Chicago, Illinois, is home to a diverse array of private schools renowned for their academic excellence, innovative programs, and commitment to student development. From rigorous college preparatory curricula to specialized arts and sciences programs, these institutions cater to a wide range of educational needs and philosophies. Below is a curated list of some of the most esteemed private schools in Chicago:
Francis W. Parker School
330 W Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 | (773) 353-3000
Founded in 1901, Francis W. Parker School is an independent, coeducational day school serving students from junior kindergarten through 12th grade. Located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, the school emphasizes progressive education, community engagement, and citizenship. With a student-to-teacher ratio of 3.5:1, Parker offers a personalized learning environment.
Learn More: https://www.fwparker.org/
Latin School of Chicago
59 W North Blvd, Chicago, IL 60610 | (312) 582-6000
Established in 1888, the Latin School of Chicago is a private, coeducational school offering programs from kindergarten through 12th grade. Situated in the Gold Coast neighborhood, Latin provides a rigorous curriculum with a strong emphasis on the arts, athletics, and community service. The school boasts a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1.
Learn More: https://www.latinschool.org/
University of Chicago Laboratory Schools
1362 E 59th St, Chicago, IL 60637 | (773) 702-9450
Affiliated with the University of Chicago, the Laboratory Schools serve students from nursery through 12th grade. Founded in 1896 by John Dewey, the schools are known for their innovative approach to education, integrating research-based teaching methods and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Learn More: https://www.ucls.uchicago.edu/
British International School of Chicago, South Loop
161 W 9th St, Chicago, IL 60605 | (773) 998-2472
The British International School offers a global education for students from preschool through 12th grade. With a curriculum that includes the International Baccalaureate (IB) and IGCSE programs, the school emphasizes academic excellence, cultural awareness, and personal development.
Learn More: https://www.nordangliaeducation.com/bisc-south-loop
Morgan Park Academy
2153 W 111th St, Chicago, IL 60643 | (773) 881-6700
Founded in 1873, Morgan Park Academy is a coeducational, college preparatory school for students in grades pre-K through 12. Located on Chicago’s South Side, the school offers a rigorous academic program, small class sizes, and a commitment to developing global citizens.
Learn More: https://www.morganparkacademy.org/
St. Ignatius College Prep
1076 W Roosevelt Rd, Chicago, IL 60608 | (312) 421-5900
Established in 1869, St. Ignatius College Prep is a Jesuit, Catholic, coeducational high school serving grades 9 through 12. The school focuses on academic excellence, spiritual growth, and social justice, preparing students for leadership and service.
Learn More: https://www.ignatius.org/
De La Salle Institute
3434 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60616 | (312) 842-7355
De La Salle Institute is a Catholic, coeducational high school founded in 1889. Located in the Bronzeville neighborhood, the school offers a college preparatory curriculum, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a strong emphasis on community service.
Learn More: https://www.dls.org/
Lycée Français de Chicago
1929 W Wilson Ave, Chicago, IL 60640 | (773) 665-0066
The Lycée Français de Chicago provides a bilingual French-English education from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The school follows the French national curriculum and offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, promoting multiculturalism and academic rigor.
Learn More: https://www.lyceechicago.org/
North Shore Country Day School
310 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka, IL 60093 | (847) 441-3313
Founded in 1919, North Shore Country Day School is a coeducational, college preparatory school for students in grades JK through 12. Located in Winnetka, the school emphasizes experiential learning, community engagement, and a commitment to diversity.
Learn More: https://www.nscds.org/
Rochelle Zell Jewish High School
1095 Lake Cook Rd, Deerfield, IL 60015 | (847) 470-6700
Rochelle Zell Jewish High School is a coeducational, college preparatory school serving grades 9 through 12. The school integrates rigorous secular academics with comprehensive Jewish studies, fostering intellectual growth and Jewish identity.
Learn More: https://www.rzjhs.org/
