2023 Best Private Schools in Virginia

• Mclean, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  53 reviews

Parent: My kids have been attending Basis since before the pandemic, and we are so impressed! Rich academic curriculum, good inclusion of the arts, excellent opportunity for differentiation based on student needs. The teachers are dedicated and so are the parents to the kids' success. While the administration has been bumpy as the school has gotten established (only 5 years old), they earned their stripes during the pandemic. Organized, safety-focused and diligent about communication. We supplement school with sports leagues and scouting outside of school, which many parents do. Easy to do given the extensive choice you have in the DC area. Also appreciate the international study body with impressively bright students from all over the world. A real meritocracy, unlike other private schools that admit based on VIP status or connections/donations. In the next few years, this school will only continue to advance its place in the rankings.... Read 53 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 588

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Mclean, VA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  106 reviews

Senior: Madeira's mission of "launching women who change the world" guides every aspect of this unique educational experience. I am extremely grateful for my education and appreciate the environment Madeira fosters to make every student thrive. From small, personalized class with the modular schedule, to a tight community of both students and faculty, to worldly experiences, Madeira prepares us for the future that we will inherit. Of particular note is the Co-Curriculum program that gives us real world experiences each year -- something that a teenager cannot find anywhere else. It is extremely impressive to be able to go to a college interview or job interview and say you have worked on Capitol Hill! I think Madeira is made up of small moments - traditions, laughing in the library, baking with your teachers - that become impactful, life-changing moments at such a pivotal age. This personal attention gives us the confidence and the leadership skills to take on any issue. Life changing!... Read 106 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 343

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Mclean, VA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  77 reviews

Parent: Both my children went here and they received an outstanding education, flourished in a small environment that challenged them and encouraged them at the same time. They found their passions, were able to take on leadership roles and became excellent writers and critical thinkers because this is what the school stresses. While we are white, we are not rich, or entitled. The school does an excellent job with financial aid opportunities and strives to promote diversity. As with any school, the equity and diversity component is a work in progress. The facilities are second to none! The faculty overall is outstanding and the work load, while extremely rigorous, is not just busy work, but work with purpose. We loved our experience at Potomac!... Read 77 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,069

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Alexandria, VA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  48 reviews

Alum: Episcopal High School boasts an impressive faculty, comprised of knowledgeable and experienced educators who are dedicated to helping students achieve their full potential. The school's extracurricular offerings are diverse and plentiful, with opportunities for students to explore interests in the arts, athletics, community service, and beyond. The campus is well-equipped with modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, performing arts center, and athletic complex. Episcopal High School places a strong emphasis on service, both to the local community and the world at large. The school encourages students to think beyond themselves and engage in meaningful ways with the world around them. With its rigorous curriculum, dedicated faculty, and commitment to service, the school offers a transformative educational experience that prepares students for success in college and beyond.... Read 48 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 464

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Woodberry Forest, VA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.63 out of 5  38 reviews

Junior: Woodberry has been the best decision I have ever made. The teachers are second to none at offering their assistance to students who have trouble studying or do not understand the ideas they teach. At Woodberry, academic success is less about the grades and more about the spirit you develop when tackling problems. Being at Woodberry has taught me that the best way to problem solve is to meet the adversary head on and not be afraid to fail. At Woodberry, failing after attempting something challenging is met with compassion and teachers who are more than happy to help you up again and give you another shot.... Read 38 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 400

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Oakton, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  90 reviews

Senior: I have been a student here since Lower School (elementary school) and I am currently a Senior. The opportunities provided in education, art, music, athletics, community, leadership, research, and more are simply incredible. Flint Hill has allowed me to join several clubs and become a leader of multiple. I am in the Spanish Honor Society, International Thespian Society, Major Minors A Capella group, and more. I have been given this amazing opportunity through their spectacular financial aid resources. If I could rate the school any higher, I would give it a 100,000/5!... Read 90 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,014

