Compare Schools in the Washington, D.C. Area

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Sidwell Friends School
Private School
Washington, DC
PK, K-12
39
1 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Senior: Sidwell Friends School has been an amazing place to foster my intellectual growth. Sidwell is a Quaker school and Quaker values (especially community and integrity) are very present within the school environment. Students are very involved in the school community and participate in various activities including club, plays, athletics, orchestra, chorus, and jazz. Teachers are always available to help and foster students that are sensible, compassionate and bright. At Sidwell I have been surrounded by students that genuinely care about whats going on the world around them, want to change the world, and are using their education to do so.
Read 39 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,145 Students
8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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National Cathedral School
Private School
Washington, DC
4-12
42
2 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Junior: NCS is a great place to learn and thrive. Although it is incredibly challenging and the workload is sometimes tough to manage, the teachers prepare you to be able to take on anything. When alum come back to visit, they often tell students how much easier college is, even if they attended an Ivy League. I am so lucky to be at this school!
Read 42 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
585 Students
9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology
Fairfax County Public Schools, VA
9-12
442
1 Best Public High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Senior: TJ has many opportunities to get ahead - but only for those interested in science and technology. The student environment and abundant research labs appeal to those interested in studying engineering, biology, chemistry, and physics but don't offer anything for those who enjoy the humanities.

Due to the high level of rigor each class entails, the students are often under high stress. Sometimes, this pressure may lead to a cutthroat environment. However, in my experience, I've only found individuals willing to help.

The only issue I find with this school is the new administration. Many freedoms that we had when I entered this school no longer exist. The school used to allow us to eat anywhere during lunch, go anywhere during 8th period, and leave to use the restroom whenever we'd like. After Dr. Glazer left and in the years before, the administration has become more strict and has restricted the majority of these freedoms.
Read 442 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,823 Students
18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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St. Albans School
Private School
WASHINGTON, DC
4-12
37
3 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Senior: St. Albans changed my life for the better. I learned so many social skills and made very useful friendships. STA teaches people a very important lesson. The lesson of having your brother’s back. STA is an all boys school and that is why I say brothers. I grew up with 3 sisters and I was the youngest in my family. St. Albans gave me the opportunity to have 68 brothers in my class that I knew would always have my back no matter what situation I was in. So all in all, STA is a great school. Despite my shortcomings their academically it taught me how to work hard and thrive in a tough, competitive environment. The friendships I made there are friendships I will have for the rest of my life.
Read 37 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
585 Students
9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Maret School
Private School
Washington, DC
K-12
35
4 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Senior: Through my many years at Maret, I have learned just how fantastic of a school it is. The teachers are incredibly accessible which makes it a fun and inviting academic environment. The academics are very, very rigorous. And as much as us Maret students like to complain about our workload, it's been worth it from my experience. Not only have I learned important content, but I have learned how to think, how to approach problems, and how to live life with an open and accepting mind. The extracurriculars, arts, and sports are amazing as well and foster a unique sense of community. As corny as it sounds, the community at Maret welcomes diversity and strives for inclusion. The thing I love most about Maret though is the people. I've met by best friends at Maret and have been educated by some of the smartest and kindest teachers. Maret has prepared me so incredibly well for college and beyond and I am so thankful for my experience at the school.
Read 35 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
651 Students
6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Holton-Arms School
Private School
Bethesda, MD
3-12
101
5 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Alum: Looking back on my time at Holton, I am very grateful for the academic education and supportive teachers and staff. The school offers many great opportunities to get involved. I was well-prepared for college. Holton's all-girls education really prepares you to speak up in college classes. However, my social experience there was sub-par. Many, if not most of the girls there, are spoiled and come from wealthy homes. The cattiness and exclusivity never stopped up until graduation. I saw this everywhere. Across grades, groups of friends, and even among parents to be honest. Overall a great school, but I think the school needs to intervene to make the Holton experience more inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
Read 101 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
660 Students
8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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The Madeira School
Private School
McLean, VA
9-12
59
Alum: When I picture my "happy place," Madeira is it! I credit the school with shaping me into the woman I am today. I was able to be the truest version of myself while I attended Madeira. I was challenged academically, but in an environment where I felt comfortable to excel. The friends I made at Madeira have been lifelong friends--some were even bridesmaids in my wedding. The co-curriculum experience is also monumental. The internships I had as a junior and senior in high school shaped my college studies and eventual career path. If I had a daughter, without a shadow of a doubt, she would be a Madeira girl.
Read 59 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
319 Students
10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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The Madeira School
Private School
McLean, VA
9-12
59
6 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Alum: When I picture my "happy place," Madeira is it! I credit the school with shaping me into the woman I am today. I was able to be the truest version of myself while I attended Madeira. I was challenged academically, but in an environment where I felt comfortable to excel. The friends I made at Madeira have been lifelong friends--some were even bridesmaids in my wedding. The co-curriculum experience is also monumental. The internships I had as a junior and senior in high school shaped my college studies and eventual career path. If I had a daughter, without a shadow of a doubt, she would be a Madeira girl.
Read 59 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
319 Students
10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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The Potomac School
Private School
McLean, VA
K-12
46
7 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Middle School Student: Great school, loving teachers and academically fantastic. Teachers help a lot and really encourage you. Athletics are remarkable and the academics are even ahead of that which is really hard to do. Kudos to you Potomac!
Read 46 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,060 Students
8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Georgetown Day School
Private School
Washington, DC
PK, K-12
24
8 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Senior: The science and math classes were amazing, and teachers were great! We're working on our Computer Science program though. In terms of diversity, it is quite white despite the school's efforts.

