Established in 1983, The Nysmith School is a family-owned and -operated private school with over 550 students from preschool to 8th grade.
At The Nysmith School, we believe that a world-class education is a joy-filled experience. Your child will be inspired every day by passionate teachers, challenging content, and interactive activities. Imagine your child in an environment designed to stretch their creativity and critical thinking, guide them to explore the complexities of a complicated world, and help them become confident, compassionate, global citizens.
The Nysmith School was named a "Top 10 School In The World" by the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth.
The Nysmith School also received the "Tommy Award" from Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (named the #1 high school in America in 2016 by Newsweek) for "Nysmith's amazing success in preparing students for the rigors of a TJ education" and for the "disproportionate achievement" of Nysmith students at TJ.
The school is located just off the Dulles Toll Road at Exit 9A (Chantilly/Herndon) in Herndon, making it convenient to both Fairfax and Loudoun County residents.
Quick Stats (2023)
- Top Ranked VA School
- School Type: School with Special Program Emphasis
- Grades: Prekindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 665 students
- Yearly Tuition: $36,700
- Acceptance rate: 65%
- Average class size: 18 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
The Nysmith School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Virginia for:
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Year Founded
1983
Student Body
Total Students
665 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
23%
State avg.: 29%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
137 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
5:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
45%
Average Class Size
18 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Collared shirt, plain pants
Collared shirt, plain pants
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$36,700
Tuition Notes
Preschool (Beginners & Pre-K): $28,000;
K- 3: $36,700; 4- 8: $41,600
4 - 8: $39,300The Nysmith School does not conduct any fundraising or capital drives to raise additional funds.
% on Financial Aid
25%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$25
Acceptance Rate
65%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Katy Meadows
Admissions Associate
Jennifer Rakshys
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
1 extracurricular
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Over 100 before- and after-school clubs
Over 100 before- and after-school clubs
School Notes
- With two teachers in every classroom and low teacher-student ratios, students have the time and attention of subject area specialists who are deeply committed to helping every student become the best version of themselves. The Nysmith School balances the highest levels of academic content with a commitment to every student's success. We strive for developing each child's potential without stress, offering just the right balance of challenge and support.
- The Nysmith educational philosophy is based on creative problem solving and individualized, accelerated programs for reading and math, daily science, computers, logic, foreign language, and much more to make learning exciting.
- The Nysmith School has an engaging and fun curriculum, minimizes repetition and homework, and teaches children up to four grade levels above grade level. Says Head of School Ken Nysmith, "When I walk with visitors through the school, they are struck by how much fun the children are having, yet at the same time, they are amazed how advanced the concept is that the children are working on. At The Nysmith School, we work hard to teach each child to their potential and to make school fun and stimulating. You can have advanced academics without pressure."
- The Nysmith School sits on over 13 acres. Our state-of-the-art facilities provide a stimulating learning environment that is welcoming, cheerful, supportive, and energizing.
- The Nysmith School offers personal tours daily as well as monthly Open Houses. Come see the fun for yourself and learn why parents from all over the country have relocated their families to attend the Nysmith School.
- Limited enrollment available - inquire today!
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does The Nysmith School cost?
The Nysmith School's tuition is approximately $36,700 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of The Nysmith School?
The acceptance rate of The Nysmith School is 65%, which is lower than the national average of 84%. The Nysmith School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Virginia with low acceptance rates.
What is The Nysmith School's ranking?
The Nysmith School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Virginia for: Lowest average acceptance rates and Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for The Nysmith School?
The application deadline for The Nysmith School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Calendar
View the The Nysmith School yearly calendar below.
School Reviews
5 5/15/2017
Both of my kids went to Nysmith starting from preschool. Nysmith school is one of few schools in the area that offers preschool to children 3 years and older with a strong academic setting. As a full time working mom I searched for a school I could leave my three year old son and daughter; while feeling confident that not only they are cared for, but also learn a lot by the end of the day. Nysmith not only delivered, but exceeded my expectations. Upon graduation, my son was well prepared for high school and later academic challenges in life (dental school). My daughter also started Nysmith at age 3 and graduated by 8th grade. I wish they offered high school as well! I highly recommend this school. Now all three of my nieces and nephews (6,4,3 respectively) attend, and another nephew will be going there next year. I recommend this school to any family who would like to start their child's education at an early age, in a strong academic yet nurturing environment.
5 4/10/2017
15 years on and off and still wowed. Over the course, things have changed, just like life, it evolves. The heart and soul of the school remains untouched and unparalleled. Having experience at 5 private schools around the country, Nysmith continues to surpass our expectations. The devotion of the Nysmith family to serve our youth, and the faculty/staff who nurture and inspire our kids and help them be the best they can be, is something you just don't find often. They hire serious teachers who serve as exceptional role models and we are privileged to be a part of this special place. We continue to be amazed at the value of a Nysmith education - both in superior quality and in extremely fair tuition costs.
5 4/8/2017
Great school with small classroom size and student:teacher ratio. Chose this school for the STEM subjects and differentiated learning.
5 4/8/2017
Nysmith is a gem. Our son totally lost interest in school in 4th Grade and just blossomed again when he joined Nysmith in 5th Grade. His teachers are absolutely fantastic. They really care about him and are able to challenge him at the right level every day. The curriculum is highly stimulating and well balanced, and definitely supports in-depth thinking. The school handles differentiation like no other school in the area. Nysmith is different and works for bright children who are eager to understand the breadth and depth of the world in which they live, at the pace that is right for them. The children we met at Nysmith have a wide range of interests, a deep knowledge of what they are interested in, and always want to know more just like our son. We are impressed by what we see, we get exactly what we were looking for our son, and even beyond. Our son really feels home.
5 4/8/2017
Nysmith is truly a special school. The environment and teaching is truly exceptional. I was always struck by how happy the kids always were and what a great nurturing atmosphere. Without a doubt the best place I could have had for my child. Everyone at this school cares so much about education and the all round experience for your child.
5 4/8/2017
Our 3 kids attended Nysmith from pre-K to 8th grade and it was the best decision of our lives. Our kids never wanted to miss a day (I know, that's not the norm!), and went on to a great high school (TJ), and their 1st choice colleges. But, most importantly, they were more than ready academically as they went out into the world, as well as happy and confident. The teachers, who are all experts and passionate about the subjects that they teach, treated the kids with kindness and respect, welcomed their questions, nurtured their curiosity, and helped my kids discover their gifts and abilities, sometimes before they even knew what they were. I highly recommend this school. Or, better yet, don't listen to me..... look at their website, schedule a tour and a couple of student visit days for your child. See for yourselves what Nysmith is all about!
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Nearby Homes for Sale
-
12100 FOLKSTONE DR
OAK HILL, VA$1,499,900- 5 Beds | 4.5 Baths
- (3.31 miles from school)
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900 ROYAL ELM CT
HERNDON, VA$940,000- 5 Beds | 3.5 Baths
- (4.79 miles from school)
-
3916 PENDERVIEW DR UNIT 438
FAIRFAX, VA$315,000- 2 Beds | 2 Baths
- (4.83 miles from school)
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11056 THRUSH RIDGE RD
RESTON, VA$869,900- 3 Beds | 3.5 Baths
- (5.05 miles from school)
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