The Best Private Schools in Novi, Michigan
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Novi. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Detroit Country Day School
Detroit Country Day School
Detroit Country Day School is a premier independent college preparatory school serving the Novi and greater Detroit metropolitan area. Founded in 1914, this highly selective institution offers a rigorous academic program with extensive Advanced Placement course offerings and a comprehensive STEM curriculum. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, and extensive athletic complexes. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, DCDS maintains a 100% college acceptance rate to top-tier universities. The school emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence through extensive extracurricular programs in athletics, arts, and community service.
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University Liggett School
University Liggett School
University Liggett School is a distinguished independent school serving families throughout the Detroit metropolitan area, including Novi. As Michigan's only school offering the full International Baccalaureate continuum from preschool through high school, ULS provides a globally-focused education emphasizing critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning. The school features modern academic facilities, dedicated arts spaces, and competitive athletic programs. With a student-teacher ratio of 8:1, the school offers personalized attention and strong college counseling. The curriculum balances rigorous academics with character education and leadership development, preparing students for success at selective colleges and universities.
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Mercy High School
Mercy Education System of the Americas
Mercy High School is a Catholic college-preparatory school for young women located in nearby Farmington Hills, serving students from Novi and surrounding communities. Founded by the Sisters of Mercy, the school offers a comprehensive academic program with specialized academies in STEM, visual and performing arts, and leadership. The campus features modern science laboratories, technology-integrated classrooms, athletic facilities, and dedicated arts spaces. Mercy emphasizes the development of the whole person through academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to others. The school maintains strong college placement records and offers extensive extracurricular opportunities including competitive athletics, clubs, and community service programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Novi, Michigan
What are the primary private school options for families living in Novi, Michigan, and are they located within the city?
While Novi itself is home to several well-regarded private elementary and middle schools (like Novi Christian Academy and St. James Lutheran School), many families in Novi consider prestigious independent schools in nearby communities. The top-tier schools you mentioned—Detroit Country Day School (in Beverly Hills), University Liggett School (in Grosse Pointe Woods), and Mercy High School (in Farmington Hills)—are all within a 20-30 minute commute. This gives Novi residents access to a wide range of educational philosophies, from single-gender Catholic to secular college-preparatory, without needing to live in those specific districts.
How does tuition for private schools in the Novi, Michigan area compare, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition in the Novi area varies significantly. Local parochial schools may range from $5,000 to $10,000 annually, while premier independent schools like Detroit Country Day or University Liggett can exceed $30,000 per year for upper grades. Michigan has two unique financial aid programs that benefit Novi families: the **MI Kids Back on Track** program for tutoring and the potential for contributions to a 529 plan (MI Education Savings Program) to be used for K-12 tuition. Additionally, most major private schools offer substantial need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. It's crucial to apply for aid early, as deadlines often precede admission decisions.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs are notable at private schools accessible from Novi, MI?
Private schools serving the Novi community often feature standout programs leveraging their resources and affiliations. For example, **University Liggett School** is renowned for its innovative "Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning" and global studies curriculum. **Detroit Country Day School** offers extensive advanced STEM research opportunities and a nationally recognized arts program. **Mercy High School**, a Catholic all-girls school, emphasizes leadership in STEM through its dedicated McAuley Science Institute. Many Novi-area privates also have strong connections to local industries for internships, particularly in automotive tech and healthcare.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in the Novi, Michigan region?
The timeline is critical and requires early planning. For fall entry, the process for most top schools (like DCDS, Liggett, Mercy) begins 12-18 months in advance. Key steps include: attending open houses in the fall (Sept-Nov), submitting applications by January deadlines, completing student assessments/interviews by February, and receiving decisions in March. Many schools also host "shadow days" for prospective students. A key local consideration is that these schools draw from a wide metro area, so applying early is essential. Some Novi-based schools may have more rolling admission, but planning for the earlier timeline is safest.
How do the class sizes and academic environments of private schools near Novi compare to the highly-rated Novi Community School District public schools?
This is a central consideration for Novi families. The Novi Community School District is consistently ranked among Michigan's top public districts, offering robust academics, athletics, and arts. The primary differentiators for private options are **class size** and **educational approach**. Private schools typically offer significantly smaller class sizes (e.g., 15:1 vs. 25:1 in public high school), allowing for more individualized attention. Furthermore, private schools provide distinct environments: a faith-based foundation, single-gender education (like Mercy), or a specific pedagogical focus like project-based learning. The choice often comes down to seeking a specific community ethos or more personalized attention than even an excellent public system can provide.
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