2023 Best Schools in the Philadelphia Area

• Philadelphia, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  99 reviews

Senior: Overall, I've had a lot of fun here at GFS. I really felt the school's Quaker values shine through throughout my experience here, whether it was through calling teachers by their first names, or beginning certain classes with moments of silence, or attending weekly Meeting for Worship. It felt like the teachers were genuinely invested in seeing their students succeed, and were always very accessible. For the most part, the students were just as great, both inside and outside of class. It is a touch cliquey, but overall, there was a great sense of community, and I loved my time at GFS.... Read 99 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,129

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Newtown Square, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.69 out of 5  148 reviews

Parent: The education is challenging and prepares prepares the student to be successful in college. EA students also have the opportunity to grow and learn outside the classroom, and are encouraged to find their passion by taking advantage of the extensive extracurricular activities. Whether it’s arts, theater, athletics, community service, debate, robotics, travel, Episcopal offers it all. This learning and growing happens within a supportive and nurturing community. Each of my children built special relationships with teachers who served as coaches, club leaders, chaperones on school sponsored trips or simply caring mentors. And the foundation for that community is chapel, a time when the students come together to reflect and learn. Although rooted in Christianity, the chapel program is welcoming and inclusive and gives the students the opportunity to share their beliefs with each other. EA shaped my children and provided them with a foundation for future success.... Read 148 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,275

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Bryn Mawr, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  89 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 89 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 572

• Student-teacher ratio 572:1

• Pottstown, PA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.2 out of 5  123 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 123 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 529

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Haverford, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.63 out of 5  95 reviews

Senior: Attending Haverford was the best decision of my life. The very strong academic curriculum ensures that we as students are prepared for the top colleges and for the real-world in general. Haverford also prides itself on its community; the faculty strongly encourage student involvement, resulting in a tight-knit group that would do anything for each other. The teachers are amazing and endless bonds with students every year. Each teacher is always there when a student needs them to be, and they want to see each and every one of us succeed. Athletics are strong and there are many teams that have been nationally ranked within the past few years, but I'd like to see the administration focus more heavily on athletics as a whole in the near future.... Read 95 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 960

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Bryn Mawr, PA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.37 out of 5  52 reviews

Parent: Barrack is a warm, welcoming, wonderful school. The teachers and staff get to truly know your child and support them in every way possible. Their core values of kindness, community, honor and courage are weaved through everything they do. The academics are top-notch, and my kids have excellent study, writing, and executive functioning skills. They know how to be excellent students from the great coaching and preparation that their Barrack teachers provide. They also know how to advocate for themselves, and others. It may not be around the corner from us, but we feel the 40 minute bus ride is worth it (they made commuting to school easy with provided transportation and two late busses for after school activites). As parents, we did not grow up with a Jewish day school education, nor knew too much about it. However, we are so glad we explored Barrack as an option for our children, and feel it is a true gift to be able to learn there. Our children 100% "love where they learn."... Read 52 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 380

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Philadelphia City School District, PA•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  266 reviews

Junior: Masterman is a very rigorous and fast-paced institution. All admitted students are determined and capable to succeed in higher education and future endeavors. There is a school culture to always succeed and attain the highest standards, which further fuels the school's perfectionist mindset. The faculty and instructors are qualified and open to assist with the student's needs. College readiness and standardized testing preparation are on point. The only major flaws are the facility as it is small and run down as well as the school food, which tends to not be of the highest quality.... Read 266 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,204

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Wynnewood, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  72 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 72 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 819

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Newtown, PA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  138 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 138 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 545

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Tredyffrin-Easttown School District, PA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  415 reviews

Freshman: This school is super competitive, offering AP's starting from 9th grade. The school got a new renovation lately, making it seem closer to a college. Teachers and staff are super nice and encouraging and you can always open up to them about anything. The whole district is diverse and there are many opportunities such as clubs, sports, or jobs. The standard is set high and the community helps each other grow. I am super excited for them to build the new tennis courts coming in 2024! The tennis teams deserves them and have been patiently waiting a long time for it. Conestoga High School is phenomenal and if you are looking for a district to move to.. I would definitely recommend this one.... Read 415 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,318

