The Best Private Schools in Herndon, Virginia
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Herndon. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Nysmith School
Independent
The Nysmith School is a highly regarded private school specifically designed for gifted students, serving grades Pre-K through 8. Established in 1984, it has earned a reputation for academic excellence with a strong focus on STEM education and advanced technology integration. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including dedicated science labs, computer labs, and extensive technology resources. With small class sizes and individualized instruction, Nysmith provides an enriched curriculum that challenges gifted learners while fostering creativity and critical thinking skills. The school consistently receives high marks from parents for its dedicated faculty and comprehensive extracurricular offerings.
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Flint Hill School
Independent
Flint Hill School is a prestigious JK-12 independent school located in nearby Oakton, serving families throughout Northern Virginia including Herndon. Founded in 1949, the school offers a comprehensive college preparatory program with outstanding academic, arts, and athletic facilities. The 40-acre campus features modern classrooms, performing arts centers, extensive athletic facilities, and advanced science laboratories. Flint Hill is known for its rigorous academic program, diverse student body, and commitment to character development. The school maintains small class sizes and offers extensive Advanced Placement and honors courses, with graduates consistently attending top-tier colleges and universities.
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The Langley School
Independent
The Langley School is a highly respected independent school serving students from preschool through 8th grade, with many families commuting from Herndon for its exceptional educational program. Founded in 1942, the school combines academic excellence with a strong focus on social-emotional development and character education. The campus features modern learning spaces, dedicated science and technology labs, art studios, and extensive outdoor learning environments. Langley's progressive approach to education emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and community engagement. The school is particularly noted for its strong sense of community, experienced faculty, and comprehensive preparation for secondary education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Herndon, Virginia
What are the main types of private schools available in Herndon, Virginia, and how do they differ?
Herndon, VA, offers a diverse range of private schools catering to different educational philosophies. The area is known for highly-regarded independent schools like Flint Hill School (JK-12, with campuses in Oakton and Vienna serving the Herndon area) and The Langley School (Preschool-8th grade in McLean), which offer rigorous college-preparatory curricula. There are also specialized institutions like The Nysmith School for the Gifted (Herndon, PreK-8), which focuses on accelerated and enriched learning for academically talented students. Additionally, Herndon hosts several faith-based private schools, such as Saint Joseph Catholic School (K-8) and other parochial options. The key differences lie in educational approach, grade spans, religious affiliation, and specialization, allowing parents to find a school that aligns closely with their child's needs and family values.
How does tuition for top private schools in the Herndon area compare to statewide averages, and what financial aid options are typical?
Tuition for leading private schools in the Herndon corridor is generally at or above the Virginia state average for private education, reflecting the high cost of living and competitive academic offerings in Northern Virginia. For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition at schools like The Nysmith School or Flint Hill School can range from approximately $35,000 to over $50,000 annually for upper grades. Most prestigious schools in the area have robust financial aid programs based on demonstrated need. It's common for schools to use platforms like the School and Student Services (SSS) by NAIS to assess eligibility. Additionally, Virginia offers the Education Improvement Scholarships Tax Credits Program, which provides tax credits to donors who contribute to scholarship funds for low- and middle-income students attending private schools, a valuable resource for Herndon families.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in Herndon that leverage the local technology and aerospace industries?
Herndon's location in the heart of Northern Virginia's technology corridor, near Dulles International Airport and major government contractors, directly influences private school programs. Schools like The Nysmith School integrate advanced STEM and robotics programs from an early age, often participating in regional competitions. Many schools, including Flint Hill, offer specialized courses in computer science, engineering, and entrepreneurship, with potential for mentorship connections to local tech firms. Furthermore, schools may have partnerships with organizations in the nearby Dulles/Reston tech hub for internships or project-based learning. This environment fosters a strong emphasis on innovation, preparing students for careers in the region's dominant industries.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in Herndon, Virginia?
The enrollment process for sought-after private schools in Herndon is highly structured and often begins more than a year in advance. For a fall start, the timeline typically opens in the prior August or September with open houses and inquiry sessions. Application deadlines for schools like Flint Hill, Nysmith, and Langley are usually in January for the following academic year. The process almost always includes a completed application, teacher recommendations, school records, standardized testing (such as the ISEE or SSAT for older grades), and a family/student interview or assessment day. Due to limited seats and high demand, especially in entry grades (Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 6th/9th grades), families are advised to start research early, attend fall open houses, and submit applications well before deadlines to be considered in the first round of decisions, which are typically released in March.
For families living in Herndon, what are the key considerations when comparing the local top-rated public schools (like Herndon Elementary, Herndon Middle, or Herndon High) with private school options?
Families in Herndon must weigh several local factors. Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), including Herndon's schools, are consistently highly ranked nationally, offering robust Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs at Herndon High, along with extensive extracurriculars. Choosing private often involves seeking a different educational approach (e.g., project-based, gifted-specific like Nysmith), smaller class sizes (often 12-18 students vs. 25+ in public), or a specific community ethos. Private schools may offer more flexibility in curriculum and longer school days. However, this comes at a significant financial cost, whereas FCPS provides free, diverse, and well-resourced education. Transportation is another key factor; FCPS provides busing, while private schools often require carpooling or paid bus services. The decision frequently hinges on whether a family's priorities align with a private school's specific niche or if the strong, tuition-free public options meet their child's needs.