Home > Find Schools > Top Lists > California > Most Selective Schools

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%.

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.

Excelsior School Photo - School Front View

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

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.

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.

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

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.

Upward International Schools, Pines Academy Campus Photo

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.

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

California Crosspoint Academy Photo - Our firm belief and practice is that all students can excel given the right environment and opportunity. All of our students have many opportunities and the support needed to find their passion and God-given calling for their lives.

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

Dunn School Photo - The outdoor education program at Dunn School fosters greater self-awareness through physical challenges and leadership experiences in the outdoors.

St. Jeanne De Lestonnac School Photo - Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac Catholic School educates students from preschool through high school.

Palo Alto Preparatory School Photo - Our classes have an average student-to-teacher ratio of 8:1. This means students receive individualized support from teachers who have the time to teach to their students' specific learning needs.

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.

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

The Webb Schools Photo - Welcome to Webb

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.

Recent Articles

October 27, 2024

Inside DoDEA Schools: Qualifications, Costs, and Accreditation

Explore the world of Department of Defense Schools (DoDEA), offering quality education to military families globally. Learn about their history, academic performance, teacher qualifications, and unique benefits for service members' children.

September 23, 2024

Overcoming the Tech Divide

This comprehensive guide offers insights and strategies for educators, administrators, and policymakers to bridge the technology gap in education, ensuring that all students have access to high-quality, tech-enabled learning experiences.

September 05, 2024

AI for Teachers: An Introduction

We provide practical steps for identifying and implementing AI tools that address specific classroom needs, focusing on solutions that save valuable prep time and are easy to learn. From widely adopted platforms to education-specific applications, discover how AI can enhance your teaching efficiency without overwhelming your schedule.