2024 Best College Prep Public High Schools in North Carolina

• Durham, NC•

• Public School•

• 11-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  161 reviews

Parent: NCSSM has been an incredibly enriching experience for my daughter. The classes are unique and rigorous. I expected great science and math courses, of which there are many, but there is also a robust humanities department with equally amazing classes. Many of the classes are topics you typically only see offered at colleges. The teachers challenge the students and share their passion for their area of expertise. Students have opportunities for research, mentorship with professionals, and study abroad trips. There are also many clubs and activities to keep the students engaged. The boarding school community allows the students to grow socially as well. My daughter finally found her people! The administration is supportive and there is a continuous focus on mental well being. NCSSM has nurtured my daughter and helped her become confident in being her authentic self. I am so thankful she accepted the greater challenge!... Read 161 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1450

• Average ACT 33

• Guilford County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.39 out of 5  126 reviews

Sophomore: The Early College at Guilford has a great community and great teachers. Although the trailers aren't the best, the environment overall is great. The school has an atmosphere towards academics. The first two years, especially Sophmore year, are the hardest because of AP classes, although you can get a lot of credit. However, this pays off in the last two years which are a breeze while getting you credit for college. Overall a great school!... Read 126 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1460

• Average ACT 33

• Raleigh, NC•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.48 out of 5  201 reviews

Senior: I transferred to Raleigh Charter my junior year of high school. I completed my junior year there and will complete my senior year there soon. I really like how academically challenging this school is in all aspects. I am by no means a STEM student, but there are a lot of rigorous STEM classes offered here. The humanities courses, which I prefer, are amazing as well. The teachers are extremely helpful and good at their jobs, and offer a lot of support inside and outside the classroom. The extracurricular activities that take place on campus are super fun and I always enjoy being an active part of the school community. One thing I think could change is the administration's responsiveness to issues that arise between students. Dissolving potential fights and preventing students from committing inappropriate actions from happening to other students is something that is not their strong suit. That was also an issue when my sister attended RCHS, which was years ago. Overall, a good school.... Read 201 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1380

• Average ACT 31

• Onslow County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.71 out of 5  24 reviews

Junior: I love the experience this school has given me! I never have had any problems with the teachers at the Early College, and everyone here is very accepting to what you want to be.... Read 24 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1260

• Average ACT 28

• Wake County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  745 reviews

Sophomore: I am the biggest fan of the AP and IB classes. I find that these classes are not nearly as challenging or rigorous as one may find because the teachers here are so amazing. The teachers care, are amazing role models and can be seen as a friend to come to- not just someone in charge of your education. The only complaint I would have is the issue on fights or the amount of drug users, but that doesn't directly impact me so in all I see enloe as an amazing school and I am so lucky to be attending it!... Read 745 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1350

• Average ACT 30

• Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  294 reviews

Alum: East Chapel Hill High School provides top academics with numerous opportunities such as APs and engineering courses. However, the competitive nature of the school can be toxic at times. The school has a tendency to self-segregate, but there isn't much that the administration can do about the phenomenon. Overall, East provided me with a great education that allowed me to go off to prestigious institutions.... Read 294 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1350

• Average ACT 30

• Wake County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  154 reviews

Senior: Being a student at WECHS has been a memorable and educational experience. I have gained access to material that not all high schools are able to provide, such as college-level courses and knowledge on preparing for college success. The best aspect of WECHS is being able to graduate with both a high school diploma and an Associate's degree within the four years. Attending the high school and becoming a student at Wake Technical Community College has helped me mature and learn about the college world from a young age, which I am grateful for. WECHS is an amazing high school with great educators, but the only minor change would be an improvement in the teaching methods of specific courses, such as Pre-calculus. However, a majority of the educators at WECHS have given me a memorable learning experience, and I am happy to be a student from this school.... Read 154 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1270

• Average ACT 29

• Guilford County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  47 reviews

Freshman: STEM is a very enjoyable school! The people here are really kind and friendly. As a freshman, I feel comfortable as a student. The teachers are understanding, as well as challenging. Its a hard course, but it sure does pay off!... Read 47 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1300

• Average ACT 29

• Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  254 reviews

Senior: Chapel Hill High School is an amazing school. There are so many opportunities for people with all types of different interests. Although the school culture can be quite competitive, the dynamic prepares students for college! One of the biggest problems at Chapel Hill High School is its achievement gap. The student population is mostly made up of the white upper-middle-class and teachers and administrators alike lack the motivation and skills to support students from different backgrounds, especially minority groups of students. Amongst the competitive and challenging academics and the high expectations of staff, it is easy to be left behind at Chapel Hill. It's a great school for those who enjoy being constantly challenged and are on the college trajectory, but it is still a school that needs improvements, such as closing its achievement gap, lowering student stress levels, and making better choices about allocating its many resources.... Read 254 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1330

