadelphia, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  110 reviews

Senior: Overall, I've had a lot of fun here at GFS. I really felt the school's Quaker values shine through throughout my experience here, whether it was through calling teachers by their first names, or beginning certain classes with moments of silence, or attending weekly Meeting for Worship. It felt like the teachers were genuinely invested in seeing their students succeed, and were always very accessible. For the most part, the students were just as great, both inside and outside of class. It is a touch cliquey, but overall, there was a great sense of community, and I loved my time at GFS.... Read 110 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,125

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Bryn Mawr, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  93 reviews

Alum: I was incredibly lucky to have been able to go to Baldwin. While any student or alum will say there were overwhelming periods (most will go catatonic at some point in junior and/or senior year simply from the stress of college admissions), I would argue that it was all worth it. There isn't much hand-holding past your freshman year, which I now really appreciate having worked at other private schools across the world, as it taught me how to self-direct my studies before starting college. Socially it was warm, the teachers were as a whole supportive and often went above and beyond to make sure we felt confident, checking in on you if you fell behind. Naturally it's a private school in a wealthy area, and so the wealth/class disparity is definitely noticeable. I do believe Baldwin could do a better job of educating the wealthier students about the "other side" - many understand the privilege they have to go to Baldwin, but don't really understand how rare the life they lead is.... Read 93 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 572

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Mercersburg, PA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.5 out of 5  248 reviews

Senior: My experience at Mercersburg has transformed me academically, personally, and spiritually. The faculty here are so devoted to us as students in all aspects of life here such as the dorm, in academics, and in our extracurricular endeavors. All of my teachers inspire me and challenge me to think and grow as a student. The academics are rigorous, yet all students are provided with many resources for help and support. It is really easy to get involved here and be an active participant in our community. There are so many clubs and activities where student initiative is highly encouraged. I love Mercersburg because of the people. Faculty and students alike have sparked growth in me through their generally very positive energy and lofty ideals.... Read 248 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 447

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Bryn Mawr, PA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.3 out of 5  54 reviews

Parent: Barrack is a warm, welcoming, wonderful school. The teachers and staff get to truly know your child and support them in every way possible. Their core values of kindness, community, honor and courage are weaved through everything they do. The academics are top-notch, and my kids have excellent study, writing, and executive functioning skills. They know how to be excellent students from the great coaching and preparation that their Barrack teachers provide. They also know how to advocate for themselves, and others. It may not be around the corner from us, but we feel the 40 minute bus ride is worth it (they made commuting to school easy with provided transportation and two late busses for after school activites). As parents, we did not grow up with a Jewish day school education, nor knew too much about it. However, we are so glad we explored Barrack as an option for our children, and feel it is a true gift to be able to learn there. Our children 100% "love where they learn."... Read 54 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 340

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Lititz, PA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.57 out of 5  118 reviews

Senior: I have attended Linden Hall now for five years and have only great things to say about my experience. Though it is a small school, Linden Hall allows for a lower student to teacher ratio, giving the students more confidence when asking questions, allowing them to be more engaged, and providing them with more opportunities for one-on-one time with the teachers. The teachers are truly invested in the students education as well as their growth as learners, and they will do everything that they can to ensure the student feels comfortable with the material, even if that means staying late after school. Additionally, there are countless clubs and organizations that are offered to Linden Hall students in which participation is required in order to meet and surround yourself with new people and ideas, foster creative thinking, and more! Linden Hall is a safe haven where you will have the support from your teachers and other students to express yourself and show the world who you are!... Read 118 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 110

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Newtown Square, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.69 out of 5  152 reviews

