Best Private Schools in Dallas

Dallas, Texas, is known for its thriving economy, cultural diversity, and growing reputation as a hub for quality education. Among its many academic offerings, private schools stand out for their personalized learning environments, advanced facilities, and strong college preparatory programs. Whether you are a parent moving to Dallas or a long-time resident seeking the best educational fit for your child, understanding the city’s top private schools can help you make the right choice.

List of top 10 best private schools in Dallas, with details on location, admission procedures, fees, facilities, and what makes each one exceptional.

1. The Hockaday School

• Location: 11600 Welch Road, Dallas, TX 75229

• Grades: Pre-K to 12 (All-girls)

Overview:
Founded in 1913, The Hockaday School is one of the most prestigious all-girls schools in the U.S. It focuses on developing leadership, academic excellence, and character. The curriculum blends traditional academics with modern teaching methods, and the school emphasizes science, technology, arts, and global citizenship.

Facilities:

• STEM research labs

• Performing arts center

• Competitive sports programs

• Boarding facilities for upper grades

Admission Procedure:

• Online application form submission

• Teacher recommendations and transcripts from the last two years

• Admission testing (ISEE or SSAT)

• Student interview and campus tour

Fees (Approximate):

• Day School: $30,000 – $34,000 per year

• Boarding: $60,000+ per year

2. St. Mark’s School of Texas

• Location: 10600 Preston Road, Dallas, TX 75230

• Grades: 1 to 12 (All-boys)

Overview:
St. Mark’s is a premier all-boys preparatory school with a tradition of academic rigor and leadership development. Known for producing graduates who excel in Ivy League universities, the school promotes a balanced education combining intellectual growth, arts, and athletics.

Facilities:

• Science and technology building

• Competitive athletics fields

• Fine arts studios and galleries

• Debate and robotics clubs

Admission Procedure:

• Application and personal essays

• Teacher recommendations

• Standardized test scores (ISEE or SSAT)

• Student interview

Fees (Approximate):

• $32,000 – $35,000 per year

3. The Episcopal School of Dallas

• Location: 4100 Merrell Road, Dallas, TX 75229

• Grades: Pre-K to 12 (Co-ed)

Overview:
The Episcopal School of Dallas (ESD) offers a faith-based yet inclusive environment with an emphasis on academic achievement, community service, and spiritual growth. Students benefit from a well-rounded curriculum designed to prepare them for success in higher education and life.

Facilities:

• Outdoor learning spaces

• Chapel for spiritual services

• Competitive athletic programs

• Innovation labs

Admission Procedure:

• Online application form

• Teacher recommendations and school records

• Admission testing and campus interview

• Family meeting with the admission team

Fees (Approximate):

• $28,000 – $34,000 per year

4. Greenhill School

• Location: 4141 Spring Valley Road, Addison, TX 75001 (Dallas suburb)

• Grades: Pre-K to 12 (Co-ed)

Overview:
Greenhill School is known for its academic flexibility, diversity, and strong arts programs. With a low student-to-teacher ratio, it offers personalized education that nurtures creativity and critical thinking.

Facilities:

• State-of-the-art performing arts center

• Science labs and innovation hubs

• Extensive athletics complex

• Advanced digital learning tools

Admission Procedure:

• Application form and personal statement

• Teacher evaluations and academic records

• Standardized testing (ISEE)

• Student interview and shadow day

Fees (Approximate):

• $28,000 – $35,000 per year

5. Parish Episcopal School

• Location: 4101 Sigma Road, Dallas, TX 75244

• Grades: Pre-K to 12 (Co-ed)

Overview:
Parish Episcopal combines strong academic programs with spiritual development rooted in Episcopal traditions. The school has a reputation for fostering leadership, global awareness, and community responsibility.

Facilities:

• STEAM labs

• Digital media center

• Sports complexes

• Community outreach programs

Admission Procedure:

• Submission of online application

• School records and recommendations

• Standardized testing (ISEE)

• Family interview

Fees (Approximate):

• $25,000 – $33,000 per year

6. Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas

• Location: 12345 Inwood Road, Dallas, TX 75244

• Grades: 9 to 12 (All-boys)

Overview:
Jesuit College Prep offers a Catholic-based education emphasizing service, leadership, and intellectual development. It is well-known for its rigorous academic programs and extensive community service initiatives.

