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2020 Best Schools Offering AP Courses in the Charlotte AreaAbout this List

Explore the best schools in your area with advanced placement courses based on rigorous analysis of key statistics and millions of reviews from students and parents using data from the U.S. Department of Education. Take an AP test to get college credit and find schools to help you ace AP exams. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

1 – 25 of 98
Best Schools
98 results

  1. Charlotte Country Day School

    • Private School
    • Charlotte, NC
    • PK, K-12
    • 24 reviews
    #1 Best Private High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Senior: Attending Charlotte Country Day has been extremely beneficial to me. The faculty, staff, and students great a friendly and supportive environment. In particular, I highly recommend becoming involved in their theater program, which hosts arguably the best community on campus. The Director of the program is nothing less than an artistic genius, and the program boasts a two-time consecutive state champion title for the their one acts. Simply put, the opportunities and experiences one receives by participating in this community is unmatched. I can think of no better place to hone my skills, and no better people to make theater with.
    Read 24 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,656 Students
    • 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  2. Gaston Day School

    • Private School
    • Gastonia, NC
    • PK, K-12
    • 100 reviews
    #4 Best Private High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Freshman: Coming from a large public school where you get lost in the mix, I was most impressed by the fact that students were so welcoming. From the first day I visited, it felt like home. I have been challenged and supported by teachers and coaches and have been encouraged to be involved in activities in and out of the classroom to help me grow. I know I will be successful in College because of the preparation at Gaston Day. The motto TEAM BEFORE SELF, TIRELESS PREPARATION, FIERCE IN COMPETITION applies on the field and also in the classroom. I am blessed to be a Gaston Day Spartan! #SpartanStrong
    Read 100 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 506 Students
    • 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  3. Ardrey Kell High School

    • Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 585 reviews
    #1 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Works Here: Niche should have this school at #1. Outstanding school. I agree with everything except one characteristic that should be rated much higher. Administration is A+! Leadership here is incredible. Teachers, students, and parents make a great team. Outstanding place to learn.
    Read 585 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,991 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  4. Marvin Ridge High School

    • Union County Public Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 371 reviews
    #2 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Parent: MRHS is a great school with a variety of classes so students can choose the best fit for their learning style. The IB program is outstanding & truly prepares students for life after high school. It's a lot of work, but if your student is motivated & loves learning, it's an excellent option! MRHS has its share of high achievers, which can make it an uphill battle for some of the best students to stand out from the crowd in everything from academics to athletics. The school is located in an affluent area with students feeding in from surrounding neighborhoods. The “Marvin bubble” is not a true representation of the world outside. IB is a countywide program so Union County students are able to apply. This should help with bringing in a more diverse student body, something we recognize a need for. Just "good" players rarely have a chance to experience athletics because the competition is tough. Talk among parents & students feeds the overachievement frenzy.
    Read 371 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,664 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  5. Weddington High School

    • Union County Public Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 348 reviews
    #3 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Senior: Weddington High School gave me the opportunity to spread my wings and expand my knowledge not only about basic math and literature but life skills as well. I came into the school with a negative outlook and no hope. I began to join a club then later was awarded the club Vice President. After being promoted to a higher position in my club, I became very social and excited to go to school. My junior year of High School, I was enrolled in chemistry. Science and Math are difficult subjects for me, but with the help of my teacher I began to acquire chemistry skills easier and faster. Not only did my chemistry teacher teach me the importance of the periodic table but how to grow up as well. In chemistry I learned life skills such as how to prepare for an interview and keep a balance of work and fun. Regardless of what sport, club, or hobby you’re into, you’re bound to thrive at Weddington. Did I mention we’ve won state championships for Football and Track 3 years in a row? Go Warriors!
    Read 348 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,362 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  6. Lake Norman Charter School

    • Public School
    • Huntersville, NC
    • 5-12
    • 237 reviews
    #4 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Freshman: Lake Norman Charter has some of the best teachers in the state. As a student myself, I was fortunate enough to be taught by some of the best teachers. These were teachers that went above and beyond to educate and engage their students by provide an intriguing learning environment. Overall, LNC stands out academically as it was the only high school in the region to receive an "A" on their school report card. There is one thing that I have not been particularly fond of: some new additions to the LNC teaching staff. Ever since the addition of grades K-4 and the movement of some teachers from the middle and high schools, some of the teachers hired were highly questionable in the aspect of teaching ability and did not meet my expectations. In the past year alone, the middle school has had 3 teachers spend a year or less before departing from the LNC staff. While the majority of LNC's teachers remain superb, I strongly encourage LNC to consider their teacher appointments.
    Read 237 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,605 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  9. Myers Park High School

    • Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 406 reviews
    #5 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Senior: Myers Park High School is a great place for students of all diversities. There is a wide range of academic programs offered: IB, AP, honors... The sports are incredible, especially the football team which is nationally ranked in the top 100 teams. The administrators are very passionate about school safety, especially with this being such a large campus. Whether you are into sports, academics, or another club/program, Myers Park is the school for you!
    Read 406 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,994 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  10. Central Academy of Technology & Arts

    • Union County Public Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 118 reviews
    #6 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Senior: My experience with Central Academy of Technology and Arts has been great! I love that there are academy classes because I’m able to do what I love every day. Because I’m in the dance academy of performing arts, I’m able to express myself through dance every day and perform in front of all of my friends and family during the shows. I’m also able to choreograph dances which helps to expand my creativity. Because it’s also a very small school, there is a lot of one on one help from teachers. I believe this is why we are so successful in academics. One thing I would like to see change is CATA’s sports. Because our school is primarily for technology and performing arts, I believe a lot of the focus on sports is lost. It can be hard for anyone desiring a scholarship, for sports specifically, to achieve one if they don’t have the resources to be pushed to their highest potential. Other than that, I think CATA is a great school all around.
    Read 118 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 834 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  11. Pine Lake Preparatory School

    • Public School
    • Mooresville, NC
    • K-12
    • 107 reviews
    #7 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Senior: I like Pine Lake Preparatory a lot! The teachers, staff, and students are all very welcoming and kind to everyone. Each peer is friends with each other. It is can be challenging academically, but the school pushes me to be my best.
    Read 107 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,820 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  12. Highland School of Technology

    • Gaston County Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 212 reviews
    #8 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Senior: I absolutely love the teachers at HST! They tend to be fantastic at making their material engaging regardless of the subject. They are very supportive of their students as well and amazing at preparing students for college.

    The school is largely free of major problems which plague the average public high school. Criminal activity is unheard of at Highland because students must have clean behavior records to be considered for the lottery and will be expelled for such violations. Bullying is also extremely rare and most students are incredibly accepting. Intelligence is considered cool and hardly anyone makes negative comments about the physical appearance of others.

     Competition for valedictorian is EXTREMELY fierce, so any factor reducing the number of AP classes taken could destroy your chance of being in the top 10. This is really the only reason why I cannot give Highland a perfect 5 stars.
    Read 212 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 557 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  13. Providence High School

    • Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 397 reviews
    #9 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Senior: I have spent four years at Providence. I learned time management and communication skills through participating in sports and clubs. As a senior, I feel very prepared for college and I am looking forward to new opportunities. While it may be tough, I have learned a lot through the years and I will never forget the great memories I have made here!
    Read 397 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,048 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  14. Community School of Davidson

    • Public School
    • Davidson, NC
    • K-12
    • 58 reviews
    #10 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Senior: I have been to four schools throughout my K-12 education. CSD is very unique even among the strange schools I have attended. I love my school for many reasons, but the biggest one is the arts program. Community School of Davidson has an amazing arts program with great teachers and talented students. If I have had a rough day, I know I can look forward to my art class and advance my artistic skill. Academically, CSD is also exceptional. I have had wonderful teachers who are very knowledgeable in their subjects. No school is perfect, but I feel like CSD has helped me grow so much as a student and a person.
    Read 58 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,371 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  15. Fort Mill High School

    • Fort Mill School District, SC
    • 9-12
    • 436 reviews
    #12 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Senior: Fort Mill has created an environment, in which pushes me to strive to be the best I can be. Faculty and staff ensure that students at Fort Mill are prepared for life after high school, whether that be in sports or academics. Fort Mill has been a highly ranked high school in the nation, and many often move down to Fort Mill due to the amazing learning experience at Fort Mill. School spirit is amazing, and I will forever be a Yellow Jacket!
    Read 436 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,136 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  16. Cuthbertson High School

