2024 Best Schools Offering AP Courses in the San Francisco Bay Area

• Oakland, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.47 out of 5  77 reviews

Parent: Head Royce School in Oakland is exceptional! The dedicated teachers, engaged parent community, and focus on holistic student development make it an outstanding choice. Our 4th and 2nd graders have thrived here since kindergarten, benefiting from top-notch education, inclusive environment, and diverse extracurricular activities. Highly recommended!... Read 77 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 900

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Dublin, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  198 reviews

Alum: Since 2016, Quarry Lane School has been an integral part of my life, and I am incredibly grateful for the education and support it provided. The dedicated teachers and staff members created a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment that not only helped me achieve academic success but also prepared me for the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. Quarry Lane's tight-knit community and inclusive culture fostered personal, social, and emotional growth, equipping me with the skills and confidence necessary to pursue my passion for computer science at Harvey Mudd College this fall and beyond. I express immense gratitude for the incredible experiences I've had at Quarry Lane School. It has truly become a second home to me!... Read 198 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 975

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• San Jose, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  169 reviews

Alum: I attended Harker from Kindergarten through High School. Harker's repute as a powerhouse of intense and thorough academics is well-earned– students are constantly challenged in the classroom. However, this academic rigor does not come at the cost of a full-fledged extracurricular experience. Harker's many extracurricular departments provide an all-encompassing vocational education that seamlessly accompanies students' academic experience, including athletics, arts, journalism, engineering, and much more. Unfortunately, while Harker's culture encourages growth and self-improvement, it lacks support for students' mental and physical health. Students often prioritize their academic work above other important aspects of life, such as sleep, health, and socializing, and this culture often contributes to burnout and mental health problems. Overall, if you are searching for a school that will exceedingly prepare you for college and beyond, I recommend Harker with confidence.... Read 169 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,982

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• San Francisco, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  72 reviews

Parent: I have two children at the school. They have been very well supported and they are getting a great education. They do have a significant amount of homework but they are still able to be very involved with their sports and other extra-curricular activities. Both of my kids are involved with the sports and music programs at school. The work load is manageable and they have plenty of time to spend with their friends on the weekends. It is academically challenging but my children are thriving. I feel they are well prepared for college. They have both made great friends amongst their classmates and have no regrets about attending UHS. Also, the new head of schools is great and really accessible.... Read 72 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 416

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Portola Valley, CA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  76 reviews

Middle school student: Everyone here is so nice. For the admissions process, I understand that it's difficult to get into but that's because it is such a great school and lots of people want to get in. We have so much fun activities and people there would help you in a second. + the beautiful campus. It isn't a very serious catholic school in case you are wondering. Theology is basically talking about what you are spiritual.... Read 76 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 426

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• San Francisco, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  85 reviews

Alum: Convent is a great school for college-driven students. Due to the small size of the school, you are able to have more opportunities to take advanced courses (AP/IB). These types of students have the ability to excel academically and receive all the support they need. In that regard, 10/10. Only reason I did not provide a five star review is due to a lot of the blatant favoritism to students who went to the school for all of their education (K-12) as opposed to students who joined in high school. Convent and Stuart Hall is an amazing institution all around.... Read 85 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,100

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Lafayette, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.2 out of 5  129 reviews

Parent: We are new to Bentley this year - our eldest son is in Kindergarten - and so far we have had a fantastic experience. Our son comes home every day happy and chattering about all he learned at school. His writing and drawing have taken off and he’s very engaged. The school has provided a great mix of both challenging him academically and also supporting him socially and emotionally during a big transition year. The kindergarten teachers are wonderful and real pros, striking a great balance between being nurturing and fun loving but also no nonsense so the kids respect them. And beyond K, the quality of teachers seems wonderful as is the breadth of speciality classes from music to movement and garden, art, PE, mandarin, library etc. After-school til 6p is at no extra cost which is a big plus! Most importantly we’ve found a wonderful active diverse community at Bentley. Our son has made great friendships and we have really enjoyed getting to know other families and classmates.... Read 129 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 680

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• San Jose, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  122 reviews

Parent: BISV is a splendid educational haven for my kids, offering a warm, engaging environment enhanced by skilled teachers and diverse activities like the World Festival, School Carnival, and Spirit Week. The standout feature is its STEM curriculum, arguably the Bay Area's best. The school maintains a strong academic emphasis, effectively reducing distractions. This focus offers parents peace of mind and allows students to concentrate on their learning. The effectiveness of BISV's methods is seen in their graduates' success, with many joining prestigious colleges like Stanford, Yale, MIT, Berkeley, and Harvard. Above all, witnessing my kids grow as happy, involved learners in this supportive setting has been the greatest reward. It's a place where kids not only learn but also relish the process. As a parent, I couldn't ask for more.... Read 122 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,190

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Palo Alto Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  331 reviews

