2023 Best Schools for STEM in Fairfax County

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  572 reviews

Sophomore: Overall TJ is an excellent school for those who are willing to be apart of a very academically rigorous environment. Education wise, it has some of the most talented teachers who’ve done years of professional training in whatever backgrounds they’ve pursued. The students here are one of the top kids in the state and have done lists and lists of impressive things. You can imagine how much of an overwhelming environment it is…Going into it makes you feel less capable than your peers who’ve launched space rovers or worked on political campaigns. As a student there, my GPA may not be good and my grades may look unexpected, but what I do know is that every student in this school, including myself, are the most hardworking and driven people I’ve ever seen. Sure high school will be undeniably difficult, but the students here will be more than prepared for whatever comes next.... Read 572 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,809

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• 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•

• 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

• 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

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  351 reviews

Junior: Offers a wide variety of opportunities for a diverse student body with exceptional academics, arts, and clubs & activities, where many students are able to go above and beyond pursuing their passions. While there are plenty of resources-for example, students have their first 6 AP tests financially covered by the school-the facilities need renovations and the cafeteria should provide healthier and more wholesome options (then again it's cafeteria food). Though the school fosters excellence, the competition can become less healthy and more toxic, and the predominantly rigorous, college-oriented environment can become stressful. I make sure to maintain my mental health, but I am thankful for the flexible array of academic opportunities offered by McLean's course offerings. The student-counselor relationship is relatively close here compared to other schools and getting the classes/schedule modifications you want is not difficult. There're also tons of school spirit and awesome people!... Read 351 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,317

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  275 reviews

Senior: Langley has a strong reputation for academics, so do take advantage for what Langley has to offer and be prepared to study well and manage your time wisely. It can be easy to fall into burnout, so try to balance out your coursework with classes like the arts and clubs that you enjoy. Some AP course have become more challenging, AP Psychology in particular, so don't underestimate the rigor of the "easier" AP classes. There is also a variety of clubs offered at Langley so try out a bunch and stick with the few you enjoy doing. Maybe you can gain some leadership experience along the way! Clubs, sports, and the arts are all great ways to find new friends. Surround yourself with a nice group of friends who can motivate you and encourage you to be your best, not ones who are self-interested or toxic. Build relationships with teachers, if you can. They can be more friendly when you meet them one on one, so don't be afraid to ask questions or see them outside of class.... Read 275 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,023

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• 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

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  507 reviews

Junior: The school has been recently redone, so the interior and exterior are very new and modern. The teacher and counselor support through personal as well as academic matters is also an important aspect of Oakton. The worst part about Oakton is the competitive culture. Students overload themselves with APs and take all of the hardest classes just feel a little less like they're failing compared to everyone else at the school. Everyone always seems to be trying to one-up each other, which, in a way, is good because it causes people to strive to be their best, but there is a limit. When it becomes excessive, it stops making students better and begins tearing apart their self-esteem and collectiveness. It can be stress-inducing. Personally, I'm competitive, so most of the time, i like constantly having to improve myself to match my peers. Although there is stress from competition, the opportunities provided at Oakton are worth it. The diversity in classes and clubs offered is amazing.... Read 507 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,715

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  444 reviews

Senior: Woodson was the first public school I attended. It was a hard adjustment, but I could not have asked for a better experience. The atmosphere of the school is welcoming, nonjudgemental, and kind. I loved going to school because of the amazing teachers and students. There are many resources for students who may be struggling in certain subject matter or want extra help, such as the Writing and Math centers. Clubs and sports are where many students can find their community. Woodson is known for its great athletic programs, winning many district, regional, and state championships. I have been on the Varsity volleyball program since freshman year, and I am so grateful for it. I was able to meet new people and make friends before school even started. Woodson students are high acheiving in everything they do, specifically acedemics. Overall, Woodson is a great school that prepares you for the future while having many fun and memorable experiences along the way!... Read 444 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,516

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  513 reviews

Senior: Chantilly is a very diverse environment. There are many clubs that will suit your interests and my favority part is the amount of CTE Academy classes that you can choose from. The academy teachers are very in tune with students and teach you important career skills as well. My favorite classes were Pharmacy Tech and Exploring Health Sciences and taking the pharmacy class even allowed me to participate in an internship. Everyone bonds well with each other and most have common academic goals which helps to lessen the stress that everyone feels. Overall, Chantilly is a great high school with great diversity, teachers, and academics!... Read 513 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,947

