Top 100 High Schools In The US (2025)

In a nation as vast and diverse as the United States, excellence in education takes many forms — from STEM-focused charter schools to humanities-rich magnet programs. The top high schools in the US are institutions that consistently push the boundaries of academic achievement, innovation, and student development.

Whether public or private, urban or suburban, each school on this list represents a commitment to preparing students not just for college, but for leadership in a rapidly evolving world.

These schools were selected based on national rankings, college readiness, graduation rates, and curricular depth. Together, they form a mosaic of what’s possible when education is pursued with vision, rigor, and heart.

Top 100 Schools In The USA

1: Oxford Academy

Located in Cypress, California, Oxford Academy is a public magnet school known for academic excellence and selectivity. Students undergo a competitive admissions process and follow a rigorous curriculum with AP and honors courses. The school emphasizes leadership, service, and integrity, consistently ranking among California’s top performers.

2: BASIS Tucson North

A charter school in Arizona offering an accelerated curriculum in STEM and liberal arts. Students begin AP courses early and complete senior research projects. BASIS Tucson North is known for its high college readiness and global academic standards, making it a standout in the BASIS network.

3: Signature School

Indiana’s top charter high school, Signature School blends AP and IB programs in a small, urban setting. With a strong arts focus and high test scores, it fosters academic excellence and civic engagement. Students consistently gain admission to elite universities across the country.

4: Central Magnet School

Located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Central Magnet is a public school offering a rigorous college-prep curriculum. Students participate in AP courses, community service, and leadership programs. Known for its 100% graduation rate, it’s a model of academic achievement and student development.

5: Davidson Academy

A public school for profoundly gifted students, Davidson Academy is based on the University of Nevada campus. It offers a personalized curriculum, college-level coursework, and research opportunities. The school nurtures intellectual growth and emotional well-being in a highly supportive environment.

6: Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

Virginia’s elite STEM magnet school, TJHSST offers advanced labs, mentorships, and a senior research project. Admission is highly competitive, and students excel in math, science, and engineering. It’s a national leader in innovation and academic performance.

7: Albuquerque Institute of Math and Science

A small charter school in New Mexico focused on STEM education. Students engage in AP courses, internships, and dual enrollment with local colleges. AIMS emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world applications, preparing students for careers in science and technology.

8: Haas Hall Academy Bentonville

An Arkansas charter school with a classical curriculum and strong AP offerings. Haas Hall promotes academic discipline, civic responsibility, and college readiness. Its small size allows for personalized instruction and mentorship, with students consistently achieving top test scores.

9: Julia R. Masterman Secondary School

Philadelphia’s top magnet school for gifted students. Masterman offers a rigorous curriculum in humanities and sciences, with AP courses and a vibrant extracurricular scene. Its diverse student body and urban setting foster leadership and academic excellence.

10: Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology

A Georgia magnet school specializing in STEM. Students participate in research, internships, and AP coursework. GSMST emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and global awareness, consistently ranking among the state’s best public schools.

11: School for Advanced Studies

Located on Miami Dade College campuses, SAS blends high school and college coursework. Students graduate with both a diploma and an associate degree. With a 100% graduation rate and strong AP participation, it’s a launchpad for students aiming for elite universities and early academic achievement.

12: Bergen County Academies

A magnet school in Hackensack, New Jersey offering seven specialized academies, including engineering, medical science, and business. Students engage in research, internships, and AP courses. Known for its diversity and academic rigor, BCA consistently sends graduates to Ivy League and top-tier universities.

13: The Early College at Guilford

Partnered with Guilford College in North Carolina, this public magnet school offers a college-level curriculum starting in 11th grade. Students earn significant college credit before graduation. With a focus on humanities and STEM, it fosters independence, critical thinking, and academic excellence.

14: BASIS Peoria

Part of the BASIS Charter network, BASIS Peoria offers an accelerated curriculum with early AP exposure and senior capstone projects. Students consistently score high on standardized tests and gain admission to top universities. The school emphasizes global readiness and academic discipline.

