2023 Best College Prep Private High Schools in Texas

• Dallas, TX•

• Private School•

• 1-12

• •
  Rating 4.68 out of 5  76 reviews

Parent: I have friends who are attending various private and public schools in the Dallas-Fort Worth area from grades 5 on through 12. In sitting down with the other dads it is undoubtedly true that no school has done more to prepare post the outbreak of the pandemic then St Mark’s. Not only their children but their administration and teachers are out of this world! Not only did the school literally review replace hundreds of things across the campus, they’ve also implemented a fantastic screening program, testing program, and communications program for SARS-COVID19. I know that when selecting schools grades, scores and college admissions are the number one priority. I never thought I would pick a school based upon their ability to handle a medical global outbreak. The school has literally blown us away! We are thankful that our son is there and hope that other schools can use them as a benchmark going into the winter of the pandemic.... Read 76 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1480

• Average ACT 34

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.34 out of 5  174 reviews

Sophomore: I am a freshman (now sophomore) at awty and it was amazing! I grew as a person so much this freshman year and would recommend anyone to go to Awty as it has one of the best communities of any private school in Houston Liked: Most teachers were very helpful, academics were challenging, but broken down if needed to, most students were very nice + it was very easy to make friends, lots of clubs and activities to try, sports are very open and inclusive, get exposure to lots of different cultures and people, the language offerings are better than any other school, the internship week (For me) was amazing this year as I got to go to a law firm for a week and it was an amazing experience, Disliked: Lack of different political views (heavily liberal), teaching quality varies, the school doesn't like to hear student perspectives, lack of transparency... Read 174 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1390

• Average ACT 31

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.28 out of 5  109 reviews

Alum: I had a great experience here at St. John's. This is hands down the best college prep school in the Houston area. I was a struggling student, and the school offered plenty of support, and I now attend an amazing prestigious college. You should consider this school by any means necessary. Rankings are bogus, but this review is not!... Read 109 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1480

• Average ACT 33

• The Woodlands, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.39 out of 5  185 reviews

Junior: Incredible school, wonderful faculty and stellar extracurricular opportunities, especially in the Upper School. The small class size helps create a tight-knit community though this can make it socially challenging and cliquish. Nevertheless, the school makes it clear that they care about mental health and diversity and while the coursework is very challenging, the school is very supportive of its students. Incredibly thankful for the education Cooper has provided.... Read 185 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1380

• Average ACT 31

• Dallas, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  169 reviews

Parent: Exceptional in every way. We starting in preK and are now finishing another year of high school. Nearly all of her teachers have been phenomenal. Girls are engaging and motivated supporting each other in good times and hard. Particularly impressed with how these girls successfully manage full schedules in high school including challenging academics, varsity sports missing entire school days for travel, and/or other extracurricular activities and events. We are certain our daughter will be more than prepared for the most challenging colleges and life. Along with being very bright, our daughter is quite adaptable which has been an important factor to her success here.... Read 169 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1430

• Average ACT 32

• Addison, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.44 out of 5  114 reviews

Parent: Our daughter is a 2020 Graduate. She started in the 9th grade after transferring from another private school. We quickly learned that she was not prepared for the expectations for her grade level but throughout her 4 years, EVERY teacher was willing to lead her to success if she was willing to put in the effort (which she was)! She is going into her Senior year at the University of Texas on the Dean's List and will graduate "with Honors". It would not have happened without the loving, supportive, encouraging faculty at Greenhill! We are forever grateful!... Read 114 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1410

• Average ACT 32

• Austin, TX•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  92 reviews

Alum: It was a charming school! I had a fantastic experience. They emphasized a community-like environment which I found good, yet problematic. I felt that because of this, many of the students tended to be ignorant and close-minded, most especially when it came to racial differences. But apart from that, It's a pretty good school... Read 92 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1390

• Average ACT 32

• San Antonio, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  77 reviews

Senior: I went into Saint Mary's Hall as a freshman and even though I was new going into the school, I fit right in! Over the past four years here I have found it easy to become involved in various activities such as sports, theater productions, and clubs, all of which are open and inviting to every student. Students here are encouraged to have a voice in school policy, and we frequently work with administration to figure out ways to benefit everyone in the community. Overall, Saint Mary's Hall is a community which allows everyone to feel seen and heard while providing opportunities to find your passions while managing your classwork.... Read 77 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1350

• Average ACT 31

• Irving, TX•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4.58 out of 5  48 reviews

Other: My experience at Cistercian School was nothing short of exceptional. The teachers were enthusiastic and knowledgeable, and their passion for teaching was evident in every lesson. The programs were well-structured and provided ample opportunities for personal and academic growth. Additionally, the school fostered a strong sense of community and belonging, which made it easy to form lasting friendships and connections. Overall, I highly recommend xxx school to anyone seeking a top-tier education.... Read 48 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1450

