2022 Best Private Schools in the Philadelphia Area

Germantown Friends School

• Private School
• PHILADELPHIA, PA
• PK, K-12
• Rating 4.15 out of 5  82 reviews

Alum: As a recent grad who went to GFS for 7 years, I can say that the school changed my life. No, it wasn't "perfect", but I love it and will be forever thankful for going there. Each student at GFS has a unique personality, and the environment is such that people can express themselves and not only be accepted, but embraced by the whole community. It is definitely more of a humanities centered school, but students will learn valuable deep thinking and analysis skills that will carry them through their lives. In addition, the teachers are incredibly accessible. If you ask them about an assignment, or even just want advice, they are respectful, helpful, and caring. Even after graduation, teachers still reach out and ask how I am doing. I also appreciate the creative nature of the school. J-Term changed my life in so many positive ways! Over the four years, J-term allowed me to start a new school club, student teach, and participate in two school exchanges. ...GFS is such an amazing school.Read 82 Reviews

• grade A+

• 1,070 Students
• 4:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Baldwin School

• Private School
• BRYN MAWR, PA
• PK, K-12
• Rating 4.39 out of 5  87 reviews

Senior: I'm in my fourth year at Baldwin as a senior. I've had my ups and downs here, but I absolutely credit it for saving me from an unsafe middle school where my mental health was suffering greatly. I have felt safe in my identity, made some great friends, and flourished academically and in my activities. I've also met some of the kindest and most intelligent faculty members here. ...As a less fortunate student, I'd say my main issue has been entitlement among the student body. I notice white, straight, wealthy students complaining about superficial issues more often than those who are not, and more serious issues can often get drowned out. I do think there is a lot of stress among students, though, and that administration often drifts towards the side of overbearing parents - there is some listening they need to do in the coming years, on several topics. ...Overall, I greatly enjoyed attending Baldwin and I can see a steady improvement that I hope will continue to occur after I graduate.Read 87 Reviews

• grade A+

• 584 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Episcopal Academy

• Private School
• NEWTOWN SQUARE, PA
• PK, K-12
• Rating 4.69 out of 5  144 reviews

Works Here: I have been fortunate to work at several different independent schools and the Episcopal Academy is the best! The community is warm and caring. Teachers challenge students to do their best while carefully encouraging and guiding them. The administration is supportive, forward thinking, and deeply engaged in the life of the school. The students are incredible - truly - and they have access to excellent educators and phenomenal facilities and programs...Read 144 Reviews

• grade A+

• 1,288 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Hill School

• Private School
• POTTSTOWN, PA
• 9-12
• Rating 4.22 out of 5  117 reviews

Parent: The Hill School is aptly named the family boarding school for good reason. From our first tour, it was clear to us that Hill is more than just a top-notch education. We have two daughters at Hill and could not be more pleased with the faculty, education, after-school activities and warm environment. Hill has been a leader in handling the COVID protocol at boarding schools since the beginning of the pandemic. We highly recommend touring Hill if your child is interested in boarding school...Read 117 Reviews

• grade A+

• 529 Students
• 9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

George School

• Private School
• NEWTOWN, PA
• 9-12
• Rating 4.3 out of 5  125 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 125 Reviews

• grade A+

• 540 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Haverford School

• Private School
• HAVERFORD, PA
• PK, K-12
• Rating 4.75 out of 5  87 reviews

• grade A+

• 960 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Westtown School

• Private School
• WEST CHESTER, PA
• PK, K-12
• Rating 4.13 out of 5  95 reviews

Alum: Great school overall. Westtown's student body is extremely friendly and open, and the four years here have been a memorable experience. Would definitely come here again given the choice.That being said, Westtown is overrated in certain academic areas, especially STEAM (STEM + Art). While it did encourage students to experiment across subjects and think critically, it also led to a worse grasp on the sciences. ...That being said, there are resources for bright and hardworking students who are truly willing to go above and beyond (I met some of the smartest and most diligent people I know here), but the bar is high and they form their own little circle by sophomore year...If it stops here I'd give the school a four-star, but Westtown's policies and effort during the pandemic was outstanding and definitely deserve an additional star. It did a great job of supporting the students and made sure we are safe and happy...Thanks to Westtown, I got into my dream school despite the pandemic.Read 95 Reviews

