Carlthorp School, established in 1939, is the oldest independent school in Santa Monica. Our close-knit community is bonded over the celebration of our school traditions, appreciation for our rigorous and ever-evolving curriculum, and our meaningful school - family partnerships.
Though the breadth of our curriculum has radically expanded in the last eighty-two years, our basic philosophy remains the same; we focus on the child as a whole, helping each to grow intellectually, socially, and ethically - and to develop outstanding work habits - all within the framework of a warm, diverse, fun, engaging, experiential, academic school.
Our Code-of Conduct, which encourages all Carlthorp constiutents to strive for excellence and to respect themselves and others, is the cornerstone of our community.
Our rich and unique Service Learning curriculum prepares our students to be confident leaders and change-agents in the world. Carlthorp School students are proud public speakers who are eager to share their knowledge and insight with others.
Our graduates matriculate from Cartlhorp School into the finest secondary schools in Los Angeles. Historically, 97% of our students have been admitted into the school of their first choice.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked CA School
- Grades: Kindergarten-6
- Enrollment: 280 students
- Yearly Tuition: $35,650
- Acceptance rate: 97%
- Average class size: 20 students
- Application Deadline: Nov. 1 / Jan. 15 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Carlthorp School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:
School Overview
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-6
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Year Founded
1939
School Calendar
First Day of School
Tue. Sep 2, 2025
Last Day of School
Tue. Jun 9, 2026
Awards
Blue Ribbon School - Selected in 2006
Student Body
Total Students
280 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
27%
State avg.: 51%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
52 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
5:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
20 students
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
School uniforms which offer choice and flexibility.
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Nov. 1 / Jan. 15 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$35,650
Tuition Notes
Tuition assistance is available to families based upon verifiable qualified need by filling out the SSS Financial Aid application. Please contact the Business Office at 310-451-1332 for more information.
Acceptance Rate
97%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Stephen Milich
Admissions Associate
Elaine Hobert
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
5 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
3 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
A wide variety of after-school clubs are offered throughout the year.
Arts and Music Programs:
Chorus and Orchestra programs are offered all year long
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Carlthorp School is a member of the Coastal Canyon Sports League.
A wide variety of after-school clubs are offered throughout the year.
Arts and Music Programs:
Chorus and Orchestra programs are offered all year long
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Carlthorp School is a member of the Coastal Canyon Sports League.
School Notes
- Mission Statement: Carlthorp School provides a strong academic foundation in a diverse and nurturing school community that emphasizes respectful values, responsible work habits, and excellence in order to prepare our students to achieve their highest potential in education and life.
- Please visit our website at www.carlthorp.org to get a greater understanding of our unique community and a sense of the robust and joyful experience that a Carlthorp School education offers.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Carlthorp School cost?
Carlthorp School's tuition is approximately $35,650 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Carlthorp School?
The acceptance rate of Carlthorp School is 97%, which is higher than the national average of 80%.
What sports does Carlthorp School offer?
Carlthorp School offers 5 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Football, Soccer, Track and Field and Volleyball.
What is Carlthorp School's ranking?
Carlthorp School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Largest student body and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for Carlthorp School?
The application deadline for Carlthorp School is Nov. 1 / Jan. 15 / rolling (applications are due on Nov. 1 / Jan. 15 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
In what neighborhood is Carlthorp School located?
Carlthorp School is located in the North of Montana neighborhood of Santa Monica, CA.
Related Schools
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People that viewed Carlthorp School also viewed these schools: Crossroads School For Arts & Sciences, Saint Monica Preparatory, Santa Monica Montessori, St. Martin Of Tours School and Brentwood School.
The nearest high school to Carlthorp School is St. Monica Catholic High School (0.8 miles away)
The nearest elementary school and preschool is St. Matthew's Parish School (0.6 miles away)
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