Burroughs is a college preparatory school offering a core curriculum that provides a broad base of knowledge and skills in the humanities; STEM; the arts; athletics, health and wellness; global awareness and cultural competency; and service and sustainability. A world-class faculty (78 percent hold advanced degrees) teaches a challenging curriculum in small classes (average size is 13).
Faculty average 21 years teaching experience and establish meaningful relationships with our students.
Our size is critical having around 100-115 students per grade allows our students to be well known and well supported. Students hail from nearly 60 ZIP codes from throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area and a broad range of racial, ethnic, religious and socio-economic backgrounds.
They are encouraged to be active in the classroom with their heads up, eyes open and minds engaged.
In classes, which are generally run seminar style, students learn to be discerning readers, critical thinkers, articulate communicators and analytical problem solvers.
The Burroughs experience is distinguished by a mix of informality, traditions (such as morning assembly and family-style lunch) and a culture that puts a premium on ethics, inclusivity, student government, technology and international experiences.
Admission is based on school records, recommendations, an entrance exam and an interview.
Personal qualities and character are a major consideration. Financial aid is available to those who need assistance with tuition.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked MO School
- Grades: 7-12
- Enrollment: 660 students
- Yearly Tuition: $36,300
- Acceptance rate: 45%
- Average class size: 13 students
- Application Deadline: Dec. 8 / Jan. 9
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
John Burroughs School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Missouri for:
Category
Attribute
SAT Score
ACT Score
Acceptance Rate
Student Body
Sports offered
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 7-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Year Founded
1923
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
660 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
48%
State avg.: 20%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
103 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
77%
Average Class Size
13 students
List of Courses Offered
Average SAT score
1480
(Out of 1600)
Average ACT score
33
(Out of 36)
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
no dress code
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Dec. 8 / Jan. 9
Yearly Tuition Cost
$36,300
Tuition Notes
no charge for before/after care & lunch is also included
% on Financial Aid
26%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$24,700
Acceptance Rate
45%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Meridith Thorpe
Sports
Total Sports Offered
19 sports
Sports
School Notes
- Like all responsible schools, our first and primary commitment is to our students. We strive to provide them a rich array of opportunities in a supportive and stimulating environment. It is how we do this that makes the difference. Our secret ingredients are not very secret-in fact, they are transparent in most everything we do. They include our community, our core values, our pedagogical foundation, and our master teachers.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does John Burroughs School cost?
John Burroughs School's tuition is approximately $36,300 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of John Burroughs School?
The acceptance rate of John Burroughs School is 45%, which is lower than the national average of 89%. John Burroughs School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Missouri with low acceptance rates.
What sports does John Burroughs School offer?
John Burroughs School offers 19 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cheering, Cross Country, Dance, Diving, Field Hockey, Football, Golf, Ice Hockey, Lacrosse, Soccer, Squash, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball, Water Polo and Wrestling. John Burroughs School is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in Missouri for most sports offered.
What is John Burroughs School's ranking?
John Burroughs School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Missouri for: Highest average SAT score, Highest average ACT score, Lowest average acceptance rates, Largest student body and Most sports offered.
When is the application deadline for John Burroughs School?
The application deadline for John Burroughs School is Dec. 8 / Jan. 9.
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