Portsmouth Christian Academy

PCA in a non-profit, Pre-K through Grade 12 private Christian day school located in Dover, NH. The classical approach to education forms the foundation of our program.
Math and reading differentiation in preschool through Grade 8; and college-prep, honors and AP courses allow differentiation in Grades 9-12.
Mandarin Chinese and Spanish begins in kindergarten.  STEM initiatives supported across all school levels.
Full-complement of music, theater, art and athletic programs.  Curriculum is developmentally appropriate and encourages cognitive growth in all disciplines.
Faculty review of the curriculum is an ongoing process that provides the means to add enrichment to units, defines the skills that must be mastered at each grade level, and determines the relevance and truth of the curriculum as seen through the light of Scripture.

Quick Stats (2024)

  • Top Ranked NH School
  • Grades: Prekindergarten-12
  • Enrollment: 604 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $16,260
  • Acceptance rate: 85%
  • Average class size: 15 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

Portsmouth Christian Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New Hampshire for:

Category
Attribute

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
See our Mosaic Program
Year Founded
1978

Student Body

Total Students
604 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
14%
State avg.: 19%
Students by Grade
Portsmouth Christian Academy Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
47 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
13:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
44%
Average Class Size
15 students
Number of AP Courses
8 courses
List of Courses Offered
Advanced Courses
AP Biology, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Chemistry, AP Computer Science A, AP Literature & Composition, AP Physics, AP Spanish, AP U.S. Government and Politics
Classroom Dress Code
Casual

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
3-Year- Old, 2-Day (T-TH): Full Day – $4,715 | Half Day – $2,955 3-Year-Old, 3-Day (M-W-F): Full Day – $7,065 | Half Day – $4,405 3-Year-Old, 5-Day: Full Day – $9,125 | Half Day – $5,585 4-Year-Old, 3-Day (T-W-TH): Full Day – $6,755 | Half Day – $4,110 4-Year-Old, 5-Day: Full Day – $8,820 | Half Day – $5,350 Lower School (K-8th): $6,652 – $13,305 Upper School (9th-12th): $8,650 – $17,300 Tuition K-8 (Variable Tuition: $6,252-$12,505Tuition 9-12 (Variable Tuition): $8,130- $16,260
% on Financial Aid
57%
Acceptance Rate
85%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Stephen Leavitt
Admissions Associate
Laura Lupinacci

Sports

Extracurriculars

Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
16 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Arts Club, Spanish Club, Tutoring Club, Worship Team

Club or Organization:
Bible Study Groups, Film Club, League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, Medical Club, Quiz Bowl, Robotics Club, Student Government, Wednesday Girls, Yearbook

Arts and Music Programs:
Drama, Theater Arts

Recreational Athletic Programs:
Fitness Club

School Notes

  • PCA in a non-profit, Pre-K through Grade 12 private, Christian day school located in Dover, NH. Set on 50 acres adjacent to the Bellamy River, the classical approach to education forms the foundation of our program. Curriculum is chosen that is developmentally appropriate and encourages cognitive growth in all disciplines. Faculty review of the curriculum is an ongoing process that provides the means to add enrichment to units, defines the skills that must be mastered at each grade level, and determines the relevance and truth of the curriculum as seen through the light of Scripture.
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Portsmouth Christian Academy cost?
Portsmouth Christian Academy's tuition is approximately $16,260 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Portsmouth Christian Academy?
The acceptance rate of Portsmouth Christian Academy is 85%, which is higher than the national average of 74%.
What sports does Portsmouth Christian Academy offer?
Portsmouth Christian Academy offers 9 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball and Winter Track.
What is Portsmouth Christian Academy's ranking?
Portsmouth Christian Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New Hampshire for: Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for Portsmouth Christian Academy?
The application deadline for Portsmouth Christian Academy is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).

