Our Mission is Educational Excellence in a Christ-Centered Environment
Capistrano Valley Christian Schools is committed to developing Christ-centered students who embody the qualities of Servant Leaders, Courageous Christians, and Truth Seekers.
Grounded in a biblical worldview, this model encourages students to love God and others, serving the community with integrity, confidently proclaiming the Gospel, and continually seeking God's truth.
Our faculty and staff exemplify and foster these traits, preparing students to lead with wisdom and truth in all aspects of life.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked CA School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-12
- Enrollment: 710 students
- Yearly Tuition: $20,750
- Acceptance rate: 60%
- Average class size: 17 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 15
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Capistrano Valley Christian Schools ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
Student Body
Sports offered
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
RISE Program
Year Founded
1973
School Calendar
Awards
Blue Ribbon School - Selected in n/a
Student Body
Total Students
710 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
9%
State avg.: 51%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
78 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
9:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
77%
Average Class Size
17 students
Number of AP Courses
15 courses
List of Courses Offered
Advanced Courses
AP Biology, AP Calculus, AP Chemistry, AP English Language, AP English Literature, AP Human Geography, AP Psychology, AP Spanish, AP Statistics, AP Studio Art, AP US Government
Average SAT score
1055
(Out of 1600)
Average ACT score
28
(Out of 36)
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Uniforms information at (View more info)
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Jan. 15
Yearly Tuition Cost
$20,750
Tuition Notes
Full tuition breakdown per grade level: www.cvcs.org
% on Financial Aid
14%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$9,280
Acceptance Rate
60%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Reagan Nilsson
Admissions Associate
Kate Lund
Sports
Total Sports Offered
12 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
6 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Before and After School Kids Club, Interact Club, Medical Club, Student Leadership
Arts and Music Programs:
Performing Arts
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Boys Beach Volleyball
Before and After School Kids Club, Interact Club, Medical Club, Student Leadership
Arts and Music Programs:
Performing Arts
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Boys Beach Volleyball
School Notes
- Capistrano Valley Christian Schoolsis a college preparatory, private Christian school in San Juan Capistrano, Californiaserving over 700students from junior kindergartenthrough grade 12, including approximately 30 international students from around the world.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Capistrano Valley Christian Schools cost?
Capistrano Valley Christian Schools's tuition is approximately $20,750 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Capistrano Valley Christian Schools?
The acceptance rate of Capistrano Valley Christian Schools is 60%, which is lower than the national average of 84%. Capistrano Valley Christian Schools's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in California with low acceptance rates.
What sports does Capistrano Valley Christian Schools offer?
Capistrano Valley Christian Schools offers 12 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cheering, Cross Country, Flag Football, Football, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Surf Team, Tennis and Volleyball. Capistrano Valley Christian Schools is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in California for most sports offered.
What is Capistrano Valley Christian Schools's ranking?
Capistrano Valley Christian Schools ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Lowest average acceptance rates, Largest student body and Most sports offered.
When is the application deadline for Capistrano Valley Christian Schools?
The application deadline for Capistrano Valley Christian Schools is Jan. 15.
School Reviews
5 3/10/2023
CVCS is a wonderful school and has blessed our family in so many ways. My daughter graduated two years ago and my son will graduate this year. My children have been VERY well prepared for college and life with strong academics, faith, fabulous teachers, sports, and a community that can't be beaten. The teachers understand each student and help them to grow in their studies as well as their faith. My children have had the opportunity to enjoy their favorite sports and try some new ones as well. CVCS feels like a family through and through. The Administration, all the faculty, staff, students, and families are a close community enjoying the pursuit of excellence all in a warm and encouraging environment. A small-ish campus with a BIG heart and purpose!
5 2/27/2023
We love CVCS! We started in upper elementary and currently have kids in middle and high school. The teachers have expertise in their subjects and a love for the students. The classes are small allowing the teachers to know what each child needs. High School offers numerous AP classes as well as individualized academic planning. My kids have participated in various electives including performing arts (The Little Mermaid Jr., Newsies - full Broadway version, etc.), culinary arts, financial planning, and more. Trips to Sacramento in 4th Grade and the East Coast in 8th grade bring what they are studying to life. The high school sports programs are also top-notch. The teams consistently compete at the top of their leagues. The coaches care about the students and the teams have an amazing team atmosphere. But the most important item that sets CVCS apart is the love for Christ that is evidenced in everything that they do. We gladly re-enroll our kids each year in this amazing school!
