Vancouver private school rankings

Best university placement

Below are Greater Vancouver private schools (listed with OUR KIDS) ranked by their university placement. University placement is understandably important to many parents paying private school tuition, and who want the very best for their child(ren)'s future. The list below is ranked by how many of each private high school's graduates have been accepted into 12 of the world's top universities (Harvard, Yale, Princeton, University of Pennsylvania, Dartmouth, Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Stanford, University of Chicago, Oxford, or Cambridge) in the last five years. The arbitrariness of that list speaks to the limitations of this and all school rankings.

Lowest admission rates

Schools that are difficult to get into would seem to be in high demand, an indication of how good the school is. However, it's much more important that parents focus on the needs of child(ren) in the school search. Below are schools ranked on their reported acceptance rates. This list might also be helpful to families who want a cursory look at the chances of getting into these schools.

Smallest class sizes

Many parents focus on the issue of class size as one factor that might make a school better for their child(ren). This is understandable, but remember that there is much more to the educational environment of any school. In any case, private schools often promise smaller class sizes and a better teacher-student ratio. Among private schools there is variation in this ratio, as seen below.

Top private high schools for sports

For students who have a strong athletic inclination, there is an obvious appeal to schools with more sports programs. Private schools throughout Greater Vancouver (that list with OUR KIDS) are ranked below on the basis of the number of sports programs and teams they offer. Schools with a greater number of athletics programs would likely create a more competitive environment.

Most expensive private schools

Some people mistakenly equate the most expensive with the best. This is not a good assumption to make, of course. It may be true that schools charging a higher tuition will be able to provide superior facilities, hire some of the most qualified instructors and offer other very high quality amenities and features. However, many Greater Vancouver private schools charging lower tuition rates produce top tier graduates who go on to highly successful careers and lives. Along with schools themselves, we preach the importance of searching for a school that is the right fit for your child. Any focus on a superficial ranking like the one below is misguided. (Please note that this list may include boarding fees.)

Oldest private schools

Listed below are Greater Vancouver’s oldest private schools, in order. A school’s long history may indicate prestige to some parents. However, there are many other factors that should go into your decision process when finding a school that is right for your child(ren).

Most affordable private schools

Wealthiest private schools

Most financial aid

Largest schools

Smallest enrollment per grade

Largest average enrollment per grade