Sewickley Academy

As Pittsburgh`s longest-standing independent coeducational school, Sewickley Academy is distinguished by not only its rigorous academics and outstanding faculty, but also by its student-centered approach to learning and teaching, in which every child is challenged to explore and excel to his or her highest ability.

Quick Stats (2024)

  • Top Ranked PA School
  • Grades: Prekindergarten-12
  • Enrollment: 599 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $32,035
  • Average class size: 15 students
  • Application Deadline: Jan. 7 / rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

Sewickley Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for:

Category
Attribute
Sports offered
School History

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-12
Year Founded
1838
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details

Student Body

Total Students
599 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
17%
State avg.: 26%
Students by Grade
Sewickley Academy Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
91 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
71%
Average Class Size
15 students
Number of AP Courses
13 courses
List of Courses Offered
Average SAT score
1295
Average ACT score
30
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Dress Code available on our website

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
Jan. 7 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Varies on Grade Level
Summer Program Cost Notes
Varies on the program or course offered
% on Financial Aid
27%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$12,587
Admissions Director
Jayme Thompson
Endowment Size
$45 million

Sports

School Notes

Sewickley Academy: At a Glance

As we look to the future and seek to enhance the way in which we deliver a transformative learning experience, Sewickley Academy deliberately and relentlessly seeks to exemplify the best elements that characterize excellence in education. We believe that excellence in our educational programming includes, among other things, inquiry- and experiential-based learning at all levels with a robust global orientation. Because transformative learning is most authentically achieved in a community that believes in the absolute dignity and worth of each individual regardless of race, creed, color, ethnic origin, sexual orientation or gender expression, physical ability, and any other element of identity, Sewickley Academy celebrates and embraces diversity while espousing the centrality of exemplary character as a foundation for a life well lived. While valuing each individual, we seek to create a dynamic, challenging, supportive, affirming community of learners, each one of whom is committed to achieving personal excellence and developing the types of relationships that are at the heart of a Sewickley Academy education. Finally, we are committed to having the facilities and financial vitality necessary to support a transformative learning experience for all students. In this relentless pursuit of transformative learning, Sewickley Academy will become a beacon others will seek to emulate.

Academics

  • Average class size is 15 students
  • Student to teacher ratio is approximately 7:1
  • Experienced, caring teachers, 71% with advanced degrees
  • All faculty and staff participate in annual professional development

College Placement

  • 100% of graduates continue their education at a four-year college or university
  • 95% of the Class of 2021 was admitted to a top-choice college or university
  • In the last 4 years, 56% of Academy graduates have been recognized as an AP Scholar by the College Board (before their senior year).
  • The SAT average for the Classes of 20172020 was 1295. This is 236 points above the national SAT average. The SAT average for the Class of 2020 is 1310. This is 251 points above the national SAT average!
  • The ACT average for the Class of 2020 is 30 versus a national average of 20.9.65% of the Class of 2020 was admitted to a college or university with an acceptance rate of approximately 30% or lower.

Facilities

  • 60 classrooms, 9 science labs,5 computer labs, 2 robotics labs, 2 libraries with a total of 33,600 volumes, 2 student publishing centers,1 digital design lab, and a media center
  • 5 tennis courts,4 athletic fields including a turf field,2 gymnasiums, and a fully-equipped fitness center that support our 22 varsity teams
  • 2 greenhouses and aschool garden that creates an outdoor classroom and experiential learning center
  • Arts programs are supported by visual and performing art studios, music practice rooms, a black-box theater with seating for approximately 130, Rea Auditorium with 570 seats, and the Campbell Art Gallery

Programs

  • Mission and Core Values that center on the potential of every child
  • Emphasis on developing students' leadership and communication skills
  • A Community of Respect pledge and Honor Code that set a high standard of behavior
  • Bus transportation offered to many areas in the region
  • $2.7 million in financial aid to assist families who qualify; approximately 27% of students receive financial aid
  • Home to Breakthrough Pittsburgh (formerly Summerbridge Pittsburgh), the national award-winning program with core values of high expectations, academic success, and personal mastery for students with limited opportunities

Students

  • A highly diverse student body from 42 school districts in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia
  • Approximately 34% of the student body are students of color.
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Sewickley Academy cost?
Sewickley Academy's tuition is approximately $32,035 for private students.
Does Sewickley Academy offer a summer program?
Yes, Sewickley Academy offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What sports does Sewickley Academy offer?
Sewickley Academy offers 15 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cheering, Cross Country, Diving, Field Hockey, Golf, Ice Hockey, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Squash, Swimming, Tennis and Track and Field. Sewickley Academy is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for most sports offered.
What is Sewickley Academy's ranking?
Sewickley Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for: Largest student body, Most sports offered and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for Sewickley Academy?
The application deadline for Sewickley Academy is Jan. 7 / rolling (applications are due on Jan. 7 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).

