The 50 best private high schools in America

Location: Middletown, Delaware

Overall rating: 94.58

Average SAT score: 1980

"I have had the greatest four years of my life here at SAS," a senior commented. "Both the students and the faculty are the nicest people that I have ever met. I cannot imagine a better environment to take advantage of a great education, as well as make tons of lifelong friends along the way."

Location: San Francisco, California

Overall rating: 94.60

Average SAT score: 2090

"I can't say enough great things about this school," one parent said. "Everything they do is thoughtful and deliberate. Not only does L-W have excellent academics but they also develop the entire person, socially and emotionally. Students are kind, tolerant, diverse, respectful, and very happy!

Location: Livingston, New Jersey

Overall rating: 94.73

Average SAT score: 2080

"Teachers are always happy to provide extra help, and for the most part create fun and engaging classroom environments," one senior said.

Students point out that excellent teachers make the hard work worth it. "Definitely one of the best schools in the state," another senior noted. "Rigorous academics but the teachers make it possible for everyone to succeed as long as they apply themselves."

Location: Dedham, Massachusetts

Overall rating: 94.75

Average SAT score: 2080

"Teachers here typically hold the highest degree in their respective fields," a Niche user commented. "Teachers are always willing to meet with students outside of class and are always available for extra help. All teachers are very knowledgeable about their subject and they will always keep the student's best interest in mind."

Location: Greenwich, Connecticut

Overall rating: 94.93

Average SAT score: 2090

"The teachers truly go above and beyond in every way to make students feel encouraged, valuable, and heard." one Niche user said.

Greenwich Academy offers numerous opportunities outside of the classroom as well. "Whatever your passion, there's an opportunity to pursue it at GA," another Niche user noted. "And the best part is that kids aren't really trying to fill up a college resume; they pursue what they love and leave it at that."

Location: Irving, Texas

Overall rating: 95.30

Average SAT score: 2170

"Knowing Cistercian my whole life, the success rate of students who have attended Cistercian is 100%," a senior said. "It will prepare you with a curriculum for college and the real world, including discussion of life's hardest or most controversial topics that you would otherwise never think of."

Location: Washington, DC

Overall rating: 95.46

Average SAT score: 2110

"The teachers at STA not only care passionately about the academic education that each student receives, but, more importantly, they help mold the character of each boy," a senior explained. "Whether it be through their own accolades and research, or engaging lectures, or extra-curricular opportunities, or technological savviness, the teachers truly prepare each boy for college."

Location: Rye, New York

Overall rating: 95.53

Average SAT score: 2110

"RCDS is known throughout the country for the rigorous academics, and the students here are more invested in their education than average," one Niche user said. "It is rare for a student not to be in at least one AP, but even the regular classes are very challenging in comparison to other schools."

Location: Martinsville, New Jersey

Overall rating: 95.54

Average SAT score: 2060

"Although they sometimes have very, very high expectations, the teachers do genuinely want the students to succeed," one Niche user explained. "I think most of them also care about their students on an interpersonal level as well."

Location: Palo Alto, California

Overall rating: 95.57

Average SAT score: 2160

"This school really cares about the students and puts them first," a recent graduate said. "They aren't always able to get everything right, but Castilleja always tries to improve and change with the times. I appreciated the all-girls environment and the supportive community."

Location: New York, New York

Overall rating: 95.59

Average SAT score: 2160

"The teachers really know their subject, and they try their best to make every class interesting and engaging fro everyone," a junior said.

Students also enjoy all the activities available to them. "I love all the extracurricular clubs in the school and doubt I would have been able to build the friend group I have without them," a senior commented.

Location: New York, New York

Overall rating: 95.61

Average SAT score: 2180

"Great sense of school community. Fantastic teachers. Strong academically. Very supportive faculty, administration, and staff," one Niche user noted. "The boys receive a well-rounded experience focused on academics and building character. The school is progressive and forward thinking."

Location: Atherton, California

Overall rating: 95.70

Average SAT score: 2110

"Menlo really creates a Renaissance learner who engages in all academic disciplines, appreciates art, participates in athletics, and gives back to the community at large," one student said.

