Quest Academy Photo #1

Quest Academy

Quest Academy is inspiring and challenging gifted children in grades PS-8.
For more than 40 years, Quest has excelled at meeting the academic and social-emotional needs of gifted students.
The school's advanced curriculum and supportive community empower children to follow their curiosity, explore their creativity, and reach their full potential.

Quick Stats (2025)

Top Rankings

Quest Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for:

Category
Attribute

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
Year Founded
1982
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
School Motto
Empowering gifted students to reach their full potential
School Mascot
Knight

Student Body

Total Students
257 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
47%
State avg.: 34%
Students by Grade
Quest Academy Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
39 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
15 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
School Colors
White, Red

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
2025-2026 Tuition for Pre-School Half Day (three year olds) is $9,640; Pre-School Full Day (three year olds) is $12,865. Junior Kindergarten through 8th grade is $26,985. Upon admission to Quest Academy, all new families are charged a one-time New Family Fee that goes to support development of new academic programs and technology applications. The fee is $500 for preschool and $1,500 for Junior Kindergarten through 8th grade.
Summer Program Cost
$475
Summer Program Cost Notes
Early registration fees are $425 per week until March 31, 2025. Regular registration fees are $475 per week on and after April 1, 2025.
Acceptance Rate
30%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Megan DeBoer
Admissions Associate
Danielle Kerr
Application URL
Endowment Size
$10 million

Sports

Total Sports Offered
2 sports

Extracurriculars

Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
10 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Chess Club, Community Service, Debate Club, Drama Club, Literary Magazine, Math Club, Robotics Club

Arts and Music Programs:
Arts and Crafts, Choir, Theory

School Notes

  • Quest Academy was established in 1982 to provide a challenging learning environment for gifted children whose educational needs were not being met in a traditional school setting. Our academic program is designed specifically for the gifted child and is enhanced with classes in the arts, athletics, and technology. Beginning with our youngest learners in early childhood, students receive instruction in art, drama, music, Spanish, physical education, library, science, and computer science/artificial intelligence.
  • Quest Academy is committed to fostering a nurturing community where students feel they belong. Teachers are specifically trained in gifted education and use innovative methods to guide students and ignite their curiosity. Students thrive in small classes with like-minded peers where they can formulate thoughtful opinions and explore their interests at a deep level.
  • See for yourself come visit our campus in Palatine, Illinois, just northwest of Chicago. Visit questacademy.org/admissions for more information.
  • Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
    • Arnav C., Best In Show Award at National Invention Convention, 2024 -
    • Brooklyn M., Qualified for IESA State Track & Field Championships, 2024 -
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Quest Academy cost?
Quest Academy's tuition is approximately $26,985 for private students and $475 for summer students.
What is the acceptance rate of Quest Academy?
The acceptance rate of Quest Academy is 30%, which is lower than the national average of 84%. Quest Academy's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Illinois with low acceptance rates.
Who are famous alumni from Quest Academy?
Quest Academy famous alumni include: Arnav C., Best In Show Award at National Invention Convention, 2024 and Brooklyn M., Qualified for IESA State Track & Field Championships, 2024.
Does Quest Academy offer a summer program?
Yes, Quest Academy offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What sports does Quest Academy offer?
Quest Academy offers 2 interscholastic sports: Basketball and Track and Field.
What is Quest Academy's ranking?
Quest Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for: Lowest average acceptance rates and Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for Quest Academy?
The application deadline for Quest Academy is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).

School Reviews

5  
As a parent of two graduates I can strongly recommend this school - my students were well prepared, confident, and successful in high school. It was worth every penny.
- Posted by

Endorse Quest 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

Podcasts That Will Change the Way You Think About Education
Podcasts That Will Change the Way You Think About Education
This article highlights a curated selection of podcasts that offer thought-provoking discussions, expert insights, and innovative ideas on various aspects of education. From exploring new teaching methods and technologies to discussing policy changes and social issues, these podcasts provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for anyone interested in education. Each podcast is briefly described, highlighting its unique focus and tone.
For-profit vs. Not-for-profit Schools
For-profit vs. Not-for-profit Schools
This comprehensive guide explores the differences between for-profit and not-for-profit private schools, discussing their organizational structures, advantages, and key considerations for parents. It emphasizes that a school's success is determined by its educational quality and management rather than its profit status.
2023-24 Best SSAT Prep Courses Reviewed
2023-24 Best SSAT Prep Courses Reviewed
This article reviews the top SSAT prep courses, including Test Innovators, Enrollment Management Association (EMA), Princeton Review, Ivy Global, and Kaplan. Each course is evaluated based on its price, in-person and online services, officially licensed materials, instant normative scoring, and free trial options. We'll dive into the features and benefits of each course, helping you understand which one best fits your student's needs and learning style.

Quick Stats (2025)

Request Information

Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Cook County, IL is $13,703 for elementary schools and $19,397 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Cook County, IL is 83% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

Quick Links