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Norfolk, VA•

• Private School•

• 1-12

• •
  Rating 4.47 out of 5  148 reviews

Alum: I loved the six years that I have spent at Norfolk Academy. The spirit, involvement, and social life were amazing. The resources and academics that this school provides also I believe are second to none. The school taught me how to juggle academics, athletics, social life, and home life. I believe that in that sense, the school prepared me very well for the future. However, I hope the arts programs, including the broadcasting program, improve. Field day was also another event that I enjoyed. Even though I went through some years without field day due to covid, the years that I was able to attend the event were the most fun. As an alum, one aspect of the school that I love is the amount of involvement that the school allows for alums. For example, the academic opportunities such as internships that the school provides are very useful. I am very fortunate to have an opportunity to participate in an internship through them.... Read 148 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,205

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Alexandria, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  146 reviews

Parent: The teachers and administrators here are fabulous. We have had three very different kids go from lower school through upper school and we have always been impressed by the academics offered, the extracurriculars available to our kids, and the level of communication with the families. We highly recommend this school for anyone interested in a challenging but nurturing environment for their kids.... Read 146 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,241

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Richmond, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  26 reviews

Parent: I have been so impressed with the administration, faculty and staff of St. Chris over these past two years through the very difficult Covid era. When the school shut down in March of 2020, as the rest of America did, the school pivoted overnight to a distance learning model. Within two days, my son was getting assignments from his second-grade teacher and within the week his class was all gathering on Zoom each morning. Sure, there were bumps along the way. But I appreciated the school's drive to bring as much normalcy to their students as possible. In fall of 2020, while many other schools were still trying to figure out how to START a distance learning program, St. Chris was safely conducting in-person instruction, five days a week. It was more than just having deep pockets to be able to take on the additional cost of making that happen... it was also that the institution took on a proactive, problem-solving role in the midst of an educational crisis.... Read 26 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 938

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Chantilly, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.44 out of 5  27 reviews

Parent: I met with this school when I moved to NOVA. I have two kids graduated from Pinnacle Academy. First of all, the teachers are so passionate and dedicated to their craft. My kids had incredible opportunities in fine arts, and other extracurricular activities. The school administrators recognize the children by name and have a loving community. Secondly, the school has the powerful and challenging academic curriculum. I followed my kids improving themselves at finding out and expecting higher from themselves as well. Now, my daughter and my son get accepted good universities with good scholarship. The school has a dual credit enrollment opportunity with NOVA College for eligible students that help students get acceptance good colleges. They loved the school environment and they were happy. Highly recommend!... Read 27 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 245

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Chatham, VA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.34 out of 5  50 reviews

Alum: I grew up in Chicago, where few students attend boarding school, so I didn't know what to expect when I traveled across the country for high school. I'm so thankful I took that risk! Chatham Hall was a warm, challenging, exciting environment. It opened up opportunities I never would have had anywhere else. As a student on scholarship, I felt consistently valued and supported. After graduation, I came to appreciate the experience even more: I arrived at college far better prepared than almost any of my peers. Through college, a doctorate, and now a STEM career, my Chatham Hall education has remained a touchstone. Most importantly, Chatham Hall feels like home to this day. Not bad for a place that sounded so far from home when I first considered it.... Read 50 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 118

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Front Royal, VA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.2 out of 5  173 reviews

Parent: The Admissions department made the application process seamless. They were easy to reach; gladly returned phone calls and inquiries; and, assisted with the application process during each step. Compared to other independent college prep institutions, RMA is a small school. However, we were thoroughly impressed with the diversity that we saw during the summer camp program; We were pleased to see that it carried over to the academic year. The curriculum is rigorous. The staff is caring. There are a variety of extracurricular activities that are day and boarding inclusive. Any family "on the fence" about RMA should definitely consider a second look, or reach out to staff. You'll be glad you did!... Read 173 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 331

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Ashburn, VA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  7 reviews

