5 private schools in Seattle to consider for your child’s education

Seattle stands as a vibrant educational hub, deeply committed to fostering academic excellence and holistic development among its students. The city's educational ecosystem benefits from a diverse mix of public and private institutions that consistently rank among the best in the nation.

Fueled by a tech-driven economy and a strong culture of innovation, Seattle's schools emphasize not only rigorous academics but also inclusivity, creativity, and community engagement. Families seeking quality education here are fortunate to have access to schools that offer personalized learning environments, outstanding faculty, and a wealth of extracurricular opportunities. The city's emphasis on education is further underscored by its high rate of college graduates and broad support for early learning programs.

Against this backdrop, we examine the top five schools in Seattle, each known for its exemplary performance, student satisfaction, and capacity to prepare young learners for future success.

Drawing from the authoritative rankings by Niche, a trusted platform utilizing data from the U.S. Department of Education, student and parent feedback, and rigorous statistics, here are the top five schools in the Seattle area for 2025.

The Overlake School

Located in Redmond, The Overlake School consistently ranks as the premier private high school in Washington. Catering to grades 5–12, Overlake boasts an enviable student-teacher ratio of 7:1, ensuring personalized attention. With 554 students and an A+ Niche grade, Overlake is celebrated for its engaging curriculum and a vibrant, supportive community. Students note the school’s dedication to preparing them for college, with a rigorous yet nurturing environment.

Eastside Preparatory School

Situated in Kirkland, Eastside Prep serves students in grades 5–12. With a student body of 516 and a low student-teacher ratio of 10:1, the school receives outstanding reviews (average of 4.7 stars) and holds an A+ grade. Alumni and parents praise the faculty for their passion and accessibility, small class sizes, and attention to individual growth—both academic and personal.

Lakeside School

Located directly within Seattle, Lakeside School is an institution synonymous with academic excellence.

Enrolling 876 students across grades 5–12, with a 10:1 student-teacher ratio, Lakeside offers a stimulating educational environment. Students transitioning from public to private education praise the school for its unique experience, strong academic focus, and supportive peer network. Lakeside holds an A+ rating and averages 4.4 stars based on student and parent feedback.

UPrep (University Prep)

UPrep, based in Seattle and serving grades 6–12, stands out for its robust college preparatory programs and holistic development approach.

With 703 students and an enviable student-teacher ratio of 8:1, the school enjoys an A+ grade on Niche. Reviewers say UPrep’s workload is rigorous but rewarding, with faculty dedication translating into well-rounded students ready for collegiate challenges.

The Bear Creek School

Redmond's Bear Creek School provides a comprehensive education from preschool through grade 12. With 916 students and a student-teacher ratio of 13:1, the school earns high marks (A+ grade) for its academic rigor and supportive faculty. Students and parents appreciate the school's nurturing environment and emphasis on personal excellence in academics and extracurriculars.