Top 10 Public High Schools in Virginia in 2027

1. Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology ranks first as Virginia's best overall public high school, a selective STEM magnet in Fairfax County with about 1,800 students. It offers university-level research labs in genetics and astrophysics, a senior research mentorship, and dozens of AP courses. Its graduation rate sits near 100%, SOL pass rates are among the state's highest, and graduates matriculate heavily to MIT, Stanford, Caltech, and the Ivy League. Admission is competitive across Northern Virginia districts.

This school is for top STEM students who thrive under intense academic pressure and a heavy workload. It trades away the breadth of a comprehensive neighborhood school for specialized research depth, and it demands a rigorous application process. Compared to Maggie L. Walker Governor's School below, TJ offers far more lab infrastructure and STEM prestige, but it lacks the humanities and government focus that defines Walker's program.

2. Maggie L. Walker Governor's School

Maggie L. Walker Governor's School ranks second as the best value in Virginia, a tuition-free regional Governor's School in Richmond enrolling about 750 students from a dozen districts. It emphasizes government, international studies, and humanities alongside strong math and science, with extensive AP and dual-enrollment courses. Its graduation rate is essentially 100%, average SAT scores rank among the state's highest, and graduates regularly land at UVA, William & Mary, Georgetown, and the Ivies.

This school is for high-achieving Central Virginia students who want a rigorous liberal-arts-oriented education without private-school tuition. It trades away the deep STEM lab facilities of Thomas Jefferson for a stronger humanities and government curriculum. Compared to TJ above, Walker offers less research infrastructure but a more balanced academic focus, making it the superior choice for students oriented toward law, policy, or international affairs.

3. Langley High School

Langley High School ranks third as the top neighborhood comprehensive public high school in Virginia, enrolling about 2,000 students in McLean, Fairfax County. It offers a deep AP catalog, strong STEM and arts programs, and a graduation rate above 98%. SOL pass rates and SAT averages rank in the top tier statewide, and graduates go in large numbers to UVA, Virginia Tech, William & Mary, and selective out-of-state universities.

This school is for McLean-area families who want a top-tier comprehensive school without a magnet application. It trades away the selective admission and specialized focus of Maggie Walker for a broader, neighborhood-based experience. Compared to Walker above, Langley offers a larger enrollment and wider extracurricular menu, but its outcomes are slightly less elite, and the high cost of living in its attendance zone is a significant barrier.

4. McLean High School

McLean High School ranks fourth, known for its strong International Baccalaureate (IB) program alongside a wide AP selection, enrolling about 2,100 students in McLean. Its graduation rate sits near 97%, SOL pass rates are well above state averages, and SAT scores rank among the highest in Fairfax County. The school sends a large share of graduates to four-year universities, including UVA, Virginia Tech, and selective privates. With robust music, debate, and athletics, it offers a complete comprehensive-school experience.

This school is for families who want an IB-strong curriculum in an affluent Northern Virginia community. It trades away the slightly higher graduation rate and AP depth of Langley for a distinctive IB pathway. Compared to Langley above, McLean offers a more internationally focused academic track, but its larger enrollment can mean bigger class sizes, and the expensive McLean housing market limits access.

5. Oakton High School

Oakton High School ranks fifth, a powerhouse comprehensive school in Vienna enrolling about 2,600 students and consistently ranking among Virginia's best. It offers an extensive AP program, strong STEM and performing-arts tracks, and a graduation rate above 96%. SOL pass rates and SAT averages run well above the state norm, and the school maintains a strong record of four-year college placement, including the Virginia flagships. Its large size supports a deep menu of athletics, clubs, and arts.

This school is for Vienna-area families who want broad opportunity and strong outcomes within a single large public school. It trades away the IB program of McLean for an even wider AP catalog and more extracurricular options. Compared to McLean above, Oakton offers a larger student body and more diverse activities, but its very large enrollment can feel impersonal, and the competitive academic culture adds pressure.

6. Western Albemarle High School

Western Albemarle High School ranks sixth as the top public high school outside Northern Virginia, enrolling about 1,100 students in Crozet near Charlottesville. It offers a strong AP program, a respected environmental studies academy, and a graduation rate above 95%. SOL pass rates and SAT averages rank near the top statewide, and proximity to the University of Virginia supports dual-enrollment and strong college placement.

This school is for Charlottesville-area families who want strong academics without the Northern Virginia commute or cost. It trades away the extensive course catalog and large-scale activities of Oakton for a more intimate, community-oriented environment. Compared to Oakton above, Western Albemarle offers a smaller student body and a unique environmental focus, but its course offerings are fewer, and limited public transit in the rural-suburban setting is a drawback.

7. Frank W. Cox High School

Frank W. Cox High School ranks seventh, standing out in Hampton Roads for its Legal Studies Academy and International Baccalaureate (IB) program, enrolling about 1,900 students in Virginia Beach. Its graduation rate sits near 95%, SOL pass rates exceed state averages, and the school maintains strong four-year college placement. Cox combines magnet-style academy offerings with the breadth of a large comprehensive high school, including robust athletics and arts.