• Average ACT 33

• San Antonio, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  66 reviews

Junior: Keystone is difficult at times. Most students in high school struggle with mental disorders, and the wellness programs are a total mess. That being said, being at Keystone gives students initiative. Compared to the standard for schools in Texas, Keystone has an almost unparalleled academic program perhaps only second to BASIS. Students learn critical thinking skills and are given invaluable tools to prepare for college. When I was in middle school, I found the middle school program provided valuable note-taking and learning skills for high school. The teachers are truly amazing and want you to approach them. Because Keystone is pretty small, there aren't many clubs offered, which is a major downside, the student population is not very diverse, and there are a couple of teachers that are terrible but won't be fired because of their emotional ties with the school. Overall, the academics, teachers, and college prep program are good, but there are still a couple of lingering issues.... Read 66 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1410

• Average ACT 32

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  216 reviews

Parent: My children have been at Village from elementary through high school, and we are happy that our kids are thriving academically, mentally, socially, and emotionally at school. Village has the most diverse student population of any school in Houston, and we have enjoyed meeting families who have lived abroad just like us, and the international parent community is very welcoming too. We love the close-knit and small community, and the teachers really get to know your children as students are able to form connections with their teachers. Students are challenged with a rigorous academic program that is very much hands-on with individual and team projects that encourage creativity and innovation. The teachers are passionate about teaching and making a difference, and my children know they have a strong support system and teachers who care about them. My children love Village, and they are happy and thriving in every way possible, and that’s extremely important to me!... Read 216 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1350

• Average ACT 30

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  100 reviews

Middle School Student: I think the kinkaid school is an amazing place, although if you don't stay on track with the activities its very easy to slip behind your grades start dropping but as this happened to me, I started informing my friends and advisors. The community is so caring and and nice if you are enrolling here it's an amazing idea! You do have to interview but they will welcome you with open arms. Their program for children to not get left out is amazing nobody goes through something hard alone! The campus is beautiful they have amazing playgrounds that you can visit during recess although as a middle schooler playgrounds are taken away but free time is amazing you can visit a teacher to talk about a problem in their class. There are amazing counsellors and people to talk to.... Read 100 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1410

• Average ACT 32

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.53 out of 5  144 reviews

Senior: My experience at Strake Jesuit College Preparatory has been great! The environment is perfect for any parent that wants their son to evolve into a goal-oriented young man. Strake Jesuit supplies students with all the tools needed to excel, such as: College and personal counselors, free periods and "community time" (An hour long period from 9am-10am everyday in which students can socialize, meet with teachers, go to club or athletic meetings, play sports, study, or more), the perfect balance of freedom and structure, and state of the art conditions. Strake Jesuit's faculty is another upside to the school, as all members are kind hearted, smart individuals who strive to build good teacher-student relationships. The community of Strake Jesuit is a unique one, bonding students from all paths of life. Through advisory periods and the general openness of the campus, new friendships (no matter how surprising) are made every day.... Read 144 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1350

• Average ACT 31

• Dallas, TX•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.67 out of 5  79 reviews

Senior: I'm a senior @ Jesuit and I have had an incredible experience. The curriculum was rigorous but the faculty was available to help, so friendly, and I knew my teachers wanted me to succeed. The yearly community service projects made me realize the disparity in neighborhoods and my responsibility to be a Man for Others. I'm so grateful to my parents for valuing a exemplary education I received @ Jesuit. GO RANGERS!!... Read 79 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1320

• Average ACT 30

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.41 out of 5  320 reviews

Alum: The student community was very welcoming and inclusive. We often received fun treats and surprises from the administrators. I made kind friends and loved the teachers.... Read 320 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1330

• Average ACT 30

• Dallas, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.57 out of 5  96 reviews

Senior: I have attended this school since sixth grade. I feel so at-home in my ESD community. The staff helped us students deal with an unprecedented Covid year and helped us come out of the situation stronger than ever. I am so thankful to the resources that were available to me, even when I was remotely at home: quick email responses from teachers, availability to meet on Zoom frequently, and many other aspects. Throughout my high school experience, I have been able to grow as a leader due to the clubs and groups I am a part of; ESD has given me many opportunities to be around people who help me grow and share my same interests. Thank you ESD for the love you share with the students!... Read 96 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1360

• Average ACT 31

• Waco, TX•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.65 out of 5  209 reviews

Parent: Working in college admissions for 18+ years, I’ve visited countless high schools, read thousands of school profiles and transcripts, and seen a wide variety of educational choices and models. Because of those experiences, I have high standards to compare against and I can confidently attest that Waco is fortunate to have a school the caliber of Vanguard in its community. The quality of academic instruction, the high standards it sets for its students inside and outside of the classroom, the intentionality behind teaching its students character and ethics, the way it encourages and supports students to engage in a plethora of extra-curricular activities, to its top-notch administration, faculty and staff – Vanguard’s value is un-matched in Waco. Over the past 3 years our student has been challenged intellectually, risen to and met high expectations, developed a close-knit community of friends, and even as a teenager, genuinely enjoys going to school! We are so grateful!... Read 209 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1290