    • Union County Public Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 327 reviews
    #13 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Alum: It was a very neat tidy and clean school and well prepares you for going to college! The facility is nice, the teachers are excellent and its overall was just a very nice school to be in. I really learned a lot in my four years at Cuthbertson that I definitely apply to college now. It was such a benefit and it helped me prepare and get ready for college. It is a very safe and comfortable environment to learn freely and express yourself accordingly. I would for sure recommend this school to anyone looking for a place to move and attend a new high school!
    Read 327 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,547 Students
    • 22:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  17. United Faith Christian Academy

    • Private School
    • Charlotte, NC
    • PK, K-12
    • 30 reviews
    #11 Best Private High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Parent: As a parent of children who has attended United Faith Christian Academy for the last seven years I have had the best experience with the teachers, facility and staff. My children have received, and continue to receive, the same level and same quality of education students receive at the larger private schools in the Charlotte area at a faction of the cost. The students that matriculate from United Faith Christian Academy move on to incredible Division I universities. Very high quality education that doesn't break the bank.
    Read 30 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 225 Students
    • 5:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  18. William Amos Hough High School

    • Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 160 reviews
    #16 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Senior: My time at William Amos Hough high has been a pleasant one. I enjoyed making new friends and seeing myself learn to be confident in my abilities when faced with a challenge. One thing I would like to see change at Hough is the school spirit and the events they offer. It is pretty basic and I feel with more involvement with all students it would make for a school that feels more like a community. However, I feel as the teachers at this school make an effort to get to know their students on personal level while maintaining a class that is challenging that will prepare us for college!
    Read 160 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,594 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  19. Nation Ford High School

    • Fort Mill School District, SC
    • 9-12
    • 481 reviews
    #17 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Alum: My experience at Nafo will be well remembered. From Dirty Birds getting the crowd ready for big football games and from caring teachers who guide you academically. I for one have had the best high school experience once could imagine. I joined the Ultimate Frisbee team, participated in Model UN, and played varsity Lacrosse!
    Read 481 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,973 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  22. Cato Middle College High School

    • Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC
    • 11-12
    • 167 reviews
    #18 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Senior: It has provided me with amazing resources and academic possibilities. Thanks to their dual enrollment program I am able to complete my associates degree and complete many general education requirements before transferring to a university. It also allows me to have a better understanding of the career path I want to take in life. The staff is extremely helpful and create welcoming environment. They are committed to helping us succeed and you can tell they really care about all of their students. The school is very diverse and there is a huge sense of school spirit since there’s so many fun events like snow cone mixers, video game buses, and creative job fairs with games and food. I enjoy coming to school everyday and I am certainly glad to be here!
    Read 167 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 202 Students
    • 34:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  23. SouthLake Christian Academy

    • Private School
    • Huntersville, NC
    • PK, K-12
    • 58 reviews
    #13 Best Private High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Parent: My son transferred in 8th grade (he is now a Sophomore) after growing frustrated with the over-crowding and disruptive behavior in the public schools. He craved a more intimate environment and was immediately welcomed by his new classmates. We found his new friends to be exceptionally well mannered and respectful. We have found the teachers to be very committed to their faith and education. There is a strong Christian foundation and the school does a good job not only providing a good academic curriculum but also a good focus on developing good character. The school is very responsive and supportive to the kids and families (it took me a while to get used to dealing with people with common sense and friendliness-I had forgotten that was possible). We have found the school to provide the type of education, we all want for our kids, without an elitist feel and the comfort of knowing we are teaching our kids about school, life and faith!
    Read 58 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 556 Students
    • 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  24. South Mecklenburg High School

    • Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 451 reviews
    #19 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Senior: My experience here was incredible! It is a really a great school because you gain a lot. For example, I have gained new friendships, ideas, knowledge and skills just by being involved in clubs and activities. Thanks to South Mecklenburg, I now know what career I want to pursue. The Language Magnet Program has been able to attract a diverse group of students. In addition, South's faculty and staff try their best to ensure students gain a quality education while maintaining a upbeat atmosphere.
    Read 451 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,031 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  25. Carmel Christian School

    • Private School
    • Matthews, NC
    • K-12
    • 61 reviews
    #14 Best Private High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Parent: As a parent that has two children at CCS, we absolutely know this is the best school for our family. The teachers, staff and families are wonderful! We feel the support from everyone. Our children are challenged, thriving and love attending CCS!
    Read 61 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 967 Students
    • 10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  26. Lincoln Charter School

