DuPage County's Best Private Schools for 2025

Across Chicagoland, families are seeking private schools that deliver personalized learning, close-knit classroom settings and globally minded curricula to prepare students for academic success in a rapidly evolving world.

To help families make informed choices, this list highlighting the best private schools in DuPage County, uses a combination of publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Census Bureau, along with community reviews, survey feedback, and academic performance indicators such as test scores and college readiness.

Read on for our guide to the top private schools in DuPage County.

Featured private schools in DuPage County

In this section, Chicago Parent’s advertising partners share their top school offerings.

Chesterbrook Academy

Address: 1450 Quincy Bridge Road, Bartlett; 4622 Lacey Avenue, Lisle; 1587 Oswego Road, Naperville; 813 N. River Road, Shorewood; 6351 S. Cass Ave., Westmont; 275 W. Loop Road, Wheaton; 2001 S. Oak St., Champaign
Phone: 877-959-4182
Grades served: 6 weeks-Pre-K2
Number of students: Child to Teacher Ratios: Infants 4:1, Toddlers 5:1, 2-year-olds 8:1, 3 years+ 10:1
Type: Private School

Preschool marks the beginning of a lifelong learning journey, and Chesterbrook Academy ensures it starts in a joyful, nurturing environment. Far more than child care, the school’s program blends hands-on learning with purposeful play to foster social, emotional and academic growth. The goal is to help every child feel confident, happy and well-prepared for the next stage of learning.

Central to the preschool experience is the Links to Learning curriculum, a proprietary framework developed by early childhood education experts. This adaptive curriculum supports each child’s individual pace and interests, building foundational skills in literacy, math, science, art and social development through engaging, age-appropriate lessons.

Dedicated teachers at Chesterbrook Academy bring learning to life with activities that spark curiosity and creativity. Whether students are stacking blocks, exploring nature, or engaging in imaginative play, they’re developing essential skills while having fun. Families are encouraged to visit and see firsthand how this program helps young learners thrive.

Immaculate Conception Grade School

Address: 132 Arthur Street, Elmhurst
Phone: 630-530-3486
Grades served: Preschool (3 Year Old)-Grade 8
Number of students: 556
Type: Private School, Religious School, Gifted/Talented Program School

At Immaculate Conception Grade School (ICGS), the school partners with parents to prepare students to become Catholic leaders. ICGS offers a rigorous curriculum with classroom differentiation in core subjects such as reading and math, based on student ability. Beginning in 5th grade, students can participate in no-cut sports including track and cross country, basketball, volleyball, and football. ICGS also offers more than 40 clubs and extracurricular activities, including Chess Club, Tech Club, the School Play, Destination Imagination, Battle of the Books, and many more.

Faith formation is a cornerstone of the ICGS experience. Students have multiple opportunities to grow in their faith, including weekly school Mass, Sacrament preparation and retreats, and the involvement of both the Pastor and Associate Pastor. Faith Families—groups made up of students from every grade, 1st through 8th—gather monthly to work on collaborative projects that reinforce community and faith.

The ICGS community is second to none. Parents are highly involved and form close bonds within the school family. The school embraces the “ICGS Family” philosophy, treating every student, parent and staff member with care, respect and a sense of belonging.

Music Institute of Chicago

Address: Fourth Presbyterian Church – Gratz Center, 126 E. Chestnut St., Chicago; St. James Cathedral, 65 E. Huron St., Chicago; Faith United Methodist Church, 432 59th Street, Downers Grove, Music Institute of Chicago, 1490 Chicago Avenue, Evanston; Grace United Methodist Church, 244 E. Center Ave., Lake Bluff; Music Institute of Chicago, 40 E. Old Mill Road, Lake Forest; Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 802 E. Geneva Road, Wheaton; Music Institute of Chicago, 300 Green Bay Road, Winnetka
Phone: 847-905-1500
Grades served: Preschool-12 and adults
Number of students: More than 1,500 annually
Type: Private School, Arts-Focused School

The Music Institute of Chicago (MIC) is one of the nation’s leading community music schools, dedicated to nurturing music makers of all ages and skill levels. MIC’s mission is to build a lifelong love of music by teaching essential listening, creative and expressive skills. Through a personalized teacher placement process and high-quality programs, students benefit from a supportive environment that fosters musical growth, cognitive development, and cultural enrichment.

MIC offers private music lessons across all instruments, styles, and experience levels, along with a vibrant community of fellow students, families, and concertgoers. The school is home to one of the Midwest’s most comprehensive Suzuki programs, following the philosophy that every child can learn and thrive musically. Suzuki instruction is available for piano, violin, viola, cello, bass, flute, guitar, harp and recorder.

For the youngest learners, MIC offers Musikgarten® classes for children from birth to age seven. These early childhood music and movement programs are designed to support cognitive, emotional and physical development—while sparking joy through shared musical experiences.