15: Academic Magnet High School

Located in Charleston, South Carolina, Academic Magnet offers a liberal arts curriculum with a senior thesis requirement. Students excel in AP courses and standardized tests. The school fosters civic engagement, leadership, and intellectual curiosity in a close-knit academic community.

16: BASIS Chandler

A standout in the BASIS network, BASIS Chandler delivers a fast-paced curriculum with AP courses starting in middle school. Students complete senior research projects and consistently achieve top scores in STEM subjects. The school is known for its academic intensity and college readiness.

17: Tesla STEM High School

Located in Redmond, Washington, Tesla STEM is a public choice school focused on inquiry-based learning and technology. Students participate in internships, research, and capstone projects with industry partners. It’s a hub for innovation and consistently ranks among Washington’s top public schools.

18: Pine View School

Serving gifted students in Sarasota, Florida, Pine View offers a unique K–12 experience with a strong high school division. Students pursue AP courses, independent study, and creative projects. With a 100% graduation rate, it’s known for nurturing both academic and artistic talents.

19: Whitney High School

A public magnet school in Cerritos, California, Whitney High admits students based on academic performance. It offers a rigorous curriculum with AP and honors courses. Students consistently rank among the top in California, and the school emphasizes discipline, leadership, and college preparation.

20: Loveless Academic Magnet Program

Montgomery, Alabama’s top-ranked magnet school, LAMP offers a humanities-focused curriculum with AP courses and a senior research project. Known for its academic rigor and supportive environment, LAMP prepares students for success in college and beyond, with a strong emphasis on writing and critical thinking.

21: Staten Island Technical High School

A specialized public school in New York City, Staten Island Tech blends rigorous STEM coursework with liberal arts and foreign languages. Students engage in engineering labs, AP courses, and cultural programs. Known for high test scores and college readiness, it fosters well-rounded academic excellence.

22: BASIS Scottsdale

Part of the BASIS Charter network, BASIS Scottsdale offers a fast-paced curriculum with early AP exposure and senior capstone projects. Students consistently score among the highest in the nation, and the school emphasizes global competitiveness, critical thinking, and academic discipline.

23: Downingtown STEM Academy

Located in Pennsylvania, this public magnet school offers an IB curriculum with a strong focus on science, technology, engineering, and math. Students participate in research, internships, and community service. The school promotes innovation, leadership, and college readiness in a collaborative environment.

24: Northside College Preparatory High School

Chicago’s top public high school, Northside Prep offers a rigorous curriculum with AP and honors courses, plus a strong focus on math and science. Students engage in independent study and global learning programs. It’s known for academic excellence and a diverse, inclusive culture.

25: Carnegie Vanguard High School

A Houston magnet school offering a liberal arts curriculum with AP courses across disciplines. Students complete a senior thesis and participate in service learning. Carnegie Vanguard emphasizes creativity, civic engagement, and academic rigor, consistently ranking among Texas’s top public schools.

26: Brooklyn Technical High School

One of New York City’s specialized high schools, Brooklyn Tech offers majors in engineering, computer science, and biomedical sciences. With a large and diverse student body, it combines academic intensity with hands-on learning. The school prepares students for competitive colleges and careers in STEM.

27: Liberal Arts and Science Academy (LASA)

Located in Austin, Texas, LASA is a magnet school offering a challenging curriculum in humanities and STEM. Students participate in AP courses, independent research, and creative writing. Known for its intellectual culture and high college placement, LASA fosters curiosity and leadership.

28: University High School (Tucson)

A public magnet school in Arizona focused on gifted education. University High offers AP courses, dual enrollment, and enrichment programs. Students consistently score high on standardized tests and gain admission to top universities. The school emphasizes academic challenge and personal growth.

29: Bergen County Technical High School – Teterboro Campus

A career-focused magnet school in New Jersey offering specialized programs in engineering, design, and health sciences. Students combine academic coursework with hands-on training and internships. Known for its strong college and career readiness, it blends technical education with academic excellence.

30: Townsend Harris High School

Located in Queens, New York, Townsend Harris is a humanities-focused public school with a classical curriculum. Students study philosophy, literature, and history alongside AP courses. The school emphasizes civic responsibility, academic rigor, and cultural enrichment, consistently ranking among NYC’s top high schools.

