2020 Best Private Schools in the San Diego AreaAbout this List

The Bishop's School

• Private School
• San Diego, CA
• 6-12
• 73 reviews

Senior: One thing I love about The Bishop's School is the relationship between teachers and students. Teachers are seemingly always available to help out. Between the students there is also a healthy competition that drives us to make ourselves and each other better. One thing that I would change about Bishop's is the school spirit, we always seem to have a mediocre turnout to things like basketball and football games. Other than that I love attending The Bishop's School.
Read 73 Reviews

• A+

• 800 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Francis Parker School

• Private School
• San Diego, CA
• PK, K-12
• 80 reviews

Parent: The school has great vision & has implemented an impressive strategic plan regarding academics, character development, equity and diversity, and more. They truly believe that even the best can be made better. Their commitment to diversity is what sold us. The school is committed to bringing in kids from all socio-economic backgrounds and diverse ethnicities and nationalities. Forget the stereotypes that you often think of when it comes to private schools; this place is different (especially at the current k-5 level). They practice what they preach. It’s not perfect, but the school also recognizes where they need to make improvements, and they’re working on it.
Read 80 Reviews

• A+

• 1,185 Students
• 10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Pacific Ridge School

• Private School
• Carlsbad, CA
• 7-12
• 121 reviews

Parent: I have two children who graduated from PRS. What I would like to share is their outcomes at college . The college counseling program is all inclusive and personalized. Parents can be hands off. That means no nagging, arguments or hiring outside help. This was a benefit that I had not even considered when we applied, but ended up being incredibly significant. They both ended up at great colleges but most importantly, they are thriving. They entered college completely prepared. They can write well. They think critically. They participate in both curricular and extra curricular activities. PRS taught them how to learn and how to apply that knowledge, not just memorize and spit it back. They report to me that they are far more prepared than their classmates and although there always are ups and downs for any middle school and high school student, both say that they are thankful that they graduated from PRS.
Read 121 Reviews

• A+

• 616 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

La Jolla Country Day School

• Private School
• La Jolla, CA
• PK, K-12
• 123 reviews

Parent: Thumb’s up! LJCDS had a higher level of open-mindedness and flexibility than Bishop’s rigid program and arbitrary rules. Our child was above grade level in math and science and got an individualized 4-year program. The school incorporates current research on teaching/neuroscience into the curriculum (teaching mindfulness for stress management, for example). Our child became excited about school; the English teacher made Macbeth very exciting and AP calc was an adventure. The biology teacher took the time to get to know our child’s interests outside the classroom and designed a year-end project (at much extra effort on the teacher’s part) to incorporate them. No school is perfect, of course. We wanted a stronger computer science curriculum since this was our child’s future field, so we found programming classes elsewhere.
Read 123 Reviews

• A+

• 1,101 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

San Diego Jewish Academy

• Private School
• San Diego, CA
• PK, K-12
• 25 reviews

Parent: We moved here from New York about 4 years ago. My children started in the preschool of SDJA and have been there ever since! Currently, our children are in the lower school and are excelling in all areas. For example, my son and daughter are reading above grade level. The small class sizes and constant attention they receive keeps them engaged and on task. The teachers are constantly creating special experiences for the students, and therefore the lessons never get old. For example, with all the rain that San Diego received my daughter’s teacher created a multi-sensory lesson. The students were asked to create small sailboats from materials found in the classroom. The boats were then tested on the makeshift pond that was formed on the playground from all the rain. The students made predictions and took notice on what worked best and what needed to be changed for future sails!
Read 25 Reviews

• A+

• 494 Students
• 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Cathedral Catholic High School

• Private School
• San Diego, CA
• 9-12
• 235 reviews

Parent: When a school brings out the very best in your children, it's only natural that you would want to spread the good news. We have a senior and a freshman student at CCHS and couldn't be happier. Our students are very different, but each have been having a wonderful experience at this school. Because there are so many various activities, each got involved early, and the transition from 8th grade into high school was easy.
The teachers are very well-credentialed, dedicated and genuinely care that the student is learning. And as busy as they are with their own lives, these teachers are so accessible and responsive!
From academics, athletics and visual and performing arts, this school has a very gifted faculty and staff who help students realize their potential--not only in these fields, but also in being good people.
So happy with this school!
Read 235 Reviews

• A+

• 1,630 Students
• 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

St. Augustine High School

• Private School
• San Diego, CA
• 9-12
• 155 reviews

Alum: Saints is an excellent high school with a culture that is unmatched. This culture, along with many other dynamics are collectively referred to as the Saints Experience. Within the Saints Experience, one would experience a fraternal atmosphere with a Catholic influence from weekly Mass, well-rounded curriculum with courses based on a liberal arts education; both of which are delivered by genuine lay and religious faculty. In addition to these, one would find wholesome retreats through the Campus Ministry office, the best high school student section called The Pit, and many other opportunities to grow into a Christian gentleman.
Read 155 Reviews

• A+

• 736 Students
• 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Grauer School

