Cape Fear Academy

Cape Fear Academy offers unparalleled educational opportunities and experiences, building the foundation for a lifetime of learning and future success.
Exceptional faculty partner with families to know, love, and challenge each unique student.
CFA is a close-knit, inclusive learning community where every person is respected and valued for both who they are and who they will become.

Quick Stats (2024)

  • Top Ranked NC School
  • Grades: Nursery/Preschool-12
  • Enrollment: 717 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $22,750
  • Acceptance rate: 78%
  • Average class size: 20 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

Cape Fear Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in North Carolina for:

Category
Attribute
Sports offered
School History

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Nursery/Preschool-12
Year Founded
1967

Student Body

Total Students
717 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
4%
State avg.: 23%
Students by Grade
Cape Fear Academy Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
92 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
8:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
48%
Average Class Size
20 students
Number of AP Courses
25 courses
List of Courses Offered
Advanced Courses
Biology, Calculus AB, Calculus AB/BC, Chemistry, Chinese Language and Culture, Computer Science A, Computer Science Principles, English Language and Composition, English Literature and Compisition, Environmental Science, Human Geography, Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, Music Theory, Physics C, Psychology, Research, Seminar, Spanish Language and Culture, Spanish Literature and Culture, Statistics, Studio Art, US Government and Politics, US History, World History
Average SAT score
1259
Average ACT score
27
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Some requirements based on grade level.

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Tuition for 2023–24: PreK and Kindergarten: $15,200 Grades 1 & 2: $17,850 Grades 3 – 5: $19,925 Grades 6 – 8: $21,900 Grades 9 - 12: $22,750
Acceptance Rate
78%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Nelda Nutter
Admissions Associate
Alison Reid

Sports

Extracurriculars

Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
38 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Cooking Club, Young Republicans

Club or Organization:
Automotive Club, BETA Club (community service), Book Club, Broadcasting Club, CFA Pride (LGBTQ+ Affinity Group), CFA Skate Club, Chess Club, Coding Club, Debate Team, Diversity Club, Gaming Team, Global Connections, Green Club, Head of School Advisory Club, High Tide, Improv Club, International Club, LEGO Robotics Team, Mock Trial, Model United Nations UN, National History Day, National Honor Society, National Ocean Sciences Bowl, Outreach Service Club, Photography Club, Robotics Team, Spanish Club, Spike Ball Club, Student Ambassadors, Student Council, Student Government, The FEAR, Women's Leadership Club, Yearbook, Young Democrats, Youth and Government

School Notes

Options for individualized and accelerated learning from PK through Upper School AP Classes position students for the best possible colleges and careers. The dynamic multi-faceted curriculum develops the executive functioning and higher order thinking skills that are a hallmark of a CFA student. Top SAT and AP test scores and an exceptional college planning and placement program support graduates in choosing best-fit colleges, including many of the nation's top colleges and universities, where our alumni also graduate at higher rates than their peers.
  • CORE PRINCIPLES: Character, Community, Opportunity, and Academic Excellence.
At Cape Fear Academy, a long tradition of high academic standards is grounded in a unique, supportive learning environment in which an incredibly caring and skilled faculty and staff prepare students for success. The CFA experience nurtures capable young people, empowering them with the skills, confidence, and resilience to take risks, solve problems, and overcome challenges. Small class sizes and a rich array of opportunities allow students to explore new horizons, discover their passions, develop unique talents, and embrace the desire to reach their full potential. As a result, students uphold the traditions of academic excellence and achievement for which CFA has a well-earned reputation.
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Cape Fear Academy cost?
Cape Fear Academy's tuition is approximately $22,750 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Cape Fear Academy?
The acceptance rate of Cape Fear Academy is 78%, which is lower than the national average of 87%. Cape Fear Academy's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in North Carolina with low acceptance rates.
What sports does Cape Fear Academy offer?
Cape Fear Academy offers 13 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cheering, Cross Country, Field Hockey, Golf, Lacrosse, Sailing, Soccer, Surf Team, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field and Volleyball. Cape Fear Academy is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in North Carolina for most sports offered.
What is Cape Fear Academy's ranking?
Cape Fear Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in North Carolina for: Lowest average acceptance rates, Largest student body, Most AP courses offered, Most sports offered, Most extracurriculars offered and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for Cape Fear Academy?
The application deadline for Cape Fear Academy is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).

School Reviews

  5.00 out of 5  (4 reviews)
5  
Cape Fear Academy has been the best academic choice for all of our children. Each of them is unique in their interests and abilities, and CFA has been able to foster their development, encourage their growth, and support their challenges. Whether they're pursuing academic, athletic, artistic, or STEM opportunities, they are known by their teachers, coaches, and advocates. Beyond the kids' experiences, as a parent, I feel fully informed and aware of the curriculum, activities, and events that take place day to day. Thank you, CFA, for playing such an integral role in our kids' development. We're proud to be Hurricanes!
- Posted by
5  
Cape fear academy has been wonderful for my daughter. She has attended for 6 years now and we have been completely satisfied with the efforts CFA has made to help our daughter grow. Thank you CFA!
- Posted by
5  
Excellent academics and staff.
- Posted by
5  
My child has been at Cape Fear for six years and has loved every minute. The classes are challenging and fun, and she adores her teachers. Beyond the classroom, there are overnight field trips, musicals, band, sports and numerous after-school activities. There is truly something for everyone at CFA.
- Posted by

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Quick Stats (2024)

  • Top Ranked NC School
  • Grades: Nursery/Preschool-12
  • Enrollment: 717 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $22,750
  • Acceptance rate: 78%
  • Average class size: 20 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Wilmington, NC is $10,819 for elementary schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Wilmington, NC is 83% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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