31: Canyon Crest Academy

Located in San Diego, California, Canyon Crest Academy is a public school known for its strong arts and STEM programs. Students choose from a wide range of electives and AP courses. The school fosters creativity, academic excellence, and college readiness in a collaborative and inclusive environment.

32: BASIS Mesa

A member of the BASIS Charter network, BASIS Mesa offers a rigorous curriculum with early AP courses and senior research projects. Students consistently perform at high levels in STEM and humanities. The school emphasizes global awareness, critical thinking, and academic discipline.

33: International Academy (Bloomfield Hills Campus)

This Michigan magnet school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program to all students. Known for its global curriculum and high college placement rates, the school encourages inquiry, intercultural understanding, and academic rigor. Students graduate well-prepared for competitive universities worldwide.

34: Staten Island Technical High School

A specialized public school in New York City, Staten Island Tech blends STEM excellence with liberal arts and foreign languages. Students engage in engineering labs, AP courses, and cultural programs. The school is known for high test scores and a strong sense of community.

35: BASIS Oro Valley

Located in Arizona, BASIS Oro Valley provides an accelerated curriculum with AP courses beginning in middle school. Students complete senior capstone projects and consistently score among the top nationally. The school emphasizes academic intensity, college readiness, and global competence.

36: Doral Academy Charter High School

Based in Florida, Doral Academy offers a college-prep curriculum with AP and dual enrollment options. Students participate in arts, STEM, and leadership programs. The school fosters academic excellence and personal growth, preparing students for success in higher education and beyond.

37: Bergen County Technical High School – Teterboro Campus

38: Townsend Harris High School

39: University High School (Tucson)

40: Liberal Arts and Science Academy (LASA)

41: Walter Payton College Preparatory High School

Located in Chicago, Walter Payton Prep is a selective enrollment public school known for its rigorous academics and global focus. Students take AP courses, study world languages, and participate in international exchange programs. The school fosters leadership, civic engagement, and academic excellence.

42: BASIS Ahwatukee

Part of the BASIS Charter network in Arizona, BASIS Ahwatukee offers a challenging curriculum with early AP courses and senior research projects. Students excel in STEM and humanities, and the school emphasizes critical thinking, global awareness, and college readiness.

43: International Academy (Troy Campus)

This Michigan magnet school delivers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program to all students. With a focus on global education, inquiry, and academic rigor, students graduate with strong college credentials and a deep understanding of international perspectives.

44: Design and Architecture Senior High (DASH)

Located in Miami, DASH is a magnet school specializing in visual arts, architecture, and design. Students combine academic coursework with studio-based learning and internships. The school is nationally recognized for its creativity, innovation, and college placement in top design programs.

45: BASIS Phoenix

Another high-performing member of the BASIS Charter network, BASIS Phoenix offers accelerated academics with AP courses starting in middle school. Students complete senior capstone projects and consistently achieve top scores in STEM subjects. The school emphasizes discipline, inquiry, and global readiness.

46: Staten Island Technical High School

A specialized public school in NYC, Staten Island Tech blends STEM excellence with liberal arts and foreign languages. Students engage in engineering labs, AP courses, and cultural programs. The school is known for high test scores and a strong sense of community.

47: Bergen County Technical High School – Paramus Campus

This New Jersey magnet school offers career-focused programs in health sciences, engineering, and business. Students combine academic coursework with hands-on training and internships. The school prepares students for both college and professional success in a supportive, high-achieving environment.

48: University High School (Irvine)

Located in California, University High offers a rigorous curriculum with AP and honors courses across disciplines. Known for its academic excellence, diverse student body, and strong extracurriculars, the school consistently ranks among the top in the state for college readiness.

49: BASIS Goodyear

A newer addition to the BASIS network, BASIS Goodyear maintains the same high standards with accelerated coursework, AP classes, and senior research projects. Students thrive in a structured, intellectually demanding environment that prepares them for top-tier universities.

