Maryland is home to some fantastic private schools that offer top-notch education, strong college preparation, and vibrant communities. As a parent or student exploring options, you’re likely looking for schools that balance academic excellence, extracurricular opportunities, and a supportive environment, all while keeping an eye on tuition and acceptance fees. We have put together a list of the 10 best private schools in Maryland for 2025, ranked based on factors like academic reputation, college placement success, student-to-teacher ratios, and overall student experience.
List of Best Private Schools in Maryland
1. Gilman School (Baltimore, MD)
Gilman consistently tops the list for its rigorous academics and impressive college matriculation rates. This all-boys school fosters leadership and character alongside a strong focus on STEM and the arts. With a student-to-teacher ratio of 6:1, students get personalized attention. Graduates often head to Ivy League schools and top universities nationwide.
- Tuition: $37,290 (Grades 9-12 for 2025-2026)
- Acceptance Fee: $1,000 (non-refundable enrollment deposit)
- Website: Gilman School
2. The Bryn Mawr School (Baltimore, MD)
An all-girls powerhouse, Bryn Mawr shines with its college-prep focus and empowering environment. Known for its small class sizes (averaging 10-14 students) and diverse course offerings, it’s a place where girls thrive academically and socially. Recent grads have landed at schools like Brown, Harvard, and Georgetown.
- Tuition: $37,470 (Grades 9-12 for 2025-2026)
- Acceptance Fee: $1,500 (non-refundable deposit)
- Website: The Bryn Mawr School
3. Holton-Arms School (Bethesda, MD)
Holton-Arms is a standout for its blend of academic rigor and a nurturing all-girls community. With a 6:1 student-to-teacher ratio and a campus loaded with resources, it’s no wonder students excel here. College acceptances include MIT, Stanford, and Princeton.
- Tuition: $53,360 (Grades 6-12 for 2025-2026)
- Acceptance Fee: $2,000 (non-refundable deposit)
- Website: Holton-Arms School
4. Bullis School (Potomac, MD)
Bullis offers a well-rounded experience with strengths in academics, arts, and athletics. This co-ed school emphasizes innovation—think entrepreneurship programs and cutting-edge STEM labs. Seniors often secure spots at schools like Vanderbilt and NYU.
- Tuition: $52,795 (Grades 9-12 for 2025-2026)
- Acceptance Fee: $2,500 (non-refundable deposit)
- Website: Bullis School
5. Landon School (Bethesda, MD)
Landon’s all-boys environment combines a challenging curriculum with a big focus on character development and athletics. With a 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio, it’s a tight-knit community. Graduates frequently attend top-tier schools like Duke and UVA.
- Tuition: $47,940 (Grades 9-12 for 2025-2026)
- Acceptance Fee: $1,800 (non-refundable deposit)
- Website: Landon School
6. McDonogh School (Owings Mills, MD)
McDonogh stands out for its sprawling 800-acre campus and a balanced approach to academics, sports, and the arts. This co-ed school boasts a 9:1 student-to-teacher ratio and sends grads to places like Johns Hopkins and Notre Dame.
- Tuition: $37,060 (Grades 9-12 for 2025-2026)
- Acceptance Fee: $1,000 (non-refundable deposit)
- Website: McDonogh School
7. Roland Park Country School (Baltimore, MD)
This all-girls school excels at building community and academic confidence. From kindergarten through 12th grade, RPCS emphasizes collaboration and leadership. Recent college acceptances include Wellesley, UNC Chapel Hill, and Penn.
- Tuition: $37,690 (Grades 9-12 for 2025-2026)
- Acceptance Fee: $1,200 (non-refundable deposit)
- Website: Roland Park Country School
8. Key School (Annapolis, MD)
Key School’s progressive approach makes it a gem for families seeking a creative, student-centered education. With a 6:1 student-to-teacher ratio and a focus on inquiry-based learning, it’s a nurturing spot. Grads head to colleges like Colby and Northeastern.
- Tuition: $37,410 (Grades 9-12 for 2025-2026)
- Acceptance Fee: $1,000 (non-refundable deposit)
- Website: Key School
9. St. Paul’s School (Brooklandville, MD)
St. Paul’s offers a faith-based, co-ed education with separate divisions for boys and girls in middle school. Its strong academic programs and extracurriculars make it a favorite. Students often matriculate to schools like Wake Forest and William & Mary.
- Tuition: $36,750 (Grades 9-12 for 2025-2026)
- Acceptance Fee: $1,000 (non-refundable deposit)
- Website: St. Paul’s School
10. Georgetown Preparatory School (North Bethesda, MD)
As Maryland’s only Jesuit boarding school, Georgetown Prep blends tradition with a forward-thinking curriculum. Its 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio and focus on leadership shine through. Graduates frequently attend Georgetown, Boston College, and other elite schools.
- Tuition: $42,600 (Day students, Grades 9-12); $67,650 (Boarding) for 2025-2026
- Acceptance Fee: $1,500 (non-refundable deposit)
- Website: Georgetown Preparatory School
How I Ranked These Schools
To come up with this list, I looked at a mix of factors: academic performance (like SAT/ACT scores and AP offerings), college placement records, student-to-teacher ratios, and feedback from parents and students about the overall experience.
Tuition and fees were sourced directly from school websites or admissions offices for the 2025-2026 school year where available, though some figures are estimates based on current trends since not all schools have posted next year’s rates yet. Each of these schools has a reputation for preparing students for success, whether that’s in college or beyond.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a private school is a big decision, and Maryland offers some incredible options. Whether you’re drawn to an all-girls or all-boys setting, a faith-based education, or a progressive vibe, there’s something here for everyone.
Tuition might seem steep, but many of these schools offer financial aid to make it work for more families. If you’re curious about any of these, click the links to explore their websites; most have virtual tours or open house info to help you get a feel for the place. What do you think, any schools catch your eye?
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