The Avery Coonley School

Address: 1400 Maple Avenue, Downers Grove
Phone: 630-969-0800
Grades served: PreK 3-Grade 8
Number of students: 332
Type: Private School, STEM-Focused School, Arts-Focused School, Gifted/Talented Program School

The Avery Coonley School (ACS) is a place where it’s safe — and fun — to be smart. Founded in 1906, ACS is a nationally recognized leader in gifted education, serving students aged 3-13. Students come from over 40 Chicago-area zip codes, drawn by a community that celebrates intellectual curiosity and a curriculum specifically designed for advanced learners. ACS offers a rich curriculum with the depth, pace, and complexity to fully engage and challenge students. It is gifted all day, every day, in every subject.

Inquiry-based, hands-on learning fosters deep exploration of subjects and interests— from building in the makerspace and studying forest ecosystems to debating ethical questions. French begins in preschool, with many students achieving fluency by eighth grade. Cultural immersion continues with a seventh-grade exchange in Toulouse, France, and an eighth-grade trip to Quebec. Fine arts and physical education are integral, with music, art, drama, and movement embedded in the curriculum. Beyond the classroom, students thrive in over 20 clubs — including robotics, chess, math, music, and debate — and interschool athletics.

ACS graduates are confident, self-aware and intellectually agile. They are curious, creative thinkers who go on to some of the finest high schools and universities, carrying with them a lifelong love of learning and a compassionate, global perspective.

The Gardner School

Address: Naperville (630-657-5029), 28W611 Ferry Road, Warrenville; Naperville North (630-983-9190), 1128 Compass Court, Naperville; Naperville South (630-848-1122), 3040 Reflection Drive, Naperville; Warrenville (630-791-9525), 27W457 Warrenville Road, Warrenville; Bucktown (773-661-0151), 1612 W. North Ave., Chicago
Lincoln Park (773-661-0232), 2850 N. Lincoln Ave, Chicago; Lincolnshire (847-415-5420), 250 Barclay Blvd, Lincolnshire; North Center (773-920-2485), 3819 N. Western Ave., Chicago; Northbrook (847-770-6260), 2380 Waterview Drive, Northbrook; Oakbrook Terrace (630-576-4740), 17W642 E. Butterfield Road, Oakbrook Terrace; Ravenswood (773-948-7543), 1525 W. Wilson Ave., Chicago; River North (312-546-3183), 500 W. Superior, Chicago; Schaumburg (847-592-2513), 1285 E. Woodfield Road, Schaumburg; West Loop (312-229-4299), 1301 W. Madison St, Chicago; Yorktown Center (630-519-6760), 98 Yorktown, Lombard
Grades served: 6 weeks to 5 years old (Naperville South and Warrenville locations serve 6 weeks to 12 years old)
Type: Private School, Language Immersion School, STEM-Focused School, Arts-Focused School

The Gardner School offers a thoughtfully designed learning environment that supports each child’s physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development. With a strong emphasis on building self-esteem during key developmental stages, the school nurtures each student at their own pace, laying a solid educational foundation for future success. Headquartered in Franklin, Tennessee, The Gardner School is a privately owned organization, which allows for consistent leadership and a unified educational philosophy across all campuses.

Blending traditional and Montessori-inspired teaching methods, the school’s curriculum includes a balance of structured play, child-led exploration, and academic lessons. This dynamic approach encourages curiosity, creativity, and independence in a nurturing, supportive environment. By fostering a culture of acceptance and discovery, The Gardner School cultivates not only academic readiness but also a lifelong love of learning in every child.

More private schools in DuPage County

This section features some of the best private schools in DuPage County and are based on public data, academic performance, community reviews and survey feedback to help families find the right fit. Many of these schools have earned top marks, including A+, A, and A– grades.

Naperville Christian Academy

Address: 1451 Raymond Drive, Suite 200, Naperville
Why it stands out: Naperville Christian Academy forms the foundation of its teaching on classical methodology. Students are taught rigorous subject matter in the core subjects with an emphasis on Christ.

The PreK-12 Christian school uses its rigorous college prep environment to encourage children to become model citizens.

The school employs a classical methodology for the basis of its education. Students are educated in the liberal arts using a traditional European method and the school is a member of the Association of Classical and Christian Schools and the Society for Classical Learning.

Naperville Christian Academy is a diverse Christian school offering rigorous academics centered on Christ in a college prep environment.

St. Francis High School

Address: 2130 W. Roosevelt Road, Wheaton
Why it stands out: St. Francis High School seeks to prepare students for the demands of college and careers. Students are taught in a rigorous setting that allows for individualized schedules.

St. Francis High School is a co-ed Catholic high school located about 25 miles west of Chicago.