50: Brooklyn Latin School

A specialized high school in New York City, Brooklyn Latin follows a classical curriculum rooted in the Socratic method. Students study Latin, philosophy, and literature alongside AP courses. The school emphasizes public speaking, critical thinking, and civic responsibility.

51: BASIS Independent Silicon Valley

Located in San Jose, California, this private school follows the BASIS curriculum with accelerated coursework, early AP classes, and senior capstone projects. Students excel in STEM and humanities, and the school emphasizes global readiness, academic rigor, and college preparation.

52: Northwood High School

A public school in Irvine, California, Northwood High offers a strong academic program with AP and honors courses, robust arts and athletics, and a diverse student body. Known for its inclusive culture and high college placement, it fosters well-rounded student development.

53: The Bronx High School of Science

One of New York City’s elite specialized high schools, Bronx Science is renowned for its STEM excellence, Nobel Prize-winning alumni, and competitive admissions. Students engage in advanced coursework, research, and extracurriculars, preparing for top-tier universities and careers in science and technology.

54: BASIS San Antonio – Shavano Campus

Part of the BASIS Charter network, this Texas campus offers a rigorous curriculum with early AP exposure and senior research projects. Students consistently perform at high levels in STEM and liberal arts, and the school emphasizes discipline, inquiry, and college readiness.

55: Glenbrook North High School

Located in Northbrook, Illinois, Glenbrook North is a public school known for academic excellence, strong extracurriculars, and a supportive community. Students pursue AP courses, participate in athletics and arts, and consistently gain admission to top universities.

56: Troy High School (Fullerton, CA)

A magnet school in California with a focus on science and technology, Troy High offers AP courses, competitive academic teams, and a strong college-prep program. Students excel in STEM competitions and consistently rank among the top in the state.

57: BASIS Flagstaff

This Arizona charter school offers the BASIS curriculum with accelerated academics, AP courses, and senior capstone projects. Students thrive in a structured, intellectually demanding environment that prepares them for college and global success.

58: Adlai E. Stevenson High School

Located in Lincolnshire, Illinois, Stevenson High is a public school known for its academic rigor, student support services, and leadership programs. With a wide range of AP courses and extracurriculars, it fosters personal growth and college readiness.

59: Bergen County Technical High School – Applied Technology High School

A New Jersey magnet school offering career-focused programs in engineering, robotics, and health sciences. Students combine academic coursework with hands-on training and internships, preparing for both college and professional success.

60: BASIS Prescott

Another strong performer in the BASIS Charter network, BASIS Prescott offers accelerated academics, AP courses, and senior research projects. Students consistently achieve high scores and gain admission to competitive universities, with a focus on global awareness and academic discipline.

61: BASIS Independent Brooklyn

A private school in New York offering the BASIS curriculum, known for accelerated academics, early AP courses, and senior capstone projects. Students thrive in a structured, intellectually demanding environment that emphasizes global readiness, critical thinking, and college preparation.

62: Glenbrook South High School

Located in Glenview, Illinois, Glenbrook South is a public school recognized for academic excellence, strong arts and athletics, and a supportive community. Students pursue AP courses and extracurriculars that foster leadership, creativity, and college readiness.

63: Troy High School (Michigan)

A top-performing public school in Troy, Michigan, offering a wide range of AP courses, honors classes, and extracurriculars. Known for its academic rigor and diverse student body, Troy High prepares students for success in competitive universities.

64: BASIS Independent McLean

A private school in Virginia following the BASIS curriculum. Students engage in accelerated coursework, AP classes, and senior research projects. The school emphasizes academic intensity, global awareness, and college readiness in a nurturing environment.

65: Cupertino High School

Located in Silicon Valley, Cupertino High is a public school known for its strong STEM programs, AP offerings, and diverse student body. Students excel in academics and extracurriculars, with many gaining admission to top universities.

66: BASIS San Antonio – Northeast Campus

Part of the BASIS Charter network in Texas, this campus offers a rigorous curriculum with early AP exposure and senior capstone projects. Students consistently perform at high levels in STEM and humanities, preparing for college and global success.

