Find a Private High School Near YouYour path to the right high school starts here.

Choosing a high school is about more than preparing for college. It's about finding a community that encourages your teen to grow into who they want to become. ISSL makes it easier to compare St. Louis independent high schools, so you can explore your options with confidence, all at no cost to your family.

Browse Some of the Top Private High Schools in St. Louis

Why Choose a Private High School?

  • College preparatory academics that challenge students to think critically and independently.
  • Competitive athletics, performing arts, student clubs, and leadership opportunities beyond the classroom.
  • Strong relationships with teachers who know students as individuals.
  • Community service and experiential learning that build character.
  • Diverse school communities where students can explore new perspectives.
  • Small learning environments that encourage meaningful friendships and a lifelong love of learning.

Many families are surprised to learn that an independent high school may be more affordable than they expected. Many St. Louis schools offer need-based financial aid, scholarships, and flexible tuition programs, and ISSL can help you discover schools that fit both your student's needs and your family's budget.

If you're asking that question, you're not alone. Independent schools welcome families from many different backgrounds, experiences, and communities, and the right school is the one where your child feels supported, challenged, and valued. ISSL helps you explore your options so you can find the best fit for your family, not someone else's.

Changing schools can feel like a big step, but most independent high schools have thoughtful programs to help new students settle in. Orientation activities, welcoming faculty, and supportive classmates help students build confidence, make connections, and quickly become part of their new school community.

St. Louis families can choose from a wide variety of independent high school experiences, including:

  • Christian schools
  • Catholic schools
  • Special needs schools
  • Traditional private schools

  1. Browse dozens of ISSL member schools and narrow your search by what matters most to your family, from grade level to religious affiliation.
  2. Explore schools by location using our interactive map of independent schools across St. Louis City and St. Louis County.
  3. Listen to the ISSL Podcast to hear about the admissions process, parent experiences, and what makes each school community unique.
  4. All ISSL member schools participate in a standardized admissions timeline designed to make the application process easier for families. Visit our Admissions Timeline page to learn more about important dates and deadlines.

Start by thinking about what matters most to your family. Academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, school size, location, and campus culture all play an important role in finding the right fit. ISSL brings together trusted information from leading independent schools across St. Louis, making it easy to compare your options and take the next step with confidence.

Notice of Nondiscrimination Policy as to Students

ISSL members admit students of any race, color, national and ethnic origins to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at these schools. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of their educational policies, admission policies, scholarships and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.