Location: Coconut Grove, Florida

Overall rating: 95.71

Average SAT score: 2070

"The teachers at Ransom truly care about their students and really get to know each child's strengths and weaknesses," one parent reported. "The curriculum is very rigorous and the students are well prepared for AP exams and for university studies. I feel confident that my son will excel when he goes off to college and beyond due to the great foundation that he received at Ransom."

Location: Washington, DC

Overall rating: 95.81

Average SAT score: 2070

Every student can find their place at Sidwell Friends School. "There are lots of different extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations for all types of interests," one senior said.

Location: Bronx, New York

Overall rating: 95.84

Average SAT score: 2130

"Each teacher has their individual style but they all make the courses as engaging as possible," a senior reported. "They are available to meet outside the class and are reachable by email. Students are encouraged to develop new ideas and present them to staff, such as a new class, club, or activity."

Location: New York, New York

Overall rating: 95.85

Average SAT score: 2090

"All the teachers are amazing in their respective fields," one Niche user said. "The overall quality of teachers is outstanding and they are all extremely knowledgeable and connect well with the students."

Chapin also boasts top-notch facilities. "The technology at our school is amazing. We all have our own computers as well as an IT Help Desk to help us," a student explained. "We even have a math room with three Smart Boards in it, to add a more visual aspect to mathematics."

Location: Ross, California

Overall rating: 95.92

Average SAT score: 2080

"Teachers are the best part about the school," one senior noted. "They love helping students outside of the classroom and are approachable about things not related to their subject as well. They are engaged in classroom discussions and have a lot of experience usually."

Location: Washington, DC

Overall rating: 96.033

Average SAT score: 2100

"Not only have I developed intellectually, I have also grown immensely as a person," one junior said. "Through my class discussions, I have learned confidence regarding public speaking; through my English and history classes, I have learned to read and write critically; through my one-on-one discussions with teachers, I have learned important conversational skills."

"NCS teachers trust us to lead many class discussions, which leads us to feel invested in our learning and thus take it seriously," they added.

Location: Boston, Massachusetts

Overall rating: 96.034

Average SAT score: 2200

"Classes are very challenging and the workload is difficult, but teachers care and the classes are interesting," a senior noted.

The school's manicured campus is a draw for students as well. "Since we're in the city, it's impressive the amount of green space we have," one student said.

Location: Bronx, New York

Overall rating: 96.07

Average SAT score: 2104

"Overall great environment to prepare for college. They teach you how to manage time, study, and be ready for the college rigors," a recent graduate said. "They prepare you to think and not just remember and regurgitate. The environment is a friendly competition and you do not have a chance to slack."

Location: Dallas, Texas

Overall rating: 96.093

Average SAT score: 2090

"Hockaday provides endless opportunities for girls with ambition, intelligence, and work ethics," one senior said. "Students come together from all backgrounds to pursue a wide array of passions and interests, while also gaining an excellent academic foundation."

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Overall rating: 96.097

Average SAT score: 2120

"The teachers are about as dedicated as they come," one parent explained. "They are very interested not only in teaching you the information, but in making sure you truly understand the information. They will review it with you, meet you in study sessions or group sessions to assist you, and email you back very quickly if you ask a question in an email."

Location: La Jolla, California

Overall rating: 96.21

Average SAT score: 2080

"The students are accepting and appreciate their classmates for their unique talents. Teachers are demanding, but want to see the students succeed," one former student reported. "Classes are rigorous and challenge the kids to speak and to think. They are well prepared for college."

Location: New Haven, Connecticut

Overall rating: 96.36

Average SAT score: 2100

"Hopkins works hard to create an inclusive environment that challenges students to think critically," a former student said. "The teachers are truly vested in their students, and the school provides resources to students to achieve and improve at all levels."

Location: Los Angeles, California

Overall rating: 96.39

Average SAT score: 2100

"Four words: You can't do better. In every venue Marlborough succeeds," one Niche user noted. "It is a warm, caring, supportive environment where girls flourish — if a girl can think it, there is someone there to help her make it happen."

