Exploring Philadelphia’s Top-Ranked High Schools: A Comprehensive Guide
Leading Public High Schools in Philadelphia
Julia R. Masterman Secondary School
Julia R. Masterman Secondary School is recognized as the highest-ranked public high school in Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania. Located in the Spring Garden neighborhood, it functions as a magnet school for grades 5 through 12. With an enrollment of around 1,186 students and a student-teacher ratio of 22:1, Masterman emphasizes an academically demanding environment. The school reports a 100% graduation rate, with a college readiness score of 96.5. State assessments indicate that 84% of students are proficient in math, while 98% excel in reading, reflecting strong literacy and quantitative skills.
Central High School
Central High School, situated in North Philadelphia, ranks as the second-best public school. It serves grades 9 through 12 and enrolls approximately 2,364 students with a student-teacher ratio of 20:1. Central maintains a near-perfect 99% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 58.8. Academic performance results show that 88% of students meet or exceed expectations in math, 80% in science, and 98% in language arts, demonstrating consistent academic excellence across disciplines.
Carver High School of Engineering and Science
Carver High School of Engineering and Science specializes in engineering and science education, preparing students for STEM careers. Located in North Philadelphia, it boasts a 98% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 92. Its rigorous curriculum is complemented by curriculum-specific metrics: 62% proficiency in math, 45% in science, and 93% in language arts, indicating strength in writing and reading with room for growth in scientific areas.
Innovative Magnet and Specialized Schools
Science Leadership Academy
Science Leadership Academy emphasizes inquiry-based, project-driven learning focused on science and technology. Located in Center City, the school has 500 students and an 18:1 student-teacher ratio. With a 97% graduation rate and an 83 college readiness score, SLA demonstrates solid performance. Standardized tests reveal 69% proficiency in math and science, and a remarkable 97% in language arts, highlighting literacy and communication as key strengths.
Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA)
CAPA is renowned for its arts focus, offering specialized programs in creative writing, visual arts, theater, dance, instrumental and vocal music, and media design. Its student body includes 743 students with a student-teacher ratio of 19.6:1. The school has a tradition of nurturing artistic talent, with alumni achieving wider recognition in entertainment and arts sectors. Its curriculum fosters creativity alongside academic rigor.
Malvern Preparatory School
Malvern Preparatory School is a private Catholic institution emphasizing a blend of academics, athletics, and moral development. Located in Malvern, it competes in the Inter-Ac League, participating in sixteen varsity sports. Known for its football and basketball success, Malvern maintains high standards for leadership and character development, with tuition around $46,750 and a significant portion of families receiving financial aid.
Private Schools with Focused Educational Missions
Germantown Friends School
Germantown Friends School is a private Quaker school committed to sustainability and community values. Situated in Germantown, it offers a challenging college preparatory curriculum with an emphasis on ethics and social responsibility. Students engage in over a dozen sports and more than 70 clubs, fostering a balanced development of mind and character. Tuition approaches $47,000, with substantial financial aid support.
Friends Select School
Friends Select School is a private Quaker institution in Center City that promotes academic excellence and inclusiveness. Its diverse community and rigorous curriculum prepare students for college and beyond. Extracurricular activities span academics, arts, and service, emphasizing holistic development and leadership skills.
Leading Suburban Public High Schools
Conestoga High School
Conestoga High School in Berwyn is part of the Tredyffrin-Easttown School District. Serving grades 9 through 12, it enrolls approximately 2,347 students with a student-teacher ratio of 16:1. Conestoga maintains a 99% graduation rate and scores a college readiness score of 58.8. Academic achievement includes 97% proficiency in math and 92% in reading, underscoring a strong emphasis on academic excellence.
Radnor High School
Radnor High School in Radnor Township educates about 1,126 students, with a student-teacher ratio of 12:1. Radnor’s graduation rate stands at 97%, with a college readiness score of 66.8. Test results show that 87% meet or exceed expectations in math and 95% in reading, highlighting a focus on literacy and quantitative skills.
Lower Merion High School
Lower Merion High School serves roughly 1,721 students in Lower Merion Township. The school boasts a 97% graduation rate, a college readiness score of 66.8, and similar proficiency rates: 87% in math and 95% in reading. Its robust academic programs support diverse student interests and pursuits.
Private Schools with Distinct Philosophies
The Haverford School
The Haverford School is an all-boys private college preparatory school emphasizing leadership, morality, and academic achievement. Located in Haverford, it offers a rigorous curriculum complemented by athletics and arts programs designed to develop well-rounded leaders for future success.
The Baldwin School
The Baldwin School is an all-girls private college prep founded in Bryn Mawr. Its curriculum emphasizes academics alongside leadership training, arts, and service learning. The school prepares students for higher education with a focus on empowering young women to excel and lead.
Specialized Artistic and Cultural Education
Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA)
CAPA stands out for its focus on arts education. With offerings in creative writing, theater, music, visual arts, and media, it operates within South Philadelphia. Enrollment includes 743 students, with a student-teacher ratio of 19.6:1. Its alumni include notable figures in music and entertainment, reflecting its impact on arts advancement.
Malvern Preparatory School
Malvern Prep provides an integration of academics, athletics, and moral development. Its emphasis on sports excellence and leadership prepares students for collegiate success and lifelong achievement. Its rich sports tradition and strong community values make it a prominent private option.
Key Features of Philadelphia’s Top High Schools
| School Type | Academic Focus | Student Body | Graduation Rate | College Readiness Score | Notable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Magnet | STEM, Inquiry-based | Varies (500-1,186 students) | 99-100% | 58.8 – 96.5 | Specialized tracks in science, arts, and leadership |
| Private | Arts, Leadership, Academics | Varies | 97-100% | High competitiveness | Arts programs, athletics, moral training |
| Suburban/Charter | Academic Excellence, College Prep | Over 1,000 students | 97-99% | 58.8 – 66.8 | Rigorous curricula, diverse extracurriculars |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top public high schools in Philadelphia?
Julia R. Masterman Secondary School and Central High School are often considered the top public high schools based on academic performance, graduation rates, and college readiness metrics.
How do private schools in Philadelphia differ from public schools?
Private schools typically offer specialized curricula such as arts, leadership, or religious education. They often have smaller class sizes, higher tuition, and a focus on holistic development.
What are some specialized schools focusing on arts or STEM?
Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) emphasizes arts education, while Carver High School of Engineering and Science centers on STEM disciplines.
Are there high schools in Philadelphia focused on leadership and moral development?
Yes. Schools like The Haverford School and The Baldwin School integrate leadership, ethics, and service into their curricula alongside academics.
What factors should I consider when choosing a high school in Philadelphia?
Consider academic programs, extracurricular offerings, school culture, class sizes, facilities, and proximity. Also, evaluate college readiness scores, graduation rates, and specialization areas to match student interests.