• Average ACT 30

• Wake County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  502 reviews

Junior: So far, GHHS has been a really supportive environment for being such a large school. The teachers are great, the classes are fun, the students are all pretty chill, that sort of stuff. The school schedule being only 4 classes a semester is so wonderful, I cannot begin to describe how thankful I am for that, the only issue being that AP tests still only happen in the spring, so if you have one Fall semester, you’re a little bit screwed. Other than that, I’m grateful for all the opportunities I’ve gotten thanks to the incredible staff, especially in the CTE department!... Read 502 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Average SAT 1350

• Average ACT 30

• Wake County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  556 reviews

Parent: Administration has a habit of not communicating with parents about potentiometer dangerous situations, they have a “keep quiet” atitude among the tear hers and administration and they the same to pass that on to students which is not safe for anyone. A LOT more drugs and illegal activity has been reported by students and yet, we have NEVER heard anything from any type of communication from administration about solving the issue!... Read 556 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1330

• Average ACT 29

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  712 reviews

Senior: I loved the experience of being a student at Ardrey Kell high school. The staff- consisting of administrators, educators, counselors, and the janitorial team all work hard to provide the best experience to the school. Great quality education is offered to students who want to achieve not only their high school diploma, but challenge themselves and enrich their minds through honors and AP ( Advanced Placement) programs/classes. We have teachers willing to give time to help students through tutoring and extra practice with additional help in the mornings before school starts. We have a creative and talented student body government that also helps in creating a fun time for students through organized fundraisers, athletic games, school themes for spirit week and pep rallys. Ardrey Kell Highscool is known for its top education offers here in NC and definitely lives up to its name!... Read 712 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1300

• Average ACT 29

• Cary, NC•

• Public School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  35 reviews

Alum: I was introduced to different, cultural backgrounds and individuals versus going to a public school. It would’ve been predominantly white people. They have excellent staff. However a lot of teachers do come and go. Depending on the student, their high school experience could vary. Mine was pretty well. Was involved in clubs and sports and had good grades overall making friends and connections was fun.... Read 35 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Average SAT 1340

• Average ACT 28

• Wake County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  52 reviews

Alum: STEM is an amazing opportunity for any student that wants to go beyond the typical high school experience. The teachers care so much about their students, and the small class size ensures lots of individual attention. Project based learning does a great job at preparing students for college and beyond, as does the dual-enrollment program in partnership with NC State.... Read 52 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1320

• Average ACT 29

• Winston Salem/Forsyth County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  150 reviews

Senior: I've been a student at Early College since I was a freshman and I can truly say that this is a top-notch school. I first came into Early College not knowing what to expect. I had no friends and knew absolutely no one. By the first hour of school, I had already made two friends and by my senior year, I had friends I considered family. Early College has made me feel at home and everyone there are truly amazing people. The teachers, the students, and the staff are great! And although it is a small school, the diversity there is amazing. It also comes with many benefits, the main one being graduating with both an associate's degree and a high school degree. Thanks to Early College, I was able to find myself and a career of my interest.... Read 150 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1230

• Average ACT 26

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.54 out of 5  26 reviews

Senior: I want to start off by saying that Charlotte Engineering Early College, also known as CEEC, has given me an amazing opportunity that I will forever cherish. The teachers and faculty are all so invested in the students. CEEC has allowed many students, such as myself, to earn various kinds of college credits through UNC Charlotte. That being said, I would love for the CEEC teachers to have a more thorough conversation about potential pathways. One such example would be informing students that many engineering classes will not be offered until they actually enroll in UNC Charlotte. Being more realistic with students would help them immensely in the long run. Even though CEEC could better prepare students, the opportunity handed to them is such a blessing. Students who go there with the intention to succeed will be given such an opportunity. CEEC is not your typical high school experience, but it offers an opportunity like no other.... Read 26 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1250

• Average ACT 27

• New Hanover County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  119 reviews

Senior: Isaac Bear High School, located in Wilmington, NorthCarolina, is best known for its early college program. While being partnered with the University of North Carolina Wilmington, students are given the opportunity to take on-campus classes fully paid for during their junior and senior years of high school. Furthermore, as a current senior at Isaac Bear High school, I know how intensive and excellent this program is. During my first two years at Isaac Bear, I was taught the traditional North Carolina high school curriculum. However entering my third year, I became dual enrolled with the college. I had complete freedom to choose my own courses and design my own school schedule. Additionally, the school requires students to partake in fifty hours of volunteer service each year alongside clubs, guaranteeing a strong school and work resume. Overall, this program gave me a strong headstart on my future while guiding me on a path of success.... Read 119 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1320

