The Pennington School is an independent coeducational school for students in grades 6 through 12, in both day and boarding programs, with a current enrollment of 525 students with over 30 countries and cultures represented on campus.
The curriculum is college preparatory, with an emphasis on fostering the development of the whole student through academics, athletics, community service, and the creative and performing arts.
Within the curriculum, there are also programs for international students and for students with language-based learning differences.
Founded in 1838, Pennington values both tradition and innovation, applying the values gleaned from centuries of learning, along with the most up-to-date knowledge, to a rapidly changing world.
The School's faculty members focus not only on what they can teach the students but also on what the varied perspectives of the student body may contribute to the entire educational experience.
Quick Facts (2025-26)
- Top Ranked NJ School
- Grades: 6-12
- Enrollment: 541 students
- Yearly Tuition: $48,600
- Acceptance rate: 24%
- Average class size: 13 students
- Application Deadline: Feb. 1
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
The Pennington School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New Jersey for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
Student Body
AP Courses
Sports offered
School History
School Overview
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 6-12
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Language-based
Year Founded
1838
Colors
Black, Red
School Calendar
Last Day of School
Mon. May 25, 2026
Campus Size
55 acres
Student Body
Total Students
541 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
122 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
4:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
78%
Average Class Size
13 students
Number of AP Courses
45 courses
List of Courses Offered
Advanced Courses
BiologyCalculus AB
Calculus BCChemistry
Computer Science AEnglish Language and Composition
English Literature and CompositionFrench Language and Culture
German Language and CultureGovernment and Politics
LatinMacroeconomics
Modern European HistoryMusic Theory
Physics CSpanish Language and Culture
Spanish Literature and CultureStatistics
Studio ArtUnited States Government and Politics
United States History
Average SAT score
1293
(Out of 1600)
Average ACT score
27
(Out of 36)
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Feb. 1
Yearly Tuition Cost
$48,600
Tuition Notes
Boarding tuition is $72,400
% on Financial Aid
33%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$30,000
Acceptance Rate
24%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Sharon Jarboe
Admissions Associate
Lynn Zahn
Endowment Size
$42.5 million
Sports
Total Sports Offered
16 sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
1 extracurricular
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
https://www.pennington.org/community/students/activities-clubs
School Notes
- School Motto: Honor. Virtue. Humility.
- School Mascot: Tigers
- The Pennington School is an independent coeducational school for students in grades 6 through 12, in both day and boarding programs. The curriculum is college preparatory, with an emphasis on individual excellence, fostering the development of the whole student through academics, athletics, community service, and the creative and performing arts.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Dontae Johnson '10 - Cornerback in the NFL for the Seattle Seahawks
- Michael Lee Brown '11 - Cast member for the Broadway show, "Dear Evan Hansen"
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does The Pennington School cost?
The Pennington School's tuition is approximately $48,600 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of The Pennington School?
The acceptance rate of The Pennington School is 24%, which is lower than the national average of 77%. The Pennington School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in New Jersey with low acceptance rates.
Who are famous alumni from The Pennington School?
The Pennington School famous alumni include: Dontae Johnson '10 and Michael Lee Brown '11.
What sports does The Pennington School offer?
The Pennington School offers 16 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cheering, Cross Country, Field Hockey, Football, Golf, Ice Hockey, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, Water Polo and Winter Track. The Pennington School is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in New Jersey for most sports offered.
What is The Pennington School's ranking?
The Pennington School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New Jersey for: Lowest average acceptance rates, Largest student body, Most AP courses offered, Most sports offered and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for The Pennington School?
The application deadline for The Pennington School is Feb. 1.
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