The Best Private Schools in Cambria Heights, New York
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Cambria Heights. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Mary Louis Academy
Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn
The Mary Louis Academy is a prestigious Catholic college preparatory high school for young women located just minutes from Cambria Heights. Founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph, TMLA offers a rigorous academic curriculum with 24 Advanced Placement courses, extensive STEM programs, and comprehensive arts education. The school features state-of-the-art science labs, modern athletic facilities, and a beautiful 7-acre campus. With a 100% college acceptance rate and strong emphasis on leadership development, TMLA consistently ranks among the top private schools in Queens.
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St. Francis Preparatory School
Franciscan Brothers and Sisters of the Third Order Regular
St. Francis Preparatory School is one of the largest Catholic secondary schools in the United States, serving students from Cambria Heights and throughout Queens. The school offers an extensive curriculum including 26 AP courses, robust STEM programs, and outstanding fine arts facilities. With a diverse student body and comprehensive extracurricular offerings including championship athletic teams and extensive community service programs, St. Francis Prep maintains a strong reputation for academic excellence and college preparation. The school features modern science laboratories, performing arts centers, and extensive athletic facilities.
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Archbishop Molloy High School
Marist Brothers of the Schools
Archbishop Molloy High School is a renowned Catholic college preparatory school serving students from Cambria Heights and the greater Queens area. Founded by the Marist Brothers, the school offers a challenging academic program with numerous Advanced Placement courses, specialized STEM tracks, and comprehensive arts education. The school features modern science and technology labs, extensive athletic facilities including the Molloy Gymnasium, and a strong tradition of academic excellence. With a focus on character development and community service, Molloy prepares students for success in college and beyond through its rigorous curriculum and supportive learning environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Cambria Heights, New York
What are the primary private high school options serving families in Cambria Heights, NY, and what are their key characteristics?
Cambria Heights itself is primarily residential, so the most prominent private secondary schools are located in nearby Queens neighborhoods. The top options include The Mary Louis Academy (Jamaica Estates), an all-girls Catholic college-preparatory school known for strong STEM and arts programs; St. Francis Preparatory School (Fresh Meadows), one of the largest Catholic co-ed schools in the U.S. with extensive AP offerings and athletics; and Archbishop Molloy High School (Briarwood), a co-ed Marist Brothers school renowned for its rigorous academics and storied basketball program. For Cambria Heights families, these schools are accessible via major roads like the Grand Central Parkway and public transit, making them a core part of the local private school landscape.
How does tuition for private high schools near Cambria Heights, NY, compare, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for the leading Catholic private schools near Cambria Heights generally ranges from approximately $10,000 to $12,500 per year for the 2024-2025 academic year. St. Francis Prep and Archbishop Molloy are on the higher end of this range, while The Mary Louis Academy is often slightly lower. These costs are typically lower than many independent New York City day schools but still significant. All these schools offer need-based financial aid and merit scholarships, and many Cambria Heights families utilize the Archdiocese of New York's Futures in Education scholarship program. It's crucial to apply for aid early, as deadlines often precede admission decisions.
What is the enrollment process and timeline for competitive private high schools in the Cambria Heights, NY, area?
The process for schools like St. Francis Prep, Archbishop Molloy, and The Mary Louis Academy is centralized through the Cooperative Admissions Exam Program (COOP) or the Test for Admission into Catholic High Schools (TACHS). Most 8th-grade students take the TACHS exam in November, listing their school choices. Admissions decisions are released in February. Additionally, these schools often require a separate application, recent transcripts, teacher recommendations, and an interview or open house attendance. For Cambria Heights parents, planning should begin in the spring of 7th grade, with school research and open house attendance in the fall of 8th grade being critical steps.
Are there unique cultural or academic considerations for choosing a private school in the Cambria Heights, NY, community?
Yes, Cambria Heights has a predominantly African American and Caribbean-American population, and many families seek schools that offer both academic rigor and a supportive, values-based environment. The nearby Catholic private schools provide structured environments with strong discipline and community service components, which resonate with many local families. Academically, these schools offer a clear path to college, with near-100% graduation and college acceptance rates. Furthermore, their locations in diverse Queens neighborhoods mean student bodies are often multicultural, which can be an important factor for Cambria Heights parents looking for an inclusive yet academically challenging setting for their children.
How do transportation and commute logistics work for Cambria Heights, NY, students attending private schools in adjacent neighborhoods?
Transportation is a key practical consideration. Most students from Cambria Heights commute via public transportation (MTA buses and the Q4, Q84, or Q5 buses connecting to the F train) or private carpool. The schools are typically a 20-40 minute commute depending on traffic. Some schools may offer limited private bus service for an additional fee, but routes are not guaranteed for every neighborhood. Importantly, New York State mandates transportation services for private school students living within 15 miles of their school; Cambria Heights families should apply for a MetroCard or yellow bus service through the NYC Office of Pupil Transportation (OPT) by the April deadline prior to the school year.
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