2024 Best College Prep Public High Schools in the Chicago Area

• Aurora, IL•

• Public School•

• 10-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  373 reviews

Senior: IMSA is a fantastic school for students who want to take their education to the next level. The diversity and academics are excellent, and the shared culture between the students is incredible. That being said, the high workload causes many students to encounter mental health challenges. Lack of proper nutrition, hygiene, and sleep are more common at this high school than at others. Most students get an average of 3-4 hours of homework per day, which can be difficult to balance with mental health, clubs, and other commitments. There is a club for practically every interest a student could have, and there is always something to do on campus. The residential environment allows for deeper connections with peers and establishes lifelong relationships. The biggest issue at IMSA is the administration, which routinely makes questionable decisions that clearly do not consider student input. Overall, IMSA is one of a kind, and the positives of the school definitely outweigh the negatives.... Read 373 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1440

• Average ACT 33

• Chicago Public Schools, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  427 reviews

Senior: I've been here for all four years and I love this school! Truly, the best part of the school is the teachers. Of course, you'll have a few that aren't your favorite, but I've found teachers I really admire. They are here because they love to teach. The student body as a whole is also really great, at least for my years here. We went through a lot of administration struggles, but what pulled us together was our support for our teachers and the shared values that we have as students. The course load is challenging but manageable, but I also felt really well prepared from my elementary school. All that being said, Payton has many normal issues like any high school (some student drama, mediocre/bad food, people that you like and don't like, etc).... Read 427 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1420

• Average ACT 32

• Chicago Public Schools, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  617 reviews

Senior: Northside is very inclusive and lively. Students are involved in all parts of the school such as the production of a musical, the display of sculptural work, and even the spread of awareness for minority groups. At Northside, the individual is strengthened in personal and academic identity. It’s rigorous tasks and unique class schedules prepare students for college academia. As a fellow Northsider, I can say that there was a difficult adjustment to Northside’s expectations, however, I have found an amazing and supportive community alongside it. If you are considering Northside, I hope you are warmed by it’s strengths in education and community!... Read 617 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1380

• Average ACT 31

• Chicago Public Schools, IL•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  1,171 reviews

Sophomore: Whitney Young is a great school with great academics and athletics. There are hundreds of clubs to choose from. The school prepares kids for academic success and college readiness. The teachers are caring and the administration makes sure there are rules set in place to help everyone in the school feel at home. The teachers, except maybe 1 or 2, have been the best and are always open to listen to you. The athletic teams always win championships each year and they are supplied with lots of equipment and everything they need. There are many resources helping students in many different ways, like the counseling department and much more. The students all feel well connected to the staff and the weekly newsletter, "The Weekly" answers the concerns or questions that a student may bring up. The school is very diverse, and everyone feels included. There are many safety protocols that everyone must follow to help everyone feel safe. Overall, my time at Whitney Young has been great!... Read 1,171 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1340

• Average ACT 30

• Chicago Public Schools, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  760 reviews

Senior: The experience I have had at Jones College Prep has been decent! It is definitely a very academically focused school, and that is a good thing because it motivates students to do well, but it is sometimes not a good thing, because it can get in the way of things that are more important, like connections with other people, family, and just having a life, as one should, outside of school. I will always be grateful for the friends that I made, and the impact they had on my life during my high school years. The changes I want to see is not specific to the school. They are aimed towards the entire school system. I feel as though students mental health and lives outside of school are not valued enough. School starts early in the morning, then students have extra curricular's, and piled on top of that they also have homework, all while trying to have a proper sleep schedule and keeping up relationships with people. A later start and limited homework would extremely benefit students.... Read 760 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1320

• Average ACT 30

• Adlai E. Stevenson High School District No. 125, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  1,251 reviews

Freshman: My experience at SHS was pretty good this year as a freshman! Having this be my first year, I was pretty scared and a bit hesitant to continue the next 4 years at this huge school. But Stevenson is a super welcoming place, with amazing teachers, staff and students. They have this thing called freshman orientation, which is the day before school starts. A bunch of our juniors and seniors come in to guide us through the school, and answer questions we have. These same Fmp leaders are the main people for advisory, which is another program assisted to help freshmen meet new people. Advisory takes place during half our lunch, and in my opinion was pretty fun, we played games, did activities and I met a lot of close friends in it. I didn’t mind advisory, but I know a lot of other people didn’t like the fact that it was a whole year, so maybe a suggestion would be making it only for the 1st semester so we can have full lunch 2nd semester. But overall I thank shs for such a great first year!... Read 1,251 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1360

