We offer a college preparatory experience grounded in rigorous academic studies with a focus on historical, scientific, artistic, and global perspectives.
Our graduates are welcomed by renowned colleges and universities throughout the United States and internationally. As important as where our graduates go is how they engage in the changing world, and our exceptional faculty inspires students to grow as thinkers and responsible citizens.
Our liberal arts education combines an integrated humanities program tracing the history of civilization with open-ended scientific lab work and two arts classes each session.
Studying current topics of international significance, traveling to our partner school countries in France, Spain, China, Taiwan, and Ethiopia, and participating in our study abroad program prepares our students to think and act globally.
Technology is integrated throughout our curriculum to enhance students` learning experiences and ensure digital literacy.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked WA School
- Grades: 6-12
- Enrollment: 446 students
- Yearly Tuition: $41,275
- Acceptance rate: 60%
- Average class size: 17 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 15
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
The Northwest School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Washington for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
Student Body
Extracurriculars
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 6-12
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1980
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
Awards
Blue Ribbon School - Selected in n/a
Student Body
Total Students
446 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
35%
State avg.: 28%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
64 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
71%
Average Class Size
17 students
List of Courses Offered
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Jan. 15
Yearly Tuition Cost
$41,275
Tuition Notes
Tuition for both Middle and Upper School includes daily hot lunch.
% on Financial Aid
15%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$32,770
Acceptance Rate
60%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Michele Sanchez
Admissions Associate
Maggie Ball
Sports
Total Sports Offered
6 sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
14 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Acting Interest Group, Asian/Pacific Islander Union, Black Student Union, Environmental Action Interest Group, Feminist Interest Group, Free Draw Interest Group, GLAM (Gay, Lesbian, and More), Jewish Student Union, Math Club, Middle School Book Club, Model U.N. Interest Group, Outdoor Program, Robotics Interest Group, Social Justice Squad
Acting Interest Group, Asian/Pacific Islander Union, Black Student Union, Environmental Action Interest Group, Feminist Interest Group, Free Draw Interest Group, GLAM (Gay, Lesbian, and More), Jewish Student Union, Math Club, Middle School Book Club, Model U.N. Interest Group, Outdoor Program, Robotics Interest Group, Social Justice Squad
School Notes
- MISSION STATEMENT The Northwest School offers a faculty who engage each student in sequential, cross-disciplinary study in the Humanities, Sciences, and the Arts. We are a diverse community of people who challenge each other to learn in a healthy, creative, and collaborative atmosphere of respect for ourselves, others, and the environment. We graduate students with historical, scientific, artistic, and global perspective, enabling them to think and act with integrity, believing they have a positive impact on the world.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Emmett Shear - American internet entrepreneur and investor. He is the co-founder of live video platforms Justin.tv and TwitchTV. He is the Chief executive officer of Twitch. [2] He's also a part-time partner at venture capital firm Y Combinator.[3] Shear is also co-foun
- Stone Gossard - Musician, co-founder of American rock band Pearl Jam.
- Liz Mair - Political strategist
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does The Northwest School cost?
The Northwest School's tuition is approximately $41,275 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of The Northwest School?
The acceptance rate of The Northwest School is 60%, which is lower than the national average of 86%. The Northwest School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Washington with low acceptance rates.
Who are famous alumni from The Northwest School?
The Northwest School famous alumni include: Emmett Shear, Stone Gossard and Liz Mair.
Does The Northwest School offer a summer program?
Yes, The Northwest School offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What sports does The Northwest School offer?
The Northwest School offers 6 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Soccer, Track and Field, Ultimate Frisbee and Volleyball.
What is The Northwest School's ranking?
The Northwest School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Washington for: Lowest average acceptance rates, Largest student body and Most extracurriculars offered.
When is the application deadline for The Northwest School?
The application deadline for The Northwest School is Jan. 15.
In what neighborhood is The Northwest School located?
The Northwest School is located in the Downtown Seattle neighborhood of Seattle, WA. There are 5 other private schools located in Downtown Seattle.
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People that viewed The Northwest School also viewed these schools: Seattle Academy, The Bush School, UPrep, Eastside Preparatory School and Lakeside School.
The nearest high school to The Northwest School is O'dea High School (0.4 miles away)
The nearest elementary school is Seattle Academy (0.4 miles away)
The nearest preschool is Seattle KinderCare (0.5 miles away)
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Location
Miles
Grades
Students
Grades: 6-12 | 772 students 0.4 miles 1201 E Union Street
Seattle, WA 98122
(206) 323-6600
Seattle, WA 98122
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0.4
6-12
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Grades: K-12 | 735 students 1.8 miles 3400 E Harrison Street
Seattle, WA 98112
(206) 322-7978
Seattle, WA 98112
(206) 322-7978
1.8
K-12
735
Grades: 6-12 | 703 students 5.2 miles 8000 25th Ave NE
Seattle, WA 98115
(206) 525-2714
Seattle, WA 98115
(206) 525-2714
5.2
6-12
703
Grades: 5-12 | 538 students 6.3 miles 10613 NE 38th Place
Kirkland, WA 98033
(425) 822-5668
Kirkland, WA 98033
(425) 822-5668
6.3
5-12
538
Grades: 1-8 | 142 students 8.3 miles 14050 1st Avenue NE
Seattle, WA 98125
(260) 593-3209
Seattle, WA 98125
(260) 593-3209
8.3
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142
School Reviews
5 12/8/2017
The Northwest School is a stellar academic institution. It has the perfect balance of brains and heart. Kids come out with passion and purpose and a strong sense of social (global and local) responsibility. A+
5 11/9/2017
The Northwest School wasn't even on our radar but we threw in an application because we were urged to apply to 6 schools (yikes). When we did more research and visited, we were blown away by how intentional they were, how they walked their talk, how they think about EVERYTHING, how our daughter would be appreciated for both her strengths and weaknesses AND bolstered by experts who knew what was appropriate/inappropriate for her age group. This is a place that knows child development and the way the faculty cares for each student is admirable. Our oldest daughter (who started in 6th grade) is now a senior in college and her sister is also at NWS. Truly a find. Do your own research - I'm confident you'll be amazed.
5 11/9/2017
The Northwest School has been a great academic home for my two children. They are developing a great skill set for life long learning, and a strong moral compass with a foundation in environmental stewardship, social justice and global awareness. The community at the Northwest School is one that nurtures individualism while celebrating the power of working together.
5 11/9/2017
NWS is a gem of a school - close community, strong academics, and most important an emphasis on being a good citizen/person! Student body is made up of 'nice kids'...school motto is 'Courtesy and Common Sense'....and they really walk that talk! Community is down to earth and welcoming. Very engaged and committed teachers - personal attention by great mentors. A wonderful place to grow up! Oh yes...and kids go to top notch colleges too!
5 11/9/2017
Our family has two children attending the Northwest School. Both girls started at 6th graders, the oldest will graduate this spring, the younger will enter the upper school this next Fall. Our family are firm supporters of the school for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, is the excellent caliber of both the administration, and more importantly the staff. Each and everyone of the teachers we have experienced at the NWS have been stellar. The focus on academics is strong, but infused in the cross curricular studies are social justice, inclusion, and self-expression. We couldn't be happier!
5 11/9/2017
I've spent 40 years in prep school education and Northwest is a real find. It's a perfect combination of academic rigor, individualism and a real commitment to social justice. It has one of the best college placement records in Seattle and more importantly graduates kids who can think, speak and act. It's a very diverse community, full of families who don't look alike, but share a common passion for education, curtsey and common sense.
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