• Average ACT 30

• Austin, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.35 out of 5  111 reviews

Alum: My High school has provided an opportunity to forge lasting friendships and establish meaningful social connections. Interacting with a diverse group of peers has broadened my horizons, exposed me to different perspectives, and enriched my overall experience. The bonds I've formed have created a sense of belonging and made high school more enjoyable.... Read 111 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1340

• Average ACT 31

• Austin, TX•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  77 reviews

Parent: We have two daughters that have attended St. Andrew's for several years and have been in the lower school, middle school, and now in the high school. We have loved the school, the administration, the faculty, and the community! Our family and girls are known and supported here. We feel that St. Andrew's helps shape well-rounded students with their four pillars and provides our daughters with many opportunities to pursue their interests at school. We highly recommend St. Andrew's.... Read 77 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1320

• Average ACT 31

• San Antonio, TX•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  60 reviews

Freshman: It is such a warm community and has an amazing learning environment.The curriculum is above average with teachers pushing their students to be the best. The competitive academics are also exhilarating because there is always a challenge.I love how the teachers and staff are very caring.They always put the students metal health first which makes a huge impact.All teachers are exceptional in their field and are highly qualified.Every student at TMI is unique and is celebrated for it by others.The giving at TMI is also a virtue that welcomes everyone warmly. It is a culture that we"do on to others as we wish to be done to us."This results in a close community that gives and gives. Whether it be to TMI or the city around us, the TMI community always finds a way to leave a good impact. The sports has grown in the past couple years as well. With multiple sports being State runner ups, we will sure be back next year with our panther spirit.With all this being said, TMI is the place to be.... Read 60 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1310

• Average ACT 30

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  124 reviews

Junior: Second Baptist school welcomes you, encourages you, and prepares you. I came in as a freshman and all the teachers, administrators, and students welcomed me with open arms. The teachers helped me with the curriculum of a new school, the administrators helped me adapt to a new system, and some of the students I first met are now my closest friends. Second of all, Second Baptist encourages students in academics, extra curricular activities, and our walk with God. The teachers make it clear that they are there to help us, and are understanding with what we are struggling with. We also are encouraged to participate in various activities. Whatever you are passionate about, whether that be in the area of athletics or the arts, they have an activity/class available for you to master and expand your God-given talent. The Bible classes and the chapels are designed for us to grow and learn more about God. Lastly, SBS prepares us for our next step in life. I love Second Baptist!... Read 124 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1300

• Average ACT 29

• Fort Worth, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.47 out of 5  75 reviews

Senior: Trinity Valley has helped to shape me into a dedicated, responsible, proactive student! The staff and students are welcoming. Diversity is a priority at my school so there are global opportunities and a respect of many cultures. The teachers get to know all If they’re students, which really helps when getting letters of recommendation.... Read 75 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1340

• Average ACT 30

• Dallas, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.94 out of 5  18 reviews

Parent: The teachers are skilled in dealing with multiple styles of learning (kinesthetic, verbal, and visual) often integrating all three styles seamlessly throughout the day during any given lesson, based on the needs of the child. I am not worried that my youngest child with a summer birthday should be held back a year. Every student receives individualized plans, adjustments are made to assist the child where areas of growth are accelerating them in subjects where they show strength. All of the teachers receive training in the grades above them and they introduce advanced work if it is needed. As evidenced by the many accolades, Alcuin teachers are clearly in the top of their field. Many are not only internationally certified but also continue to receive training from top educators and thinkers of our generation. The faculty are passionate in their own work and I want my children to be surrounded by adults who model the values of compassion and a thoughtful understanding of the world.... Read 18 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1350

• Average ACT 31

• Roanoke, TX•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.63 out of 5  8 reviews

Alum: A wonderful school. The teachers are fantastic and truly care about their students. The school will push you to exceed academically while given support to succeed in the school's rigorous coursework. There's no compromise between rigor and fun: teachers write curriculums that make every day interesting. The students are even better. The hallways are filled with deep conversations on the merits of economic systems to recent discoveries, and the day's news. Every class is small, and you get to know your peers well as you discuss topics in depth. Whether you want to explore software engineering, rock music, or anything in-between, E.A. Young Academy will help you explore your passions and connect you with opportunities. The administration is kind and listens to students and parents. The class selection is wonderful. Overall, Young is a wonderful choice for any student excited by learning.... Read 8 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1410

• Average ACT 31

• Dallas, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  68 reviews

Middle School Student: I am about to complete my 11th year at DIS. The people here are simply wonderful! The teachers care deeply for their students, the school is open to new ideas (they let girls wear comfortable shoes when they began a campaign against the uncomfortable expensive ones all the other schools require), the cafeteria food is healthy and the academics are amazing! I must however state that the upper campus (5th grade to 12th) has no gym so they often rent UTD or use Sportsplex. Unless you are specifically interested in track and field, I would not recommend DIS for aspiring athletes.... Read 68 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1360

• Average ACT 31