• grade A+

• 694 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Shipley School

• Private School
• BRYN MAWR, PA
• PK, K-12
• Rating 4.47 out of 5  88 reviews

Freshman: My name is Riley Medina and I am a current 9th grader at the Shipley School! I can confidently say that I love this school and it's really helped shape who I am today. I'm involved in Shipley girls soccer and Shipley girls basketball. Shipley sports have always been one of my absolute favorite things about the school ...due to the excellent training from my coaches and significant team bonding between my peers. Academically, i'm currently take geometry, intro to physics, history 9: worlds in collision, english 9 honors, and french II honors. I really enjoy all of my classes this year. I especially enjoy the french and english department, with the books we read in english and the activities and projects we do in french. I would recommend Shipley to outside families because of how much of a community it truly feels like and because of the sports, art, and theatre program, allowing students to be able to express themselves and develop or strengthen passions for these categories...Read 88 Reviews

• grade A+

• 800 Students
• 5:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Germantown Academy

• Private School
• FORT WASHINGTON, PA
• PK, K-12
• Rating 4.36 out of 5  77 reviews

Parent: Fantastic academic experience, but incredibly rigorous so it’s not the right fit for everyone. Teachers are thoughtful, creative, and demanding. My students love going to school each day despite being pushed hard by their teachers and peers...Read 77 Reviews

• grade A+

• 1,207 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Friends' Central School

• Private School
• WYNNEWOOD, PA
• PK, K-12
• Rating 4.42 out of 5  64 reviews

Parent: Words can't adequately express my gratitude for the Friends' Central community! Our family highly values education and the tuition is worth every penny for the school experience our children receive. From the youngest early childhood classes, children are supported, included, and taught that their actions and their kindness matters. The academics are vigorous, the differentiation of instruction applies to each individual student for a just-right curriculum that fits each child, the thematic teaching, and the culture of respect and inclusivity is felt at each grade level. Children blossom to their own unique potential...Read 64 Reviews

• grade A+

• 773 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Tower Hill School

• Private School
• WILMINGTON, DE
• PK, K-12
• Rating 4.41 out of 5  44 reviews

Parent: Engaged teachers, expansive arts opportunities, highly ranked athletics, modern facilities and a comprehensive course offering.Read 44 Reviews

• grade A+

• 722 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Agnes Irwin School

• Private School
• ROSEMONT, PA
• PK, K-12
• Rating 4.44 out of 5  137 reviews

Sophomore: I have been going to the Agnes Irwin School since kindergarten (I am currently in 10th grade.) Throughout lower, middle, and upper school I have felt very supported by my teachers. They are always willing to meet with you if you need any help or have any questions. The classes are challenging and fun and now that I am in high school I have many opportunities to choose classes that are interesting to me such as neuroscience. I am on the crew team and I feel proud to be representing Agnes Irwin during our races. My grade is very close and I love going to school because I get to be with my 70 best friends every day!...Read 137 Reviews

• grade A+

• 581 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

William Penn Charter School

• Private School
• PHILADELPHIA, PA
• PK, K-12
• Rating 4.21 out of 5  110 reviews

Alum: Between my own PC experience, and from personally knowing many graduates of comparable college preparatory schools, there's not a better educational experience to be had in SE PA. If I had to name 1 out of many positive features, it'd be the multi-axial approach that PC takes to the definition of "education." Of course, academics are top-notch, but an A+ in Calculus, Language, or History is not ALL that PC teaches a young person. In addition, the elements of service, athletics, arts, diversity, all anchored in a rock solid moral foundation....make PC a place that will shape a student forever. Final draft: Recommended!...Read 110 Reviews