This school is for Hampton Roads families who want a legal-studies or IB pathway within a large comprehensive school. It trades away the environmental-studies focus of Western Albemarle for a distinctive legal academy and a more urban coastal setting. Compared to Western Albemarle above, Cox offers a larger enrollment and specialized academy programs, but its overall outcomes trail the elite Northern Virginia schools, and academy admission is selective and competitive.

8. Ocean Lakes High School

Ocean Lakes High School ranks eighth, best known for its Mathematics and Science Academy, a selective STEM program in Virginia Beach enrolling about 2,100 students. Its graduation rate runs near 96%, SOL pass rates are well above state averages, and academy graduates post strong AP and college-placement results. The school pairs this STEM strength with a full slate of athletics, arts, and clubs, competing well with Cox as a top Virginia Beach option.

This school is for STEM-focused students in Hampton Roads who can gain admission to its selective academy. It trades away the legal-studies and IB programs of Frank Cox for a dedicated mathematics and science track. Compared to Cox above, Ocean Lakes offers a more specialized STEM curriculum, but its general-track outcomes vary more than the academy's, and the competitive STEM academy admission limits access.

9. Deep Run High School

Deep Run High School ranks ninth, a top public high school in the Richmond metro, enrolling about 1,900 students in Glen Allen, Henrico County. It hosts a Center for Information Technology specialty program, offers an extensive AP catalog, and posts a graduation rate above 96%. SOL pass rates and SAT averages run well above state norms, and the school maintains strong four-year college matriculation, including UVA and Virginia Tech.

This school is for Richmond-area families who want strong academics close to home with an IT specialty option. It trades away the coastal setting and STEM academy of Ocean Lakes for a suburban Henrico location and a focus on information technology. Compared to Ocean Lakes above, Deep Run offers a less selective, more neighborhood-based experience, but its specialty-center seats are limited, and its program breadth is narrower than the large Northern Virginia schools.

10. George C. Marshall High School

George C. Marshall High School ranks tenth, recognized for its International Baccalaureate (IB) program and its Information Technology and global-studies academies, enrolling about 2,000 students in Falls Church. Its graduation rate sits near 96%, SOL pass rates exceed state averages, and SAT scores rank in the top tier of Fairfax County. The school sends a large share of graduates to four-year universities, including the Virginia flagships and selective out-of-state schools.

This school is for Falls Church-area families who want an IB-focused education with academy options in a diverse setting. It trades away the IT specialty center of Deep Run for a broader IB program and global-studies focus. Compared to Deep Run above, Marshall offers a more internationally oriented curriculum and a more diverse student body, but its IB and academy admission can be competitive, and its larger enrollment means bigger class sizes.

How we ranked these

We weighted six factors using published data from U.S. News, Niche, GreatSchools, NCES, College Board, and the Virginia Department of Education. Academic performance (SOL, AP/IB, test scores) received 25%, college outcomes 20%, value and access 15%, teachers and resources 15%, environment and safety 15%, and extracurriculars 10%. Schools had to balance all six to rank high.

We deliberately ignored unverifiable reputation, athletic trophies, and ZIP-code prestige. We also excluded schools without complete public data on enrollment, test scores, and graduation rates. Marketing claims and anecdotal parent reviews were not considered. Our goal was to rank based on measurable outcomes that families can verify, not on name recognition or subjective impressions.

What to look for

When choosing between these schools, focus on the specific program fit: TJ for STEM research labs, Maggie Walker for humanities and government, McLean or Marshall for IB, Ocean Lakes for its math and science academy, and Cox for legal studies. Also consider commute, school size, and class availability. A school that matches your child's interests will outperform a higher-ranked school that doesn't.

The biggest mistake is choosing solely on rank or prestige without visiting or understanding the culture. Families often overlook the intense pressure at TJ or the selective admission at academies. They also ignore the cost of living in attendance zones, which can be prohibitive. Always check the actual graduation rate, SOL pass rates, and college matriculation list for your child's specific track, not just the school's overall reputation.

Related questions

What are the top 10 public high schools in Virginia for 2027?

The top 10 are Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology, Maggie L. Walker Governor's School, Langley, McLean, Oakton, Western Albemarle, Frank W. Cox, Ocean Lakes, Deep Run, and George C. Marshall. These schools were selected based on academic performance, college outcomes, value, teachers, environment, and extracurriculars, using public data from multiple sources.

How is the best public high school in Virginia determined?

The ranking uses a weighted formula: 25% academic performance (SOL, AP/IB, test scores), 20% college and post-grad outcomes, 15% value and access, 15% teachers and resources, 15% environment and safety, and 10% extracurriculars. Data comes from U.S. News, Niche, GreatSchools, NCES, College Board, and the Virginia Department of Education. Schools must balance all factors to rank high.

What is the best value public high school in Virginia?

Maggie L. Walker Governor's School in Richmond is the best value. It is tuition-free, has a graduation rate near 100%, and sends graduates to elite colleges like UVA, William & Mary, and Georgetown. It offers strong humanities, government, and international studies, making it the top outcomes-per-dollar option in Central Virginia.

Which Virginia public high school has the best STEM program?

