How Much Does Private High School Cost?
This guide covers typical private high school tuition, the factors that change it, and practical ways to compare offers and aid.
Typical prices by job
| Job | What it involves | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Local private day school | Tuition and standard classes | $8,000 - $20,000 |
| College-preparatory day school | Smaller classes and advanced courses | $20,000 - $45,000 |
| Specialized private school | Language, faith, arts, or learning support | $15,000 - $55,000 |
| Boarding high school | Tuition, housing, meals, and supervision | $45,000 - $90,000 |
Ranges are typical, not quotes - the price for your job depends on scope and location, so always confirm with the provider.
What affects the price
Tuition changes most with boarding versus day enrollment, school size, location, grade level, and the amount of specialized support or extracurricular programming. Schools in major cities and selective college-preparatory programs often charge more. Boarding, transportation, meals, technology, uniforms, sports, trips, and application fees may be separate.
Financial aid, sibling discounts, merit awards, and payment plans can lower the amount a family pays. Ask for the complete annual cost, including mandatory fees and expected activity expenses, rather than comparing tuition alone.
How to pay less
Apply for need-based aid as early as possible and ask about merit awards, sibling discounts, and tuition payment plans. Compare several schools using the net cost after aid, and confirm which fees, meals, transportation, and activities are included.
A recognized provider on Reedleys has verified identity and a traceable track record, which matters more as the job price grows.
Cost questions
Many require an application fee and an enrollment deposit after admission. Ask whether the deposit is refundable and whether it is credited toward tuition.
Schools may include different services in tuition, such as meals, transportation, technology, or learning support. Location, boarding, staffing, and financial aid policies also create major differences.
Tuition itself is often fixed, but schools may offer financial aid, payment plans, sibling discounts, or other awards. Request a written breakdown of the net annual cost.
Recognized Private High Schools businesses
Private Chicago high school offering diploma programs for non-traditional students ages 16-21.
Chicago Montessori school offering AMI-accredited programs for children from infancy through adolescence.
German-English bilingual school serving preschool through grade 9 in Chicago.
A private school in Chicago serving students through varied academic and extracurricular programs.
Chicago international school offering multilingual education from pre-K through Grade 12.
All-girls Catholic college preparatory high school in Chicago's Little Village community.
Christian college-preparatory high school serving Chicago's West Side.
Jesuit college preparatory school in Chicago offering high school academics, athletics, faith formation, and clubs.
Private international school in Chicago serving students ages 3 to 18.
Chicago PreK-12 private school offering project-based education from early childhood through high school.