5 2/15/2023
This school has been the biggest blessing to our family. This is our third year at the school and my kids look forward to going to school every day. It is a close-knit community with a Christ-centered education. The teachers and staff are always smiling and it's such a warm and positive environment. Every time I step foot on campus, I just know this is exactly where my kids are supposed to be. We are also extremely blessed to have two armed security guards on campus every single day, which I think in this day and age, is crucial to have. I feel my kids are truly safe at school each day. I couldn't be happier with CVCS and I plan to send my kids to this school through their senior year of high school.
5 2/15/2023
This is our 4th year at CVCS, I have boys in the 8th and 10th grades. I cannot say enough about the school, the staff, and the amazing teachers. My boys are in the baseball program and it's second to none. The Christian education and values that my boys are taught on a daily bases are worth every cent we pay. I would recommend anyone looking into private Christian schools explore what CVCS has to offer.
5 2/14/2023
Excellent!!! We moved to Southern California a year ago while our son was in Middle School. The staff and students were authentic in welcoming us as a new family. The academics matched what we were accustomed to and the sports programs, especially baseball, have exceeded our expectations. Our son has enjoyed his time here so much that he refers to it as home! CVCS is a gem of a school and community.
5 2/14/2023
We have 2 students currently enrolled at CVCS in high school. It is our 3rd year at CVCS and we cannot say enough good things. Our youngest also attended 8th grade in middle school. CVCS provides a dedicated staff whose main goal is to develop kids into outstanding students, and more importantly, great people. The Christian environment provides a strong base of values and builds confidence. The classes are small, allowing the teachers to focus on high-level instruction, while the students get much-needed support. CVCS provides a challenging college prep environment that has set our kids up for success in college and life. In addition to great academics, CVCS has a tremendous athletic program with great coaches and a record of great success on the field/courts. CVCS offers a high level of education that far exceeds all of the local public schools and is on par with the best private schools in Orange County.
5 1/27/2023
This is our 7th year at CVCS and I cannot say enough about the school, the community as well as the staff, and the amazing teachers. We are truly blessed by this Christ-centered community, academics, and sports programs. CVCS is truly our extended family and home. Praise the Lord for CVCS!
5 1/23/2020
We are in our 3rd year at CVCS and we feel truly blessed by our experience and our son (1st grade) is thriving...and the one-on-one attention is fantastic. This school not only academically prepares the children for the next grade and beyond, but they are heavily focused on character development and teaching strong Christian values. Their Bible curriculum is a second-to-none. The teachers are wonderful, the pull out classes are wonderful.... And we also love that it is a very small community and everyone knows everyone and it feels very safe. We love it so much we drive 30 minutes each way just to get there...come check it out.
5 1/16/2020
Our children have been attending CVCS for three years. We are grateful for the small class sizes, passionate and skilled teachers, and courageous leadership. CVCS creates the community we desire for our children, biblical worldview, excellent academics, responsive and involved leadership, and dynamic programs.
5 9/10/2017
We are new parents at CVCS with a High Schooler this year, if you are considering schools for your son or daughter, this may be helpful.The community of people at CVCS is dedicated to helping your child reach their full potential. The staff and teachers are passionate and dedicated. Academics are a very high bar - but so is character development. Something that most parents don't realize is that, if participation in activities and sports is a priority for your child, a smaller school is the ideal environment. They can play Girl's volleyball (even if they aren't 6' tall), they can play Football (even if they don't plan on a career in the NFL). Leadership opportunities abound, and they are meaningful roles - not just selling tickets or other fund raising item. Performing arts? Take your pick. All of this in a safe, drug-free environment. Nice families, nice kids, highly motivational staff and you will feel part of the experience.
5 5/20/2016
When I think about CVCS and my children I cannot help but become immediately emotional. While the decision was a big one to make, it was so easy to make. My kids are MY kids, my ONLY kids and being able to enroll them at CVCS is and has become so important to our family. School and higher education are very valued in our family and even with that principle we never dreamed of looking into private schools. But after walking through the doors at CVCS and seeing the difference it has made in my children, I cannot image our life without it. I thank God everyday EVERYDAY that this opportunity is in my life.
Growing up as a kid in South Orange County the words private school meant bubble. Even worse a bubble behind the orange curtain: A protected/sheltered group of kids who didn't know about the real world. But I was so wrong. At CVCS my kindergartner and 1st grader are involved in things I would have never dreamed that they would be a part of. My daughter at seven years old spent a day packing meals for those in need and a day visiting with seniors living in a nearby senior citizen center. My son in kindergarten was sorting through my closet looking for shoes he could donate to those without shoes. Seeing my six year old so passionate about something so selfless; a crisis the world can't seem to solve I thought My Lord how REAL is that. And yes, we have those opportunities at Church, but having those opportunities at school too is amazing and necessary. If we want to make real change in our world, we need to start with our children. The teachers and faculty here work extra hard in order to fit in programs and projects that teach social responsibility. It is the culture here. This idea that there is a community to serve and a need to fulfill and a responsibility for something larger than the individual is a consistent thread that runs through CVCS. I have kids now with a bigger heart to serve a heart to love and a foundation to move forward and lead in the world with positivity and light. The best part is that CVCS is the real world and they are not stuck in school district red tape, they are not stuck as being 1 in 36. They are Cassius and Lillian around campus and that means so much to us.
I hear over and over that CVCS is the way school should be. It is what is needed for our kids. I know that to be true for us. Bringing my kids to school and not worrying about their day, how they are going to be treated, or who is going to comfort them if they fall emotionally or physically is such a relief. Let's face it, your kids are the basis of so much worry in your life and they spend a huge percentage of their life at school. Knowing that my son's Kindergarten classroom is just like an extension of our home is such an amazing comfort.
Every morning my kids wake up ready to go to school. They can't wait for school to begin. They are challenged and they are supported. They are pushed to be leaders and they are built up to help others.
I am a working mom, and yes I may have a screen door that falls of the track from time to time, or ding or two in my car, but how can I put a price on my kids' education. It is a tough choice to make, but we have put the kids' education on the top of our priority list. We are making it work even when we thought we couldn't. If we set our kids out on the path they should go, as they grow old they will not stray far from it.
I used to think How could I enroll my kid's in private school, or why would I. Now I cannot image what we would do without CVCS. CVCS is a home for our family and an integral part of my children's lives.
5 5/17/2016
Capistrano Valley Christian Schools is like a big family. My 3 children are in the high school and have been blessed by great opportunities; wonderful teachers, who are godly mentors; challenging academics; and a caring atmosphere. Teachers go above & beyond to show God's love & assist the students. My children have had life changing opportunities to serve in ministry, be student leaders, perform in musical theater and the MACY's awards, perform in the choir, and participate in athletics. CVCS is preparing my kids for college and coming along side me to raise them to be strong Christian leaders in our community. Thank you to CVCS staff for your hard work and dedication to our school and its students. I highly recommend this school to those parents seeking Christian teachers and mentors for their children as well as quality education.
5 5/17/2016
Imagine your child being in a place where he is unconditionally loved, as you love him. Where he will be guided through his day by strong Christian role models who will ignite his faith, and set a strong spiritual foundation for life. Imagine your child in a place where there are no labels or academic limits. Where uniqueness is celebrated as a gift, and where he will be free to excel academically and develop a love of learning that will last a lifetime.
Two years ago, I put my child in this place, and watched in awe as he blossomed.
My son has attended the CVCS Homeschool Co-op now since kindergarten, and will be entering grade 2 in the fall. We would love for him to attend the Co-op until he finishes junior high, and then transition into the superb, blue-ribbon award-winning, full-time program. This is a minor transition for the children, as the Co-op family is fully integrated within the wider CVCS family, having access to the same facilities, sports programs and after-school club opportunities.
The Co-op program provides a perfect combination of a first-class academic experience in a Christ-centered environment.