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Bryn Mawr, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.49 out of 5  97 reviews

Sophomore: My name is Caroline, and I am a current 10th grader at the Shipley School. I came to Shipley in 8th grade, where I was immediately welcomed with open arms. Everyone was so helpful, and genuinely willing to make sure that I was adjusting to the community. The past couple of years that I have spent at this school have been amazing. Shipley has allowed me to challenge myself academically, as I take several honors classes. I really enjoy the rigor of the classes, and the added challenge has helped me grow as a student and a person. All of my teachers are always willing to give any extra help I may need.I am also a member of 3 sports teams. I absolutely love playing Shipley sports due to the excellent coaching staff and the opportunity they give me to progress as an athlete. The Shipley faculty truly cares about its students, and creates such a positive atmosphere. I am looking forward to a great couple more years at Shipley!... Read 97 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 800

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• West Chester, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  114 reviews

Senior: Coming to Westtown has been one of the greatest decisions I have made to date. Westtown has allowed me to gain experience in leadership, as well as build strong bonds with my peers and faculty. The academics are challenging, but not to the point where it consumes you, and there is plenty of support for students. I've had the wonderful opportunity to try new things and explore, and I learn more about myself every day while there. The fact that it is a Quaker school also adds a unique experience to Westtown. You don't have to be a Quaker to attend, but religious diversity is celebrated at Westtown, as well as learning about other religions. As a Muslim, Westtown has supported me tremendously throughout the month of Ramadan. All in all, a wonderful experience. If you are thinking about a place to grow as a person and not just as a student, Westtown is your place!... Read 114 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 696

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Wilmington, DE•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.47 out of 5  51 reviews

Senior: Overall, my experience at Tower Hill has been positive. It is truly a college prep school, most alumni will say that Tower Hill was equally as hard – or easier than – their college. The things they teach as early as middle school are important life skills that will set you ahead in college, like structuring a five paragraph essay and learning study skills. The staff is wonderful and it is very clear that they care about their students. They are always willing to go the extra mile to help students one-on-one. If I could change one thing about the school, it would be the diversity. Although they have made growing efforts to increase diversity in the community since I came in second grade, such as admitting students from different financial backgrounds and hiring more diverse staff, there is still much work to be done to make Tower Hill a truly diverse community.... Read 51 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 850

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Fort Washington, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.42 out of 5  86 reviews

Parent: We have found a vibrant and supportive community at Germantown Academy. As a parent, I have been impressed with the faculty's ability to meet my children where they are by providing encouragement and support when necessary and challenge and rigor when appropriate. Focus is on critical thinking and analytical skills, working with others in groups and peer-review situations. Students are taught to advocate for themselves and contribute to the community. My children feel comfortable sharing their ideas and asking questions. In Upper School, teachers make time to meet with students on an individual basis, and this is encouraged. The school works hard to make families feel welcome, There are many ways to get involved, such as volunteering, social events, attending sports, community service opportunities, and educational speakers for parents.... Read 86 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,222

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Philadelphia, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  74 reviews

Parent: Both of my sons started FSS in Pre K and they are now in Middle School. We LOVE FSS - the school is truly a second family to my whole family. The Community is so warm and welcoming - we feel lucky to be a part of it. The teachers and the administration care so much about each and every student. Kids thrive at FSS; school encourages their strengths and helps with their weaknesses, all while making students feel good about themselves and their learning process. Teachers are easily accessible to parents and students alike to discuss anything. Academics and arts are top notch, as well as the social and emotional care of all students. We also love how FSS takes full advantage of Philadelphia’s resources, whether it be its museums, Universities, parks or anywhere! I wish I could have been a student in this school environment!... Read 74 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 618

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Philadelphia, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  118 reviews

Parent: Amazing teachers and staff. Wonderful community of parents and families. We were a bit worried that people would be snobby towards families like ours who receive financial aid, but that has not been our experience at all. My children are in the lower school and thriving, they are supported by their teachers, the administration and other parents. We couldn’t be happier.... Read 118 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 988

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Moorestown, NJ•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  83 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 83 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 634

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Radnor Township School District, PA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  150 reviews

