The Best Private Schools in Cliffwood, New Jersey
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Cliffwood. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Ranney School
Independent School
The Ranney School is a premier independent college preparatory school serving students from preschool through 12th grade. Located just 15 minutes from Cliffwood, Ranney offers a rigorous academic curriculum with small class sizes, advanced placement courses, and extensive extracurricular programs. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. Known for its strong college placement record and comprehensive student development approach, Ranney emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and global citizenship.
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Christian Brothers Academy
Lasallian Educational Institutions
Christian Brothers Academy is a prestigious private Catholic college preparatory school for young men, located approximately 20 minutes from Cliffwood. CBA offers a challenging academic environment with a comprehensive curriculum including numerous AP courses, advanced mathematics and science programs, and extensive humanities offerings. The school maintains a strong tradition of academic excellence and character formation through its Lasallian mission. Facilities include modern classrooms, science laboratories, athletic fields, and technology centers. CBA graduates consistently gain admission to top-tier colleges and universities.
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Saint John Vianney High School
Diocese of Trenton
Saint John Vianney High School is a co-educational Catholic college preparatory school serving students from Monmouth County and surrounding areas, including Cliffwood. The school offers a comprehensive academic program with college preparatory, honors, and AP level courses across all disciplines. SJVHS features modern facilities including science and computer labs, performing arts spaces, and extensive athletic facilities. The school emphasizes faith formation, academic excellence, and service to community. With a strong focus on individualized attention and college counseling, Saint John Vianney prepares students for success in higher education and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Cliffwood, New Jersey
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Cliffwood, New Jersey, and are they located directly in town?
While Cliffwood itself is a small, unincorporated community within Aberdeen Township, it does not host major private school campuses within its immediate borders. However, Cliffwood residents have excellent access to several top-tier private institutions in the surrounding Monmouth County area. The most prominent include The Ranney School (a PreK-12 independent college preparatory school in Tinton Falls), Christian Brothers Academy (an all-boys Catholic college prep school in Lincroft), and Saint John Vianney High School (a co-ed Catholic school in Holmdel). Commutes to these schools are typically 15-25 minutes, making them the de facto private school options for Cliffwood families.
How does the tuition for private schools near Cliffwood, NJ, compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are commonly available?
Tuition for the leading private schools serving Cliffwood is generally at or above the New Jersey state average for private education, reflecting their competitive programs and facilities. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges of approximately $30,000-$40,000+ for upper schools at institutions like Ranney and CBA. New Jersey offers limited state-sponsored assistance (like the NJ FamilyCare/SEED program for very low-income families), so most financial aid is school-based. All the mentioned schools have robust need-based financial aid programs, and some, like Christian Brothers Academy, also offer merit scholarships. It is critical to apply for financial aid simultaneously with admission, as deadlines are early and funds are limited.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the private schools accessible from Cliffwood, NJ, specialize in?
The schools serving the Cliffwood area offer distinct specializations. The Ranney School is renowned for its STEM-focused "Ranney Research" program, global studies, and a strong arts curriculum. Christian Brothers Academy (CBA) emphasizes a rigorous liberal arts and sciences core, complemented by exceptional athletics and a renowned robotics team. Saint John Vianney High School offers a comprehensive college-prep curriculum with unique programs like their Institute for Business & Finance and a dedicated STEM Academy. All three schools leverage their Monmouth County location for marine science studies, community service partnerships, and easy access to New York City for cultural and academic trips.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private high schools like CBA or Ranney for a Cliffwood student?
The enrollment process for these selective schools begins over a year in advance. For fall entry, prospective families should attend open houses in the preceding September-November. Application deadlines are typically in early December or January. Required components almost always include a standardized test (like the HSPT or SSAT), teacher recommendations, transcripts, a student essay, and a family interview. For schools with religious affiliations (CBA, SJV), a pastor's recommendation may also be required. Notification of decisions is usually released in February or March. Given the competition for seats, especially from across Monmouth County, Cliffwood families are advised to start research and campus visits in the spring of their child's 7th-grade year for 9th-grade entry.
As a Cliffwood resident, what are the key considerations when comparing the local public school district (Aberdeen Township) to nearby private options?
The key considerations involve educational approach, cost, and community. Aberdeen Township School District (Matawan Regional High School for grades 9-12) is a well-regarded public system with no tuition cost. The primary comparison points are: 1) **Class Size:** Private schools like Ranney and CBA often have significantly smaller average class sizes, allowing for more individualized attention. 2) **Specialized Programs:** Private schools may offer more specialized tracks (e.g., intensive STEM, classical curriculum) that are not as focused in the public curriculum. 3) **Religious Education:** CBA and Saint John Vianney offer a faith-based education, which is a major differentiator for some families. 4) **Transportation:** New Jersey law requires your local public district to provide transportation to private schools within a certain distance (up to 20 miles); Cliffwood/Aberdeen typically provides busing to these area private schools, which is a crucial logistical and financial benefit.
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