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• 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

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  396 reviews

Sophomore: Last year, I started freshman year at James Madison High School, and the experience so far has been absolutely unbelievable! The school offers a variety of clubs to bring the student community together, and I have recently joined Key Club and Junior Civitan in order to give back to my community. Moreover, my experience with club members and others in the student body has been remarkable! The student community that Madison has built is diverse, success driven, and unified. The school also includes a pleather of sports teams, where students can focus on team building, health, and competitive drive. I am currently a member of the Tennis Team, and though my time on the team so far has been cut short due to the pandemic, I have created several new friends and improved my athletic ability. Lastly, I have not had a single bad experience in my learning, and all of my teachers have inspired me to strive for success and push myself in order to become an even better learner.... Read 396 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,230

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  586 reviews

Niche User: Lake Braddock holds a high reputation for itself. There is a diverse selection of classes, including academy classes that allow students more variety in their education. Their staff lacks the ability to effectively help students prepare for graduation; accepting late-work, receiving 50%s on absent assignments, and dismissing the lack of effort put into each class. Teachers struggle with the strict curriculum code because of how lenient the school was with grades. Students participated in fist fights frequently, and bullying was rampant among the middle and high schoolers. Overall, I think this school could improve with it's social culture, as well as returning to normal with grading expectations.... Read 586 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 4,360

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  606 reviews

Junior: At WSHS, there are many opportunities for me to explore different pathways and continue to be academically challenged. For example, one of the classes I will be taking for my senior year will be multivariable calculus/linear algebra. I am always able to be academically challenged and there is a great environment in the school. The food is not that good but they have been improving, however, I made the decision to start bringing my own lunch now. The racial diversity in the school is great, and there is not an extremely dominant white community. I attended our international night, in which the various clubs of different nationalities at our school perform for many to watch. The audience was packed with students and parents alike, the diverse ethnic performances were also amazing. Another one of my great experiences at WSHS is the orchestra program. I am enrolled in the advanced orchestra and we do many performances. In general, WSHS is a great school!... Read 606 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,508

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  369 reviews

Junior: I've been a student at George C. Marshall High School for almost three years. Throughout these years I've grown a great deal and my experience has been unique. This school is a very prestigious high school that's very focused on not just the aspects of education but sports, diversity, involvement, and culture. Even during the pandemic when schools were online, this school remained focused on our involvement not just in education but to feel a sense of belonging by creating various clubs. Not only that the school prides itself on its ability to make each and every school feel like the belong, they've accommodated to many students needs based on their religion, identity, and requests. These are only a few of the many wonderful features this school has had to offer.... Read 369 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,103

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Falls Church, VA•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  35 reviews

Works Here: TSMV is a beautiful community. The academics are rigorous and thorough, giving students a better education than most college graduates would have, but learning is treated as something good in itself, not just a means to an end. Teachers and students alike are eager to learn for the simple joy of learning, so that even the most challenging subjects become a delight. The students care for each other, and teachers care deeply about their students. For a small school, Trinity's extracurricular activities are incredible. The choirs are amazing, sports performance is really impressive, and clubs are flourishing and creative. I can't recommend Trinity enough!... Read 35 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 197

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  410 reviews

Senior: Centreville High School makes traditional core classes fun with its access to advanced technology and equipment, like microscopes, dissection kits, TI-84+ calculators, personal student computers, and more. CVHS also has its own unique classes, such as LGBTQ+ English Studies, African American History, and Symphony classes. And the classes are diverse. There have been times in my life when I’ve been the only person of color in a crowded room. At CVHS, this has never been the case. Student engagement in lessons, friendly teachers, and comfortable classrooms impacts education, which CVHS understands to be true. This is why it hires faculty that care to help their students succeed, allows teachers to decorate their classrooms with fairy lights and couches, and ensures lesson plans engage students. It’s not unusual for a teacher to take fifteen minutes to walk me through a tough physics problem, for me to write an essay on a couch, or for me to engage in fun learning games in Spanish.... Read 410 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,623

