Update: This article was last updated on 27th December 2023 to reflect the accuracy and up-to-date information on the page.
St. Louis offers top-notch education and exceptional extracurricular activities. Whether you are looking for a school focusing strongly on STEM or one that provides a comprehensive liberal arts education, there is a private school in St. Louis that will meet your needs.
In this article, we will explore the five best private schools in St. Louis that offer exceptional academic programs, a supportive community, and a range of activities to help your child thrive.
1. John Burroughs School
John Burroughs School co-educational preparatory school was founded in 1923 and named after the naturalist and writer John Burroughs. The school is known for its rigorous academic programs and excellent college preparation. It offers a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and many of its graduates go on to attend some of the most selective colleges and universities in the country.
Aside from academics, students can join sports teams such as football, basketball, soccer, and volleyball, as well as other clubs and organizations for a well-rounded education.
Website: jburroughs.org
Location and Address: 755 SOUTH PRICE ROAD LOUIS, MO 63124
Phone: 314-993-4040
- Student-teacher ratio: 6:1
- Tuition Fee: $32,800
- Average Graduation Rate: 100%
- Average SAT: 1420
- Average ACT: 32
- College Preparation: Yes
2. Thomas Jefferson School
Thomas Jefferson School is a co-educational school that provides both boarding and day school options. The school prides itself in offering a picturesque campus, 7 AP courses, and 93% faculty with advanced or terminal degrees.
With a philosophy of “Small School. Big Impact”, it strives to create and deliver a learning environment that allows higher-level thinking and the development of critical-thinking skills in children.
Website: tjs.org
Location and Address: 4100 SOUTH LINDBERGH BLVD. ST LOUIS, MO 63127
Phone: 314-843-4151
- Student-teacher ratio: 5:1
- Tuition Fee: $32,375
- Average Graduation Rate: 100%
- Average SAT: 1420
- Average ACT: 32
- College Preparation: Yes
3. Mary Institute & St. Louis Country Day School
Founded in 1859 as a girls’ school, the institute merged with St. Louis Country Day School in 1992 to become MICDS. It is now a coeducational, independent school that places a significant emphasis on character education, with a focus on integrity, responsibility, and compassion.
The campus has state-of-the-art facilities for academics, athletics, and the arts. The school has a strong commitment to sustainability, with initiatives in place to reduce waste, conserve energy, and promote environmental stewardship.
Website: micds.org
Location and Address: 101 NORTH WARSON ROAD SAINT LOUIS, MO 63124
Phone: 314-995-7367
- Student-teacher ratio: 8:1
- Tuition Fee: $31,500
- Average Graduation Rate: 100%
- Average SAT: 1370
- Average ACT: 31
- College Preparation: Yes
4. Saint Louis Priory School
Since its founding in 1955 by the Benedictine monks of Saint Louis Abbey, the boys’ college-preparatory Saint Louis Priory School has gained a reputation for both academic brilliance and a strong feeling of community. Apart from its academic offerings, Priory prides itself on providing a strong feeling of community among its varied student body, which includes a range of interests, backgrounds, and experiences.
Website: priory.org
Location and Address: 500 S MASON RD, SAINT LOUIS, MO 63141
Phone: 314-434-3690
- Student-teacher ratio: 6:1
- Tuition Fee: $26,775
- Average Graduation Rate: 100%
- Average SAT: 1410
- Average ACT: 32
- College Preparation: Yes
5. Whitfield School
A nationally recognized progressive education leader, Whitfield School, a co-educational, independent school, emphasizes experiential learning, with opportunities for students to engage in internships, service learning projects, and leadership development programs.
It also offers a strong athletics program with 21 varsity sports teams.
Website: whitfieldschool.org
Location and Address: 175 S MASON RD, SAINT LOUIS, MO 63141
Phone: 314-434-5141
- Student-Teacher Ratio: 7:1
- Tuition Fee: $32,550
- Average Graduation Rate: 100%
- Average SAT: 1260
- Average ACT: 28
- College Preparation: Yes
6. St. Louis University High School
St. Louis University High School carefully plans the boy’s education so that he becomes a well-read, tolerant, caring person who is committed to justice via religion. This dedication to quality, which has been a defining characteristic of SLUH and its Jesuit history for more than 200 years, goes beyond the classroom and expects great things from students who have outstanding gifts from God.
Over their four years here, students experience an environment that values diversity and respect, which is promoted by need-blind admissions, unbiased friendships, a wide selection of co-curricular activities designed to help every student reach their full potential, and varied cultures. All inside a friendly and vibrant neighborhood.
Website: sluh.org
Location: 4970 OAKLAND AVE, ST. LOUIS, MO 63110
Phone: 314-531-0330
- Student-Teacher Ratio: 10:1
- Tuition Fee: $19,750
- Average Graduation Rate: 100%
- Average SAT: 1340
- Average ACT: 31
- College Preparation: Yes
7. Crossroads College Preparatory School
An innovative educational institution that promotes inquiry, critical thinking, and social responsibility, Crossroads College Preparatory School is tucked away in St. Louis. Its mission extends beyond academics; besides delivering a rigorous, tailored curriculum, it aspires to prepare students for meaningful lives by cultivating an inclusive society that cherishes diversity and active engagement.