Parent: The education is challenging and prepares prepares the student to be successful in college. EA students also have the opportunity to grow and learn outside the classroom, and are encouraged to find their passion by taking advantage of the extensive extracurricular activities. Whether it’s arts, theater, athletics, community service, debate, robotics, travel, Episcopal offers it all. This learning and growing happens within a supportive and nurturing community. Each of my children built special relationships with teachers who served as coaches, club leaders, chaperones on school sponsored trips or simply caring mentors. And the foundation for that community is chapel, a time when the students come together to reflect and learn. Although rooted in Christianity, the chapel program is welcoming and inclusive and gives the students the opportunity to share their beliefs with each other. EA shaped my children and provided them with a foundation for future success.... Read 152 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,276

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Bryn Mawr, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.49 out of 5  99 reviews

Parent: We have two children at Shipley who have been enrolled since PreK and K. We love this school! Our kids are nurtured, challenged, supported, and given all of the tools they need to succeed both inside and outside the classroom. The teachers are phenomenal and the community is welcoming. Our 2 children are very different from each other in many ways, but especially as learners, and Shipley is the perfect school for both of them.... Read 99 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 800

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Pottstown, PA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  126 reviews

Parent: The Hill is an intimate school in a fairly secluded campus on the outskirts of Philly (40 minutes out). It is a special place for the relationships and. Lose was that is fostered between the students, faculty, and administration which creates a sense of belonging. Academically, there are very rigorous programs in STEM, Humanities, Languages (even the classics). Every student will play sports and activities to their ability, and many of the teams perform as state and National contenders. The rivalry with Lawrenceville is mostly tradition, but can lead to some strongly competitive influences at times. The rules are the rules, and if you play by the rules at The Hill there are very few problems in the day-to-day. With that having been said, rule breakers don’t last at this school; deference to the good kids makes for swift action against culprits and trouble makers. In all, the kids learn rich lessons of all facets of experience that sticks with them for life.... Read 126 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 539

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Malvern, PA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.64 out of 5  87 reviews

Parent: Malvern faculty and staff have such a special gift tapping into our son's inner strengths. My son went from parochial to public school before finding his home at Malvern. He was quiet and ok with coming to school, doing his best each day. After a few short weeks his team of teachers have worked with him to place him in challenging classes, encouraging his participation in campus events, and stepping out of his comfort zone to explore a student leadership role. His first year provided so much personal awareness and growth. He began his journey learning who he is and how to build on these strengths, as well as recognize where he needs to be challenged. Something we spent many years partnering with outside counselors and teachers in his previous schools with little success. We knew we were missing something and the Malvern staff have been able to help him so quickly and effectively. We can't thank Malvern enough and are so grateful he has 3.5 more years discovering his best self!... Read 87 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 673

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Bethlehem, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  87 reviews

Parent: Moravian Academy has been a superb choice for my son. I chose them for their academic reputation. Since then, however, I come to realize how much more there is to Moravian. The smaller classes allow a personal relationship between teachers and students. Moravian is committed to the Arts, Music, Languages, and other non-academic opportunities that allow students to explore and find passions they didn't even know they had. Field trips in the younger grades are meaningful. The overnight team building trips in high school are exceptional in strengthening the sense of community. The faculty is truly committed to the students. Students can excel academically, do research based projects, have STEM opportunities, compete nationally, do sports, etc. Moravian teaches them to be independent learners, self advocates, and to balance academics, extracurricular, and personal goals. By the end of high school, they are well prepared for college!... Read 87 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 889

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Philadelphia, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.44 out of 5  131 reviews

Works Here: I say yes to Friends Select because, as a product of a Quaker high school education, I know firsthand the impact and value. Friends Select lives its Quaker identity with Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship at the foundation of every aspect of the school and community. Friends Select students graduate with the knowledge and understanding of peaceful resolution to conflict, empathy, service to others, mutual respect, inclusion, self-awareness, self-confidence, voice, agency, and many other soft and hard skills necessary to navigate the ever-changing and diverse world that they will live in the future. The world needs more Friends Select alums!... Read 131 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 638

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Pittsburgh, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  131 reviews

