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2022 Best Private K-12 Schools in America

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Best Private K-12 Schools

Qualifying for top colleges starts long before junior year of high school. A rigorous K-12 education helps develop the skills and knowledge students need to excel on the SAT and stand out in the college application process. For some students, private school will give them the best education.

Choosing a Private School

Private K-12 schools can be as competitive as the Ivies. If you're trying to get your child into one of the best private schools in the country, your philosophy should be similar to how you'd approach applying for spots at top colleges: look for the best match, cast a wide net, and highlight your child's strengths.
Here are some factors you should consider when evaluating private schools:

Grade range

Some private schools start in nursery school, while others begin in middle or high school. Private schools have their own lingo about different grade levels, so reference their websites for information. Many refer to high school as "upper school" and elementary school as "lower school."

Location

Although the New York City area private school scene is insanely competitive for good reason — the top 10 list always includes many of the big-name NYC schools like Trinity, Collegiate, and Horace Mann — you can find excellent private schools in every state.
Many of the top schools also offer boarding options if relocating isn't possible.

Tuition

Tuition for selective private schools often rivals or exceeds that of college, but many parents view private school as an investment in their child's education and future. Fortunately, most schools offer scholarships for admitted students who demonstrate need. However, unlike the FAFSA, many private schools consider needs based on the incomes of both parents, even if they're divorced and the noncustodial parent won't be contributing to tuition.

Services

Private schools can be an ideal choice for students who fall outside the mainstream. There are many private schools that cater to students with special needs, such as gifted students or students with dyslexia.

The Application Process

The criteria private schools use for evaluating students for admission will vary greatly based on their age. Schools that admit kindergarten students obviously aren't going to be asking for a student essay.
In general, the older the student, the more their past achievements will matter for private school admission. However, some top schools, such as The Nueva School, have an IQ requirement that applies to even the youngest students.
When applying, you'll start by filling out a detailed application that may include an essay from an older student or parent. Most schools will want to see your student's academic record from at least the past three years as well as their standardized test scores, if applicable. The ISEE is the Independent School Entrance Examination, and many schools will require it for middle or high school applicants.
You will probably fill out financial aid information along with your application. Your need for financial aid can affect your chances of admission at some schools but not at others. Check the school's website or call the admissions office for clarification of their policy if this will affect your decision to apply or ask for financial aid.
Finally, some schools will require an interview, especially for older students. Almost all schools will offer a tour and a meeting with school officials if you would like to schedule one.

Final Thoughts

Although there's no definitive consensus on whether private school is better than public school, there's no doubt that it may be a better choice for some students. If you think your child might benefit from private education, you'll be able to find a great fit by considering all of your options. Approach it like you would college admissions and apply to reach and safety schools, both academically and financially.

Quick References

RankSchool NameLocation
1St. Mark's School of TexasDallas, TX
2Trinity SchoolNew York, NY
3The Nueva SchoolHillsborough, CA
4The Brearley SchoolNew York, NY
5Riverdale Country SchoolBronx, NY
6Horace Mann SchoolBronx, NY
7Collegiate SchoolNew York, NY
8Rye Country Day SchoolRye, NY
9Georgetown Day SchoolWashington, DC
10Dalton SchoolNew York, NY
11Milton AcademyMilton, MA
12Polytechnic SchoolPasadena, CA
13Sidwell Friends SchoolWashington, DC
14The Pingry SchoolBasking Ridge, NJ
15The Spence SchoolNew York, NY
16The Chapin SchoolNew York, NY
17Cranbrook SchoolsBloomfield Hills, MI
18St. John's SchoolHouston, TX
19Buckingham Browne & Nichols SchoolCambridge, MA
20Head-Royce SchoolOakland, CA
21The Quarry Lane SchoolDublin, CA
22Avenues The World SchoolNew York, NY
23University of Chicago Laboratory SchoolsChicago, IL
24Germantown Friends SchoolPhiladelphia, PA
25The Harker SchoolSan Jose, CA