Crossroads thrives on cutting-edge teaching practices, emphasizing experiential learning and project-based learning to create a love of lifelong learning.
With a concentration on the arts, athletics, and community involvement, comprehensive education prepares students not just for academic achievement but also for a future in which they will positively impact their surroundings.
Selecting Crossroads is deciding to start a life-changing educational adventure that goes much beyond conventional limits.
Website: crossroadscollegeprep.org
Location: 500 DEBALIVIERE, SAINT LOUIS, MO 63112
Phone: 314-367-8085
- Student-teacher ratio: 7:1
- Tuition Fee:$28,950
- Average Graduation Rate: 100%
- Average SAT: 1250
- Average ACT: 28
- College Preparation: Yes
8. Principia School
Principia School is a shining example of a comprehensive curriculum based on Christian Science ideas. At Principia, academic brilliance is balanced with spiritual and character development, preparing students for a meaningful life centered around values like labor, prayer, community, and hospitality.
Students at Principia flourish intellectually, spiritually, and emotionally in a nurturing environment. Located in St. Louis, the school’s dedication goes beyond the classroom and includes community outreach programs that foster a sense of responsibility and constructive contribution to society at large.
By selecting Principia, students take the first step toward an exciting journey in which character development and spiritual values coexist peacefully with academic excellence.
Website: principiaschool.org
Location:13201 CLAYTON RD, SAINT LOUIS, MO 63131
Phone: 314-514-3134
- Student-teacher ratio: 10:1
- Tuition Fee: $23,000
- Average Graduation Rate: 100%
- Average SAT: 1200
- Average ACT: 26
- College Preparation: Yes
9. Visitation Academy
The Visitation Academy, one of the city’s oldest private institutions, was founded in 1833 to empower young women. The academy has a long history and combines spiritual growth, a strong feeling of community, and a demanding academic program.
A heritage of excellence and empowerment that dates back over two centuries, it prepares young women for leadership roles in the larger society; the academy offers a supportive atmosphere that supports them in achieving academic, social, and spiritual success.
Website: visitationacademy.org
Location:3020 N BALLAS RD, SAINT LOUIS, MO 63131
Phone: 314-625-9100
- Student-Teacher Ratio: 10:1
- Tuition Fee: $25,100
- Average Graduation Rate: 100%
- Average SAT: 1340
- Average ACT: 30
- College Preparation: Yes
10. Villa Duchesne Upper School
Villa Duchesne Upper School, a member of the Sacred Heart network, upholds a tradition of academic distinction, personal growth, and spiritual advancement. With a long history, the school is dedicated to giving its pupils a complete education that supports their academic, spiritual, and personal growth.
The School’s emphasis on character development and academic rigor work together to create an environment in which students excel academically and live up to Sacred Heart beliefs.
The school, located in the center of St. Louis, prepares students for a purposeful existence that positively impacts their communities by instilling principles such as compassion, integrity, and social responsibility.
Villa Duchesne Upper School entails a holistic educational journey that blends principles, tradition, and quality.
Website: villa1929.org
Location:10801 CONWAY RD, SAINT LOUIS, MO 63131
Phone: 314-432-2021
- Student-teacher ratio: 10:1
- Tuition Fee: $27,845
- Average Graduation Rate: 100%
- Average SAT: 1240
- Average ACT: 28
- College Preparation: Yes
Here we are! We hope our researched list of the top 10 private schools in St. Louis is helpful in your search for the best education for your child.
Ultimately, the choice of school is a personal one, and we encourage you to visit each school’s website and schedule a tour to learn more about their unique programs and culture.
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I have heard that the schools in St. Louis is expensive, which is the most expensive private school in St Louis MO?
Great Circle Academy, John Burroughs School, Saint Louis Country Day School (MICDS), Mary Institute, and Whitfield School are quite expensive.
Looking to shift in the neighborhood in St. Louis, which one is the sophisticated and richest one?
In the St. Louis Neighborhoods Guide of 2023, the Wydown-Skinker area stands out as the wealthiest.
What extracurricular activities or special interest clubs do these schools offer to enrich students’ experiences?
The top private schools in St. Louis boast a diverse range of extracurricular activities and clubs, catering to various interests. Students can participate in options like debate teams, robotics clubs, arts ensembles, sports teams, coding clubs, and community service initiatives. These opportunities enhance their holistic development and foster a sense of camaraderie among peers
What measures do these schools take to ensure a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students?
These schools prioritize safety and inclusivity by implementing strict security protocols, conducting regular safety drills, and maintaining a vigilant staff. They also promote diversity through inclusive curriculum, sensitivity training, and support services for students of all backgrounds, creating a welcoming educational environment.