• Average ACT 28

• Hoke County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  108 reviews

Junior: I would like to start off by saying that this school has been a great opportunity for me. This school helps prepare and train students on their next step to college life after their high school career. They prepare you on things like academics, techniques used in college, allow you to adapt to a college schedule, and so much more. Some things that are lacking are communication within the staff and everything is poorly managed or scheduled. Other than that, the school is really good at preparing students for the future and gives a safe learning environment for students.... Read 108 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Average SAT 1130

• Average ACT 23

• Durham, NC•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  63 reviews

Senior: Research Triangle High School goes above and beyond to prepare it's students for college. It fosters independence and critical thinking while ensuring that the students feel supported to break out of their comfort zone. The only problem that the school has is unsatisfied teachers, which leads to a high rate of teacher turn-over.... Read 63 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Average SAT 1300

• Average ACT 29

• Union County Public Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  463 reviews

Senior: Marvin ridge high is a great school. There is many options for classes that help students to explore different interests. It is a very safe campus that has 24/7 protection. Marvin has helped me make friends with some amazing people and has helped me become more involved in things i’m passionate about. There are so many clubs and sports to try out that really help to get you involved with the school. As someone who has been to multiple schools, Marvin really stands out to me academically and socially!... Read 463 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1320

• Average ACT 29

• Durham Public Schools, NC•

• 11-12

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  84 reviews

Senior: The best part of my experience at Middle College High School at DTCC is that me and my fellow classmates are treated with respect, kindness, and equality among other college students, even though we may still be in high school. I am not only able to utilize all the amenities that a usual community college campus provides and earn extra credits toward an associates degree, but am given the responsibility and freedom that a college student would be given. I couldn’t ask for nicer and more supportive staff. I do not think I have ever had any bad experiences during my time at MCHS and I cannot think of anything that needs to be changed, taken away, or added.... Read 84 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Average SAT 1160

• Average ACT 25

• Johnston County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  118 reviews

Alum: If there’s anything I could recommend middle school students who are interested in ECA, it’s go for it! I was an early graduate (4 years rather than 5) and the experience was amazing! ECA has truly allowed me to flourish under rigorous circumstances and helped me feel prepared for my college career. I was able to get 2 Associates degrees (A.A & A.S) and made it into my dream school! Of course, this was not just handed to me, but if students are willing to put in the effort, they can most definitely be very successful. In other words, I do not believe a traditional high school would have prepared me as much as ECA!... Read 118 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1190

• Average ACT 26

• Cabarrus County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  102 reviews

Junior: I had applied and made the decision to come to Early College due to the education opportunities that came with it. No doubt, having the opportunity to achieve an associate degree by the time I graduate high school is phenomenal. On the down side, I had to work through the most academic-related stress I have ever been through (and hopefully ever will). I endured dark thoughts and poor mental health for the sake of my school. In turn, I received outstanding opportunities and a lack of student loans. Now that I moved past my sophomore year (the most challenging bit), I think that every tear, every ounce of frustration I had was completely worth it. Early College is not for everybody but if you are up for the challenge, I urge anyone to give it their best shot!... Read 102 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Average SAT 1200

• Average ACT 25

• Wayne County Public Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.35 out of 5  88 reviews

Senior: This school is not for the faint of heart! You will be required to work your tail off. The staff are skilled and are willing to help you because they know how to the best way possible. The activities are fun and engaging. If you work hard, you'll leave high school with an associate's degree.... Read 88 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1240

• Average ACT 25

• Durham Public Schools, NC•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  267 reviews

Senior: My first year at DSA was in 6th grade and the school was so welcoming. It's a safe place with many different people and you won't feel out of place. DSA focuses on the arts, so if you enjoy music, visual arts, dance, theatre, 2D and 3D design then DSA is the school for you. I guarantee it! And how could an art school not have art around the campus? Everywhere you go, from the middle school building all across campus to the Math and Science building, there is art everywhere. Painted trashcans, drawn-on concrete, clay pots, paintings hung up, walls with beautiful art, and music playing from the orchestra, band, piano, chorus, theatre, guitar, and/or dance rooms. Art can bring people together and there is living proof of that at Durham School of the Arts.... Read 267 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Average SAT 1220

• Average ACT 27