The Best Private Schools in Bergenfield, New Jersey
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Bergenfield. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Dwight-Englewood School
Independent
Dwight-Englewood School is a highly regarded independent college preparatory school serving students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. Located just minutes from Bergenfield, the school offers a rigorous academic program with small class sizes, extensive arts and athletics programs, and state-of-the-art facilities. The school emphasizes critical thinking, global citizenship, and character development, with graduates consistently attending top-tier universities. The 45-acre campus features modern science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic facilities.
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Academy of the Holy Angels
Independent Catholic School
Academy of the Holy Angels is an independent Catholic college preparatory school for young women serving the Bergen County area, including Bergenfield. The school offers a challenging academic curriculum with extensive Advanced Placement courses, renowned STEM programs, and comprehensive arts education. With a focus on empowering young women through education, Holy Angels provides strong college counseling, competitive athletics, and numerous extracurricular opportunities. The school maintains a diverse student body and emphasizes service learning and leadership development.
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Bergen Catholic High School
Private Catholic School
Bergen Catholic High School is an all-boys Catholic college preparatory school serving students from Bergenfield and throughout Bergen County. The school offers a comprehensive academic program with numerous AP courses, strong STEM offerings, and competitive athletic programs. Known for its brotherhood and community spirit, Bergen Catholic provides extensive extracurricular activities, including robotics, debate, and performing arts. The school features modern facilities, including recently renovated science labs, athletic complexes, and technology-enhanced classrooms, preparing students for success in college and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Bergenfield, New Jersey
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Bergenfield, NJ, and what are their key characteristics?
Bergenfield residents have access to several highly-regarded private schools in the immediate and surrounding area. Top options include Dwight-Englewood School (PreK-12, co-ed, known for rigorous academics and arts), Academy of the Holy Angels (9-12, all-girls, Catholic college-prep), and Bergen Catholic High School (9-12, all-boys, Catholic college-prep). It's important to note that while these schools serve the Bergenfield community, they are physically located in neighboring towns like Englewood, Demarest, and Oradell. This means commuting is a standard consideration. Other options include regional Catholic elementary schools and specialized academies.
How does tuition for private schools in the Bergenfield, NJ area compare, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition in Bergen County is among the highest in New Jersey, reflecting the region's cost of living and school resources. For the 2024-25 academic year, expect ranges of approximately $25,000-$50,000+ for day schools, with high schools generally at the higher end. Most schools, including Holy Angels and Bergen Catholic, offer need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. Dwight-Englewood has a robust financial aid program. New Jersey also offers the "Opportunity Scholarship Act" (OSA) tax credit program for certain low-income students, and some schools participate. Parents should inquire directly about aid deadlines, which often align with application timelines.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools serving Bergenfield students that differ from local public schools?
Private schools in this area often provide specialized tracks and resources that may be more limited in public districts. For example, Dwight-Englewood offers a renowned STEM research program, global travel, and extensive arts facilities. Academy of the Holy Angels features a dedicated Engineering & Design Institute for young women. Bergen Catholic has a strong focus on leadership development and a comprehensive robotics program. These schools also typically have smaller average class sizes, more individualized college counseling, and, in the case of the Catholic schools, a values-based education integrated with college-prep curriculum.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for applying to private high schools like Holy Angels or Bergen Catholic from Bergenfield?
The process is highly structured and begins early. For fall entry, families should start researching in the spring of 7th grade. Key steps include: attending open houses (typically September-November of 8th grade), registering for and taking the required entrance exam (HSPT or SSAT, often in November/December), submitting applications (deadlines are usually in early December or January), and completing interviews/student visits. Admissions decisions are commonly released in February or March. For Dwight-Englewood, which includes lower grades, the timeline can start even earlier. Bergenfield parents must plan for these deadlines and any required parish verification forms for Catholic schools.
For a Bergenfield family, what are the practical considerations when choosing between the local public school district and a private school?
Key considerations include: **Commute vs. Walkability:** Bergenfield Public Schools offer neighborhood walkability, while private options require transportation to neighboring towns. **Cost:** Comparing the significant financial investment of private tuition against the tax-supported public system is essential. **Educational Approach:** Bergenfield's public schools are well-regarded, but private schools offer specific religious education (Catholic), single-gender environments, or particular pedagogical philosophies. **Class Size & Programs:** Private schools often boast smaller classes but may have fewer special education resources than the public district's Child Study Team. The decision often hinges on prioritizing specific academic, values-based, or extracurricular offerings against convenience and cost.
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