The Co-op has been under the stewardship of its Director, Kendra, from inception. She is truly an ambassador for Christ, and this blessing is manifest in all areas of Co-op life. Students attend the weekly all-school chapel each Wednesday morning. The Co-op also has a special family chapel, once a month in which children from each class are recognized and awarded for demonstrating specific biblical character traits in their daily lives. The curricula is Christ-centered and prayer is an integral part of Co-op life. The Co-op has been blessed with the most patient, kind and caring teachers who go above and beyond to show God's love. Parental involvement is high, from both mothers and fathers, who provide additional strong christian role models. Children and families serve together through a variety of ministry outreaches organized throughout the year.
Academics are tailored to the child. The children are exposed early to apologetics through the What We Believe curriculum (Apologia), a wonderful apologetics curriculum, used from Grade 1 onwards. The Co-op uses Math Mammoth, an award-winning math curriculum similar to Singapore math. There is a taught lesson, and an alternative independent option, to suit children who are working above or below grade level. The Logic of English (Denise Eide) is a core English curriculum used from kindergarten, in addition to several supplemental curricula that cover grammar, comprehension, creative writing, and greek and latin word roots. The science taught throughout the Co-op is phenomenal and totally out of the box. Topics covered last year were geology and astronomy. The children went to Victoria Beach to analyze the rock strata, they learned about supernovae and made Galilean telescopes. Under the stewardship of the Co-op science teacher, the Junior High students formed a Lego Robotics team that won the Newton Division in the 2013 World Championship, in addition to a host of other awards.
In-school enrichment activities include JiJi math (a computer-based math application developed by the MIND Institute), and Art Masters (where students learn about a famous artist and create art in that particular style). After school clubs include Academic Chess, Art, Music lessons, and a number of sports programs. Additional enrichment is gained through numerous field trip opportunities throughout the year. Field trips being discussed for the coming year include a kayaking tour, a Starr Ranch ecology program (where students spend the day with a biologist), The Grunion Run (a midnight trip to the beach!), a farm trip and owl pellet analysis and dissection.
I highly recommend Capistrano Valley Christian Schools. If you are searching for Christ-centered, academic excellence, in a genuinely warm and caring environment, you will find all that, and so much more in this school.
5 7/4/2014
We absolutely love this school! We are in the co-op homeschool program and have experienced nothing but encouraging, committed teachers and an outstanding director who cares and prays for each family. The students really get one-on-one attention from the teachers in class and go over and above to show them love. They continue to reinforce difficult aspects of Christianity so our kids really can know why they believe what they believe. They even give you a schedule of everything you need to teach which makes it less intimidating and makes you feel like you CAN homeschool. We are one, big, happy family who you will always find chatting after school and doing outside school activities. You should definitely check out this school!
5 2/28/2012
Capistrano Christian School has been a part of my life since I stepped foot on campus in kindergarten the year of it's opening. Years later, we got the opportunity to send our teenage girls to the school for Jr High and High School. CVCS is an amazing institution with the most talented and passionate teachers and staff I have ever seen. It is a very rare experience to go to a high school and interact with teenagers that are courteous, respectful and sincere. This School educates our kids with an unmatched curriculum, using technology beyond any school in Orange County, and a student teacher ratio that is unbelievable. It has a Christian education program that quite honestly surpasses anything in the entire country. This school teaches our kids the meaning and value of Christ in their life in a way that secures their faith for life and sends them into collegiate life ready to stand up for God in secular institutions and profess and defend their faith.
The athletic program is outstanding as every child gets the opportunity to be on teams and actually play. No one is cut from any team every player plays and competes. It is sad what has become of sports in most schools today, what was meant to be an opportunity to exercise and learn the character lessons of teamwork, winning and loosing and meeting goals, has skewed to be all about winning. In public schools kids have to invest their entire year to a single sport in the hopes of making the team and staying on the team. Our since of balance in life is skewed due to the drive to win that sports scholarship. CVCS is about teaching character learning the values of struggle and teamwork, working with what you have not cutting the weaker players but growing them. It is also a very special time at CVCS with new leadership doing some very exciting things with the school. And the Arts program is simply unmatched even in public schools with all kinds of resources. In our minds it is the best school in the country and worth every penny.
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