2024 Best Private High Schools in Washington

• Seattle, WA•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4.44 out of 5  108 reviews

Sophomore: Most of the rumors and stereotypes you hear about this school and its students are true -- one reviewer mentioned the school's reputation as a pressure cooker and I could not agree more. Homework load is roughly a couple hours a day depending on your classes. As expected, the academic rigor is far greater than the average public school, however things are not perfect. Administration is thoughtful and seems to provide teachers with adequate support, but you'll begin to notice that student sentiment is sometimes disregarded, no matter how popular the idea is. Students are incredibly competitive as expected, and the school takes any sort of cheating incredibly seriously. Teachers can be quite accomodating, but it varies. You'll notice that friend groups are primarily based around race, with a few exceptions. In short -- almost the dream school for academics, and pretty average in the social scene.... Read 108 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 876

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Redmond, WA•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  96 reviews

Freshman: Being someone who's been at Overlake since middle school, this place is really great, with awesome arts, humanities, and sports programs. Classrooms and facilities are modern and up-to-date, with charging stations, gender-neutral bathrooms, and places to sit all across campus. But the best part about it are the faculty and staff-- every teacher has a unique style of teaching which helped me learn effectively in their classrooms. Other staff, like the kitchen crew, maintenance, and bus drivers are always so friendly and kind, making a welcoming environment. However, I have many critiques about the student culture here. There isn't much bullying, but students will pretend to be "nice" to certain people, but are really just condescending and secretly gossip and talk bad behind their back. Some students are also insensitive. They will rudely bump past others in crowded spaces, squirt water onto people who have done nothing, and sometimes even steal personal belongings.... Read 96 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 529

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Kirkland, WA•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4.52 out of 5  21 reviews

Parent: The teachers really care about each student's individual progress. The education is amazing, and there are so many opportunities to explore what are students interested in. They are taught by very qualified teachers who are clearly passionate about what they do. There are a lot of clubs ,plenty of sports you can try. Independent and self-driven students can really thrive here.my daughter loves and enjoy EPS.... Read 21 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 486

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Tacoma, WA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  117 reviews

Junior: My journey at this school began with my freshman year after transferring from a public middle school. The first two years were perhaps the most challenging. The curriculum and teaching methods were different from what I was used to in public school. While I did receive some support during my initial years, I hoped for more -you have to advocate for yourself, even though the school addresses you will talk to your advisor, etc. Unless you bring it up yourself, you will not. One observation I've made is that some long-term students - "lifers," take their privilege for granted. My time at this school has been a journey marked by both challenges and opportunities. The experience has helped me grow academically and personally. While there are areas for improvement, such as addressing gender bias and promoting greater diversity, an improved supportive system and the encouragement of individual choice in academics make this school a place with significant potential for growth and development.... Read 117 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 815

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Seattle, WA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  76 reviews

Parent: UPrep has been an excellent choice for our family. Our son started in middle school and is now a freshman. The teachers are an absolute strength, engaging and accessible. Academics are rigorous with a strong core curriculum and advanced options. The intensives allow students to explore new topics or go deeper in an area of interest. Students are encouraged to do their personal best without excessive competition. The athletic program offers both no-cut sports and competitive varsity teams. The community is welcoming and inclusive, with numerous opportunities for parental involvement. School spirit & community building have greatly improved post-COVID. College counseling is strong, and the leadership team is effective. The new ULab will be game changer for the upper school experience.... Read 76 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 660

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Tacoma, WA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.42 out of 5  97 reviews

Parent: We have only been at CWA for the last two years, but WOW what a find for a family new to the area. The other schools we looked at were pretentious with strict dress code and a canned IB approach that we could have gotten at the local public middle school. At CWA, it's all experiential, hands-on, and super fun. My son gets tons of opportunity to pursue his interests like robotics, soccer, and band while learning the curriculum lots of extra-curricular programming right on campus (mine takes his private music lessons during and right after school), all the major sports are offered even in MS. They even manage an amazing Outdoor Education program and are taking the kids to Puerto Rico next year in grade 8. We absolutely love Charles Wright and whether you are a full pay family or need financial aid (which they give generously) we feel strongly that everyone should learn more about this hidden gem of a school. Check it out!... Read 97 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 578

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Seattle, WA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  115 reviews