Sophomore: Shady Side Academy stands out as a top-tier educational institution due to its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, diverse and inclusive community, and exceptional faculty. The school's rigorous curriculum, small class sizes, and dedicated teachers ensure that students receive a well-rounded education, preparing them for future success in college and beyond. Shady Side Academy's commitment to diversity and inclusivity creates a welcoming and enriching environment, where students from various backgrounds come together to learn and grow. With an outstanding faculty that is both knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects, Shady Side Academy provides students with the skills, knowledge, and values they need to excel in a rapidly changing world.... Read 131 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,209

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Fort Washington, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.47 out of 5  92 reviews

Parent: My daughter started in kindergarten and is now in 10th grade at GA. The most exceptional thing about this school is the teachers. They are dedicated, passionate, intelligent and truly love teaching. They establish connections and relationships with students and actually enjoy spending time listening to what is going on in their students’ lives outside the classroom. In lower school , having two teachers in each classroom allows for differentiated learning and individualized attention to all students. Teachers really know their students. In middle and upper school, dropping in to meet with teachers during free periods is highly encouraged and helps solidify teacher/student connections and learning. The teacher retention rate says a lot about the school. Most all stay 30-40 years!!! I feel that my child had been in the best hands and has grown so much through the years socially, emotionally and of course, academically. GA is a very special place.... Read 92 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,223

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Wynnewood, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.41 out of 5  83 reviews

Parent: My family loves FCS! The school is preparing children for all aspects of life, both inside the classroom and outside of the classroom. The values that embody the school support my children as they grow into solid community members. The academics are incredible with small student teacher ratios, various classrooms and specials. The school feels like a community in addition to academic excellence. Can't recommend enough.... Read 83 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 847

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Birmingham, PA•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  88 reviews

Junior: Grier provides a nourishing, safe, familiar and encouraging environment for all students who attend. The teachers and staff are passionate, caring and kind, and are available for extra help whenever you may need it. The College application process is extremely easy with the professional counselors who are dedicated to helping you decide on your future. The academics are rigorous, yet not overwhelming, and the extra curricular activities are stimulating and fun!... Read 88 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 260

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Newtown, PA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  142 reviews

Parent: My son chose George because of the diverse academics, the diverse community, and the recognition he would be treated as an individual. He is in 11th grade now and has thrived here. His teachers have celebrated his successes, worked with him 1:1 to support him through challenges, and he has made lifelong friends. He is more confident than ever before. As a parent, I appreciate the warmth of the community and the passion with which teachers teach. While it is still a year and a half away, I know my son will be ready for the next step in his educational journey!... Read 142 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 536

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• West Chester, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  121 reviews

Parent: I've sent three kids here. Overall an amazing, life-changing experience for the kids both academically and personally. The school prepares the students for college (many graduates have gone on to Ivy League schools and the like); but more importantly, it teaches kids to be good citizens and to take care of and participate in their community. My kids are all athletes, and the soccer, basketball, lacrosse and baseball programs in particular strive for and achieve excellence. The basketball program has had student athletes go onto the NBA; soccer is developing strong student-athletes for top-notch colleges. Go 'Town!... Read 121 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 696

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Pittsburgh, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  36 reviews

Senior: I had a great experience at Winchester Thurston. Everyone—the faculty, the students, the administrators, the custodial and kitchen staff—wanted the best for each and every one of us. It's a place that nurtures students and encourages them to pursue their passions. It's a collaborative environment where students are rarely in conflict with each other. It's easy to make friends and find people who share your interests. Teachers are always available and want to help the students. I couldn't have asked for a better place to grow.... Read 36 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 641

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Rosemont, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.47 out of 5  177 reviews

Freshman: My experience at this school has been nothing but excellent. Agnes Irwin has pushed me as a student and has aided me in discovering my interests. I love the different clubs and activities that I have been involved in, as I am able to dive deep into my passions in them with the reasources Agnes Irwin has given. Along with that, the learning enviroment is wonderful. I am always able to go to a teacher to seek help, and every teacher is passionate about whatever they are teaching. Overall this school has given me wonderful memories and I am excited for the years to come!... Read 177 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 573