• Average ACT 31

• Chicago Public Schools, IL•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  3,224 reviews

Senior: Easy to be a stranger here, but it's wonderful when you choose not to be one. Room numbering system is odd, but you'll get it in a few weeks. Most students will be happy to assist you w finding classes. Security guards are nice, but wear your ID or hold onto it. The boys bathrooms are in poor condition, and one of the rooms' stalls do not have locks or close properly, and the sink water vacillates between boiling hot and cold. Sometimes there's graffiti in the stalls and garbage on the lawn. I wish other students would pick up their trash because it is messing with the geese and looks bad, and I wish that the front lawn could be terraformed so that it's more flat. There's lots of nice teachers, and the great ones make this school worth it. Lane does a good job in offering specialized programs. I wish there were more counselors at Lane because the school's so big it's sometimes hard to get to know people or get the help you need! LSC cares. A cleanable, solid brick in Roscoe Village.... Read 3,224 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1280

• Average ACT 28

• Indian Prairie Community Unit School District No. 204, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  1,153 reviews

Alum: Randomly writing this review 5 years after graduating from here, but I am so thankful to have been privileged enough to have attended a school like Neuqua Valley. I was lucky enough to not have any bad experiences during my time here, but that does not mean they do not happen to others of course. For the most part, teachers and other staff members truly wanted students to succeed and they genuinely prepare you for college/adulthood through leading you in the right direction but also instilling a “figure it out yourself” mindset because that is how life is for most of us once you leave high school. There is truly an activity, sport, club, etc. for everyone in my opinion which made it easier to get to know some of your classmates given there are so many that you would not meet if they were not in your classes. I am sure things have changed since I have been there, but I can only hope they would have gotten better over the years!... Read 1,153 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1330

• Average ACT 29

• Hinsdale Township High School District No. 86, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  392 reviews

Alum: Going to school at Hinsdale Central was a wonderful experience for me. One thing I loved about Hinsdale Central was the challenging academic curriculum. The teachers were passionate and knowledgeable, and they pushed me to reach my full potential. I felt well-prepared for college after graduating. Another thing I appreciated was the extensive extracurricular opportunities. There were numerous clubs, sports teams, and other programs available, which allowed me to explore my interests and develop new skills. I made lasting friendships through my participation in extracurricular activities. The school culture at Hinsdale Central was also positive and inclusive. The community was diverse and welcoming, and I felt like I belonged there. Overall, my experience going to school at Hinsdale Central was excellent. The challenging academics, extensive extracurricular opportunities, supportive community, and modern facilities made it a great place to learn and grow.... Read 392 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1370

• Average ACT 31

• Township High School District No. 211, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  652 reviews

Senior: Fremd is overall a great school with amazing faculty and great courses offered. We have a variety of clubs and student led associations that are really fun to be a part of. As a public school, our class sizes are larger, but teachers focus on every student in the class. The one shortcoming at the school is the number of teachers in certain areas. If a student wants to start a club, most teachers are too busy to sponsor the student's ideas. Other than that, the school is highly ranked and the atmosphere is amazing!... Read 652 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1340

• Average ACT 30

• Glenbrook High School District 225, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  551 reviews

Alum: Great School! A lot of resources available to students to guarantee success, but it all depends on the student's intent. Advising could definitely be better in terms of a more thorough pipeline after graduating instead of just classes. The school facilities are unmatched thought. It is incredible how big the campus is and how many resources the school has. Many schools in the state can only dream of such facilities as 2 pools, the sports fields, and the state of the art technology. My experience at GBS had some issues because at times the school ran itself in a very totalitarian way. The school administrators rarely advocated for the growth among students belonging to lower class families. This also translated to inability to motivate social mobility, by having more disadvantaged students not be tempted to take advanced placement courses. Regardless the school prepared me well for college.... Read 551 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1320