Parent: As a parent who has been here since my children were in 6th grade and now one is a Senior, our journey with SAAS has been an evolution. I didn't love middle school, but who does? In high school, I found the academics to be engaging, contemporary, and challenging, for both of our daughters. My girls have learned to self-advocate for themselves, gained confidence in their academic achievements and through their extracurricular activities. From a college planning perspective, college advising team is excellent. PROs: Sports and performing arts programs, engaging lessons and teachers, college prep/advising, diverse student body, very inclusive environment. CONs: I'm surprised by how many parents are not involved in the community. They give their money but choose not to be engaged. We are probably above middle income, but I see a lot of entitlement and privilege from upper wealthy. I also do think more discipline and consequences are needed for when kids break the rules... Read 115 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,170

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Seattle, WA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  84 reviews

Senior: Bush feels like a small liberal arts college in Seattle. And the academics feel like college too! Round table discussions, experience project learning, high teacher to student ratio.... Read 84 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 715

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Seattle, WA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.2 out of 5  76 reviews

Parent: Our son began in G8; we just moved to the Seattle area. We've been completely satisfied with the school. In particular, we've been happy with the academic curriculum. We knew that Northwest was a strong arts school, but we weren't sure about math, science, & humanities. All three of these subject areas have been outstanding. The math department is exceptional, including the department head in particular. If capable, a student can progress to advanced calculus and beyond in grades 11&12. Our son's humanities instructor in G8 was one of the most inspiring teachers he has ever had. Overall, the work is challenging but the support resources are excellent. Also, the grading criteria and results are completely transparent. Through an application accessed online, the parent can review all assignments, results and grades in all classes. No surprises! Last, I want to remark on the outdoors program, which is very active and opens up students to the beautiful Pacific Northwest!... Read 76 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 452

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Redmond, WA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  89 reviews

Parent: The Bear Creek School is an excellent place for the whole student to feel at home. This is an academically rigorous environment and the students are exceptionally prepared for college. But just as importantly, they are ready to enter the world as leaders. Students learn how to think critically, how to learn, and how to lead in the community. Socially, the students & faculty value each member of the community. I appreciate that there are no cuts on clubs or sports, and every student is encouraged to try-- and excel at--new activities. I have also been pleased with the fun that they have in Upper School, from the Houses, to ice breakers, to school dances, trips, and activities and sports happening every day, we have been pleasantly surprised by all the fun. Spiritually, the students engage with each other and the community from a Christian world view, valuing each other and themselves. Students know they are cared for when they enter the building. This is a special community!... Read 89 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 878

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Mercer Island, WA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  20 reviews

Parent: NYHS has been a great choice for our son. We love the small class size, which enables each student to receive the full attention of every teacher. The teachers are excellent and the course offerings are challenging and adaptive to the interests of the students and faculty. In a small school, teachers are able to request and read multiple drafts of every essay, fostering the development of high level writing skills. The teachers make themselves available during lunch or after school, ensuring that students with questions are able to have them answered in a timely manner. The campus itself feels like comfortable home, with beautiful and inviting spaces both indoors and out, and even space to garden and raise chickens and bees! The school is deeply invested in college prep, and is highly interactive with parents in supporting the application process. We could not be more pleased with the education our son is receiving, both the Judaics and the general education components, at NYHS.... Read 20 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 57

• Student-teacher ratio 3:1

• Seattle, WA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  105 reviews

Senior: Choosing Seattle Prep was the best decision I could have made for high school. One of the biggest traits that Seattle Prep emphasizes is community and I felt it as soon as I walked on campus for a campus tour in 8th grade. Even though I didn't have a freshman year due to COVID-19, I still felt connected with my classmates and teachers. Now, at school assemblies, school retreats, all-school masses, and every day at school I feel that I have a great community within my class and throughout other grades. Another great experience I had through Seattle Prep was the athletics. Of course, the football games are fun, but so are the volleyball and soccer teams. I also have been a part of the cross-country team for all 4 years and I have loved being a part of such a dedicated community of high school runners. The only thing that I would change about the school is the price of the food and the parking situation, other than that I have no real problems at Seattle Prep.... Read 105 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 720

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Sammamish, WA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  140 reviews

