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Most Selective Private Schools in Pennsylvania

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

The average private school acceptance rate in Pennsylvania is 85% per year (2026-27).

The most selective school in Pennsylvania is Girard College, with an acceptance rate of 8%.

Quick Facts (26-27)

# PA Schools Ranked: 296
Top 20 Range (Acceptance Rate): 8%–40%
PA School Avg.: 85%
National School Avg.: 88%

Quick Facts (26-27)

# PA Schools Ranked: 296
Top 20 Range (Acceptance Rate): 8%–40%
PA School Avg.: 85%
National School Avg.: 88%

Pennsylvania Average Acceptance Rate (Trends)

Total Growth: (-4.7%) (-4% since 2015)

View Data

Year	National avg	Pennsylvania (PA) avg
2025	81%	81% (▼ 6 pp)
2024	85%	87% (▲ 1 pp)
2023	85%	86% (— 0 pp)
2022	85%	86% (— 0 pp)
2021	85%	86% (— 0 pp)
2020	85%	86% (— 0 pp)
2019	85%	86% (— 0 pp)
2018	85%	86% (— 0 pp)
2017	85%	86% (— 0 pp)
2016	85%	86% (▲ 1 pp)
2015	85%	85%

Download Table: Download as CSV | Download as XML | Download as JSON

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 — Pennsylvania (acceptance rate range: 8%–40%, avg 85%)

Acceptance Rate Range: 8% 64% Avg. Acceptance Rate: 40%

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Pennsylvania average private schools acceptance rate?

The Pennsylvania average private schools acceptance rate is 85% for 2026-27.

What are the most selective private schools in Pennsylvania?

The top ranked private schools in Pennsylvania include Girard College, Gwynedd-mercy Academy Elementary School and Ephrata Mennonite School.

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

The most selective private high school in Pennsylvania is Girard College, with an acceptance rate of 8%. The most selective private elementary school is Girard College, with an acceptance rate of 8%.

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