...

Best private schools in Australia 2025 - 3 yo

This content was developed and approved with active participation of Esther Diaz.

In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:

  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Education_in_Australia
  • https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/school-years?context=60007
Current page last update date: 2025-07-15
Schools
2institutions
Show on map
Sort:
by ranking
by name by ranking by price (increasing) by price (decreasing)
3
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60
Show by:
10 18 36 72
Show by:
10 18 36 72

It's worth noting that Australia is beautiful and unusual country with it's natural landscapes, the Great Barrier Reef and the world's best waves for surfing. Australian educational system has taken all the best from the British system. That's why, studying at a private school in Australia is very prestigious, convenient and interesting option. Australian private school diplomas are highly valued in world leading universities.

Actually, mild climate allows to study with comfort all year round. Many interesting places are located directly on the coast or near the resort cities. Students can spend theit free time on beach or doing sports.

It's essential to note that family accommodation is especially comfortable for foreign students. It is an excellent chance to get acquainted with culture and traditions of Australia. In addition, Australian schools provide international atmosphere that helps quickly overcome the language barrier and intensively develops communication skills.

Please, don't hesitate to contact SMAPSE experts at any time as they are always ready to help you and answer all questions.

private schools australia

What you should know about Private Schools in Australia

Over the past five decades, Australia has occupied leading positions among countries for obtaining secondary and higher education. Annually, more than 150,000 foreign students decide on pursuing education in Australia. Every educational institution in the country is subject to rigorous regulation and oversight by the Ministry of Education, with a mandate to meet stringent criteria. Furthermore, they must obtain special state accreditation, known as the Cricos Code. These institutions offer education at the primary, secondary, and senior levels, offering a host of advantages:

1. Global Recognition
Australian qualifications hold high regard across the globe.

2. Cost Efficiency

Compared to the USA and the UK, studying in Australia is less expensive.

3. Quality of Life

Australia is distinguished by high quality of life, which results in increasing popularity of the country among foreign students for studying.

4. Prestigious and Recognized Diplomas

Graduates of Australian institutions are awarded prestigious diplomas, which are globally recognized.

5. Pathways to Higher Education and Employment

Australian education paves the way for students to enter universities or secure employment.

6. Low Crime Rates

The country enjoys remarkably low crime rates, ensuring a safe environment.

7. Clean Environment and Pleasant Climate

With a focus on environmental sustainability, Australia boasts a clean and ecologically sound atmosphere, coupled with a favorable climate.

Esther Diaz
Education specialist, career coach and consultant. She worked for Inspired Education Group and directed the admissions department at the International School san Patricio Toledo.

What would you say is the most important when choosing a Spanish school?

This is the quality of support and work of the management, the opportunity to study at IB, the prestige of the school and the percentage of successful completion of the diploma stage of IB, recommendations for further universities. It is worth considering the national "recruitment" of campus students, opportunities for extracurricular development and activities, the availability of medical services and consultations, opportunities for language immersion. Is education at the chosen school based on the values you share? Is the school a close-knit community? Is academic support good?

 

Key Features to Private Schools in Australia

Australia boasts over 10,000 schools and over 300 colleges, with the majority (70%) being state-funded institutions. However, private schools are distinguished by their prestige, substantial resources, and the ability to provide individualized attention to students.While studying in independent schools, foreign students live in campus residences, in which comfortable conditions and staff supervision are provided.

These schools can be co-educational or single-gender, catering to both boys and girls or exclusively to one gender. The academic year in Australia follows a unique schedule, starting in late January and finishing in early December, divided into four terms with brief breaks in between. The educational journey is divided into three stages:

  • Primary School (Ages 6-12)

  • Junior Secondary (Ages 12-16)

  • Senior Secondary (Grades 11-12)

The duration of obtaining secondary education is 12 years. Educational process stipulates studying of key subjects such as English, mathematics, social and natural sciences, foreign languages, and physical education. Private institutions exhibit flexibility and tailor their programs to accommodate the unique needs and preferences of each student. Teachers are highly qualified and pay close attention to individual characteristics, promoting comprehensive development encompassing academics, creativity, athleticism, spirituality, and morality.