• Average ACT 30

• Indian Prairie Community Unit School District No. 204, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  713 reviews

Senior: I love the teachers and their willingness to help students out with any difficulties they may have. Additionally, the culture of the school is amazing as many people want to be involved in something or the other! One aspect I would love to see changed is the freedom granted to students around the building as it will create a sense of trust and confidence between the students and the administration.... Read 713 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1300

• Average ACT 29

• Barrington Community Unit School District No. 220, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  501 reviews

Senior: Barrington High School is a large high school in the heart of Barrington that offers its students a wide range of academic classes, activities, and clubs to participate in. What I personally enjoy most about Barrington are its unique elective courses. In particular, they offer a variety of of art classes that specialize on art ranging from photography to ceramics to digital art. Another aspect of Barrington that I enjoy is its school spirit and its teachers' true dedication and care for their students. I have had many teachers throughout my high school career and I can say that the majority of them put every effort to help their students, making sure they were set up for success. Overall, being at Barrington these past four years has been a blessing and something I will never forget!... Read 501 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1310

• Average ACT 30

• Glenbrook High School District 225, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  459 reviews

Alum: If I had the chance to redo high school, I would attend Glenbrook North again. The opportunities at GBN are boundless, and the staff and faculty want to see every student succeed in their endeavors. I had the opportunity to get involved in academic clubs like Torch as well as serve on the Student Association Executive Board as Vice President. I am still connected with teachers though I am in college, and I still feel their support for me. Just yesterday, I ran into my freshman math teacher at a restaurant and felt so appreciated by the conversation we shared. In every department, there are countless teachers willing to listen to students' worries, fears, and passions. The staff here really shape the student body to be leaders in their organizations and community groups. I would not give up my experience at GBN for anything.... Read 459 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1340

• Average ACT 30

• New Trier Township High School District No. 203, IL•

• 10-12

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  595 reviews

Parent: I cannot say enough about the opportunities New Trier provides for ALL students. My two sons (one a graduate, another a current student) have very different interests, needs, and learning styles. They both thrived at New Trier. The teachers are unbelievable, and the academic environment is top-notch. There is a club for everyone, a sport for everyone, an elective for everyone. STEM classes and an engineering track? Check. A small school-within-a-school for students interested in experiential learning and community-based activism? Check. Multiple levels of sports plus a huge intramural program? Check. Even though the school is large, it really does a great job of supporting every student. My college student is so well-prepared, and my current student is on his way!... Read 595 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1350

• Average ACT 30

• Naperville Community Unit School District No. 203, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  549 reviews

Senior: This is a great school! I love that our mascot is a Huskie which is so cute, and everyone here is so nice. I love all my teachers and am so happy that I am able to take so many amazing and different classes that they offer. I am a transfer student that came into the school 2021 as a junior and I love it here, my supportive peers and teachers guide me through all the hardship and problems since I came to this school one month late. Now I am involved in NHS and many other amazing clubs and activities. I am so grateful being able to go to this school!... Read 549 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1310

• Average ACT 29

• Community High School District 128, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.26 out of 5  386 reviews

Senior: As a high school senior at Vernon Hills High School, this school has provided me with a variety of opportunities that aided me throughout my high school career and so on. The overall school culture makes the school safe and inviting for all students, especially new incoming students. There is a plethora of college resources at Vernon Hills High School that help all students, regardless of how they decide to go on with their future. Overall, Vernon Hills High School is an inviting learning space that boosts confidence in students both academically and personally, preparing them for the challenges ahead of them in life.... Read 386 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1310

• Average ACT 30

• Township High School District No. 211, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  557 reviews

Junior: Teachers are what makes this school as amazing at it is. The passion and overall demeanor of teachers can change a students experience so profoundly, I am extremely grateful to have teachers that actually care and put effort into making education entertaining. I would always recommend this high school to someone if they are thinking about living in the area with children. I am a quiet student, but I do not feel outcast by any means whatsoever. There is always effort to make sure students feel a sense of belonging. There is help and accommodations made if you need extra support. Even just a bit, something so minor you wouldn’t want to bother anyone about it but the teachers and staff care and will make an adjustment for your comfort and safety.... Read 557 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1280

• Average ACT 29

• Indian Prairie Community Unit School District No. 204, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  599 reviews