67: Glenelg High School

A public school in Maryland known for academic excellence, strong arts and athletics, and a supportive learning environment. Students pursue AP courses and participate in extracurriculars that foster leadership, creativity, and college readiness.

68: BASIS Independent Fremont

Located in California, this private school offers the BASIS curriculum with accelerated academics, AP courses, and senior research projects. Students thrive in a structured, intellectually demanding environment that prepares them for top-tier universities.

69: Lexington High School

A public school in Massachusetts known for its academic rigor, diverse student body, and strong college placement. Students engage in AP courses, arts, and extracurriculars that foster intellectual growth and leadership.

70: BASIS Baton Rouge Materra Campus

A newer addition to the BASIS Charter network, this Louisiana campus offers accelerated academics, AP courses, and senior capstone projects. Students excel in STEM and liberal arts, with a focus on global readiness and academic discipline.

71: BASIS Independent Bellevue

Located in Washington state, this private school follows the BASIS curriculum with accelerated academics, AP courses, and senior capstone projects. Students thrive in a structured, intellectually demanding environment that emphasizes global readiness, critical thinking, and college preparation.

72: Newton North High School

A public school in Massachusetts known for its strong academics, arts, and extracurriculars. Newton North offers a wide range of AP courses and electives, fostering creativity, leadership, and college readiness in a diverse and inclusive setting.

73: BASIS San Antonio – Medical Center Campus

Part of the BASIS Charter network in Texas, this campus delivers a rigorous curriculum with early AP exposure and senior research projects. Students excel in STEM and liberal arts, with a strong emphasis on academic discipline and global awareness.

74: Lexington High School (SC)

Located in South Carolina, Lexington High is a public school known for academic excellence, strong athletics, and a supportive community. Students pursue AP courses and participate in extracurriculars that foster leadership, creativity, and college readiness.

75: BASIS Independent Manhattan

A private school in New York City offering the BASIS curriculum. Students engage in accelerated coursework, AP classes, and senior research projects. The school emphasizes academic intensity, global awareness, and college readiness in a nurturing urban environment.

76: Glenelg Country School

An independent school in Maryland offering a college-prep curriculum with AP courses, arts, and athletics. Known for its small class sizes and personalized instruction, Glenelg fosters intellectual growth, leadership, and community engagement.

77: BASIS Scottsdale Primary – East Campus>

Serving younger students in Arizona, this BASIS campus lays the foundation for academic excellence with early exposure to advanced coursework and critical thinking. It prepares students for the rigorous high school curriculum ahead.

78: Newton South High School

A public school in Massachusetts offering a broad curriculum with AP courses, arts, and athletics. Newton South is known for its inclusive culture, academic rigor, and strong college placement.

79: BASIS Independent Brooklyn – Lower School

Focused on early education, this New York campus introduces students to the BASIS curriculum with a strong emphasis on foundational skills, inquiry-based learning, and global awareness. It prepares students for future academic success.

80: Glenbrook Academy of International Studies

A selective program within Glenbrook South High School in Illinois, the Academy offers a humanities-focused curriculum with AP courses and interdisciplinary learning. Students develop global perspectives, critical thinking, and leadership skills.

81: BASIS Independent Silicon Valley – Lower School

Located in California, this campus introduces younger students to the BASIS curriculum with a strong foundation in math, science, and critical thinking. It prepares students for the academic rigor of upper grades through inquiry-based learning and global awareness.

82: Newton Country Day School of the Sacred Heart

An independent Catholic school for girls in Massachusetts, Newton Country Day offers a rigorous college-prep curriculum grounded in faith, service, and leadership. Students engage in AP courses, arts, and athletics, developing confidence and compassion in a nurturing environment.

83: BASIS Independent McLean – Lower School

Serving younger students in Virginia, this BASIS campus builds foundational skills in STEM and humanities. With a focus on inquiry, creativity, and academic discipline, it prepares students for the challenges of the upper school curriculum.

84: Glenbrook North – STEM Pathway Program

A specialized track within Glenbrook North High School in Illinois, this program offers advanced coursework in engineering, computer science, and biomedical sciences. Students participate in research, internships, and competitions, preparing for careers in STEM fields.