Freshman: Eastside Catholic is a very welcoming school. I found the teachers very helpful, funny and kind. I understood concepts well and I enjoyed every day at school! The course selection is amazing and includes an array of subjects. I like the college readiness classes such as the UWHS classes. I found many classmates who were sweet and accepting of everyone. I liked Health class as it taught us many helpful strategies to tackle addiction, mental health, and improve overall wellbeing. I liked the fact that there were posters in the bathroom and on the walls which gave students information about mental health and how to seek help. I love school assemblies because they are filled with school spirit and fun games. I greatly appreciate the service opportunities given by Eastside Catholic because it really helps me find volunteer activities that I enjoy and love doing. I also appreciate how easy it is to talk to counselors and the staff at Student Services for whatever questions I might have.... Read 140 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 825

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Bellevue, WA•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  80 reviews

Parent: My daughter came from a "rigorous" priv. hs in Seattle-she was shutting down. She is gifted/high achieving but was not thriving in a grade/test-driven environment. She was lucky to be accepted to Forest Ridge as a soph. & it has been transformative for her. The teachers are top notch & kind, the atmosphere is supportive, & the classes are intrinsically interesting and developmentally appropriate. The subjects are just as challenging as other school & graduates go to great colleges. There is a poster that says "Reject Dystopia" in the Eng. class- the school is realist while also being upbeat/kind. The uniforms at first were big detractor, but she actually likes it. The admin team is top notch--recently from top East Coast/and top local schools. FR reminds me of UCDS- (daughters went for pre-K through 5th) &L-Dub (before it moved). My daughter actually said, "I am excited to go to school now!" She easily made friends. I see lots of happy kids across all grades & exceptional teachers!... Read 80 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 300

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Seattle, WA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  222 reviews

Senior: The words, "time flies when you're having fun" truly apply to my time. All I heard growing up is, "Live in the moment, high school flies by". Now that it is senior year, I actually understand what everyone was telling me. Throughout my time at Blanchet, I have been in multiple clubs. I participated in our Ski and Snowboarding club freshman year. Although classes were online, this was a great opportunity to meet new friends. I am also involved in the Girls Who Code club, which is awesome because I love computer science and want to pursue this in college. Something I have been involved in is our school class cabinet. I have been elected for two years by my peers to help organize school events and lead our class as a whole for a fun and memorable school year. I think one of the best things that has happened to me at Blanchet is going to retreats with my grade every year. It has made so many friendships and created trust within my community. A change I would want to see are more retreats.... Read 222 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 854

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Spokane, WA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  28 reviews

Senior: I am graduating May 2020 from St. George's. I have attended since 7th grade. St. George's is a private school on a beautiful campus in Spokane, WA. Administration is serious about preparing us for further learning in College and beyond. Many fellow students will pursue careers in the fields of law or research or medicine or languages. I am currently in the International Baccalaureate program (IB) and it is difficult but prepares me for anything I may encounter as I enter under graduate or graduate school. St. George's is for the serious student who is on the path to being a life long learner wherever life takes them!... Read 28 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 317

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Seattle, WA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  29 reviews

Parent: Seattle Waldorf High School has been a gift to our family. My daughter previously attended other private and public schools, but the education, care and soc/emo learning which took place at SWSHS is second to none. She is seen and appreciated. Her teachers know her so well and support her in anyway she needs. She does not have to conform or compromise to fit in, she can truly be herself. Academically the experiential/integrated curriculum means the students use their 'full brains', they are flexible and creative and show amazing critical thinking skills. The two trips a year and outdoor aspects of the curriculum have been so life enhancing, they challenge her and take her out of her comfort zone, but have fostered a passion and love for the great outdoors. Graduates are impressive!... Read 29 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 318

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Seattle, WA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  266 reviews

Senior: My experience with Holy Names Academy has overall been a positive one. I found that an all girl environment created a more secure and comfortable atmosphere to share my opinions, be more confident, and learn more about myself. Academics at HNA are competitive, but also very collaborative with many available resources to aid the students in their learning and school work, as well as very flexible teachers. The social environment is awesome, I found a great group of friends while also having many friends outside of that group. Athletics were also competitive and I learned to work well with others. One part of the experience that leans more to the negative side is that it's not a traditional high school experience. Since it's an all girls school, there isn't a football team and dances are also different because it's more difficult to find dates. Overall, HNA is a great school with admirable characteristics all around and I wouldn't pick any other school.... Read 266 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 570

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Lacey, WA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.7 out of 5  43 reviews