• grade A+

• 977 Students
• 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Moorestown Friends School

• Private School
• MOORESTOWN, NJ
• PK, K-12
• Rating 4.04 out of 5  81 reviews

Senior: Moorestown Friends is as advertised, inspiring kids to perform academically, to pursue interdisciplinary study, and to break the mold of a student fitting a single archetype. It's a place where most are committed to producing results: the girl at the top of the class is also a double varsity athlete, AP art student, etc. MFS does a great job of creating a culture that rewards success...However, it can be exhausting. MFS can be difficult for high-achievers experiencing burnout. One thing I will say is that the emotional strain placed on a student to perform may impact their mental health. It can be exhausting to perform out of fear of failure, and the mental health resources are a tad subpar. Our school counselor is a wonderful woman, but ultimately it comes down to "I-know-you're-depressed-but-your-grades-are-good-so-stick-it-out!" ...TL;DR: It's a great mix of pre-professional and creative, has amazing resources for all sorts of study and projects, but can be unhealthily competitive.Read 81 Reviews

• grade A+

• 634 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Friends Select School

• Private School
• PHILADELPHIA, PA
• PK, K-12
• Rating 4 out of 5  50 reviews

Senior: The academics are very challenging here, there are graded assignments every day which is great for motivated students and training them for college. The course selection is wide-ranging too. Faculty and students are welcoming and kind, especially because the school is small and it is a close-knit community...Read 50 Reviews

• grade A+

• 590 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Abington Friends School

• Private School
• JENKINTOWN, PA
• PK, K-12
• Rating 4.73 out of 5  131 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 131 Reviews

• grade A+

• 600 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Wilmington Friends School

• Private School
• WILMINGTON, DE
• PK, K-12
• Rating 4.02 out of 5  60 reviews

Senior: Wilmington Friends School is an incredibly welcoming environment that prides itself on its community and value for the individual. The school truly is an incredible place to cultivate the delicate and ever-learning adolescent mind. Teachers are always willing and able to assist those in need, which really speaks to the administration's ability to pick the perfect people for the jobs they fill. As a senior, I have fully enjoyed my tenure here and would recommend this school to anyone!...Read 60 Reviews

• grade A+

• 722 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Springside Chestnut Hill Academy

• Private School
• PHILADELPHIA, PA
• PK, K-12
• Rating 4.07 out of 5  134 reviews

Niche User: SCH is an incredible school! I know several families that have sent their children to SCH and they have all been thrilled with their experience (even during COVID). The faculty is hands-on, enthusiastic, and supportive but they also encourage students to grow, make mistakes and learn on their own. The elective offerings in the upper school are interesting and give students the ability to pursue their individual interests at a high level and their CEL and robotics programs are wildly popular and highly supported just like the sports and arts. No school is perfect and SCH does not try to be. I highly encourage families to tour the campus to experience it for themselves!...Read 134 Reviews

• grade A+

• 1,090 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Malvern Preparatory School

• Private School
• MALVERN, PA
• 6-12
• Rating 4.67 out of 5  85 reviews

Parent: Sending our son to Malvern was one of the best decisions we’ve made! Academic and personal growth, a strong sense of community, and a supportive faculty and staff sets Malvern Prep apart from all other schools. Malvern knows how to educate young men. From their engaging style of teaching, high level course materials, to innovative scheduling and course offerings, they inspire their students to reach their highest potential. Their Augustinian tradition beautifully educates the whole individual, emphasizing the development of “a man for others”- character, conscience, accountability and enthusiasm are woven into the spirit of Malvern and its students...Read 85 Reviews