Senior: Honestly not terrible. Can at times be a bit hit and miss (i.e. got unlucky with teachers, but at what school is that not a thing), but for the most part you can get a pretty good experience out of this school if you stay optimistic. Which brings me to the main downside: (it feels like) everyone goes to college. And because of that, there are great resources to go to college! Which means you can get lulled into a false sense of security around knowing what you need to do for college even though you don't because so much has been handed to you. But as long as you're aware of that you can avoid those pitfalls and have a pretty good time.... Read 331 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,868

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• San Anselmo, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  112 reviews

Parent: As educators, my husband and I know what to look for in terms of "style versus substance" of schools that claim to be able to focus on academics, social emotional learning, diversity, inclusion, equity, mindfulness, kindness and respect. We are blown away at how exceptional SD is at providing all of these things for our daughter. My husband was literally in tears at the back to school night after hearing about the details and intentionality around the lesson plans and approach to literacy and math, as well as the social and emotional aspects of learning in and out of the classroom. The teachers are masters and know what they are doing, and they are provided with the resources and professional development to provide an excellent research-based curriculum to the students. I've worked at many independent schools for more than a decade and SD stands out as one of the best schools that I've encountered in my history as an educator. We are so grateful that our daughter has SD!... Read 112 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 680

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• San Francisco, CA•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  32 reviews

Other: As a previous mathematics teacher of three years at HSA, I can attest to the excellence of this institution. Both administration and faculty are aligned on providing the best possible, holistic education for all students. Teachers cater to each of their students' needs, possible with such small class sizes. Administration is supportive of their staff, students and families, constantly reassessing and experimenting to expand and improve. Students are kind, mature, hard working and driven.... Read 32 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 49

• Student-teacher ratio 3:1

• San Francisco, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.26 out of 5  375 reviews

Senior: SI is such a fun school! There is always something to do after school whether that be clubs, sports, arts, or other extracurricular and you are strongly encouraged to participate in the student life and attend the many fun events. SI has great school spirit and the teachers want you to succeed. The academics are also modern and prepare you for college, relating the classroom material to the rest of your life. In addition, you have room in your schedule to pursue your own passions as well, from computer science to jazz band, to yearbook! There is a wonderful Community Service program with a life-changing Immersion experience as well as Campus Ministry both with Frosh and Soph retreats and senior Kairos! Saint Ignatius’s Jesuit values inspire students to lead lives of generosity, called to service, to leadership and love. Even though SI is a Jesuit school, it is open to all religions and spiritualities. SI really does care for the whole person and I am so glad that I chose to go here!... Read 375 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,476

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Palo Alto Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  353 reviews

Junior: The overall spirit in the school is great! Academics are on quite a high level and students are competitive. Teachers are not always the best though. But the most important part for me, as a passionate future engineer, are extracurricular activities -- clubs and academic teams. The system of setting up a really strong club and finding right people to help is messed up. I would love to see a change in school's approach to this. Maybe they can hire specific people who will be in charge of helping setting up and funding clubs... Read 353 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,010

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Palo Alto, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  35 reviews

Parent: Our daughter is a sophomore (10th) and is throughly enjoying her experience at Kehillah. After an all girls middle school experience we were looking for a smaller coeducational high school with not just excellent academics and extracurricular programs but a school that has a fun and exciting atmosphere. So far we have been impressed with how accepting and fun the community has been although we are not of Jewish faith. My daughter has made close friends and we have become close with other families. It’s truly a wonderful community and you’ll have no time finding your place here. The administration staff is also very integrated with the families and are always ready to help. The PTA also puts together periodic get togethers where we all can meet and share not just our thoughts and ideas but very tasty food! We are so glad with our decision for our daughter and enjoy watching her learn, grow and make more connections at Kehillah. We love the Kehillah community!... Read 35 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 189

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• San Jose, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.55 out of 5  220 reviews

Senior: I have enjoyed my experience here at Bellarmine, it has taught me to be an active learner and has definitely prepared me for College. There are so many activities to get involved in and they do a great job of trying to make sure everyone feels included and represented. Just like any school or institution you will get out what you put in so step out of your comfort zone and try new things to hopefully discover your passion. Go Bells!... Read 220 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,667

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  216 reviews

Sophomore: As a high school student who moved from Korea to start my first experience in an American high school at Saratoga High School, I consider my experience incomparable to any other high school I might have gotten into. Saratoga High School has a broad diversity where most students are first-generation immigrants from many different cultures. Although many people comment that our school is putting immense pressure on students, I think the pressure actually motivates many students. However, sometimes this pressure and high expectations on students might be too much.... Read 216 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,159

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• San Jose, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  265 reviews