Parent: LSAS offers a very challenging, yet inclusive and welcoming, experience for students who have intellectual curiosity and take learning seriously, while being respectful of, and caring for, one another. The teachers are excellent and well-loved among the students. Highly recommend this school for all high-achieving students who really care about their studies and want to be prepared for college-level work and independence.... Read 7 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 75

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Middleburg, VA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.39 out of 5  61 reviews

Works Here: In my time working at Foxcroft, I have seen firsthand the impact the school has on its students. I'm amazed by the confidence they gain over the course of even just one year, feeling empowered to use their voice and truly be themselves. The community at Foxcroft is so special and, in my opinion, a rare find these days. All community members — students and adults alike — are welcomed, known, and valued, which is one of the main reasons I've stayed for over a decade! It's unique that day students can truly have the boarding experience, too, and stay overnight throughout the week as well as on weekends — always appreciate the time on dorm with students! As an employee, Foxcroft is so much more than a job or a school — it's our home, and I love when new students join our community and find that out for themselves.... Read 61 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 166

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Fairfax, VA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  47 reviews

Senior: I love the Christian community at Trinity and the challenges that it presents academically as well as in preparation for college. It is very easy to get involved in clubs, leadership, sports, and school events. The teachers all incorporate Christ into their classes and most clearly care about their students personally - not just academically. Trinity has given my the best of friends and a foundation that makes me who I am as a Christian, student, and person.... Read 47 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 750

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Arlington, VA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.9 out of 5  41 reviews

Alum: Top notch faculty and administration, and a great appreciation for global international thinking and performance. The school emphasizes the importance of independent thinking and expression, while still maintaining a strong sense of community. Veritas allowed me to grow into the person I am today. It put me in challenging situations that have benefitted me overall and put me on the path to success. One of my most unique experiences: while at Veritas, I had an opportunity to study abroad at the campus in Beijing. What an experience! I highly recommend my alma mater. #alwaysaspartan... Read 41 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 152

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Richmond, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  56 reviews

Senior: Beautiful campus, amazing faculty and facilities. I came to Collegiate for high school because I was looking for a more challenging curriculum and stimulating environment. I found it here from day one. Classes are challenging, but worth it with teachers who care. Athletics are a large part of student life. Every Upper school student much compete in two sports each school year. The pace can be exhausting sometimes, but also rewarding and really helps one learn to manage their time. Collegiate is not the most diverse school out there, but they do try to encourage people of color apply and do an excellent job making it affordable for those who can’t pay the full tuition. There are other kids who look like me and I’ve never been made to feel out of place. I felt welcomed and accepted by my peers and the faculty. I feel very confident that Collegiate has prepared me for college and beyond.... Read 56 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,672

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Chesapeake, VA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.58 out of 5  113 reviews

Parent: Veritas has been such a good fit for our family. Coming from a homeschooled background, we were concerned how our child would do there all day. My child looks forward to being at school everyday and especially in his classroom with his teacher. Our son feels totally safe there and had no separation anxiety. Every morning my child excitedly ran to greet the administrators at the door. He loved that he could start his day by racing them to be the first to say hello. He also loves going to memory period. He has grown so much this year. His teacher is bright, loving, fun and very patient. She takes them outside several times a day, gives them snack time and miraculously gets them to nap. It is amazing how much better his reading and social grace has gotten too. They have an excellent classical curriculum delivered in love. The teachers are very invested and the small class sizes guarantee personal attention. We also love the other parents. This family community is priceless!... Read 113 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 259

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Dulles, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.37 out of 5  41 reviews

Parent: This is a truly caring place that will stimulate your kids to think. Teachers are kind and attentive to both academics and keeping a supportive class environment. The administration takes behavior incidents seriously and handles them well. Class sizes are small and allow teachers to work with each child and get their best learning experience. The campus is clean, pleasant and in a convenient location. Kids get a good amount of time to exercise through PE. The playground is being expanded so we look forward to that. Homework is fairly light, I’m a little confused by the reviews that say it is heavy. The teachers come from a variety of Christian denominations, so the Bible lessons don’t focus on only one church. French for all ages was a huge plus for us. Clubs and activities are always running. There is less variety of sports than some schools, but the local area has so many sports leagues there is nothing lost there. Overall a great learning environment, worth getting a tour.... Read 41 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 276