The administration is probably the worst thing about the school. It's very complacent and when it comes to disciplining us, they don't do a very good job.

Besides that, GDS is a wonderful, quirky place where you can feel comfortable, relaxed and still be challenged and engaged in class.
Read 24 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
327 Students
6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Landon School
Private School
Bethesda, MD
3-12
27
9 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Senior: Landon School gives your boy various opportunities to succeed. They stress excellence and perseverance in every facet of life ranging from media, studio, and performing arts, music, athletics, and overall ethics. There is a strong brotherhood at Landon that radiates from the common places. With the diverse student body, it is easy to see that all cultures are represented, and accepted by all students.
Read 27 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
680 Students
6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Washington International School
Private School
Washington, DC
PK, K-12
41
10 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Parent: Our children attended the school since 3rd grade. They graduated not only fully bilingual, but extraordinarily well-educated. The school is one of the global leaders in the International Baccalaureate - a model studied by other schools around the globe. Their sports are excellent - particularly boys and girls soccer where they are among the top teams in the DMV. Less appreciated is the strength of their theater and visual arts programs, both of which are extremely distinguished.

The student body is truly global, though not transient. Most students have one parent who is a US citizen and one who is a citizen elsewhere. While, like all private schools, this is an economically elite group, the feel among the parents is more of one of dual working professionals than one of a plutocratic elite in an awkward barbell relationship with a handful of full-scholarship students. This makes things socially far less weird than at a Sidwell or GDS or Holton Arms.
Read 41 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
915 Students
9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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St. Anselm's Abbey School
Private School
Washington, DC
6-12
22
11 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Senior: Saint Anselm's Abbey School is one of the best things to ever happen to me. The school has an amazing environment that I have not felt outside of St. Anselm's. The faculty love what they do and love to always talk about their respective subjects and offer help to those that need it. The school has a phenomenal community that welcomes in everyone that enters. New students almost immediately become oriented with their new classmates and feel like part of the family the moment they enter the community. The brotherhood at the Abbey cannot be duplicated in high school. Everyone loves each other and seeks the best in each other. There is no bullying or issues like that at our school, there are no cliques or anything of the sort at our school. The sports programs welcome anyone to join, we do not recruit so all of our athletes come from within our walls. I love this school and I encourage anyone looking for a school please consider the Abbey.
Read 22 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
265 Students
10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Bishop Ireton High School
Private School
Alexandria, VA
9-12
139
Senior: Bishop Ireton High School is a small Catholic high school in Alexandria, Virginia. The high school has great academics and many different types of extra curricular activities. The school greatly prepares students for college starting from freshman year all the way to senior year. Bishop Ireton is improving every year and plans to make some big renovations soon!
Read 139 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
813 Students
12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Georgetown Preparatory School
Private School
North Bethesda, MD
9-12
44
12 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Alum: There are several pros associated with this school: instilling a sense of purpose and becoming "Men for Others," is of utmost importance. Students are academically challenged from the start. The campus is incredible, facilities immaculate, and the history of the school is incredibly rich. I also really enjoyed the religious element; I most enjoyed "World Religions," where I learned about inclusivity and open-mindedness through carefully studying and understanding other religious systems and beliefs. The one negative for me was how conservative and non-diverse the school is; you will experience your fair share of rich kids. Your typical kid at Prep will spout whatever political/religious jargon their well-off parents spewed at home, without thinking about it critically and how policies/actions will affect "normal" people -- which can become quite hypocritical, given the school's motto: "Men for Others." Students of varying income levels and backgrounds need to be better incorporated.
Read 44 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
496 Students
10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Poolesville High School
Montgomery County Public Schools, MD
9-12
250