These schools offer specialized support for foreign students, including dedicated events and classes designed to facilitate their adjustment to the Australian lifestyle. Unlike many European institutions, Australian schools offer a wide array of languages for study, with equal representation of Asian and European languages.

Graduation grading systems vary among states but primarily involve final exams, both for overall ranking and individual subjects. Australian diplomas enjoy recognition across most countries, offering extensive opportunities for further advancement.

Programs at the Best Private Schools in Australia for Foreign Students

In addition to traditional educational institutions, Australia boasts numerous professional colleges offering diploma-level courses, certificates, university preparation programs, and more. A broad spectrum of subjects and disciplines is available, including computer science, civil aviation piloting, hospitality and tourism, and many others. Private professional colleges provide diverse diplomas and certificates, serving as an intermediary link between secondary education and university or as a launching pad for blue-collar careers.

How to Apply to Private Schools in Australia for Foreign Students?

For foreign students eyeing an education in one of Australia's esteemed private schools, the application journey, while detailed, is straightforward. Beginning with research, students and their guardians should explore various private institutions, understanding their curriculum, values, extracurricular activities, and any specialized programs on offer. Many private schools in Australia have robust online presences, with comprehensive websites, virtual tours, and digital brochures that can aid in making informed decisions.

To enter a private school in Australia, it is required to submit a formal application form, which you can find on the school's website or through its admissions office. To fulfill this form, it is necessary to provide personal details, academic records from previous schools, and possibly letters of recommendation. Given the linguistic milieu of Australia, confirmation of English proficiency is crucial. For foreign students, there is a requirement concerning providing language certificates such as IELTS or TOEFL. Depending on the institution's admission criteria, there may also be an entrance exam or an interview. For the convenience of international applicants, many schools offer the option of online assessments or virtual interviews.

In the case of successful review of the application, students will receive a formal Letter of Offer from the school. This document is not only a confirmation of the student's admission but also a critical component in securing the Australian Student Visa (subclass 500), which is mandatory for international students. With visa in hand and formalities completed, students are advised to engage with the school's international or admissions office. This engagement can be vital in preparing for their arrival, understanding school culture, and integrating seamlessly into their new academic environment in Australia.

Private schools in Australia Cost and Fees for Foreign Students

Australia's private education sector is known for its high standards, world-class facilities, and holistic learning approaches. However, these benefits often come with a price tag, especially for foreign students. Unlike public schools where the fee structure is somewhat standardized across states and territories, private schools have greater autonomy in determining their fees, leading to a broader range of costs that can be influenced by the school's reputation, location, and available facilities.

The cost of studying in Australian private schools widely ranges, fluctuating from AUD 20,000 to AUD 50,000 or more per academic year. Such a price tag is stipulated by the prestige and ranking of educational institutions, and its location (studying in such cities as Sydney or Melbourne is more expensive). It's crucial to understand that the headline tuition fee is just one part of the overall cost. The overall costs may be increased by taking into account enrollment and application fees. Additionally, uniforms, textbooks, extracurricular activities, excursions, and technology requirements might also be considered separately, increasing the overall expenditure.

In addition to tuition fees, it is necessary to take into account extra costs, concerning mandatory health insurance, known as the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Without it, a visa will not be issued. In case of studying on a full board basis,  additional costs for this option will vary from AUD 15,000 to AUD 30,000 per academic year. With such a diverse range of expenses, it becomes imperative for prospective students and their guardians to thoroughly research and budget for their preferred educational journey in Australia's private schooling system.

What are private schools like in Australia?

Private schools in Australia are educational institutions that are not publicly funded. They have autonomy in management and can develop their own educational programs and teaching approaches.

What are the advantages of studying in private schools?

One of the key benefits of private schools is less crowded classrooms, which allows for more personalized learning. They often also provide a wider range of subjects and additional activities such as art and sports. In addition, private schools may have higher academic standards and often support the development of character and values.

How much do private schools cost in Australia?

Private school tuition varies widely depending on the school, its ranking, location, and programs offered. On average, the annual tuition fee can range from 15,000 to 30,000 AUD. However, the cost may be higher at prestigious private institutions.