The all-girls school funnels graduates into top universities as well. "Marlborough graduates consistently move on to the best colleges and universities in the country, commonly sending dozens or more to Ivy League schools each year," one former student reported.

Location: Houston, Texas

Overall rating: 96.52

Average SAT score: 2190

"St. John's is a great school. It really prepares you for college and gives its students all that is necessary to succeed in life," one graduate commented. "Students at SJS learn social as well as intellectual values that serve them well."

Location: Pasadena, California

Overall rating: 96.54

Average SAT score: 2100

"I've loved my experience at Poly, and I would do it all over again if I were given the chance," a Niche user said. "This school has a reputation of being an academic school — which it is — but that does not mean that academics are the students' sole purpose. Students take advantage of opportunities within the arts, athletics, and extracurriculars as well, which is ultimately what makes this school so special."

Location: Hillsborough, California

Overall rating: 96.58

Average SAT score: 2140

"Crystal is truly one of the only schools I know where being smart won't get you labeled as a nerd or a geek," a senior explained. "Every single student at Crystal brings something to the table and I think that's what makes it such a special place."

"Also, I'm able to explore so many extracurricular interests at Crystal," they added.

Location: New York, New York

Overall rating: 96.60

Average SAT score: 2170

"Teachers are great. True legends," a senior simply stated.

Outside of the classroom, students find plenty of ways to stay busy and hone new interests. "The extracurriculars are generally well-represented and well-funded and supported by the school," another senior noted.

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

Overall rating: 97.03

Average SAT score: 2100

"I have nothing but good things to say about the school," one senior noted. "Everyone is smart, works hard, plays hard, and is involved in many different facets of school life. It's incredible."

Students also point out the high caliber of teachers at BB&N. "Our teachers could easily teach at a college level," a senior said. "They treat students with respect and facilitate great classroom conversations."

Location: San Jose, California

Overall rating: 97.11

Average SAT score: 2220

"There is a large variety of courses available at this school, and most of the teachers are great at helping the students learn the material," one junior reported. "The workload is usually manageable, but some tougher courses understandably have more homework."

Location: Seattle, Washington

Overall rating: 97.14

Average SAT score: 2150

"Probably the greatest strength of this school is its teachers," one Niche user said. "They will all do everything they can to make sure you understand the material if you are struggling, and they are all incredibly professional, approachable, and intelligent."

Students also tout the technology available to them at Lakeside. "We have incredible teachers and amazing resources, including computers for everyone and Smart Boards in almost every classroom," one former student reported.

Location: Dallas, Texas

Overall rating: 97.17

Average SAT score: 2160

"Teachers are often experts in their field and often are recognized curriculum leaders," one Niche user noted. "While the workload is intense, students are almost always more than capable of handling it, and the school ensures that there is adequate support for the students' success."

Former students speak to how well St. Mark's prepared them for college. "I matriculated to an Ivy League university with high-powered academics, but many of my classes felt easy compared to the classes I took at St. Mark's," one graduate said. "The time management, study, and grit-forming skills that St. Mark's taught me genuinely prepared me extremely well for college."

Location: Deerfield, Massachusetts

Overall rating: 97.23

Average SAT score: 2100

"My school was an amazing place to spend four years because of the people in the community, the devoted teachers, and the moments that will never be forgotten," a former student said. "My favorite experiences were spending hours in the hall talking and fooling around with my hallmates — that's when friendship become true."

Location: Oakland, California

Overall rating: 97.27

Average SAT score: 2200

The school lives up to its name. "Upon graduation, I felt extremely well-prepared for college and the 'real world,'" one former student said. "Every student from my graduating class went on to attend some sort of higher education institution."

"Most students will tell you that college was a comparatively easy experience for them after attending College Prep," they continued.

Location: West Roxbury, Massachusetts

Overall rating: 97.37

Average SAT score: 2180

Roxbury Latin's teachers go the extra mile to help students. "They're easily accessible to every degree, extremely knowledgeable, they will not quit even when you get it right just to make sure you get the material on every level," one Niche user said. "They care about each student immensely and failing is never an option."

