Best private schools in USA 2025 - 3 yo

The United States is home to over 30,000 educational institutions, meanwhile a significant share of them are private schools, which are usually  located in major financial, business, and cultural cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston, Washington, Philadelphia, and New York.

The private educational institutions are classified into two categories: co-educational schools and gender-segregated schools (for boys or for girls only). Foreign students can enter each type of school.

Besides traditional schools, various language programs are organized  in kids camps, providing entertainment events, excursions, and sports activities. These camps are the best choice for a child if he wants to improve English language skills and simultaneously enjoy their holidays. 

The US private schools are considered as the best option for pursuing secondary education. Deciding on entering these schools, children will be guaranteed modern infrastructure, cutting-edge facilities, and a high level of academic preparation. Residing on campus guarantees safety and comfort of students, allowing to develop leadership qualities, responsibility, and independence in them.

Compared to Swiss private schools, American educational institutions are characterized by more flexibility in their approach to education. The curriculum is adopted on the national level, however,  using it is not compulsory. So, schools can adapt the program based on their priorities and students' needs. Such a personal approach provides that each student receives maximum attention and can choose subjects, complying with his interests, future goals and abilities.

Additionally, private schools in the USA offer flexible class schedules, only basic subjects are compulsory for studying. The students are offered a wide choice of optional electives, allowing them to communicate with peers, broaden their horizons and develop tolerance and respect for different points of view.

Type of  Private Schools in the USA

Secondary education in the USA consists of three main levels:

• Elementary School (age of students 5-12): Teacher uses individual approach to studying, paying attention and providing support to each student. A single teacher is responsible for teaching all subjects. Usually, the educational process is designed in such a way as to cater to varying levels of student knowledge.

• Middle School (age of students 11-14): At this level the credit system is introduced. Education becomes more structured, and students are provided with vocational guidance. Upon the end of each academic year, they also take exams.Based on their results, students transition to the next grade.

• High School (Ages 14-18): Students focus on both mandatory subjects and optional electives tailored to their future specialization, be it in agriculture, industry, or academics.

Foreign students typically have little difficulty enrolling in American private schools, especially given their welcoming attitude toward international students. In the USA, private education usually concludes at age 18, although for foreign students, it may be slightly earlier, around ages 16-17.

Rules at Private Schools in the USA

Discipline at private schools in the USA is typically stringent, contributing to a safe and conducive learning environment. For example, schools strictly regulate movement during lessons, forbid eating outside designated areas, and maintain robust anti-harassment policies. Surveillance systems and plainclothes security personnel further ensure student safety.

Knowledge of all features of private schools in the USA allows parents to make an informed decision, which will be the best in complying with their child's educational needs and aspirations.

In case of interest to enter American private schools, detailed planning and following guidelines is required. Classes begin in September, although the deadline for submitting applications is usually in January or February of the same year. Schools finalize their student lists for the upcoming academic year in March or April.

Steps for Successful Admission

To increase possibility to be admitted to the US school, it is required to prepare the following documents:

• Academic Records: Submit annual school reports for the last two to three years of study.

• Identification: Provide a copy of the photo page of your passport or an ID card.

• Teacher Recommendations: Obtain recommendation letters from several of your current teachers.

• Achievements: Include certificates or diplomas for accomplishments in various fields.

• Motivation Letter: It is required to submit an introductory essay, in which your intent and motivation are expressed.

• English Proficiency Tests: TOEFL or SAT scores are usually required.

   

Beyond these basic requirements, some schools may require a personal interview or an internal examination. High scores in these evaluations are crucial.  In case of an insufficient level of English, you may be recommended to take a preparatory language course. Moreover, special tests, among which are the ACT and IQ Test, may be conducted for assessing knowledge in basic disciplines.

College Admissions in the USA

U.S. colleges and universities rarely conduct entrance exams. Instead, high school graduates send their standardized test scores, such as the SAT, to their chosen higher educational institutions.. Acceptance letters for bachelor's degree programs usually follow.