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Vienna, VA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.47 out of 5  129 reviews

Parent: Oakcrest has been a wonderful place for my daughter to learn and grow. Since she arrived in 8th grade, she has grown and blossomed into a more Godly, confident and well-learned young lady. Oakcrest is a rarity in this area: an academically rigorous school that also puts a premium on Godly character development. Plus, Oakcrest truly looks to partner with parents in the education of their daughters, and has many events planned to grow and strengthen parents and families throughout the year - a win/win for all of us! The teachers and support staff are amazing, as is the new campus. Everyone connected with this school from top to bottom is amazing! If you are seeking a challenging academic environment for your daughter, where she can make life-long friends, grow in her faith, and have her character formed for THE BETTER - Oakcrest is your place. Our family is forever blessed because of this school!... Read 129 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 297

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Lynchburg, VA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  42 reviews

Alum: I absolutely loved getting to be a part of the community at VES. We really are one giant family at that school. Not only is there no grade divisions amongst the students, but you get very close with the faculty to the point that a lot of us dog sit or baby sit for faculty. To anyone considering going to VES, I recommend staying overnight and keeping an open mind. Most students have stories that started out like "at first I didn't want to go to VES, but now I couldn't imagine not coming here". Boarding school is scary, but give it three months and you'll feel right at home! Take advantage of the accepting community at VES and be yourself, being weird is cool there.... Read 42 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 260

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Dyke, VA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.66 out of 5  71 reviews

Parent: All community members from Blue Ridge School are nice. Blue Ridge School activities, particularly the ROPEs Trip every year, can push students limit. Faculty members are friendly to motivate student on academic subjects. School offers a variety of off-campus activities to fully maximize students' experience. School efforts to build the campus with Safe, Community and Inclusive culture is attractive to both students and their family. Last but not the least, Blue Ridge School has a very very nice campus for students studying and living there.... Read 71 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 170

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Virginia Beach, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.8 out of 5  80 reviews

Parent: I have been a part of the Cape Henry community for over 37 years! Starting as a student in the 3rd grade, alumni and now parent! I will be honest we did visit other area schools when we were deciding where to send our first born...and after doing our due diligence decided Cape was still the best fit for our family! He has since graduated and just finished his first year at The University of Virginia with flying colors! We continue to be parents with three younger students still enrolled and are beyond pleased with the academic curriculum! But for us, developing a love of learning and having happy well rounded children is the most important thing! With this Cape Henry delivers! My children are encouraged to get involved in all areas of the community...sports, forensics, theatre, volunteering etc! I truly believe that Cape Henry lives up to its mission to develop global thinkers! I can't wait to see what this year has in store for each of them!... Read 80 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,054

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Charlottesville, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  73 reviews

Parent: We love our school! Our children are thriving in ways we never could have imagined. They’re supported in their individual strengths and needs, with a faculty and staff that meets them where they are while gently encouraging them to stretch their comfort zones and grow in their academic and personal development.... Read 73 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 882

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Richmond, VA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.33 out of 5  60 reviews

Parent: Steward is an education community like no other in that it is more than a school.  Steward has the unique ability to really make it feel like home!  From the faculty that truly enjoys what they do--seen both in the ways the care for and respect their students, but also in how the engage, challenge and support them--- to the many campus offerings through sports, theater, clubs and more--- to the families that attend that not only want what's best for their children, but also rally around and support everyone's children--you genuinely feel a great sense of care, pride and love for the school and its community!  We fell in love with it from the minute our children set foot on campus and that love has only grown deeper with each passing year!  We are confident that Steward will not only care for and challenge our children while they attend the school, but also set them up for a successful future where they will continue to take the values and tools learned here and thrive!... Read 60 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 710

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1