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Most Selective Private High Schools in California

The average private high school acceptance rate in California is 80% per year (2024-25).

The most selective school in California is The Thacher School, with an acceptance rate of 13%.

Victory Christian Academy Photo - We are Grounded in Christ and Ready for the World

The Open School Photo - Our student-created ramen week was a hit!

Upward International Schools, Pines Academy Campus Photo

St. Francis High School - Salesian College Preparatory Photo - Experience the biomedical science pathway or computer science in a small, personal learning environment. We have a 12:1 student-teacher ratio and class sizes averaging 20.

Qualia: The School for Deeper Learning Photo - Provocative, hands-on teaching, highlighting puzzles, mysteries, controversies and quandaries, is crucial to our deeper learning model.

Brighton Hall School Photo - Brighton Hall welcomes all students in grades 2-12, with a curriculum that accommodates working professional children, as well as students who simply do best with a personalized, flexible approach to excellent education.

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools Photo - Since 1973, Capistrano Valley Christian Schools has been dedicated to providing a high standard of college preparatory education, set within the framework of Christ-centered instruction and example. Our staff is committed to partnering with an extremely supportive school community to offer a truly unique educational experience.

Idyllwild Arts Academy Photo - Krone Library is home to countless resources and study spaces for IAA students as well as the College Counseling Office. Our College Counseling staff work with our students throughout their time at the Academy, helping them prepare for the next step in their artistic journey.

The Compass School Photo - The Compass School is an online K12 School. We offer hundreds of live online courses with expert faculty (over 95% of our teachers have a Masters Degree or Higher). Our affordable homeschool program gives students a flexible high quality schooling option that can be taken from anywhere.

Pacific Lutheran Junior / Senior High School Photo - Pacific Lutheran Jr./Sr. High School's year-end teambuilding trip on the rapids!

The Webb Schools Photo - Welcome to Webb

Excelsior School Photo - School Front View

Vermont Christian School Photo - Leadership training with international students creates a wonderful environment for learning.

Sacramento Country Day School Photo - With low student-teacher ratios, Sacramento Country Day School offers a highly-personalized educational experience that challenges students to innovate, and explore in a flexible academic program.

South Hills Academy Photo - South Hills Academy, a premier PreK-12 educational institution, seamlessly blends personalized learning with a global perspective, preparing students for life beyond academics. Since 1957, the school has cultivated a vibrant and inclusive environment, fostering a rich mix of academic, athletic, and cultural experiences.

Cambrian Academy Photo - Cambrian Academy students have been accepted by the world's best universities.

Orion International Academy Photo - Cross-Country Team

Acceptance Rate Range: 13% 65% Avg. Acceptance Rate: 45%

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the California average private high schools acceptance rate?

The California average private high schools acceptance rate is 80% for 2024-25.

What are the most selective private high schools in California?

The top ranked private high schools in California include The Thacher School, Cate School and The Compass School.

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