What financial options are available to help with tuition fees?

Many private schools provide scholarships and financial aid programs for talented students or families with limited financial means. These programs can ease the financial burden on families and help with access to quality education.

What types of private schools are there in Australia?

There is a wide variety of private schools in Australia, including Christian, Catholic, independent, multicultural and many more. The choice of school type depends on the family's preferences and goals.

Can international students attend private schools in Australia?

Yes, many private schools accept international students. However, admission often requires certain conditions to be met, including English language proficiency and visa formalities.

What additional opportunities for the development of children do private schools provide?

Private schools provide many additional opportunities for children's development, including a wide range of additional courses and participation in clubs and sporting events. This helps to unlock each student's potential and develop their unique skills and interests.

What educational standards apply in private schools?

Private schools in Australia must meet educational standards set by the relevant educational authorities. They are required to provide education that meets national standards.

Are there any exams or tests for admission to private schools?

Some private schools may conduct entrance exams or admission interviews to assess a student's knowledge and abilities. However, requirements vary from school to school.

What are the prospects after graduating from private school?

Private school graduates often have high levels of academic preparation and character development. This gives them an excellent chance of successful admission to universities and a future career. Many private schools also have strong ties to the business community, which can open up additional opportunities for graduates.

6 best private schools in Australia 2025 rankings

1 Taylors College Sydney
2 Canterbury College
3 Southport School
4 St Hildas School Gold Coast
5 All Saints School
6 Eynesbury College

Advantages and disadvantages of English schools

Advantages Disadvantages
The opportunity to enter the best universities in England, USA, Canada, Switzerland, Europe, the world Expensive
High quality of education and academic standards Strong workload
Perfect English after graduation The need to change the social environment; it takes time to adapt
Useful contacts The difficulty of choosing the most suitable school for the child, requires a qualified specialist

Top 35 best schools in the USA - 2025 Smapse rankings

1 North Broward Preparatory School
2 Phillips Academy Andover
3 The Storm King School New York
4 Red Bank Catholic High School
5 Windermere Preparatory School
6 Shattuck St Mary's School
7 Cheshire Academy
8 Cate School
9 Ross School
10 Deerfield Academy
11 The Village School
12 Amerigo Los Angeles – Bishop Montgomery High School
13 Webb Schools
14 Kent School USA
15 The Winchendon School
16 Darlington School
17 Marian Catholic High School Amerigo Education
18 Grier School
19 The MacDuffie School
20 CATS Academy Boston
21 The Cambridge School of Weston
22 Milton Academy
23 Amerigo Education Napa Valley
24 American Hebrew Academy
25 Northfield Mount Hermon School
26 Mater Dei Catholic High School San Diego Amerigo Education
27 American University Preparatory School Los Angeles
28 Webb Schools
29 Kent School USA
30 Groton School
31 Maine Central Institute
32 The Lawrenceville School
33 Grand River Academy Ohio
34 Saint John Paul II Academy
35 Chicago North Shore

Top 14 best schools in Switzerland 2025

1 College Du Leman
2 St. Georges School Montreux
3 Institut Monte Rosa
4 Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz
5 Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée
6 Leysin American School
7 Hochalpines Institut Ftan AG High Alpine
8 Aiglon College Switzerland
9 Institut Le Rosey School
10 Institut Montana Zugerberg
11 Champittet College
12 Brillantmont International School
13 Surval Montreux
14 Ecole Pre Fleuri
Reviews/Comments/Questions
There are no comments here yet
Your comment / review
If you have a question, write it, we will try to answer
* - Field is mandatory
Esther Diaz
Education specialist, career coach and consultant. She worked for Inspired Education Group and directed the admissions department at the International School san Patricio Toledo.
Esther worked as a Head of Admissions, Engagement and Outreach at San Patricio Toledo International School until 2021. She is an expert in primary and secondary education. Esther also has a great deal of experience in teaching, marketing, translating and coaching. She thinks that it is important to consider the environment, educational institutions rankings, historical and artistic heritage, nature of the people, and unique traditions and folklore when choosing a place to study.
Chat with us, we are online!