The Best Private Schools in Lincoln, Virginia
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Lincoln. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Foxcroft School
Independent
The Foxcroft School is a prestigious all-girls boarding and day school located just 15 minutes from Lincoln. Founded in 1914, this independent college preparatory school serves grades 9-12 with a rigorous academic program emphasizing leadership, critical thinking, and character development. The 500-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts center, riding program, and athletic facilities. Foxcroft offers a comprehensive curriculum with Advanced Placement courses, extensive arts programs, and competitive athletics. The school maintains small class sizes with a 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio and has a strong track record of college placements at top universities.
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Loudoun Country Day School
Independent
Loudoun Country Day School is a highly-regarded independent school serving students from preschool through 8th grade, drawing families from Lincoln and surrounding communities. Established in 1963, LCDS offers a challenging academic program with specialized instruction in Spanish beginning in preschool, comprehensive STEAM curriculum, and strong character education. The school features modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and athletic facilities. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, LCDS emphasizes individualized learning while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and leadership skills. The school has consistently high parent satisfaction ratings and prepares students for success at top secondary schools.
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Notre Dame Academy
Catholic Diocese of Arlington
Notre Dame Academy is a Catholic college preparatory school located in nearby Middleburg, serving students from Lincoln and throughout Northern Virginia. Founded in 1999, the school offers a comprehensive educational experience for grades 6-12 with a challenging International Baccalaureate program, competitive athletics, and extensive extracurricular activities. The 100-acre campus features modern academic buildings, science laboratories, performing arts center, and athletic facilities. NDA emphasizes academic excellence within a faith-based community, maintaining small class sizes and offering a wide range of Advanced Placement and IB courses. The school has strong college placement records and serves as a regional educational hub for families seeking private Catholic education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Lincoln, Virginia
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Lincoln, Virginia, and what grade levels do they serve?
Lincoln, Virginia, is situated in a region known for its prestigious private schools, though the town itself is small. The most prominent nearby options include The Foxcroft School (a nationally recognized all-girls boarding and day school for grades 9-12 in Middleburg), Loudoun Country Day School (a co-ed day school in Leesburg serving grades PK-8), and Notre Dame Academy (a Catholic co-ed day school in Middleburg for grades 9-12). Families in Lincoln should note that these schools are located in neighboring towns within Loudoun County, requiring consideration for daily transportation. There are very few, if any, private school campuses physically within Lincoln's town limits.
How does the tuition for private schools near Lincoln, VA, compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for the top private schools in the Lincoln area is generally at or above the Virginia state average for private education, reflecting their high academic standards and facilities. For the 2024-25 school year, expect day student tuition to range from approximately $25,000 to $40,000+ annually, with boarding costs at Foxcroft being higher. All three major schools—Foxcroft, Loudoun Country Day, and Notre Dame Academy—offer robust need-based financial aid programs. Additionally, Virginia's Education Improvement Scholarships Tax Credits Program allows donors to support scholarship funds at participating private schools, which can increase aid availability. It's crucial to apply for financial aid early, as deadlines often precede admission decisions.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools in the Lincoln, VA, area that leverage the local environment?
Private schools near Lincoln, VA, capitalize on the region's historic, equestrian, and technological landscape. The Foxcroft School offers a renowned equestrian program with on-campus stables and riding arenas, integrating it with science and leadership curricula. Schools in this part of Loudoun County often have strong STEM partnerships with local tech companies in the Dulles Corridor. Furthermore, many incorporate Virginia history and civics into their programs through trips to nearby historic sites like Morven Park or Oatlands. Loudoun Country Day School emphasizes outdoor and environmental education on its campus, while Notre Dame Academy offers college-style seminars and internships that utilize the broader Washington D.C. metro area's resources.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in the Lincoln, Virginia, region?
The enrollment process for sought-after private schools near Lincoln is highly structured and begins well in advance. The key timeline is as follows: Inquiry and open house tours typically occur from September to January for the following academic year. Application deadlines are often in January or early February, with standardized testing (like the SSAT or ISEE) completed by winter. Admissions interviews and shadow days for students are scheduled during this period. Decision notifications are usually released in March, with enrollment contracts and deposits due in the spring. Given the competitive nature and limited seats, especially in lower grades, families in Lincoln are strongly advised to start the process 12-18 months in advance and apply to multiple schools.
For a family living in Lincoln, what are the major considerations when comparing the local public schools (Loudoun County Public Schools) to the nearby private school options?
Families in Lincoln must weigh several local factors. Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) are consistently highly ranked nationally, offering rigorous academics, extensive AP courses, and large-scale athletic programs. The zoned public school for Lincoln residents is often a key consideration. Choosing a private school like those near Lincoln typically offers smaller class sizes, more individualized attention, distinct educational philosophies (e.g., single-sex, religious, or progressive), and specialized programs (e.g., equestrian, specific arts). The trade-off involves significant tuition costs and daily commuting to Middleburg or Leesburg. The decision often hinges on whether a family seeks the specific community and mission of a private school versus the comprehensive, tax-funded resources of the large, high-performing LCPS district. Visiting both types is essential.
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