• Private School
• Encinitas, CA
• 7-12
• 44 reviews

Alum: I loved this school. The teachers are all amazing, friendly, kind, caring, and always willing to help. The relationships between teachers and students goes far beyond the classroom. The academics are amazing and the school has a expedition program where students are able to travel somewhere two times a year!
Read 44 Reviews

• A+

• 160 Students
• 5:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Cambridge School

• Private School
• San Diego, CA
• PK, K-12
• 19 reviews

Works Here: The Cambridge School is one that pursues excellence in all they do. From the way they teach, to the way they interact within their staff, faculty, and community, they truly live out their mission to "Think Well, Love Rightly, Live Wisely." If you are seeking a christian education that not only creates excellent habits of mind, but also creates excellent habits of soul, then The Cambridge School is just for you. It truly is the best example of classical education I have ever seen!
Read 19 Reviews

• A+

• 334 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Santa Fe Christian Schools

• Private School
• Solana Beach, CA
• PK, K-12
• 75 reviews

Senior: I have definitely enjoyed going to SFC. The academics are (mostly) top-notch, with only a few subpar teachers. There are many options for challenging classes to take, and (especially as an upperclassman) there's a fair amount of flexibility when choosing one's schedule. The campus culture is generally supportive and welcoming of everyone. The sports teams at SFC are alright, with a few standouts and several lagging far behind, but in general the student body shows up to sports games and is full of spirit. For the most part, the SFC community is very welcoming and tight-knit, and I would definitely recommend it!
Read 75 Reviews

• A+

• 1,019 Students
• 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Academy of Our Lady of Peace

• Private School
• San Diego, CA
• 9-12
• 232 reviews

Parent: The Academy of our Lady of Peace has been home to my daughter for the last four years! She has grown into a confident, intelligent and caring individual! She has had excellent teachers, counselor, and supportive coaches! The rigor of the school has prepared her for college. The all girls environment has allowed her to be herself and become a leader.
We have loved all the special traditions the school has. The Catholic faith is seen throughout all aspects of the school community.
Overall we are extremely happy with the school and would make the same choice again. Thank you OLP for your love and acceptance!

If you are looking for a nurturing, Catholic school for your daughter, OLP is an amazing choice.
Read 232 Reviews

• A+

• 750 Students
• 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Torah High Schools of San Diego

• Private School
• San Diego, CA
• 9-12
• 6 reviews

Alum: Small class size and dedicated caring teachers lead to indicate attention for every student. Excellent academics and college prep, with multiple ap courses in every subject. Students are very friendly and connected to each other.
Read 6 Reviews

• A+

• 32 Students
• 3:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

St. Joseph Academy

• Private School
• San Marcos, CA
• PK, K-12
• 64 reviews

Parent: My wife and I absolutely love this gem of a school! Its classical curriculum is providing an excellent education for our children. Our children are learning all the building blocks in the grammar school: Phonics, spelling, writing (in cursive), grammar, classic literature, math (no common core), Latin, science, patriotic history, art, and religion taught to joyfully embrace their Faith. Our high school children have grown tremendously in their Faith and knowledge. This is due to the solid curriculum and great care that the teachers take with each student to bring them to their full potential. Our children have participated in all of the sports and extracurricular activities offered in the high school and have greatly benefited from not only gaining the skills, but more so the camaraderie of the team and awesome coaches. We are so blessed to have found this unique, wonderful school!
Read 64 Reviews

• A

• 305 Students
• 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Army & Navy Academy

• Private School
• Carlsbad, CA
• 7-12
• 33 reviews

Parent: am so thrilled my sons have this experience in the formative years of their life and character. It has been no easy task and a collection of miracles and painful sacrifices...
I can honestly say EVERYTHING IS POSSIBLE when you
1- make a decision
2- have complete faith about the outcome
3- take selfless and inspired action

The universe will conspire to manifest your selfless desires.

Both of my boys have grown exponentially in all areas... academically, personally, physically, emotionally! The Army and Navy Academy team of folks have done a superb job at answering their call! I could not be happier to endorse them.
Read 33 Reviews

• A

• 300 Students
• 10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Ocean View Christian Academy

• Private School
• San Diego, CA
• PK, K-12
• 55 reviews

Parent: Ocean View Christian Academy is by far the most important investment that we could have made into the lives of our children! The school was a second home to our family, with all of our children attending kindergarten through 12th grade. During this time they were well equipped for future success in the colleges of their choice, current vocations, and to become responsible citizens.
OVCA is a big part of the reason our children are a positive influence in this crazy world! We highly recommend the financial sacrifice because it is paying back dividends beyond what we could have ever imagined.
Read 55 Reviews

• A

• 354 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Pacific Academy

• Private School
• Encinitas, CA
• 7-12
• 4 reviews

• A

• 39 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Maranatha Christian Schools

• Private School
• San Diego, CA
• PK, K-12
• 18 reviews

Junior: I loved everything about Maranatha. The teachers were amazing, the students were so welcoming, and I learned so much. Being at a private Christian school has really helped me grow in my faith and prepare me for a degree in ministry. And being at a college prep school has quickly helped me advance academically. Even though this was my first year at Natha, I was quickly able to get plugged into clubs and extracurriculars and sports and the performing arts program. I love MCS!
Read 18 Reviews