Junior: The Notre Dame environment has been welcoming and inclusive from the start. The teachers and staff truly care about the students, and everyone is so supportive. Some teachers have had an especially positive impact on me and my education, and I've met some wonderful people through extracurriculars and clubs. I truly appreciate the variety of ethnic groups and leadership programs, as well as the variety of classes that are open to us. One thing I'd like to see change, however, is more initial information about the college application process. It would be great to have more of a heads-up as to what students might want to start doing earlier rather than later in regards to applying to college. Overall, Notre Dame is an amazing school with great students and staff, and I look forward to going to school every day!... Read 265 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 655

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• San Francisco Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,087 reviews

Senior: I'm a graduating senior and my experience at Lowell was great. The workload honestly depends on what classes and teachers you take, but if you take a demanding course load make sure to stay on top of your work. Take advantage of the resources that Lowell offers like clubs and sports, but also college and career resources like the college center! Also try experimenting with creating your own schedule which is similar to what you'll do in college and how you spend your time in and outside of school. Tbh COVID and distance learning helped me find what I'm passionate about although it was quite isolating, it was an overall positive experience for me.... Read 1,087 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,652

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• San Francisco, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  30 reviews

Parent: JCHS is a gem of a school! I'm a current parent, and at Back to School Night, I wished that I could trade places with my student and go to classes. The faculty are the top in their field, many with PhD's, who are deeply committed to getting to know each student, and ensure they are curious, deep learners. My daughter has made friends from across the Bay Area and across the diversity of our Jewish community. For a small school, JCHS offers a wide range of sports, clubs, arts, and a marvelous theater program. The new robotics and engineering lab allows my science-kid to excel.... Read 30 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 180

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  342 reviews

Senior: I am currently a senior in high school, and overall my experience in high school has been really great! The school provides students with incredible opportunities in STEM (robotics, and Advanced Science Investigation (basically an independent research class)). The arts and journalism programs are also very talented and I'm happy to say I've been a part of all of these things. This school helps prepare students for the future. Additionally, there are many classes to help students who don't have English as their native language and who have learning disabilities which are very helpful. Some things that make LAHS rough are the competitive environment (which is pretty much ubiquitous throughout the Bay Area high schools) and some of the administration. The competitive environment, while it does kind of help motivate you to push your limits, is very tiring. I also heard complaints about some students coming to admin with issues that they don't resolve or ignore. Overall, the LAHS is great!... Read 342 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,136

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• San Jose, CA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  30 reviews

Senior: As a recent graduate of the school, I feel the school is quite a good place for education in terms of the freedom of choice and quality of education provided. Teachers genuinely want to see you succeed, and you're allowed to dabble in whichever subject you take interest in. Overall I would recommend!... Read 30 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 79

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  302 reviews

Senior: This school is very competitive. We have many sports teams that are league champions, robotics goes to nationals every year, and you can feel that. I would think that most kids not in MVHS would think that a B is ok, but most kids you talk to consider a B to be a D. Many kids you see talking 3-4 AP classes because their parents made them too, so just warning all younger grades, YOU DONT NEED TO TAKE ALL AP AND HONORS CLASSES! The teachers will teach you what you need to know, and if you keep up with the work, you will learn enough. Facility's are gross though. Many kids do not respect the bathrooms, and it can be a pain to find a clean stall. If you are an arts kid at all, try checking out Freestyle Academy. It has state of the art teachers and tech, its FREE, and it will be your favorite part of the day.... Read 302 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,316

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• San Francisco, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  78 reviews

Parent: Our daughter had an amazing experience at Drew! She not only graduated well-prepared for college, but she was also better prepared for life. Drew really understands teenagers, and they want teenagers to develop a lifelong love for learning. They also care about their students' mental health and social development, which means that students get a well-rounded experience that sets them up for the future. On top of all that, the school has wonderful teachers, a beautiful campus and an incredible overall community. We're so grateful to Drew for everything they did to set our daughter up for success!... Read 78 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 296

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• San Jose, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.3 out of 5  188 reviews

Junior: Archbishop Mitty's overall culture is phenomenal. Mitty is a very spirited and close knit community which provides a safe learning environment for the students. The faculty are approachable and supportive. Mitty offers many clubs and has an excellent sports program! I feel that Archbishop Mitty is a very diverse, well rounded school with many opportunities for all students academically and socially.... Read 188 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,768

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Oakland, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  214 reviews

Sophomore: I have been attending Bishop O'Dowd Highschool for two years now, and safe to say I love it. I am involved in the theater department, have run varsity cross country, joined many and started one club, performed in school-wide events, and enjoyed every moment. O'Dowd's academics have been challenging yet engaging. I never find myself struggling in class with the resources available to me, like tutoring and counseling, and you can tell that the teachers truly care about their profession. The community is supportive and the upperclassmen in leadership positions did a great job of welcoming and hyping everyone up for school! Especially during spirit week! My favorite place on campus is the living lab where students like me get to learn about growing and harvesting produce that is later used in the cafeteria for lunches and sustainable activities like eco club. In conclusion, I'd give my high school a five out of five rating and recommend any rising freshman, or transfer students to apply!... Read 214 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,259

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1