Senior: The atmosphere of the school is highly energetic, and the diverse backgrounds of students and staff make it easy to socialize and connect on various levels. The best parts of my experience have been the people I've met; teachers, students, staff, and administrators alike have all made my experience worthwhile. In regards to change, I'd like to see more social clubs implemented in the school, not necessarily related to identity, but more student-led social related to interest (design club, modelling club, modern music group, sports medicine and fitness club, etc.) Other than this, my experience has been awesome.... Read 599 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1290

• Average ACT 29

• Glenbard Township High School District No. 87, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  368 reviews

Parent: My children are currently the third generation to attend Glenbard West High School. This is not unusual, because families move to and stay in the community for the school. It is an amazing school with top notch and caring teachers, a dedicated administration and a high maintenance parent community. They continually exceed expectations and when they don't, the school addresses concerns to improve. When graduates attend college, they often reference that they were well prepared and were able to thrive in their higher education environment. The school works hard to be an environment that is welcoming to everyone!... Read 368 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1260

• Average ACT 29

• Township High School District No. 113, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  280 reviews

Senior: Highland Park High School is inclusive for all students and the value of learning and academics HPHS holds is incomparable. Recently, the lunch room and library were updated to provide an inclusive environment for all grade levels, races, and genders. Additionally, HPHS has added several conveniently located all-gender bathrooms and locker rooms that have improved the comfort of students. HPHS shows their care for students' health and well-being by offering nutritious (and delicious) school lunches and snacks, as well as new and affordable EKG screenings for students to take part in during their physical education classes. I have received the best support and learning experience from my teachers at HPHS. If I need extra help in class, with post-secondary planning, or with outside troubles, I receive it from my teachers and counselors. As a senior at HPHS, I can confidently say that HPHS strives to give students an unforgettable education and experience that I will forever cherish.... Read 280 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1280

• Average ACT 29

• Evanston Township High School District No. 202, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  714 reviews

Junior: ETHS gives a lot of opportunities to help you explore not only your intrests and passions, but also your curiosities. They offer many opportunities for AP classes as well as almost any elective you can think of from drawing , engineering, metal sculpture and so much more! There are also many opportunities to join new clubs or sports, and if you can't find a club you can make one. ETHS gives opportunities that mostly only college would.... Read 714 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1230

• Average ACT 28

• Township High School District No. 211, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  466 reviews

Alum: My high school experience was great. It was definitely different throughout the pandemic, but I thought that they managed the whole thing very efficiently and thought they were organized, or at least tried to be organized in the matter of scheduling class and breaks in between. When talking about high school experience in person I would say that it is definitely very diverse and you can talk to people really easily and are always encouraged to join new sport or activities. You can always reach out to teachers for extra help and they will be willing to help you out and want to see you succeed. Staff for the most part is friendly as well!... Read 466 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1210

• Average ACT 27

• Lake Forest, IL•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  176 reviews

Alum: This school is a very high-top type of school. The outside environment is beautiful! The teachers here are very well educated and want the best for your education and future. This school is very diverse and offers very diverse programs to learn about different cultures and perspectives. The classes are very well taught and this school also provides fun activities. It isn't just booked, this school gives you the whole experience. To dances, clubs, sports teams, and other fun things and events. During my years at LFHS, I was able to gain the skills to become a great student and feel well educated. If I would have kids, I would 100% make sure they attend this high school.... Read 176 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1330

• Average ACT 30

• Niles Township Community High School District No. 219, IL•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  510 reviews

Alum: Niles North High School is an excellent school that offers a variety of classes, clubs, academic opportunities, and financial assistance. I personally have taken a couple of their extracurricular classes and clubs and had the best experience. I appreciated their teaching style, which was easy to understand, and the projects that were given were challenging but enjoyable. Niles North has a variety of lunch options, an academic help center, great teachers, and is clean. I didn't necessarily have a bad experience, but there is always room for improvement. I would like to see the school improve parent-teacher communication. I believe this is very important for the growth of students, and it helps parents become more involved in their child's life. I honestly wish that I had taken advantage of everything that the school offered, and I hope that current students become more involved with their school.... Read 510 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1220

• Average ACT 29