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• 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

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  596 reviews

Alum: A diverse school of opportunities, filled with a great spectrum of academics and extra curricular activities. I had the privilege of attending Westfield High School and had the chance to meet such a wonderful team of excellent teachers who not only helped me throughout my high school experience, but never gave up on my excellence and the potential I had within. There was such a wide range of electives to chose from, from Information Technology, theatrics, chorus, to one of my favorites - sculpting class! Getting the chance to choose any elective I wanted really gave me an eyes view at what I could possibly want as a career down the road, opening the door to an opportunity of a lifetime. Although, picking the right one isn't always the easiest; It was well worth the experience!... Read 596 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,691

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  562 reviews

Junior: I came to Robinson 3/4ths of the way through my seventh grade year. However, since many elementary schools feed directly into Robinson, most of my classmates had known each other for 5+ years already. For most of that year and the next, I felt left out. But thanks to the wonderful, welcoming positivity of many students, and some of my own efforts, I eventually fit in. Today, as a rising senior, I look back and am very thankful for the opportunities Robinson has opened up to me. It’s a huge school—coming up on 4,000 students—with many resources for extracurriculars and community service, advanced study, etc. It’s definitely not perfect, but I’ve come to enjoy it. Go Rams! Pros: - Opportunities for advanced coursework, especially through IB Diploma - Student services, including for disabled and ESOL students - Lots of extracurricular activities & athletics Cons: - Some teachers, admins, students can get out of line, bad attitudes, etc. - Bathrooms. Do not use.... Read 562 reviews

• grade A

• Students 3,780

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• 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

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  459 reviews

Senior: My favorite aspect of the school is that the faculty at South County High School is also highly qualified and dedicated to helping students succeed. Teachers at the school have a wealth of experience in their respective subjects and work closely with students to ensure they are receiving the support they need. Additionally, the school provides counseling services to help students navigate their academic and personal lives. Overall, South County High School in Lorton, Virginia, is an excellent option for students seeking a well-rounded education in a supportive and inclusive environment. The school's strong academic programs, dedicated faculty, diverse community, and thriving athletics and arts programs make it an excellent choice for students seeking to prepare for their futures.... Read 459 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,287

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Centreville, VA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  27 reviews

Parent: Ad Fontes Academy has been an absolute blessing for our family. Our daughters love the school and we are thrilled with the quality of the Christ-centered education. We are a military family and moved to Virginia with high school and middle school aged children. Moving at their ages is difficult, but Ad Fontes helped make the transition as easy as we have ever experienced. The teachers and administrators truly love the children. The students have been exceptionally welcoming. The upper school retreat at the beginning of the year was a blessing and allowed our daughter to meet and be welcomed by a new group of friends before classes even started. Our kids have loved the house system. The exceptionally dedicated team of teachers challenge our children to develop habits of mind and communicate very well with parents. To be quite honest, my wife and I don’t particularly like living in the DC area, but we love Ad Fontes so much that we are trying to stay here as long as we can!... Read 27 reviews

• grade A

• Students 218

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  447 reviews

Niche User: I loved how kind the teachers that I've had were. I especially love how they all try their best for their students no matter what for them to be successful. The place itself is now two stories, the library is huge now compare to what it once was a few years back. Definitely a great place to chill and do work! Love the amount of clubs, especially the fact we have an LGBTQ+ club!... Read 447 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 2,286

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Fairfax County Public Schools, VA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  539 reviews

Sophomore: South Lakes has an amazing community in which learning is really prioritized. It has a great performing arts department and the IB Diploma Program is there as well. IB provides for a lot of cool discussions on the thinking process, but there is a heavy push from the school to take a full IB Diploma. It is a very work heavy track and not a great fit for all, yet the strong encouragement to take IB classes remains the same from student to student. The teachers I have had have been amazing especially during Covid-19. They are understanding and Supportive and are a huge help to students. My teachers have made it a goal to make me succeed and it shows in their teaching. One thing I would recommend with taking classes, is to take personal finance over the summer! There are so many fun classes and awesome teachers to have, that getting that class out of the way so super helpful!... Read 539 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,593

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1