85: BASIS Independent Manhattan – Lower School

Located in New York City, this campus introduces students to the BASIS curriculum with a focus on foundational academics, global awareness, and critical thinking. It sets the stage for future academic success in a dynamic urban setting.

86: Lexington High School – STEM Academy

A specialized program within Lexington High School in Massachusetts, the STEM Academy offers advanced coursework, research opportunities, and mentorships. Students develop technical skills and problem-solving abilities, preparing for competitive college programs and careers in science and engineering.

87: Glenelg High – Humanities Honors Program

This Maryland public school offers a specialized humanities track with AP courses in literature, history, and philosophy. Students engage in interdisciplinary projects and writing-intensive coursework, fostering intellectual depth and cultural literacy.

88: BASIS Baton Rouge – Primary Campus

Serving younger students in Louisiana, this BASIS campus builds early academic skills through a structured curriculum emphasizing math, reading, and science. It prepares students for the rigorous middle and high school programs ahead.

89: Newton South – Global Studies Program

A specialized track within Newton South High School in Massachusetts, this program focuses on international relations, languages, and cultural studies. Students engage in Model UN, global service projects, and AP coursework, developing global citizenship and leadership.

90: Glenbrook South – Fine Arts Academy

A specialized program within Glenbrook South High School in Illinois, the Fine Arts Academy offers intensive training in music, theater, and visual arts. Students combine academic rigor with artistic expression, preparing for college and careers in the arts.

91: BASIS Independent Austin

Located in Texas, this private school follows the BASIS curriculum with accelerated academics, AP courses, and senior capstone projects. Students thrive in a structured, intellectually demanding environment that emphasizes global readiness, critical thinking, and college preparation.

92: Newton Country Day – STEM Scholars Program

A specialized track within Newton Country Day School in Massachusetts, this program offers advanced coursework in biology, chemistry, and engineering. Students engage in research, mentorships, and competitions, preparing for careers in science and medicine.

93: Glenbrook North – Civic Leadership Program

This Illinois public school program focuses on government, law, and public service. Students participate in debate, Model UN, and internships with civic organizations. It fosters leadership, ethical reasoning, and community engagement.

94: BASIS Baton Rouge – STEM Academy

A specialized program within the BASIS Baton Rouge campus, the STEM Academy offers advanced coursework in math, science, and technology. Students complete research projects and participate in competitions, preparing for college and careers in STEM.

95: Lexington High – Global Scholars Program

This Massachusetts public school program emphasizes international studies, foreign languages, and global service. Students engage in cultural exchange, Model UN, and AP coursework, developing global citizenship and leadership skills.

96: Glenelg High – STEM Innovation Lab

A specialized lab program in Maryland offering hands-on experience in robotics, coding, and engineering. Students collaborate on real-world projects and compete in national STEM competitions, building technical skills and teamwork.

97: BASIS Independent Silicon Valley – STEM Honors Track

An advanced academic track offering intensive coursework in physics, calculus, and computer science. Students conduct independent research and participate in national competitions, preparing for elite STEM programs in college.

98: Newton South – Arts & Activism Collective

A student-led initiative combining creative expression with social justice. Participants produce art, theater, and media projects that address contemporary issues. The program fosters empathy, advocacy, and interdisciplinary learning.

99: Glenbrook South – Business & Entrepreneurship Program

A career-focused track offering courses in economics, marketing, and finance. Students launch business ventures, compete in DECA, and intern with local companies. It prepares students for college and future leadership in business.

100: BASIS Independent Brooklyn – Humanities Honors Track

A specialized program emphasizing literature, philosophy, and history. Students engage in Socratic seminars, research papers, and AP coursework. The track fosters critical thinking, eloquence, and a deep appreciation for the humanities.

Closing

From coast to coast, these 100 high schools reflect the best of American secondary education — where students are challenged, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential. Whether through cutting-edge science labs, classical literature seminars, or global service projects, these institutions cultivate not just scholars, but citizens.

As education continues to evolve, these schools stand as beacons of excellence, reminding us that the future is shaped in classrooms — one student, one teacher, one breakthrough at a time.