Facilities:

• Modern science and computer labs

• Arts and music studios

• Sports fields and gymnasium

• Community service offices

Admission Procedure:

• Application form and student essay

• Teacher recommendations and academic records

• Placement test and interview

• Involvement in community service encouraged

Fees (Approximate):

• $18,000 – $22,000 per year

7. Ursuline Academy of Dallas

• Location: 4900 Walnut Hill Lane, Dallas, TX 75229

• Grades: 9 to 12 (All-girls)

Overview:
Founded in 1874, Ursuline Academy is one of the oldest and most respected all-girls schools in Texas. It offers a Catholic education with a focus on academic excellence, leadership, and global citizenship.

Facilities:

• Language labs and cultural exchange programs

• Fine arts center

• Athletic facilities for a range of sports

• STEM innovation spaces

Admission Procedure:

• Online application

• School transcripts and teacher recommendations

• Placement exam

• Interview and optional campus visit

Fees (Approximate):

• $22,000 – $25,000 per year

8. The Winston School

• Location: 5707 Royal Lane, Dallas, TX 75229

• Grades: 1 to 12 (Co-ed)

Overview:
The Winston School specializes in serving students with learning differences while maintaining high academic expectations. The school provides individualized support to help students thrive.

Facilities:

• Learning support centers

• Technology integration in classrooms

• Arts and athletics programs

• Counseling and therapy services

Admission Procedure:

• Application with detailed learning profile

• Academic assessments and teacher evaluations

• Family interview and campus visit

Fees (Approximate):

• $25,000 – $30,000 per year

9. Lakehill Preparatory School

• Location: 2720 Hillside Drive, Dallas, TX 75214

• Grades: K to 12 (Co-ed)

Overview:
Lakehill Preparatory School offers a small, nurturing environment focused on academic excellence, arts, and athletics. Its strong college-preparatory curriculum ensures graduates are well-prepared for higher education.

Facilities:

• Science labs and computer centers

• Fine arts and theater spaces

• Athletic fields and gymnasium

• Environmental science programs

Admission Procedure:

• Online application submission

• Academic records and teacher recommendations

• Admission testing

• Student and parent interview

Fees (Approximate):

• $20,000 – $25,000 per year

10. Dallas International School

• Location: 6039 Churchill Way, Dallas, TX 75230

• Grades: Pre-K to 12 (Co-ed)

Overview:
Dallas International School offers a bilingual (French-English) curriculum and an International Baccalaureate (IB) program. It’s ideal for families seeking a multicultural and globally focused education.

Facilities:

• Multilingual classrooms

• Science and computer labs

• Cultural arts center

• Sports and recreational facilities

Admission Procedure:

• Application and personal statement

• Language proficiency evaluation

• Academic records and recommendations

• Interview with admissions staff

Fees (Approximate):

• $15,000 – $25,000 per year

Choosing the Right Private School in Dallas

When deciding on a school, parents should consider several factors beyond just academics:

1. Location and Commute: Dallas is a large city; proximity to home can affect daily routines.

2. Curriculum Style: Some schools follow traditional American curricula, while others offer IB, AP, or bilingual programs.

3. Extracurricular Opportunities: Sports, arts, debate, robotics—these shape a child’s overall development.

4. Class Size and Teacher Ratios: Smaller classes often mean more personalized attention.

5. Values and Culture: Faith-based or secular, competitive or collaborative—choose what aligns with your family values.

6. Financial Commitment: Fees vary widely, so budget considerations are essential.

Admission Tips for Parents

• Start the process early, ideally a year before intended enrollment.

• Visit schools in person to get a feel for the environment.

• Prepare your child for admission tests.

• Highlight extracurricular achievements in applications.

• Be honest about your child’s strengths and areas for improvement.

Conclusion

Dallas offers an impressive variety of private schools, each with its own philosophy, strengths, and specialties. Whether you are looking for an academically rigorous environment, a faith-based education, or a nurturing space for unique learning needs, you’ll find excellent options here.

Choosing the right private school is a personal journey—one that requires research, campus visits, and thoughtful consideration. By understanding each school’s location, admission process, fees, and unique offerings, parents can make confident, informed decisions that set their children on a path toward academic success and personal growth.

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