The high school offers honors, Advanced Placement (AP) and electives so that students may design a schedule that fits their interests and needs. St. Francis emphasizes faith, self-discipline and morals in its teaching.

Student life includes athletics like tennis, volleyball and lacrosse. Students are encouraged to participate in sports and clubs in order to become well-rounded graduates.

Benet Academy

Address: 2200 Maple Ave., Lisle
Why it stands out: A Catholic institution in the Benedictine tradition, the Benet Academy combines standout academics with strong social development.

Benet Academy strives to offer students a balanced environment where academics, religion and social development all play an important role.

The Academy, a co-ed 9-12 Catholic high school, is guided by Benedictine tradition. Students learn in a disciplined environment which promotes work and prayer.

Through academics, extracurriculars and service options, the Benet Academy prepares students to lead successful and ethical lives while serving God.

IC Catholic Prep

Address: 217 South Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst
Why it stands out: IC Catholic Prep offers a rigorous high school experience in a Catholic environment with plenty of extracurricular and service options.

IC Catholic Prep is a co-ed Catholic school serving grades 9-12. The high school offers a rigorous college prep environment paired with a religious education.

Students at IC Catholic Prep are held to high standards. Graduates of the school have a 100 percent college acceptance rate and many go on to study at high-ranking universities.

The private school offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and many extracurricular options.

Montini Catholic High School

Address: 19W070 16th St., Lombard
Why it stands out: Montini Catholic High School is known for its faith-based education, excellent academics and robust student life.

For high school students seeking a faith-centered education, Montini Catholic might be the right pick.

The school offers an abundance of choice for dual-credit and honors classes. Students can choose from four dual-credit courses, 17 Advanced Placement (AP) classes and 30 honors level courses.

As for student life, Montini Catholic high schoolers can choose from more than 10 sports, join activities like Broadcaster’s Club and take on service opportunities.

Wheaton Academy

Address: 900 Prince Crossing Road, West Chicago
Why it stands out: This private high school stands out for its strong commitment to creating community-minded Christian graduates.

Wheaton Academy is a National Blue Ribbon awarded school serving grades 9-12.

Student life is centered around the school’s “Kingdom Community” culture. The concept is a “theological expression of God’s intent for the way Christians should live in relationship with God and one another,” the school says.

Students receive an academically rigorous education coupled with the chance to form a deep sense of community through religion.

Clapham School

Address: 123 North Scott St., Wheaton
Why it stands out: Clapham School teaches students using time-tested methodology combined with a focus on Christ.

Clapham School is a Christian PreK-12 private school located in Wheaton.

The school employs a classical methodology for the basis of its education. Students are educated in the liberal arts using a traditional European method paired with a deeply religious environment.

Clapham Academy also uses a House sorting system to create a sense of community. Students are sorted into different houses where they build lifelong relationships with their housemates.

Timothy Christian Schools

Address: 188 W Butterfield Road, Elmhurst
Why it stands out: Timothy Christian Schools stands out for its commitment to creating well-rounded students in a Christian environment. The school offers tons of options to get involved, and students graduate with lifelong friends.

Timothy Christian Schools is a private PreK-12 school serving roughly 1,260 students on a 26-acre campus. The private school is non-denominational and more than 200 local churches are represented by its student body.

Timothy Christian is known for its robust student life–students participate in game days, compete on the field and choose from tons of afterschool clubs.

Students seeking a rewarding community of peers in a biblically-minded environment will find it at Timothy Christian.

Islamic Foundation School

Address: 300 W. Highridge Road, Villa Park
Why it stands out: The Islamic Foundation School is committed to educating students in a college prep environment while developing them in the Islamic faith.

Islamic Foundation School, located in Villa Park, serves grades PreK-12. Faith-based values are upheld and celebrated at this private school which operates as a hub for the area’s Muslim community.

Students in the upper grades may choose to participate in Advanced Placement (AP) classes, honors courses or dual enrollment. To help enrich a variety of interests, students can choose from dozens of clubs with subjects like coding, crochet, origami and more.

Students graduate from Islamic Foundation School with developed principles of scholarship, character and service.

Marquette Manor Baptist Academy

Address: 333 75th Street, Downers Grove
Why it stands out: This private school seeks to prepare students for a spiritually challenging world through the teaching of a biblical worldview.

Marquette Manor Baptist Academy educates its PreK-12 students in the Christian faith.

Teachers lead students toward a fulfilling life of service through a strong spiritual emphasis. Alongside intentional bible study and prayer, students are educated in a college prep environment.

Fine arts and athletics are another priority for Marquette Manor Baptist Academy: students are encouraged to participate in sports and clubs.

College Preparatory School of America

Address: 331 W. Madison St., Lombard
Why it stands out: CPSA stands out for its rigorous, college-focused curriculum with a strong emphasis on STEM education and Islamic values.