School Reviews

  5.00 out of 5  (12 reviews)
5  
Grew so much academically and spiritually here! I found a family at PCA and felt supported as I explored my interests, strengths, and weaknesses. Definitely prepared me for college!
- Posted by
5  
The teachers at this school are phenomenal and truly care about the students. It is an excellent school academically and, yet, the faculty understands that each student is unique and doesn't learn in a cookie-cutter manner. The campus is gorgeous with walking trails through conservation land and a private dock on the Bellamy River. And there are always school activities which help you feel part of the PCA family. LOVE this school! HIGHLY recommend!
- Posted by
5  
All five of our children have attended PCA since arriving to NH 12 years ago. Our oldest daughter graduated in 2016. From preschool through 12th grade, PCA is a true community where any young person can shine, find their place and contribute. Our children have participated in everything from Jazz Band to multiple theater productions, fall, winter and spring seasons of athletics, mission trips domestically and abroad and the Auction art gallery and contest. We have even benefited from hosting a Korean exchange student two winter sessions. PCA is a safe place where your young person is supported through the challenging changes of the junior high and teen years with loving and caring teachers and staff and supportive and informative educational lectures given by the Academic Dean. It has been a hugely positive influence on my family. My now Junior in college says she is very glad to attended the school, and was well-prepared for the rigors of the university.
- Posted by
5  
My daughter entered PCA in 8th grade. She was immediately accepted by the other students and formed strong friendships. The class size was perfect for her since she needed a smaller group setting to excel. The teachers had a personal interest in making sure she received a fantastic education. They immediately picked up on her strengths and weaknesses and provided great communication in regards to what she needed to succeed.
- Posted by
5  
My children, and our family, have been blessed to be a part of this school for the past five years. We chose the school for its academic excellence and its wonderful school community. I now have one child in the elementary school and one in the high school and we couldn't be happier. As parents, we love the high bar that the teachers set and then are able to guide the children to achieve. My children love their school as well--they look forward to attending every day, truly enjoy the companionship and mentoring of teachers, are excited about educational activities and eagerly attend school events with their friends. PCA has not only been a wonderful school, it has become a wonderful family!
- Posted by
5  
This was our first year at PCA. We chose PCA for our son because of the quality of the faculty, the staff, the facility, and the education our son has received and will continue to receive. PCA is a big family and the love and support is felt by each and every family. Regardless of your religious beliefs you will feel welcome and at home at PCA. You will also find the highest quality education available for your children.
- Posted by
5  
My family came here 8 years ago because of the strong fine arts program - a place where the arts are central to the curriculum because the school recognizes we are all made in the image of a creative God. Now I have the privilege of leading the department as fine arts director. It's a great school.
- Posted by
5  
As a teacher and a parent of two alums, I have been involved with PCA for 26 years. The things I appreciate most are the loving and individualized care that my daughters received from their teachers, the respect and hard work that I receive from my students, and the way our administrators never stop working to make PCA better. This school is truly a very special place, a place where lives are changed and the students are prepared to impact the world for good.
- Posted by
5  
This is the best thing that we have ever done for any of our kids. We are regretful that PCA wasn't on our radar with our older kids. This school is academically challenging, teaches compassion and kindness, and the teachers are incredibly trained, well educated and honestly care so much about the students. We thought it would be unaffordable. There is assistance. We assumed we may not be "Christian" enough. Wrong again. Very inclusive and involved faculty and parents. We are just so grateful to have found PCA.
- Posted by
5  
Five years ago we sold our home in MA and moved to the Dover area so that our children could attend PCA. Here, the teachers CARE about the students in such a genuine way. The level of professionalism and kindness far exceeds the previous schools (3) we have been part of. Now in the high school, they are challenged with honors and AP level classes in every area of study. This school does a fantastic job being both CHRISTIAN and ACADEMICALLY EXCELLENT.
- Posted by
5  
This is our 10th year at PCA! My oldest child started in kindergarten and my other two started in preschool. My oldest is now in high school! Their years at PCA have been such a tremendous blessing. All of my children love this school and have a love of learning thanks to the wonderful teachers and staff who are so caring and committed to helping each child discover their gifts and succeed.
- Posted by
5  
After having my children attend 2 other Christian School in New England, I am so very glad that we found PCA! This school has been such a great blessing to my kids. They are involved in sports and fine arts. They are taking Honors level courses absolutely love it at PCA.
- Posted by

Endorse Portsmouth Christian Academy. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:

  • Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
  • Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
  • Academic or athletic awards
Endorse this school:

Recent Articles

Leadership, Legacy, and Learning: Pillars of Top Schools
Leadership, Legacy, and Learning: Pillars of Top Schools
We explore the key elements contributing to the success of leading private schools, highlighting the importance of strong leadership, a rich legacy, and a focus on comprehensive learning experiences.
Secrets to Becoming a Great School
Secrets to Becoming a Great School
Discover the essential ingredients that drive academic success and cultivate a thriving school community.
All About JROTC
All About JROTC
Explore the multifaceted advantages of Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) programs in private schools. Delve into how JROTC cultivates leadership, discipline, and citizenship skills among students, contributing to their holistic development and future success.

Quick Stats (2024)

  • Top Ranked NH School
  • Grades: Prekindergarten-12
  • Enrollment: 604 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $16,260
  • Acceptance rate: 85%
  • Average class size: 15 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Request Information

Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in New Hampshire is $12,983 for elementary schools and $30,361 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in New Hampshire is 74% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

Related School Videos

Quick Links