Sophomore: As one of the premier public high schools in the country, Radnor High School provides an educational and extracurricular environment that is second to none. Students are encouraged to express themselves both by the administration and their fellow students. I am confident that I will be well positioned to succeed in college due to the academic, social and emotional support I received from the Radnor High School administration and student body.... Read 150 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,195

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Wilmington, DE•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  324 reviews

Freshman: This is my first year at CSW and, so far, it has been wonderful! I am being challenged with my work while being given the right amount of assistance and support from teachers. They provide many opportunities for their kids through their clubs and resources (though mainly focusing on science and math; they have no resources for arts). Nonetheless, the facilities themselves aren't that great. The building itself is quite old, and many rooms aren't well-kept.... Read 324 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 965

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Rosemont, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.48 out of 5  175 reviews

Freshman: My experience at this school has been nothing but excellent. Agnes Irwin has pushed me as a student and has aided me in discovering my interests. I love the different clubs and activities that I have been involved in, as I am able to dive deep into my passions in them with the reasources Agnes Irwin has given. Along with that, the learning enviroment is wonderful. I am always able to go to a teacher to seek help, and every teacher is passionate about whatever they are teaching. Overall this school has given me wonderful memories and I am excited for the years to come!... Read 175 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 573

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Downingtown Area School District, PA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.39 out of 5  109 reviews

Freshman: The Downingtown Stem Academy feels like a second home to me. Everyone at school, staff and students, understand each others situations and are able to respect the differences. The curriculum is well taught and ensured that all students are able to keep up with the standards. Additionally there are always resources available to those that need it. There is a very welcoming environment and all students feel included and accepted. I am currently a freshman but I am always able to find something in school which I feel like I’m a part of such as a club or school activity. There will always be something for everyone. The staff puts in a tremendous amount of time and effort to ensure that the students have an amazing time at the academy.... Read 109 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 855

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Lower Merion School District, PA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  261 reviews

Junior: Lower Merion is a great high school, and I am certainly going to miss it when I graduate. There are a lot of people here with a variety of interests, so you will be sure to find someone with similar interests. There's a lot of amazing clubs and activities at the school, such as the theater program, LM Players (clubs could use more funding though). School spirit and sports are great and highly celebrated (ex. Dawg Pound shows off school spirit at games). Teachers are overall great, and STEM is strong. The music department is especially great! Diversity could be a little better. Facilities are pretty good, and there are a lot of resources for college and more. We have a program called lunch and learn, which is one hour in the day students can use to eat lunch anywhere in school and do work or get help from teachers. Administration could be better, because they sometimes try to hide stuff up. Overall, I love LM and I can't imagine being anywhere else!... Read 261 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,568

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Lower Merion School District, PA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  202 reviews

Sophomore: I love Harriton High School. Most teachers are helpful, but the classes here are rigorous. The art displayed around the school is especially lovely because it showcases the talented young artists throughout the school. The administration hears the students' recommendations, like our wellness days. The teachers here really push you to do your best, and they offer help if you do poorly. Although the school is mainly caucasian, they recognize minorities in our daily announcements. Black Student Union (BSU), Asian culture club, GSA, and other inclusive clubs are invited to speak every morning. The culture at Harriton is competitive; everyone expects each other to get A's, go to prestigious universities, captain clubs, etc. And most students end up in those universities. Overall, Harriton has shaped me into a hardworking individual.... Read 202 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,275

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Jenkintown, PA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.69 out of 5  137 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 137 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 600

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Malvern, PA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.64 out of 5  87 reviews

Parent: Malvern faculty and staff have such a special gift tapping into our son's inner strengths. My son went from parochial to public school before finding his home at Malvern. He was quiet and ok with coming to school, doing his best each day. After a few short weeks his team of teachers have worked with him to place him in challenging classes, encouraging his participation in campus events, and stepping out of his comfort zone to explore a student leadership role. His first year provided so much personal awareness and growth. He began his journey learning who he is and how to build on these strengths, as well as recognize where he needs to be challenged. Something we spent many years partnering with outside counselors and teachers in his previous schools with little success. We knew we were missing something and the Malvern staff have been able to help him so quickly and effectively. We can't thank Malvern enough and are so grateful he has 3.5 more years discovering his best self!... Read 87 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 652

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1