School Reviews

  5.00 out of 5  (10 reviews)
5  
This school will help your child exceed in numerous ways. Both my sons attended and went on to complete graduate and doctoral degrees at Great schools. The classes were small, and the teachers were always accessible if any concerns were to arise. I would highly recommend this school.
- Posted by
5  
Sixth year for my two sons - simply the best investment I''ve ever made. Nurturing and diverse environment, rigorous but supportive classroom culture, my sons have blossomed at this school. No, it isn't cheap, but in this case you get what you pay for and more. The consistent theme I''ve heard from parents whose children have graduated from SA is that the payback comes when you see your children thrive in college and beyond. For my family, we see the paback in our son's growth today. Check out the school and you''ll beglad that you did so.
- Posted by
5  
We chose Sewickley Academy for our children when we moved to the area 5+ years ago and couldn't be more pleased! The teachers are fabulous, the academics rigorous but doable, the college guidance second to none and for a small school SA offers a tremendous amount of athletic, arts and extracurricular opportunities. Three of my favorite things about the school are 1) you don't have to choose a focus (academics, athletics, arts etc.) as you can truly experience it all, 2) the culture of kindness and support among the students (there is no class ranking or cut-throat competition), and 3) the one campus for pre-K - 12 which allows all levels to interact with each other. Would highly recommend you take a look for your children as it is a very worthwhile investment!
- Posted by
5  
Sewickley Academy has exceeded my family's expectations of what a Private school is about and what it can do for our children. Not only is the academic program exceptional, the Teachers are all dedicated, creative and talented in their classroom. Teamwork seems to be the theme between parents, children and teachers. A great environment for academic and social growth.
- Posted by
5  
Choosing Sewickley Academy as our children's high school was a great decision. Along with the college prep classes and college scheduling (block schedules), SA provides the perfect atmosphere for the student, no matter what their interests. Whether it is the arts, music, sports or a combination, there is a place for that student. I love that through extra curricular clubs, students are taught philanthropy. We are a sports family and the teams are highly ranked. Yet, there is a no cut policy, so everyone is included! We also love the college guidance program.
- Posted by
5  
I have 4 children at Sewickley Academy and could not be happier. The lower school is nurturing while introducing the children to an academic environment. The middle school is a great transition, teaching students to think for themselves and the high school has been an amazing preparation for college. In addition, the college counselors were fantastic and helped my daughter find a school that was a perfect fit for her.
- Posted by
5  
1. Great education programs with strong curriculum 2. Prepares them well for college 3. They develop a strong work ethic that is helpful in college 4. Students are more confident in their approach 5. There is diversity in school that helps strengthen the appreciation of other cultures and traditions 6. Teachers and staff are very receptive 7. Great communication between teachers and parents
- Posted by
5  
Sewickley Academy is a great match for any student, providing an academically challenging environment and exceptional teachers who are dedicated to teaching and knowledgeable in their subjects.
- Posted by
5  
My son started at Sewickley Academy in 2008 for his 2nd grade year. He is now in 8th grade and we are so happy that we chose the Academy. The education is top notch, the teachers truly care about the students, and the bond the kids have with each other is amazing. When I have questions, the administrators are always willing and able to speak with me. If you are looking for a school that offers a great education combined with individual attention for each student, Sewickley Academy is a perfect choice.
- Posted by
5  
We have been so pleased with our choice to educate our children at Sewickley Academy. We are seeing our children thrive, excel, and grow academically, socially, and through their involvement in sports, music, and art. They are truly fortunate to be at a school where they are encouraged, supported, praised, not only from the incredible faculty, but among their classmates! The camaraderie, support, and friendships are invaluable. Sewickley Academy is giving my children the confidence and the tools to bring out the best in themselves.
- Posted by

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Quick Stats (2024)

  • Top Ranked PA School
  • Grades: Prekindergarten-12
  • Enrollment: 599 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $32,035
  • Average class size: 15 students
  • Application Deadline: Jan. 7 / rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Allegheny County, PA is $11,208 for elementary schools and $16,012 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Allegheny County, PA is 94% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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