• A

• 905 Students
• 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Children's Creative & Performing Arts Academy of San Diego

• Private School
• San Diego, CA
• PK, K-12
• 22 reviews

Middle School Student: I love the overall family CCPAA has given me, I am a straight A student there having challenges that I faced and learning more knowledge then I have ever imagined. From the old CCPAA when it was opened in the 19’s , it is now renewed from 2019 making school passed down from the old former founder. This school is excellent having all advancements from all ages and different diversities. Most student have been here their whole life, from subjects such as ballet, tap, jazz, Indian Dance, instruments ( of each level of standards), choir, art, history of art, Spanish, Italian, English, French, Math, History, Science, and more! This school is perfect for students with talent and innovations!
Read 22 Reviews

• A

• 241 Students
• 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Victory Christian Academy (High School)

• Private School
• Chula Vista, CA
• 9-12
• 3 reviews

Parent: Our daughter who was Salutatorian at Christ Lutheran School (academically challenging school) decided to go to Victory. She loves the teachers,. She finds the classes challenging and is happy that the teachers offer after school assistance and weekend catch classes for any who needs to bring their grades up. The music program is awesome lots of talent. We attended the high school graduation and noted that most of the seniors received FULL SCHOLARSHIPS. Several kids were accepted into multiple colleges which were listed in the graduation program. They got into many UC schools, the Valedictorian is going to the Naval academy in Annapolis! Great achievement and honor. Several Presidential awards too.
Read 3 Reviews

• A

• 80 Students
• 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Mater Dei Catholic High School

• Private School
• Chula Vista, CA
• 9-12
• 126 reviews

Alum: It makes me so sad to hear of other people's negative experiences in High School because I enjoyed Mater Dei Catholic High School so much! From the beginning of freshman year to the day I graduated senior year I made so many life long friends and gained not only such great education on subjects but exceptional information on what career path to take after High School. I can remember every single teacher I came into contact with because they all left such a memorable mark on my spirit by always encouraging me to succeed and helping me to do so.
Read 126 Reviews

• A

• 702 Students
• 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Tri-City Christian School

• Private School
• Vista, CA
• PK, K-12
• 60 reviews

Parent: Tri City provided a top-notch education with a Christ-centered environment. The teachers, staff, administrators and coaches gave individual attention to both of my sons and they THRIVED! They each grew into their faith while at Tri City, played on the worship team for chapel and both received Academic College Scholarships. After taking college classes, my sons realize that they received an excellent education at Tri City Christian School. My eldest son got his Dental Degree from UCLA and is becoming an Oral Surgeon at Loyola Medical in Chicago. My youngest son got a Bachelor's Degree in Writing and Literature from California State Univ, San Marcos.
Read 60 Reviews

• A

• 596 Students
• 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Calvin Christian School

• Private School
• Escondido, CA
• PK, K-12
• 27 reviews

Parent: Calvin has been a huge blessing for us. Our kids went to middle and high school here after being extremely frustrated with other public and private schools, where we live. The teachers are amazing and the administration is top notch. They have an excellent extracurricular programs, especially when you consider the size of the school. Music, drama, sports, clubs are all on a very high level. Because it is a small school, some of the AP and honors classes are limited, but they really try hard to offer as many as possible. My kids were very well prepared for college. The writing and math skills are taught at the highest level here. Loved our experience at Calvin!
Read 27 Reviews

• A-

• 410 Students
• 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Christian Junior/Senior High School

• Private School
• El Cajon, CA
• 7-12
• 25 reviews

Parent: My children transferred to Christian in 8th and 10th grade and quickly became part of the Christian Unified community. The teachers really care about each student individually. The school is the perfect size as it's not so big that the students get lost in the system, but big enough that there are many AP and honors options, dual college courses, athletics teams, extracurricular activities, service opportunities and clubs to get involved in. Most importantly for our family, there is a strong emphasis on spiritual growth through meaningful chapels and Bible classes. My oldest is now a senior and she is ready for what's next as she was accepted to all four universities she applied to and is well prepared to succeed as she follows the path God has for her.
Read 25 Reviews

• A-

• 498 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Futures Academy - San Diego

• Private School
• San Diego, CA
• 6-12
• 2 reviews

Niche User: Halstrom High has the best academic program in my opinion. All classes are one on one so you get a special relationship with all of your teachers. The workload can be intense but the sense of accomplishment after is way more that worth it.
Read 2 Reviews

• A-

• 28 Students
• 1:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Rock Academy

• Private School
• San Diego, CA
• PK, K-12
• 32 reviews

Parent: Although my daughter is new to this school, we couldn't be happier. The staff and administration at this school are exceptional and truly care about the students. The classes have a very low student/teacher ratio which permits the teachers to catch any academic issues the student might be experiencing. All of the kids seem to be very accepting of "the new girl" and have shown her the way without judgement. I am only sorry I didn't explore this school earlier for my 10th grader but I do feel she will be on her way to a terrific college when the time comes due to her experience at The Rock Academy!
Read 32 Reviews

• A-

• 364 Students
• 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio