Nichols School aim is to train minds, bodies and hearts for the work of life, and to carry into all we do the highest ideals of character and service.
At Nichols School, inspired teachers and students are committed to a quality standard of learning and achievement in all aspects of school life.
Our community strives to cultivate each student's sense of responsibility, compassion, honesty, and self-discipline.
Our goal is to produce confident and ethical young people equipped for the challenges of life.
We embrace and value our school's history and heritage. We also recognize the importance of adaptation and innovation as a means of preparing our students for the future.
We strive to create a community that reflects our region's neighborhoods and the wider world.
In this environment, our students develop habits of tolerance, understanding, and mutual respect.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked NY School
- Grades: 5-12
- Enrollment: 605 students
- Yearly Tuition: $19,725
- Acceptance rate: 85%
- Average class size: 14 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 11 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Nichols School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New York for:
Category
Attribute
Student Body
AP Courses
Sports offered
School History
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 5-12
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1892
Colors
White, Green
School Calendar
First Day of School
Mon. Sep 1, 2025
Campus Size
30
Student Body
Total Students
605 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
36%
State avg.: 40%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
75 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
8:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
85%
Average Class Size
14 students
Number of AP Courses
22 courses
List of Courses Offered
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Jan. 11 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$19,725
Tuition Notes
Grades 5-8: $19,725
Grade 9: $20,775
Grades 10-12: $21,175
% on Financial Aid
30%
Acceptance Rate
85%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Nina Barone
Admissions Associate
Adrienne Ptak
Application URL
Endowment Size
$30 million
Sports
Total Sports Offered
16 sports
Sports
School Notes
- School Motto: To train minds, bodies and hearts for the work of life.
- School Mascot: Vikings
- Nichols School is a nationally recognized coed college preparatory school for grades 5-12. Founded in 1892, Nichols is located in Buffalo, N.Y., and non-denominational, with 582 students from across Western New York and Southern Ontario, as well as several international students. The dedicated faculty is focused on preparing students to thrive in the global community of the 21st century.
- With an average class size of 14 students, world-class teachers foster each student`s talents beyond the limitations of standardized testing. Nichols develops students` intellectual and extra-curricular passions, and provides access to challenging academic programs, and exceptional athletic, art and international exchange programs. Through leadership opportunities and community service projects, students develop strong work ethic, integrity, character and personal responsibility.
- Nichols` beautiful campus holds many interactive learning spaces, including a sustainable math and science center, new visual art rooms and unparalleled athletics facilities. International exchange programs in China, Costa Rica, France and Spain create lifelong connections and deepen students` experiences in the classroom. Meaningful service projects strengthen students` understanding of the local community, and further cultivate character and leadership skills.
- Nichols is accredited by the New York State Association of Independent Schools.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Gillian Evans - Played college hockey at Alvernia University - 2022 -
- Christian Laettner - Played college basketball at Duke University - 1988 -
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Nichols School cost?
Nichols School's tuition is approximately $19,725 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Nichols School?
The acceptance rate of Nichols School is 85%, which is higher than the national average of 74%.
Who are famous alumni from Nichols School?
Nichols School famous alumni include: Gillian Evans - Played college hockey at Alvernia University - 2022 and Christian Laettner - Played college basketball at Duke University - 1988.
What sports does Nichols School offer?
Nichols School offers 16 interscholastic sports: Ballet, Baseball, Basketball, Crew, Cross Country, Dance, Field Hockey, Football, Golf, Ice Hockey, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Squash, Tennis and Volleyball. Nichols School is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in New York for most sports offered.
What is Nichols School's ranking?
Nichols School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New York for: Largest student body, Most AP courses offered, Most sports offered and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for Nichols School?
The application deadline for Nichols School is Jan. 11 / rolling (applications are due on Jan. 11 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
In what neighborhood is Nichols School located?
Nichols School is located in the Park Meadow neighborhood of Buffalo, NY. There are 1 other private schools located in Park Meadow.
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The nearest high school to Nichols School is St. Mary's School For The Deaf (0.8 miles away)
The nearest elementary school and preschool is Elmwood-franklin School (0.3 miles away)
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