2 Best Public High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Senior: Poolesville High School is a tight-knit community that brings in students from all over the county. The opportunity to meet students from various backgrounds was amazing. I got the opportunity to grow as a student and a person. The teachers care for me and want to see me succeed. I was able to join many clubs and extracurriculars because of the various opportunities Poolesville presents. I would like to see Poolesville became a bigger school in the future , so even more students can come. If you have the opportunity to come to Poolesville, do not hesitate!
Read 250 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,205 Students
20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Flint Hill School
Private School
Oakton, VA
PK, K-12
51
13 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Parent: Flint Hill is a lovely school, and I have been surprised by how down-to-earth the culture is, despite the price tag and rigorous college prep environment. Kids really get what they need in an individualized way, we have been thrilled with the school, having had 2 kids attend for almost a decade now!
Read 51 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,097 Students
6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Episcopal High School
Private School
Alexandria, VA
9-12
31
14 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Alum: Episcopal High School is an amazing institution & great preparation for life. The high school excels in academics, athletics, facilities and administrators. The faculty & staff truly care about the students that attend & make it their goal to readily prepare high school students for successful college careers and beyond.
Read 31 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
445 Students
5:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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The School Without Walls High School
District of Columbia Public Schools, DC
9-12
342
3 Best Public High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Alum: People have always said that Walls was a challenging school and they are right. The collegiate environment, the rigorous course load, and the opportunities that arise at Walls are nearly unmatched in the city. The culture of Walls allows students from all corners of DC to break down any educational barriers and succeed. The school is a refreshing pool of intellectuals, leaders, and talented individuals. The orchestra/Jazz band, art department, and sports teams are on the rise. There are a ton of clubs to match any teen's varying interest. I will not lie and say that Walls doesn't come without its fair share of struggles. However, the stress, tears, and sleepless nights definitely prepare students for college, which (if you ask most Walls alum) is almost a breeze. Walls is definitely demanding, but it is well worth it in the end. Go Penguins!
Read 342 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
589 Students
13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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The Field School
Private School
Washington, DC
6-12
23
15 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Senior: The Field School is a small school on the top of Foxhall road. With a beautiful campus that used to be the old Cafritz mansion. If your looking for a school where you can be your own person ( not just a number), a place where you can develop leadership skills and learn to express yourself freely... Field is the place for you!
Read 23 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
356 Students
6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart
Private School
Bethesda, MD
PK, K-12
74
16 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Freshman: Excellent school! Academics are rigorous, but fun. The teachers are very supportive, while at the same time hard graders. Girls are very kind and accepting of others, but very competitive in academics and athletics. The meal plan, Sage, is outstanding. Many girls attend ivy or prestigious universities.
Read 74 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
727 Students
9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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St. Stephen's & St. Agnes School
Private School
Alexandria, VA
PK, K-12
59
17 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Alum: I had a wonderful experience at SSSAS. I started attending the school in 2007 and graduated in 2016 and loved every moment of it. It is easy to get involved in club, sports, the arts, and more. Students are able to build great relationships not only with each other, but also with the faculty and staff. The challenging academics well prepared me for the college life and I could never be more grateful. Go Saints!
Read 59 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,120 Students
9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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St. Andrew's Episcopal School
Private School
Potomac, MD
PK, K-12
67
