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Most Selective Private Schools in California

Name: California Average Acceptance Rate Trends (All Private Schools)
Creator: Private School Review
License: https://www.privateschoolreview.com/terms

The average private school acceptance rate in California is 83% per year (2026-27).

The most selective school in California is Camelot Kids Preschool and Little Knights, Montessori Academy-Glendale, and Centennial Montessori School, each with an acceptance rate of 10%.

Quick Facts (26-27)

# CA Schools Ranked: 564
Top 20 Range (Acceptance Rate): 10%–30%
CA School Avg.: 84%
National School Avg.: 87%

Quick Facts (26-27)

# CA Schools Ranked: 564
Top 20 Range (Acceptance Rate): 10%–30%
CA School Avg.: 84%
National School Avg.: 87%

California Average Acceptance Rate (Trends)

Showing 2016–2025. Full 11-year historical data available below ↓

Total Growth: +0.0% (+0% since 2016)

View Data

Year	National avg	California (CA) avg
2025	85%	84% (— 0 pp)
2024	85%	84% (— 0 pp)
2023	85%	84% (— 0 pp)
2022	85%	84% (— 0 pp)
2021	85%	84% (— 0 pp)
2020	85%	84% (— 0 pp)
2019	85%	84% (— 0 pp)
2018	85%	84% (▼ 1 pp)
2017	85%	85% (▲ 1 pp)
2016	85%	84% (— 0 pp)
2015	85%	84%

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Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Private School Universe Survey (PSS), direct school submissions, and proprietary website research and analysis by Private School Review.

Note: Data may not be displayed on any public-facing website or service that replicates or resembles a school search or review portal without prior written permission. See our Terms of Service.

Show school map — California (acceptance rate range: 10%–30%, avg 84%)

Acceptance Rate Range: 10% 48% Avg. Acceptance Rate: 30%

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the California average private schools acceptance rate?

The California average private schools acceptance rate is 83% for 2026-27.

What are the most selective private schools in California?

The top ranked private schools in California include Camelot Kids Preschool and Little Knights, Centennial Montessori School and Montessori Academy-Glendale.

What is the most selective high school and elementary school in California?

The most selective private high school in California is The Thacher School, with an acceptance rate of 13%. The most selective private elementary school is Centennial Montessori School, with an acceptance rate of 10%.

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