The Best Private Schools in Austin, Texas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Austin. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Griffin School
Independent College Preparatory School
The Griffin School is an acclaimed private high school known for its innovative approach to college preparatory education. With an average class size of 12 students, the school provides personalized attention and a rigorous academic environment. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, writing proficiency, and creative expression across humanities, sciences, and arts. The school features a unique seminar-style learning approach and strong college counseling program, with graduates consistently accepted to selective colleges and universities. The intimate campus environment fosters close student-teacher relationships and a supportive learning community.
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St. Andrew's Episcopal School
Independent Episcopal School
St. Andrew's Episcopal School is a highly regarded independent school serving grades K-12 with a strong college preparatory focus. The school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program alongside advanced placement courses, featuring small class sizes with a 9:1 student-teacher ratio. The 126-acre campus includes state-of-the-art facilities for academics, arts, and athletics. Known for its inclusive community and academic excellence, St. Andrew's emphasizes character development and critical thinking skills while maintaining Episcopal traditions. The school has a 100% college acceptance rate with graduates attending top universities nationwide.
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St. Stephen's Episcopal School
Independent Episcopal Boarding & Day School
St. Stephen's Episcopal School is a prestigious independent boarding and day school serving grades 6-12 on a beautiful 370-acre campus in the Barton Creek area. The school offers a challenging college preparatory curriculum with extensive Advanced Placement course options and outstanding arts and athletic programs. With a diverse student body representing over 20 countries, the school provides both boarding and day options. The academic program emphasizes intellectual curiosity, ethical development, and global citizenship. The campus features exceptional facilities including science laboratories, performing arts centers, athletic complexes, and residential facilities, creating a comprehensive educational environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Austin, Texas
What are the main types of private schools available in Austin, Texas, and how do they differ?
Austin offers a diverse range of private schools, primarily categorized as independent secular, religious-affiliated, and specialized preparatory schools. Notable examples include St. Stephen's Episcopal School (a boarding/day college-prep school with a strong Episcopal tradition), St. Andrew's Episcopal School (a secular-minded school with an Episcopal heritage focusing on a balanced, whole-child education), and The Griffin School (a small, progressive, college-prep high school emphasizing intimate seminar-style learning). Other types include Montessori schools, classical Christian academies, and schools with specific focuses like arts or STEM. The key differences lie in educational philosophy, religious integration, campus size, and college preparatory intensity.
How does tuition for top private schools in Austin, TX, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition at Austin's top private schools is generally at or above the Texas state average for private education, reflecting the city's higher cost of living and competitive academic offerings. For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition for day students at schools like St. Andrew's or St. Stephen's often ranges from $30,000 to $35,000 for upper grades. Most Austin private schools are committed to socioeconomic diversity and offer robust need-based financial aid programs. Additionally, Texas has the **Texas Private School Scholarship Tax Credit Program**, which can provide scholarships for eligible families. It's crucial to apply for financial aid simultaneously with admission, as deadlines are strict and funds are limited.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are signature offerings at Austin's private schools?
Austin's private schools leverage the city's culture and resources to offer distinctive programs. For instance, St. Stephen's Episcopal School utilizes its 370-acre Hill Country campus for extensive outdoor and environmental science programs. The Griffin School is renowned for its "Griffin Term," an intensive, interdisciplinary project-based learning period. Many schools integrate Austin's tech hub status through robust STEM and coding initiatives, while others emphasize the city's "Live Music Capital" identity with exceptional arts and music programs. Furthermore, several schools offer unique Texas history and ecology studies, and senior projects often involve partnerships with local tech companies, universities, or non-profits.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in Austin, Texas?
The enrollment process for Austin's top private schools is highly structured and begins well in advance. The key timeline typically starts in **August or September** (over a year before desired entry) with open house events. Application deadlines for the following fall are usually between **December and January**. The process involves submitting an application, standardized testing (like the ISEE or SSAT), school records, teacher recommendations, and a family interview. Admissions decisions are commonly released in **March**. For highly sought-after grades like kindergarten, 6th, and 9th, spaces are most competitive. It's highly advised to attend fall open houses and connect with admissions offices early to understand each school's specific requirements.
For families moving to Austin, how does the choice between a top-tier public school in districts like Eanes ISD and a leading private school typically break down?
This is a central consideration for Austin families. Top public school districts like **Eanes ISD** (Westlake) and **Austin ISD's** selective magnet programs offer exceptional, tuition-free education. The choice often hinges on priorities: **Private schools** in Austin typically offer smaller class sizes (often 15:1 or lower), more individualized attention, distinct educational philosophies (progressive, classical, etc.), and often more extensive arts, athletics, and college counseling resources. They also provide a consistent community without geographic rezoning concerns. **Top public schools** offer larger, more diverse student populations, extensive AP course offerings, and premier extracurricular programs, especially in sports. Many families weigh the specific academic or social needs of their child, the value of a particular private school's mission, and the financial commitment against the excellent, but sometimes more crowded, public options.
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