Seattle Academy Photo #9

Seattle Academy

Seattle Academy (also referred to as SAAS) is a vibrant, innovative and energetic independent school serving 6th through 12th grade students in an urban Capitol Hill campus setting in Seattle, WA.
Our dynamic educational philosophy of teaching students "how to think" but not "what to think" is delivered through programmatic pillars of Academics, Arts, Athletics, Outdoor & Travel, and Service.
We, therefore, seek a diversified student body and faculty. We offer a demanding college-preparatory curriculum integrating the arts and emphasizing a global perspective.
We utilize the resources of our urban environment to extend our classrooms, to enhance our programs, and to engage out students in public service.
Most of all, we seek to graduate motivated young men and women of talent and integrity who are prepared to contribute productively to a changing world.

Quick Facts (2025-26)

Top Rankings

Seattle Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Washington for:

Category
Attribute
Sports offered

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 6-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Dyslexia / Language-based and Mild Learning Differences
Year Founded
1983
School Calendar

Student Body

Total Students
772 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
17%
State avg.: 31%
Students by Grade
Seattle Academy Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
87 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
9:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
18 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
Jan. 15
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Middle School (6-8): $34,236 High School (9-12): $35,364
% on Financial Aid
23%
Acceptance Rate
25%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Lori Metcalf
Admissions Associate
Dawn Fornear
Application URL

Sports

Extracurriculars

Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
25 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
3D Printing Club4 Corners Diversity Club
Bee ClubCartoon and Comic Club
Climbing ClubCommunity Service Organization
Econ-Finance ClubEnvironmental Club
French ClubKnitting Club
Math Honor SocietyMiddle Eastern Awareness
Mock TrialModel UN
Music Production ClubPeer Tutoring
Political Debate ClubRobotics Club
Spanish ClubSpeech and Debate
Student GovernmentThe Cardinal Newspaper
Wellness ClubYouth Legislature
Zambia Club

School Notes

  • School Motto: SAAS is a dynamic community that challenges students to question, imagine, and create in order to contribute boldly to a changing world.
  • The philosophy which underlies a Seattle Academy education can be summarized as follows: Since the ability to communicate and express one's thoughts and feelings is an essential skill for a productive life, Seattle Academy conducts learning in a culture of performance. Students are challenged to take risks in front of a variety of audiences, combining disparate skills in moments of action in order to communicate complex ideas. This method of teaching fosters independence and integrity, the ability to collaborate and take risks, and the capacity to cope with change and ambiguity. Education is both timeless and contemporary, and we live today in a world of rapidly expanding technology. Seattle Academy, therefore, infuses technology into all areas of the school's program. Faculty use this complex resource to reshape and refine their courses, and students use technology to stretch their research and communication skills. Finally, the highest purpose of education is character development. The school teaches, and aspires to exemplify, the four core values of trust, respect, integrity, and responsibility.
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Seattle Academy cost?
Seattle Academy's tuition is approximately $48,480 for private students.
What schools are Seattle Academy often compared to?
Seattle Academy is often viewed alongside schools like UPrep by visitors of our site.
What is the acceptance rate of Seattle Academy?
The acceptance rate of Seattle Academy is 25%, which is lower than the national average of 82%. Seattle Academy's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Washington with low acceptance rates.
What sports does Seattle Academy offer?
Seattle Academy offers 13 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Bowling, Cross Country, Dance, Golf, Lacrosse, Soccer, Squash, Tennis, Track and Field, Ultimate Frisbee, Volleyball and Wrestling. Seattle Academy is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in Washington for most sports offered.
What is Seattle Academy's ranking?
Seattle Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Washington for: Lowest average acceptance rates, Largest student body, Most sports offered and Most extracurriculars offered.
When is the application deadline for Seattle Academy?
The application deadline for Seattle Academy is Jan. 15.
In what neighborhood is Seattle Academy located?
Seattle Academy is located in the Minor neighborhood of Seattle, WA. There are 3 other private schools located in Minor.

School Reviews

5  
My son entered in 2014 as a HS freshman. SAAS was his top pick of schools to attend. He is definitely a math / science lover and wanted to broaden his experience with art, dance, theater, etc. I have been very impressed with the faculty thus far. The students really support each other to take risks and try things they normally might not do (singing, video, dancing, etc.). It is a very "inclusive" school from what I have seen thus far. I was initially a bit nervous about the urban location but am growing more comfortable with it. I see the wisdom in my son's choice of SAAS and I know he would highly recommend the school to a friend.
- Posted by

Endorse Seattle 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

Transferring from Public to Private School Mid-Year: What to Expect
Transferring from Public to Private School Mid-Year: What to Expect
Considering a mid-year transfer from public to private school? Learn what to expect with admissions, academic placement, social adjustment, and financial aid to ensure a smooth transition.
A Guide to Day vs. Boarding School: Which Is Right for Your Family
A Guide to Day vs. Boarding School: Which Is Right for Your Family
Discover the key differences between day and boarding schools to determine the best fit for your child. Explore benefits, costs, lifestyle factors, and questions to help guide your family’s decision.
The A to Z of Private Schools 2025
The A to Z of Private Schools 2025
Explore the A to Z of private schools in 2025—from admissions to tuition—offering parents and educators clear insights into today’s options.

Quick Facts (2025-26)

Request Information

Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Seattle, WA is $21,312 for elementary schools and $24,695 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Seattle, WA is 70% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

Related School Videos

Quick Links