18 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Alum: St. Andrew's is a welcoming and nurturing community, filled with teachers and staff that truly care about their students and want them to grow both in terms of learning and character. Their academics is excellent, offering a wide variety of extra curricular classes for exploration, while also stressing the importance of core classes such as English and Mathematics. The school is especially dedicated to improving skills in writing, critical thinking, perspective, and expanding students' worldview. A school that acknowledges values that come from art to sports, St. Andrew's Episcopal gave me the perfect place to spend my high school years!
Read 67 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
575 Students
12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Walt Whitman High School
Montgomery County Public Schools, MD
9-12
174
4 Best Public High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Senior: Whitman has a great faculty and great classes that help prepare your college and the real world. The teachers have such a wide variety of personalities, teaching styles, and difficulty which gives you experience in how to deal with different professors. The different types of classes you are able to take vary from psychology, personal finance, or anatomy. It is easy to get help in classes from teachers, the guidance office, and even from teacher assistants. The school is pretty inclusive, with programs such as the black student union, and best buddies. Overall, Walt Whitman High School is a great place!
Read 174 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,977 Students
18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Gonzaga College High School
Private School
Washington, DC
9-12
65
19 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Senior: Gonzaga is a multi faceted institution. First, the course load is demanding. Every student can decide just how much they are willing to challenge themselves. Honors and Advanced Placement courses are available through hard work. Second, all teachers are highly qualified. Every faculty member has one or more degrees and most are enthusiastic about their work. Next, the extra-curricular activities are varied and engaging. If you think something is missing, take the initiative and create it. In addition, sports are highly competitive. Faith and teamwork are an integral part of the athletic program. Finally, "Men for Others" is Gonzaga's motto and a major part requires every student to be less self-centered and more concerned with our fellow man, our community and the world around us. A rigorous academic course load, qualified teachers, extra-curricular activities, athletics, and opportunities to serve others are all reasons why Gonzaga is extraordinary.
Read 65 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
960 Students
13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Winston Churchill High School
Montgomery County Public Schools, MD
9-12
251
5 Best Public High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Senior: Churchill HS is a very competitive high school. This is good because it prepares students for college, and arms students with good problem-solving and communication skills. On the downside, this also creates a stressful culture where everybody has high expectations regarding grades, extracurriculars, and college acceptance. However, students are working incessantly to reduce this stress culture and create a strong support system for those who need one. In terms of resources, Churchill has an excellent media center, excellent teachers (for the most part), and a wide variety of clubs, sports, and arts programs to participate in. For all its flaws and slightly stressful environment, I love Churchill HS for all that it has helped me learn and grow, and for the incredible students and teachers I have met here.
Read 251 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
2,093 Students
18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School
Private School
Washington, DC
9-12
90
20 Best Private High Schools in Washington, D.C. Area
Senior: This school devotes itself to helping the young girls who walk in as freshman grow in their way of thinking and spirituality. They make sure to challenge the girls so that they grow into mature women with strong faith in themselves and understand their goal in life. This is a rigorous school, but the unity of the girls helps them push through the hardships that high school brings. I would like to have seen more diversity in the school. I also would have liked there to be more parent involvement. Besides that, The school, students, and staff cherish deeply their traditions and it is a time where you can see nearly everyone bond and unite as one.
Read 90 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
492 Students
10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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1 of 60

Sidwell Friends School

National Cathedral School

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology

St. Albans School

Maret School

Holton-Arms School

The Madeira School

The Madeira School

The Potomac School

Georgetown Day School

Landon School

Washington International School

St. Anselm's Abbey School

Bishop Ireton High School

Georgetown Preparatory School

Poolesville High School

Flint Hill School

Episcopal High School

The School Without Walls High School

The Field School

Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart

St. Stephen's & St. Agnes School

St. Andrew's Episcopal School

Walt Whitman High School

Gonzaga College High School

Winston Churchill High School

Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School