Alum: Best: most of the students are really nice and there are lots of amazing teachers. Math and English teachers have always been especially good. I had tons of opportunities step into leadership roles. Yes, it is easier and therefore marginally less impressive to be in a leadership role at a school like JPII. However, instead of this being a weak opportunity, see it as a step to confidence growth and easy college points. This school definitely gives you an advantage in the college apps. Also, most teachers can write you good recommendation letters. Classes are fun and not too hard if you ACTUALLY do the homework. Worst: there is an unfortunate reputation among other schools, because the few people who make really bad choices are the few people to interact with public schools. Also, the administration has never been good at knowing when to step in and when to leave. There are lots of really bad stories that others could share. If you stay out of trouble, you will be completely fine!... Read 43 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 100

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Tacoma, WA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  212 reviews

Senior: Bellarmine has given me many opportunities I otherwise wouldn't have had at any other school. Despite this, I'm not certain it has been worth the cost. Bellarmine's course catalog is decent, with a fair selection of AP and honors classes. Some important courses are missing, like AP Bio and AP Euro, but altogether a decent selection. Its true strength lies in its co-curricular programs: Model UN, Robotics, and Marine Chemistry. Model UN and Robotics can be had at other schools, but Marine Chem is unique to Bellarmine. The opportunity it provides for high schoolers to get involved in real research is unparalleled, and has opened so many doors for me. Bellarmine's Junior Encounter is fantastic and actually changed my life. Go on Encounter! One more thing: the teachers are a mixed bag. I've had some fantastic teachers during my time here, especially in the English and History departments and others who are either lazy or downright cruel, though COVID was likely the cause of this.... Read 212 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 897

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Vancouver, WA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.37 out of 5  27 reviews

Senior: Seton catholic is generally a very small school. My first year at Seton was during Covid. My classmates were the eighth grade Covid babies, and that affected my courage to go to school. Seton was very welcoming, and started Covid safety very fast. They put our safety first. We were one of the first schools in the Vancouver area to start school, and I was very grateful for that. Plus I’ve gained loyal lifetime friends, who support my religion, and have good morals. The staff here at seton are very welcoming, and caring. They want the best for their students creating ways to not only challenge then but helping them understand. Altogether this school is very different but in a positive way.... Read 27 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 188

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Friday Harbor, WA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.73 out of 5  56 reviews

Alum: The teachers were likely knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects. Their enthusiasm and commitment likely made the classes engaging and enjoyable for me. Having teachers who genuinely care about their students' education can make a significant difference in the overall learning experience. In addition to the teachers, the school's curriculum and resources contributed to my positive experience. Spring Street International School may offer a well-rounded education with a variety of subjects and extracurricular activities. This can provide me with opportunities to explore different interests and develop a broad range of skills.... Read 56 reviews

• grade A

• Students 122

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Seattle, WA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  91 reviews

Senior: O'Dea High School is a unique experience and is something that I can say is the best thing that's ever happened to me. You get four things which I value most in one high school and that is, great academics, great sports, brotherhood and opportunity. One exceptional part of O'Dea is the athletic programs. If you're from the state of Washington, the number one thing O'Dea is known for is their success in all sports. The coaches not only set up players for success on the field/court, etc., they set them up for life and the next level. I am so grateful to be apart of two athletic programs at the school. Another factor that makes O'Dea excellent is the brotherhood. Since O'Dea is an all boys school, the time that's spent getting to know one another is unmatched. Everyone is viewed as brothers and treats everyone with respect, in the classroom, out of the classroom, or anywhere else. It's an experience that's truly one of a kind and unique and one that I can say I'm proud to been apart of.... Read 91 reviews

• grade A

• Students 490

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Shoreline, WA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  16 reviews

Sophomore: The school is very community oriented which serves the students, staff and families of the school well. The teachers are very fair when it comes to students grades and assignments, they are able to get students to understand the concepts which they are teaching easily and they have well organized curriculum's. It's a good learning environment overall.... Read 16 reviews

• grade A

• Students 262

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Poulsbo, WA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.5 out of 5  18 reviews

Junior: Having been at West Sound Academy for nearly 7 years, I would say that I am an ardent supporter of its goals and feel satisfied with my education; I will say, however, that this school suffers from many of the shortcomings of smaller schools (no sports, weak class variety, cliques). I recommend checking this school out if you are looking for a solid community with an academic focus, but it is most definitely not for everyone, and there are great (and cheaper) alternatives in the surrounding area.... Read 18 reviews

• grade A

• Students 95

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1