Private schools in St. Louis, Missouri offer families a wide range of educational choices outside of the public school system. These schools vary in their academic focus, religious affiliation, teaching philosophies, and grade levels served. For many families, private schools present opportunities for smaller class sizes, specialized programs, and environments tailored to individual student needs. As of the 2025–26 school year, St. Louis City and County together host hundreds of private schools, serving thousands of students across all grade levels.
Why Choose a Private School?
Personalized Learning and Smaller Class Sizes
Many private schools emphasize individualized instruction and smaller teacher‑to‑student ratios. This often results in more direct teacher engagement, stronger relationships with students, and the ability to tailor curriculum to students’ strengths and growth areas.
Specialized and Faith‑Based Programs
A significant number of private schools in st louis the region are religiously affiliated, especially with Catholic and Lutheran traditions, offering faith‑based education alongside rigorous academics.
Greater Variety of Educational Models
From Montessori and language immersion programs to college‑prep high schools and schools serving students with learning differences, St. Louis has a rich diversity of educational philosophies represented among its private institutions.
Overview of Private School Landscape in St. Louis
Number of Schools and Student Enrollment
For the 2025–26 school year, there are approximately 160 private schools in St. Louis City and 180 in St. Louis County. Together, these schools educate tens of thousands of students from preschool through high school.
Religious Affiliation
A large portion of private schools in the area are affiliated with religious organizations. Around 65% in the city and county are religiously affiliated, with Catholic, Lutheran, and Christian traditions most common.
Tuition Considerations
Tuition varies widely depending on grade level, mission, and program. Average private school tuition in St. Louis tends to be higher than the Missouri state average, reflecting the varied academic offerings and extracurricular programs available.
Top Private Schools in St. Louis
Here are some of the most highly regarded private schools in the St. Louis area, spanning different types of education:
Prestigious Academic Institutions
- Whitfield School — Known for strong academics and robust arts and athletics programs.
- Mary Institute and Saint Louis Country Day School (MICDS) — A well‑known co‑educational school with rigorous academics.
- Thomas Jefferson School — Emphasizes critical thinking and classical education.
- The College School — Offers a unique college‑prep track from a young age.
Other Notable Private Options
- John Burroughs School — Excellent academic reputation especially at the secondary level.
- Principia School — Emphasizes inquiry and a holistic approach to learning.
- New City School and Central Institute for the Deaf — Innovative schools with unique focus areas.
This list represents a selection of highly regarded schools; there are many other excellent private options that may better suit individual student needs.
Types of Private Schools Available
Catholic and Christian Schools
Many private schools in the region are faith‑based, offering not only academic instruction but also religious formation. Catholic schools are especially prominent, providing continuity from elementary through high school.
Independent and Secular Schools
There are also non‑religious independent schools that place heavy emphasis on academic excellence, creativity, and individual student development.
Montessori and Alternative Models
Institutions like Montessori schools focus on hands‑on learning, self‑paced discovery, and student autonomy in early education.
Specialized Schools
Some schools cater to specific student populations, such as those with unique learning needs or those seeking a language immersion or arts‑focused curriculum.
Private School Athletics and Extracurriculars
Private schools in St. Louis participate in a variety of athletic conferences and offer a wide array of extracurricular activities. Programs often include:
- Varsity and junior varsity sports
- Fine arts, theater, and music ensembles
- Debate and academic clubs
- Community‑service and leadership organizations
Many all‑female schools compete in athletic conferences such as the Metro Women’s Athletics Association, highlighting the competitive opportunities available to students.
Admissions and Financial Aid
How to Apply
Private school admissions are typically more holistic than many public school registration processes. Families can expect to:
- Submit application forms
- Provide previous academic records
- Participate in assessments or interviews
- Submit recommendation letters
Each school sets its own admissions timeline and criteria.
Tuition Assistance
Many private schools offer financial aid, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs to help make education more accessible. Additionally, Missouri has expanded scholarship programs that can help families with tuition costs through tax‑credit‑funded accounts.
Choosing the Right Private School
Consider Your Child’s Needs
When selecting a private school, families should evaluate:
- Academic strengths and interests
- Extracurricular opportunities
- School culture and values
- Location and transportation options
- Tuition and financial aid availability
Visiting schools, attending open houses, and talking with current families can provide valuable insights.
School Fit and Long‑Term Success
The best school for a student supports not just academic achievement, but also emotional, social, and personal growth. Families often weigh both the quantitative aspects (test scores, class sizes) and qualitative factors (community feel, mission alignment) when making a decision.
Conclusion
The St. Louis area offers a diverse array of private schools, from prestigious college‑prep academies and faith‑based institutions to progressive and specialized programs. With hundreds of private schools in the region, families have many options to fit different educational philosophies, interests, and budgets.
Choosing the right private school requires thoughtful research, campus visits, and careful consideration of your child’s unique needs. Whether you’re looking for a strong academic environment, a faith‑based setting, unique learning models, or robust extracurricular offerings, St. Louis’s private schools provide many pathways to a rewarding education.
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