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Lancaster, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  33 reviews

Parent: My 3 children attended LCDS from K through graduation, and it was an amazing experience. The academic level of all grades is the perfect challenge that they needed. They played 3 sports year-round, participated in music, art and theatre, and basically did it all! When they started college, they each felt that it was LCDS in it's 13th year. They were so ready for the challenges of the great colleges they attended. They took the regional bus from Berks County to go there, and that was a plus too, as there was a sports bus (or late bus) every day. I tell everyone I know what a wonderful school it is. The teachers are fabulous, the environment and building/grounds are beautiful. I went to public school, so I know how that feels. This is so much better, in my opinion. I highly recommend this school to all. My kids did get some financial aid, too, so that is available if you qualify for it. Love this place!... Read 33 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 90

• Student-teacher ratio 1:1

• Philadelphia, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  119 reviews

Parent: Amazing teachers and staff. Wonderful community of parents and families. We were a bit worried that people would be snobby towards families like ours who receive financial aid, but that has not been our experience at all. My children are in the lower school and thriving, they are supported by their teachers, the administration and other parents. We couldn’t be happier.... Read 119 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 988

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Haverford, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.65 out of 5  101 reviews

Alum: Haverford is a terrific environment for young boys to develop into high character, strong minded, and community oriented leaders. The camaraderie associated with the all-boys culture, smaller classroom / learning experience, paired with first class faculty, facilities, athletics, and arts programs is what makes Haverford by far the best choice for a private school in the Philadelphia area. There is no other school that develops strong minded people who treat people with class, integrity, and graciousness like Haverford. Haverford graduates are as college prepared as any incoming freshmen in the country coming out of Haverford.... Read 101 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 948

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Jenkintown, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.69 out of 5  143 reviews

Parent: My daughter picked AFS for High School for its campus, culture and engaging community. She felt welcomed from the first time we visited thru her entire time so far even though her friends were going to school elsewhere. We couldn't be happier with our choice as our child is thriving academically as well as with her extracurricular activities. The student population is very diverse and her friends are spread out throughout Philadelphia, Bucks and Montgomery county. The school has additional learning opportunities outside the classroom, including those interested in the medical, business or law profession. A new athletics center with all of the amenities has recently opened. Our family loves being part of the AFS community!... Read 143 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 600

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Bryn Mawr, PA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  120 reviews

Parent: I have had 3 daughters enrolled - 2 graduates and a current student (Class of '24), and all three LOVED the teachers, Sacred Heart traditions and the diverse makeup of their class. They also received an education that not only prepared them for college, it prepared them to THRIVE in college. You won't find better academics - particularly in STEM areas as they have several teachers who came from industries and provide real-world usage for the mathematics, biology and physics that they are learning. As far as activities, SHA has some really good sports teams, great music, theater and choir. Overall, teachers and staff are great to deal with! Visit SHA before you decide on a school, you won't be sorry!... Read 120 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 200

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Pennsburg, PA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  68 reviews

Junior: Attending Perkiomen School has been a tremendous experience. Academically, I’ve had fairly easy access to taking the classes I’ve wanted. Though not incredibly vast, they provide many AP courses (I believe around 30) and honors courses as well. Teachers obviously care about their students, and time for additional help is provided in the daily schedule. Students participate in an after school activity everyday, and must take at least one semester (three per year) of a sport or physical activity. One downside is the obvious preferential treatment that the sports have started to gain in the recent years, however sports as well as the rest of student life has provided many opportunities to socialize and make friends on campus. Overall, there are so many experiences to take advantage of (the medical, entrepreneur, ai, and design institutes as well as clubs) and many weekend trips to spend with friends.... Read 68 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 286

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1