• grade A+

• 631 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy

• Private School
• BRYN MAWR, PA
• 6-12
• Rating 4.3 out of 5  47 reviews

Parent: What impresses me most about Barrack is the supportive, nurturing environment among both peers and educators that emphasizes a holistic approach to each student's growth and development. JBHA is undeniably academically rigorous and intellectually stimulating—offering intimate class sizes, a plethora of dynamic extracurricular opportunities, a seamless stitching of Jewish life and learning into the curriculum, and innovative courses like CORE that blends literature and history—but it's the deep warmth and care you feel in every aspect of campus life that makes me most grateful to send my child to this school, which places a true focus on helping each student become a fully-realized self and an engaged, thoughtful citizen of the world...Read 47 Reviews

• grade A+

• 380 Students
• 5:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Archmere Academy

• Private School
• CLAYMONT, DE
• 9-12
• Rating 4.29 out of 5  166 reviews

Sophomore: I have truly enjoyed my experience at Archmere Academy. Coming from a large public middle school, to a small, Catholic school was a big transition for me. I love the academic opportunities at the school. Not only can I challenge myself and find classes that interest me, I also have teachers who are passionate about what they teach and are always willing to help students understand via one-on-one time, questions in class, or new lessons. I personally enjoy the arts program and the athletics program; both showcase the talent of the students and allows students to channel their energies. My suggestion would to be conscientious about coursework. Homework can pile up if you don't manage your time well. Overall, I love coming to school everyday!...Read 166 Reviews

• grade A+

• 514 Students
• 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

St. Joseph's Preparatory School

• Private School
• PHILADELPHIA, PA
• 9-12
• Rating 4.5 out of 5  115 reviews

Junior: I love the Prep! It has a great location right in the heart of Philadelphia and manages to challenge students with an incredible academic rigor. The Prep is formed by its Jesuit character and commitment to service and forming men for and with others. It has great athletics as well with a nationally-ranked football program and great opportunities in other sports such as soccer, basketball, and lacrosse. Overall, the Prep brings out the best in students forming great moral characters they will hold for the rest of their lives...Read 115 Reviews

• grade A+

• 902 Students
• 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Devon Preparatory School

• Private School
• DEVON, PA
• 6-12
• Rating 4.29 out of 5  77 reviews

Junior: This school does a great job at accommodating to students and is a great learning atmosphere. When it comes to teachers, Devon Prep is very complicated. I have had the greatest, most proficient teachers ever, but I've also had teachers where I would question the obtention of their degree. Despite these awful teachers, some teachers make the entire school worth it and will change your life. I believe it is a great school and I am happy to go here. The social reputation isn't the best, but if your here for a fun time, rather than working, then this isn't the school for you...Read 77 Reviews

• grade A+

• 310 Students
• 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Perkiomen School

• Private School
• PENNSBURG, PA
• 6-12
• Rating 4.42 out of 5  60 reviews

Senior: I have attended The Perkiomen School since 6th grade. Because of the small class sizes and overall small school size, I was able to develop friendships that I expect to have forever. I was a shy, reserved kid and looking back, appreciate the way the teachers were able to engage us in the discussions. In most of my classes, the desks are arranged in a circle to promote discussion and interaction among students. I also appreciate the ability to play on a sports team, despite your skill level. As an average athlete, I likely would not have been able to participate in any varsity sport in my public high school. Now as a senior at Perk looking back, my attendance has fostered my independence, confidence, social skills and has definitely prepared me for the next step....College!...Read 60 Reviews

• grade A+

• 286 Students
• 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Solebury School

• Private School
• NEW HOPE, PA
• 9-12
• Rating 4.36 out of 5  55 reviews

Parent: I honestly cannot say enough about Solebury! It was a game changer for my daughter who had a terrible boarding school experience elsewhere her freshman year. The community is extremely welcoming, supportive and encourages inclusivity. The culture is such that there is mutual respect between students and teachers and administrations as well as among the student body (no bullying here). The teachers at Solebury have sparked my daughter's love of learning and the learning support has kept her organized and on point. She is doing better than she ever has academically. The art offerings are extensive and encourage students to try new things. My daughter is extremely happy and so are we...Read 55 Reviews

• grade A+

• 235 Students
• 5:1 Student-Teacher Ratio