    • Public School
    • Denver, NC
    • K-12
    • 172 reviews
    #20 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Alum: In the years I attended Lincoln Charter the school developed with greater diversity, course difficulty and after school activities without loses its integrity and close knit community. Parental involvement has always been at the foundation of the school, along with giving back to our community. Each student and family has the opportunity to make an impact in our school and community. The school values student development both academically and personally so that when students graduates they are ready for the next steps in their lives.
    Read 172 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,004 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  27. David W. Butler High School

    • Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 316 reviews
    #21 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Senior: Butler high school is not just a school. It’s a community full of caring teachers, administrators, and staff that want to see you succeed and do well in life no matter the path you take. Over the course of the years, I’ve built solid relationships with my teachers of every grade level who I still keep in contact with. Teachers and staff here are so helpful and willing to do everything they can to help you towards a goal. They’re creative and some are hard on you, but that’s only because they care. Mr. Legrand has been a wonderful principal and he wants each and every student here to feel safe and be involved in school activities. Butler high school has been a wonderful experience for me. Go bulldogs!
    Read 316 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,141 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  28. Queen's Grant Community School

    • Public School
    • Mint Hill, NC
    • K-8
    • 41 reviews

    Alum: Queens grant was an enjoyable experience coming from a local public school. The administration made it a point to establish good morals, as well as academic excellence. The culture of the school pertained in specific sports and clubs, which did limit its outreach to the entire school population.
    Read 41 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 762 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  29. Cox Mill High School

    • Cabarrus County Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 350 reviews
    #23 Best Public High Schools in Charlotte Area

    Senior: I love my school! It has beautiful architecture and a breathtaking campus. Most students are outstanding and create an encouraging environment to lift one another up while no one is looked down upon for doing well. Additionally, the staff/faculty are extremely helpful reaching out to students and giving clear resources to assist students and/or help us stay organized in order to maximize our potential. Our school is a safe environment and community full of laughter and smiles! Moreover, our school has so many opportunities to reach out and get involved. Our sports teams are excellent with our Men's basketball team winning the state championship twice, our women's volley ball once, and our cheerleaders winning twice as well, I believe! Most of all, I love my school because it challenges me. The education is thorough and precise. I learn a ton, grow my social skills, develop my work ethic, and have fun at Cox Mill High School!
    Read 350 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,694 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  30. Sponsored

    Forest Ridge School of the Sacred Heart

    • Private School
    • Bellevue, WA
    • 5-12
    • 47 reviews

    Senior: Forest Ridge is a great school to attend, the academics are very challenging and the teachers know how to push students to create the best work possible. Since the academics are quite rigorous, there is a slightly stressed and competitive environment at the school. However, this does not mean that the student community is not strong. From my personal experience, everyone is so friendly and welcoming, especially new student entering the high school. I would recommend this school to prepare for college readiness as some of the courses mimic college level work. Athletics is also another fun part of the Forest Ridge experience, there is a no-cut policy that ensure that all students can participate in any sports; this is a great place to meet new people in other grades and where I made some of my best friendships!
    Read 47 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 300 Students
    • 5:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
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    Northshore Christian Academy

    • Private School
    • Everett, WA
    • PK, K-8
    • 11 reviews

    Parent: I have been involved with Northshore as a parent for 4 years now. Our family has been blessed in so many ways by the teachers, administrators and families that are part of this wonderful organization. We expected that our children would receive a great education, dedicated teachers in a supportive environment: we didn't expect that Northshore would become like extended family. Northshore grows families in more ways than just educationally. We are a tribe and I couldn't imagine sending my kids anywhere else.
    Read 11 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 813 Students
    • 22:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  36. Sponsored

    The Evergreen School

    • Private School
    • Shoreline, WA
    • PK, K-8
    • 9 reviews

    Parent: My children have very different personalities, along with different social-emotional needs and challenges. Evergreen knows each kid quite well. Each time we hit a rough patch, there was dialogue and teamwork with the faculty and counselors, which I really appreciated. The older students set their own goals and run their own parent conferences. Kids using powerpoint! But in all seriousness, this self-reflection and ownership seems like excellent preparation for a future of independent learning. Oh yeah, and the BIG Lab, a high-tech makerspace, is amazing. I wish I could go here.
    Read 9 Reviews

    • 483 Students
    • 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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