When it comes to quality education at the high school level, Philadelphia boasts an array of institutions that not only nurture young minds but also lay a solid foundation for their futures. With a mix of public, private, charter, and magnet schools, Philly’s landscape of secondary education is as diverse as the city itself. Parents and students often look for schools that offer strong academic programs, extracurricular activities, college readiness, and a supportive environment, and the City of Brotherly Love doesn’t disappoint. Here’s a countdown of the top 10 high schools in Philadelphia; each providing a unique educational experience and exemplary opportunities for their students.
#10 Mastery Charter School – Thomas Campus
Mastery Charter School – Thomas Campus is a charter school that has been setting high standards for academic excellence since its establishment. Catering to grades 7-12, the school creates a supportive learning environment that emphasizes student achievement and growth. With a focus on college preparation, Mastery Charter offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and a variety of extracurriculars, from sports to the arts, ensuring students have a well-rounded high school experience.
#9 Philadelphia High School for Girls
The Philadelphia High School for Girls, also known as Girls’ High, is one of the most prestigious public all-girls schools in the country. It is respected for its rigorous academic program which prepares young women for leadership roles in a changing society. The school’s diverse curriculum includes AP classes and specialized programs, such as a STEM-focused curriculum. The supportive environment encourages students to develop both intellectually and personally.
#8 Roman Catholic High School
Roman Catholic High School, Philadelphia’s oldest Catholic high school, is a private institution that prides itself on providing a comprehensive education grounded in faith-based values. This all-boys school offers a variety of AP courses, athletics, and service-oriented activities. Its alumni network is both vast and engaged, offering graduates a leg up in their post-secondary endeavors.
#7 The Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA)
At The Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts, the city’s budding artists find a haven for developing their talents in visual arts, music, dance, and theater. The curriculum at CAPA is enriched with rigorous academic classes and special artistic instruction, providing students with a unique and comprehensive educational experience. CAPA graduates often continue on to highly respected art schools and universities.
#6 Science Leadership Academy (SLA)
Science Leadership Academy is a magnet high school that operates in partnership with The Franklin Institute. Known for its progressive and inquiry-driven approach to learning, SLA emphasizes science, technology, mathematics, and entrepreneurship. Students engage in project-based learning and collaborate with peers on real-world problems, preparing them for the modern workforce.
#5 Central High School
Central High School is one of the most celebrated public high schools in Philadelphia. As a magnet school, it offers a wide array of AP and honors courses, as well as extracurricular programs in the arts, athletics, and various clubs. Central High School is known for its diverse student body and commitment to excellence, boasting high graduation rates and extensive college matriculation.
#4 Penn Alexander School
Penn Alexander School is a public K-8 school in partnership with the University of Pennsylvania, and it serves as a feeder into some of the top high schools in Philadelphia. Though not a high school itself, its inclusion is merited by its reputation for high academic standards and the significant role it plays in preparing students for their secondary education. Its students are often well-placed to continue their education at highly competitive high schools.
#3 Masterman Julia R. Secondary School
Masterman Julia R. Secondary School is a public magnet school known for its challenging academic environment and its distinction as one of the best high schools in the state — and the country. Serving grades 5-12, Masterman is selective in its admissions, seeking out the top students from across Philadelphia. The school’s curriculum prepares students for higher education, with a significant number of AP courses available and a proven track record of high college acceptance rates.
#2 The Haverford School
The Haverford School is a private, all-boys institution that provides an exceptional preparatory education. With strong traditions and a commitment to fostering intellectual growth, leadership, and moral integrity, Haverford offers rigorous academics, competitive athletics, and a robust arts program. Its graduates are regularly accepted into some of the most prestigious colleges and universities.
#1 The Baldwin School
Rounding off our list at the top spot is The Baldwin School, a private all-girls school known for academic excellence and a rich tradition of preparing girls for successful futures. Baldwin offers a challenging college preparatory curriculum, impressive AP course offerings, and abundant extracurricular activities. The school places a strong emphasis on developing well-rounded, confident young women who are ready to make a positive impact on the world.
Choosing the right high school can be a pivotal decision in a student’s life, affecting their academic trajectory and collegiate opportunities. Philadelphia’s top high schools share commitments to high academic standards, diverse educational experiences, and nurturing the personal growth of their students. Each school on this list has earned its place through rigorous curricula, exceptional faculty, supportive environments, and the success of their alumni. Whether through the arts, sciences, or humanities, these institutions provide the resources and support necessary to foster the next generation of leaders, innovators, and critical thinkers.