Academic Focus

STEM subjects—comprising Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics—generally take center stage. However, Humanities courses are equally important. While choosing an educational program, please take into account its content, features, and potential effect on your future academic growth.

Case Study: Léman Manhattan Preparatory School

Léman Manhattan Preparatory School is an International Baccalaureate (IB) school, which uses modern and effective studying approaches from early childhood to the Diploma Program (grades 11-12). Studying in the IB program lasts two years, thoroughly preparing students aged 16-19 for university and future careers. Moreover, teaching is focused on intellectual, physical, social, and emotional development of each student. As statistics show, graduates with an IB diploma have increased possibility by 20% to be admitted into TOP U.S. universities, in particular Harvard, Columbia, Princeton, Yale, Stanford, and Duke University.

If you follow these guidelines and focus on your academic and personal development, you will significantly increase your chances of entering international private schools in the USA.

Simon Kizhner

Regional Admissions representative, EMEA

What age do foreign students usually enter American schools?

Usually, foreign students come to the boarding school to prepare for admission to the university, to increase their chances of being enrolled in a truly prestigious university. Compare: 78% of boarders confidently confirm their readiness for admission - and only 36% of daytime students are also sure of this. Leman Manhattan offers programs in grades 9-12.

The tuition fee in American private schools significantly fluctuates due to such factors as the reputation of educational institutions, ranking, educational program, extra services they offer, and their location. On average, tuition fees account for $40,000 per year, including accommodation and meals. As for attending the Top US private schools, recognized as elite and most prestigious, can cost from $70,000 to $90,000 per academic year.

Fees at Community Colleges vs. Private Schools in the USA

Studying in Community colleges is more budget-friendly compared to private schools. The cost of education for community colleges often begins from $20,000 per year and reaches $35,000.

Regional Differences in Private Schools in USA Fees

It's necessary to note that the cost of education in the USA also depends on geographic location. Private schools in Southern and central states such as Tennessee, Florida, Montana, North and South Carolina, and Colorado are more budget-friendly options in comparison with those educational institutions located in high-cost states like California or cities like Los Angeles and New York.

Expert Guidance

In case of having further questions or requiring additional guidance, please contact our educational consultants at SMAPSE. They are always ready to provide invaluable insights into navigating the complex landscape of top private schools in the USA, as well as international options like Swiss private schools.

Private schools are privately funded, allowing them more flexibility in their educational programs. They provide small class sizes, individualized instruction and specialized methods. Public schools are funded by the state and are required to accept all students, which can lead to larger classes and more standardized programs.

Private schools typically provide instruction in smaller classes, which allows for more attention to each student. They may also have a wealth of extracurricular activities, specialized programs and more qualified teachers.

Requirements can vary from school to school, but usually include taking standardized tests, participating in interviews, providing academic recommendations, and sometimes a portfolio of academic achievements.

The school profile provides information about the school's mission, educational philosophy, program features, and history. Choosing the right school depends on your child's interests and needs, so it is important to research the profiles of different schools, talk to students and parents, and visit schools if possible.

Accreditation is a process of assessing the quality of education conducted by independent agencies. It is important because accreditation confirms that a school meets high standards of education, which can increase the confidence of parents and students in the institution.

Yes, many private schools offer specialized programs. You can find schools that focus on the arts, science and technology, sports schools, and schools that emphasize the humanities. The choice depends on the student's interests.

Private schools can provide education at different levels, including preschool, elementary, middle school, and high school. Some also provide college and university programs.

Class sizes in private schools are usually smaller than in public schools. This allows teachers to pay more attention to each student and create a more individualized learning experience.

Many private schools provide English as a Second Language (ESL) programs for international students to help them successfully integrate into the educational environment.

The percentage of private school graduates going on to college can vary greatly depending on the particular school and its student base. However, private schools often pride themselves on the high college and university enrollment rates of their graduates. The most prestigious private schools can have nearly a 100% college acceptance rate for their graduates. They usually provide strong academic preparation and help students successfully navigate the university admissions process.

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