Frequently ranked among the top private high schools in Illinois, it boasts high average SAT and ACT scores, a 100% graduation rate, and exceptional college placement.

The school provides a competitive and supportive learning environment that nurtures leadership, academic excellence and spiritual development in a diverse student body.

Fusion Academy Oak Brook

Address: 3041 Butterfield Road, Suite 200, Oak Brook
Why it stands out: Fusion Academy is unique in offering one-to-one instruction, where each student receives fully personalized attention in every class.

It’s ideal for students with unique scheduling needs, learning differences or those seeking a non-traditional, flexible academic environment.

Fusion integrates social-emotional support with a robust academic program, creating a supportive, customized path to student success.

Covenant Classical School

Address: 1571 Oswego Road, Naperville
Why It Stands Out: Covenant offers a distinctive model of education that integrates classical methods with Christian teachings, fostering a community where students (grades kindergarten-10) are known and loved. The school boasts a 9:1 student-to-teacher ratio and an average class size of 15, ensuring personalized attention.

Founded in 2012, Covenant Classical School aims to provide a classical Christian education that emphasizes critical thinking, deep reading and eloquent writing.

St. Raphael Catholic School

Address: 1215 Modaff Road, Naperville
Why it stands out: St. Raphael is known for its strong academic record, Catholic identity, and close-knit community.

With an A+ rating on Niche, the school delivers faith-centered education with small class sizes, high-quality instruction, and a focus on moral and character development.

Weekly Mass, service projects and a nurturing environment support students’ academic and spiritual growth.

St. Joan of Arc Catholic School

Address: 4913 Columbia Ave, Lisle
Why it stands out: A three-time National Blue Ribbon School, St. Joan of Arc stands out for its STREAM-integrated curriculum that combines science, technology, religion, engineering, the arts, and math.

It encourages hands-on, project-based learning and interdisciplinary thinking in a faith-based environment.

The school’s commitment to excellence and strong community engagement makes it a standout choice in Lisle.

Prairie School of DuPage

Address: 1926 N. Main St., Wheaton
Why it stands out: Prairie School offers an immersive, nature-based learning environment rooted in progressive education.

Students learn outdoors through activities like gardening, birding, filmmaking and scientific exploration.

The school nurtures creativity, collaboration, and ecological awareness, making it ideal for families who value experiential, holistic education in a natural setting.

Trinity Lutheran School

Address: 405 Rush Street, Roselle
Why it stands out: With a commitment to developing well-rounded Christian disciples, Trinity Lutheran offers a variety of opportunities for students to discover and develop in their academics, talents, faith and life skills. The school emphasizes a family-oriented community environment and teaches preschool through eighth grade.

Established in 1860, Trinity Lutheran School has a long-standing tradition of providing quality Christian education.

All Saints Catholic Academy

Address: 1155 Aurora Avenue, Naperville
Why it stands out: All Saints serves as a regional Catholic school drawing from multiple parishes.

With nearly 500 students, it provides a rich academic program that includes technology integration, arts, athletics, and faith formation.

Founded in 2005, the school emphasizes values, diversity and academic excellence, offering a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

The Waldorf School of DuPage

Address: 30W160 Calumet Avenue, Warrenville
Why it stands out: Waldorf DuPage offers a holistic education rooted in the Waldorf philosophy.

With a focus on imagination, creativity and hands-on learning, the school fosters independent thinking and emotional growth.

It maintains a screen-free approach in early grades and integrates movement, art, music and nature throughout the curriculum. The small student body allows for a personalized and nurturing experience.

Downers Grove Christian School

Address: 929 Maple Avenue, Downers Grove
Why It Stands Out: Known for its nurturing environment, the school offers small class sizes and a variety of extracurricular activities. Parents often describe DGCS as a “second home,” highlighting the strong sense of community and commitment to academic and spiritual growth.

Founded in 1970, Downers Grove Christian School has been dedicated to providing a distinctly Christian education for over 30 years. Offers grades preschool through eighth.

Wheaton Christian Grammar School

Address: 1N350 Taylor Drive, Winfield
Why It Stands Out: The school has been recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education, a testament to its high performance in academics. WCGS emphasizes a holistic approach to learning, fostering critical thinking, community building and leadership development.

Founded in 1942, Wheaton Christian Grammar School has a rich history of providing excellent education with a biblical foundation. Offers grades kindergarten through eighth.

St. Scholastica Elementary School

Address: 7720 Janes Avenue, Woodridge
Why it stands out: St. Scholastica provides a well-rounded, faith-based education in a warm and welcoming environment.

It supports academic and spiritual development for preschool through 8th grade, with a strong sense of community and Catholic values.

Many students continue on to top high schools in nearby areas, benefiting from the school’s foundational focus on character and academic readiness.

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DuPage County’s Best Private Schools for 2025