The Northwest School

We offer a college preparatory experience grounded in rigorous academic studies with a focus on historical, scientific, artistic, and global perspectives.
Our graduates are welcomed by renowned colleges and universities throughout the United States and internationally. As important as where our graduates go is how they engage in the changing world, and our exceptional faculty inspires students to grow as thinkers and responsible citizens.
Our liberal arts education combines an integrated humanities program tracing the history of civilization with open-ended scientific lab work and two arts classes each session.
Studying current topics of international significance, traveling to our partner school countries in France, Spain, China, Taiwan, and Ethiopia, and participating in our study abroad program prepares our students to think and act globally.
Technology is integrated throughout our curriculum to enhance students` learning experiences and ensure digital literacy.

Quick Stats (2024)

  • Top Ranked WA School
  • Grades: 6-12
  • Enrollment: 510 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $41,275
  • Acceptance rate: 60%
  • Average class size: 17 students
  • Application Deadline: Jan. 15
  • Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

The Northwest School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Washington for:

Category
Attribute

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 6-12
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1980
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
Awards
 Blue Ribbon School - Selected in n/a

Student Body

Total Students
510 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
35%
State avg.: 32%
Students by Grade
The Northwest School Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
71 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
71%
Average Class Size
17 students
List of Courses Offered
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
Jan. 15
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Tuition for both Middle and Upper School includes daily hot lunch.
% on Financial Aid
15%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$32,770
Acceptance Rate
60%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Michele Sanchez
Admissions Associate
Maggie Ball

Sports

Extracurriculars

Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
14 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Acting Interest Group, Asian/Pacific Islander Union, Black Student Union, Environmental Action Interest Group, Feminist Interest Group, Free Draw Interest Group, GLAM (Gay, Lesbian, and More), Jewish Student Union, Math Club, Middle School Book Club, Model U.N. Interest Group, Outdoor Program, Robotics Interest Group, Social Justice Squad

School Notes

  • MISSION STATEMENT The Northwest School offers a faculty who engage each student in sequential, cross-disciplinary study in the Humanities, Sciences, and the Arts. We are a diverse community of people who challenge each other to learn in a healthy, creative, and collaborative atmosphere of respect for ourselves, others, and the environment. We graduate students with historical, scientific, artistic, and global perspective, enabling them to think and act with integrity, believing they have a positive impact on the world.
  • Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
    • Emmett Shear - American internet entrepreneur and investor. He is the co-founder of live video platforms Justin.tv and TwitchTV. He is the Chief executive officer of Twitch. [2] He's also a part-time partner at venture capital firm Y Combinator.[3] Shear is also co-foun
    • Stone Gossard - Musician, co-founder of American rock band Pearl Jam.
    • Liz Mair - Political strategist
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does The Northwest School cost?
The Northwest School's tuition is approximately $41,275 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of The Northwest School?
The acceptance rate of The Northwest School is 60%, which is lower than the national average of 85%. The Northwest School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Washington with low acceptance rates.
Who are famous alumni from The Northwest School?
The Northwest School famous alumni include: Emmett Shear, Stone Gossard and Liz Mair.
Does The Northwest School offer a summer program?
Yes, The Northwest School offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What sports does The Northwest School offer?
The Northwest School offers 6 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Soccer, Track and Field, Ultimate Frisbee and Volleyball.
What is The Northwest School's ranking?
The Northwest School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Washington for: Lowest average acceptance rates, Largest student body and Most extracurriculars offered.
When is the application deadline for The Northwest School?
The application deadline for The Northwest School is Jan. 15.
What neighborhood is The Northwest School located?
The Northwest School is located in the Downtown Seattle neighborhood of Seattle, WA. There are 5 other private schools located in Downtown Seattle.

School Reviews

  5.00 out of 5  (6 reviews)
5  
The Northwest School is a stellar academic institution. It has the perfect balance of brains and heart. Kids come out with passion and purpose and a strong sense of social (global and local) responsibility. A+
- Posted by
5  
The Northwest School wasn't even on our radar but we threw in an application because we were urged to apply to 6 schools (yikes). When we did more research and visited, we were blown away by how intentional they were, how they walked their talk, how they think about EVERYTHING, how our daughter would be appreciated for both her strengths and weaknesses AND bolstered by experts who knew what was appropriate/inappropriate for her age group. This is a place that knows child development and the way the faculty cares for each student is admirable. Our oldest daughter (who started in 6th grade) is now a senior in college and her sister is also at NWS. Truly a find. Do your own research - I'm confident you'll be amazed.
- Posted by
5  
The Northwest School has been a great academic home for my two children. They are developing a great skill set for life long learning, and a strong moral compass with a foundation in environmental stewardship, social justice and global awareness. The community at the Northwest School is one that nurtures individualism while celebrating the power of working together.
- Posted by
5  
NWS is a gem of a school - close community, strong academics, and most important an emphasis on being a good citizen/person! Student body is made up of 'nice kids'...school motto is 'Courtesy and Common Sense'....and they really walk that talk! Community is down to earth and welcoming. Very engaged and committed teachers - personal attention by great mentors. A wonderful place to grow up! Oh yes...and kids go to top notch colleges too!
- Posted by
5  
Our family has two children attending the Northwest School. Both girls started at 6th graders, the oldest will graduate this spring, the younger will enter the upper school this next Fall. Our family are firm supporters of the school for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, is the excellent caliber of both the administration, and more importantly the staff. Each and everyone of the teachers we have experienced at the NWS have been stellar. The focus on academics is strong, but infused in the cross curricular studies are social justice, inclusion, and self-expression. We couldn't be happier!
- Posted by
5  
I've spent 40 years in prep school education and Northwest is a real find. It's a perfect combination of academic rigor, individualism and a real commitment to social justice. It has one of the best college placement records in Seattle and more importantly graduates kids who can think, speak and act. It's a very diverse community, full of families who don't look alike, but share a common passion for education, curtsey and common sense.
- Posted by

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Quick Stats (2024)

  • Top Ranked WA School
  • Grades: 6-12
  • Enrollment: 510 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $41,275
  • Acceptance rate: 60%
  • Average class size: 17 students
  • Application Deadline: Jan. 15
  • Source: Verified school update

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Seattle, WA is $20,617 for elementary schools and $22,731 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Seattle, WA is 73% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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