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology (TJ) has the best STEM program. It offers university-level research labs in genetics, astrophysics, and more, plus a senior research mentorship. With a near-100% graduation rate and top SOL pass rates, TJ consistently ranks #1 in Virginia and among the top in the nation for STEM.

What are the top public high schools in Northern Virginia?

In Northern Virginia, the top public high schools include Thomas Jefferson (magnet), Langley, McLean, Oakton, and George C. Marshall. These schools offer strong AP and IB programs, high graduation rates above 96%, and excellent college matriculation to UVA, Virginia Tech, and selective out-of-state universities. They are all in Fairfax County.

What are the best public high schools in the Richmond area?

In the Richmond area, the best public high schools are Maggie L. Walker Governor's School and Deep Run High School. Maggie Walker is a tuition-free regional Governor's School with elite outcomes. Deep Run offers a Center for Information Technology specialty program and a graduation rate above 96%, with strong SOL and SAT performance.

What are the top public high schools in Hampton Roads, Virginia?

In Hampton Roads, the top public high schools are Frank W. Cox and Ocean Lakes in Virginia Beach. Cox offers a Legal Studies Academy and IB program, while Ocean Lakes has a Mathematics and Science Academy. Both have graduation rates near 95-96% and strong college placement, making them the best options in southeastern Virginia.

What should I look for when choosing a public high school in Virginia?

Look for SOL pass rates, AP/IB depth, graduation rates above 95%, and published college matriculation lists. Check student-teacher ratios and faculty credentials. Review safety and climate data from GreatSchools and the Virginia Department of Education. Also consider extracurricular fit, such as arts, athletics, or specialty academies, which matter more than overall ranking.

FAQ

What is the best public high school in Virginia?

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology (TJ) in Fairfax County is the best overall. It is a selective STEM magnet with a near-100% graduation rate, top SOL pass rates, and elite college matriculation to MIT, Stanford, and the Ivies. It consistently ranks #1 in Virginia and among the top in the nation.

Which Virginia public high school is the best value?

Maggie L. Walker Governor's School in Richmond is the best value. It is tuition-free, has a graduation rate near 100%, and sends graduates to elite colleges. It focuses on government, international studies, and humanities, offering extensive AP and dual-enrollment courses. It provides elite outcomes without a private-school bill.

What are the admission requirements for Thomas Jefferson High School?

Admission to TJ is competitive and selective, based on an application process for students in Northern Virginia. It typically includes middle school grades, standardized test scores, teacher recommendations, and an essay. The school looks for top STEM students. Exact requirements can change, so check the Fairfax County Public Schools website for current details.

Is Maggie L. Walker Governor's School free?

Yes, Maggie L. Walker Governor's School is tuition-free. It is a public regional Governor's School funded by the state and participating school divisions. Students from a dozen surrounding districts can attend at no cost, making it an excellent value for high-achieving students in Central Virginia.

What is the graduation rate at Langley High School?

Langley High School has a graduation rate above 98%. It is one of the top neighborhood public high schools in Virginia, with deep AP offerings and strong STEM and arts programs. SAT averages are in the top tier statewide, and graduates attend UVA, Virginia Tech, William & Mary, and selective out-of-state universities.

Does McLean High School offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) program?

Yes, McLean High School has a strong International Baccalaureate (IB) program alongside a wide AP selection. It is known for its IB offerings, which are a draw for families wanting an IB-strong comprehensive school. The graduation rate is near 97%, and SAT scores rank among the highest in Fairfax County.

What is the student enrollment at Oakton High School?

Oakton High School enrolls about 2,600 students, making it one of the larger schools on the list. Despite its size, it maintains a graduation rate above 96% and strong SOL pass rates. The large enrollment supports a deep menu of athletics, clubs, and performing arts, offering broad opportunities.

What is the Legal Studies Academy at Frank W. Cox High School?

The Legal Studies Academy at Frank W. Cox High School is a selective program that draws students region-wide in Hampton Roads. It focuses on legal studies and complements the school's IB program. Cox has a graduation rate near 95% and strong four-year college placement, making it a top public option in Virginia Beach.

What is the Mathematics and Science Academy at Ocean Lakes High School?

The Mathematics and Science Academy at Ocean Lakes High School is a selective STEM program for strong students in Hampton Roads. It offers rigorous coursework and strong AP results. The school has a graduation rate near 96% and well-above-average SOL pass rates, making it a leading public choice for STEM-focused students.

What specialty programs does Deep Run High School offer?

Deep Run High School hosts a Center for Information Technology specialty program. It also offers an extensive AP catalog and has a graduation rate above 96%. Located in Glen Allen, near Richmond, it provides strong SOL and SAT performance and solid four-year college matriculation, including UVA and Virginia Tech.

Sources

• https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/virginia
• https://www.niche.com/k12/search/best-public-high-schools/s/virginia/
• https://www.greatschools.org/virginia/
• https://nces.ed.gov/ccd/schoolsearch/
• https://www.doe.virginia.gov/data-policy-funding/data-reports
• https://www.fcps.edu/
• https://www.vbschools.com/
• https://henrico.us/
• https://www.k12albemarle.org/
• https://www.wm.edu/

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