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 Ranked IL School
- School Type: School with Special Program Emphasis
- Grades: Prekindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 257 students
- Yearly Tuition: $26,985
- Acceptance rate: 30%
- Average class size: 15 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Quest Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for:
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
Year Founded
1982
Colors
White, Red
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
257 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
47%
State avg.: 34%
Students 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
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$26,985
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
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
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
- School Motto: Empowering gifted students to reach their full potential
- School Mascot: Knight
- 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 6/3/2016
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.
Endorse Quest Academy. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
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