Location: Carpinteria, California

Overall rating: 97.51

Average SAT score: 2080

"From the beautiful views and fantastic weather to the interesting, challenging classes and sense of community, Cate students leave here with the tools they need to improve not only their lives, but others'," a sophomore noted.

Location: La Canada Flintridge, California

Overall rating: 97.57

Average SAT score: 2140

"Choosing which college to attend to was difficult to say the least, but Flintridge Prep equipped me with such great study habits and a healthy mentality that I am not struggling at all at college and am having a great time both socially and academically," a recent graduate said.

Location: Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

Overall rating: 97.60

Average SAT score: 2110

"The teachers at this school are amazing," a senior commented. "Not only do they make sure the students feel comfortable within the classroom, but the teachers also make sure the students feel comfortable outside of the classroom."

Location: Lakeville, Connecticut

Overall rating: 98.13

Average SAT score: 2100

"The people you meet are some of the most intelligent and genuine individuals from all over the world," one Niche user said. "The relationships you create are worthwhile. You learn so much from your peers."

Students also tout the teachers that helped them along the way. "The teachers there were some of my favorite people, especially my sports coaches and dorm faculty," one graduate reported.

Location: Wallingford, Connecticut

Overall rating: 98.23

Average SAT score: 2040

"The environment is a friendly and welcoming one. Although the workload can be stressful, advisers, prefects, and peers will help you through it," a former student noted. "There are so many ways you can do the things the you enjoy. I formed unforgettable bonds here, and I am grateful for everything they've taught me."

Location: Groton, Massachusetts

Overall rating: 98.49

Average SAT score: 2110

"It's a hard school, but the people you meet and the classes you take make it worth it!" a graduate said. "I would do it again and recommend it to anyone applying to boarding school."

Location: Studio City, California

Overall rating: 98.72

Average SAT score: 2120

"Everyone is driven to succeed, and nearly everyone ends up going to top-level universities," a senior noted. "There is definitely a ton of competition, pressure, and work, but if you manage your time well, it's definitely worth it."

Top-notch teachers add to students' experiences as well. "All the teachers are very knowledgeable and available outside of class time to help the students," one Niche user said. "Most of the teachers are excellent and seem genuinely concerned with student development."

Location: Lawrenceville, New Jersey

Overall rating: 98.721

Average SAT score: 2130

"The community is one that is like no other," one former student commented. "People are all friendly. Students have relationships with teachers and all their peers. There are clubs and organizations for every interest. The academics are challenging. The house system is unique and allows for unique friendships to be made."

Location: Concord, New Hampshire

Overall rating: 98.73

Average SAT score: 2100

"The academics are difficult, but interesting. If you engage yourself here you can find a lot out about yourself," a senior reported. "Overall, it is a great place to foster personal growth and help you achieve your goals."

Location: Stanford, California

Overall rating: 98.75

Average SAT score: 2150

"Stanford OHS is distinguished by its core curriculum which puts a strong emphasis on teaching students how to think and argue persuasively," one parent explained. "In addition to the core, however, there are plenty of courses available for students to focus heavily in university-level math and sciences or take university-level classes in the humanities."

Location: Exeter, New Hampshire

Overall rating: 98.94

Average SAT score: 2120

"Making lasting friendships and great connections. A strong sense of community. Harkness method, the best way to learn in the classroom," a senior noted. "I would do it all over again!"

Other students shared their affinity for Harkness, Exeter's signature seminar-style teaching method, as well. "Harkness helped me discover my love of reading and writing by allowing me to share my thoughts with my peers around the table and hear how the readings made others feel and think," a recent graduate said.

Location: Andover, Massachusetts

Overall rating: 100

Average SAT score: 2180

"My school is unique because all of the faculty members care about the students and try their best to get to know everyone," one senior said. "There are so many opportunities at my school, and there is a club/sport/activity for everyone. The faculty members push us because they know we have so much potential, and I really appreciate that."