The Best Private Schools in Nashua, New Hampshire
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Nashua. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Academy for Science and Design
ASD Charter School
The Academy for Science and Design is New Hampshire's premier STEM-focused charter high school, consistently ranked among the top schools in the state. ASD offers an accelerated curriculum with specialized tracks in biotechnology, engineering, computer science, and advanced mathematics. Students participate in original research projects, compete in national science competitions, and benefit from partnerships with local tech companies. The school maintains a rigorous academic environment with exceptional college placement records and state-of-the-art laboratory facilities.
Programs:
The Derryfield School
Independent School
Located just 15 minutes from Nashua in Manchester, The Derryfield School is a highly respected independent college preparatory school serving Southern New Hampshire. The school offers a challenging academic program with small class sizes, extensive Advanced Placement offerings, and a comprehensive arts curriculum. Derryfield emphasizes character education and leadership development through community service programs. The campus features modern academic buildings, athletic facilities, and arts centers. The school maintains a diverse student body and has an outstanding record of college placements to selective institutions.
Programs:
Bishop Guertin High School
Roman Catholic Diocese of Manchester
Bishop Guertin High School is a premier Catholic college preparatory school serving Southern New Hampshire. With a strong academic reputation, BGHS offers a comprehensive curriculum including 18 Advanced Placement courses, extensive STEM programs, and competitive athletics. The school emphasizes character development and community service while maintaining small class sizes. Facilities include modern science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic complexes. The school consistently achieves high college acceptance rates and has a strong alumni network.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Nashua, New Hampshire
What are the main types of private schools available in Nashua, NH, and how do they differ?
Nashua offers a diverse range of private schools catering to different educational philosophies. You'll find prominent Catholic/college-preparatory schools like Bishop Guertin High School (grades 9-12), which offers a traditional liberal arts curriculum with a faith-based community. For STEM-focused students, The Academy for Science and Design (grades 6-12) is a public charter school with a private-school-like model, requiring an application and lottery, and is renowned for its intensive science, technology, engineering, and mathematics program. Just a short drive away in Manchester, The Derryfield School offers a rigorous, independent college-preparatory experience for grades 6-12. This variety allows Nashua parents to choose based on academic specialization, religious affiliation, and educational approach.
How does tuition for Nashua, NH private schools compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are available?
Tuition for day schools in the Nashua area typically ranges from approximately $15,000 to $25,000+ per year for upper grades, which is generally in line with or slightly above the New Hampshire private school average due to the region's higher cost of living. Importantly, New Hampshire has the "Education Tax Credit" program, which allows businesses to receive tax credits for donations to scholarship organizations that provide financial aid to students attending private schools. This program can be a significant source of need-based assistance. Additionally, most schools like Bishop Guertin and Derryfield have their own substantial financial aid and scholarship funds. It's crucial to apply for aid early, as deadlines often precede admission decisions.
What is the enrollment timeline and process like for competitive private schools in the Nashua area?
The timeline for Nashua-area private schools is typically aligned with the national independent school calendar. The process often begins in the fall, with open houses held from September to November. Application deadlines for the following academic year are usually between January and February. Key steps include submitting an application, student essays, teacher recommendations, standardized test scores (like the SSAT or ISEE), and a family interview. For schools with limited seats, like The Academy for Science and Design, admission is via a public lottery after an initial application period, making it critical to know their specific deadlines. We recommend starting your research at least a year in advance.
How do the academic outcomes and college placements from Nashua's top private schools compare to the public school system?
Nashua's public schools are generally well-regarded, but the area's top private schools often demonstrate distinct outcomes. Schools like The Derryfield School and Bishop Guertin High School consistently boast a 100% college matriculation rate, with graduates attending a wide array of highly selective national universities. These schools typically offer smaller class sizes (often 12-15 students), more personalized college counseling, and a curriculum designed specifically for college preparation. The Academy for Science and Design produces exceptional outcomes in STEM fields, with students frequently winning national competitions. The choice often comes down to the desired environment, specialization, and the level of individual attention a student may need for their post-secondary goals.
Given Nashua's location, what unique advantages do its private schools offer in terms of extracurriculars and community?
Nashua's position as New Hampshire's second-largest city and its proximity to Boston (about 45 minutes away) provides unique advantages. Private schools leverage this for enhanced extracurriculars, including robust athletic conferences that compete across New England, easy access to cultural and scientific institutions in Boston for field trips, and partnerships with local tech companies in the "Silicon Millyard" for internships or mentorship programs, especially beneficial for STEM-focused schools. Furthermore, the schools foster a strong, close-knit community feel that can be harder to find in larger public school districts. This combination of a supportive, focused school community with the resources of a major metropolitan area is a significant draw for Nashua families.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities