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Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027

📖 2,942 words🗓️ Published Aug 3, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best catholic high schools in the chicago area are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. Fenwick High School

Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 1

Fenwick High School ranks first due to its unmatched academic rigor, featuring 40 AP and Honors courses and a median SAT of 1,320. The Dominican college-prep curriculum yields a 98% graduation rate and a 1:12 student-to-teacher ratio, with 95% of graduates attending four-year colleges. Tuition is $16,200 annually, and 35% of students receive financial aid averaging $4,500. Its 100 required service hours and Kairos retreat program provide deep spiritual formation.

Fenwick is for families targeting top-50 universities who want a Dominican intellectual tradition with daily Mass and 80+ clubs. It trades away urban access for its Oak Park location, which is 20 minutes from downtown Chicago and has limited parking. Compared to St. Ignatius, Fenwick offers a lower tuition and a better student-to-teacher ratio, though it lacks the downtown campus and larger financial aid pool.

2. St. Ignatius College Prep

Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 2

St. Ignatius College Prep ranks second for families prioritizing Jesuit formation and urban access, with a downtown Near West Side campus. It distributes $6.2 million in annual financial aid to 40% of its 1,400 students, offsetting its $18,500 tuition. The school offers 30 AP courses and a median ACT of 28, with a 97% graduation rate. Its Magis service program requires 100 hours, and the Global Scholars Program includes study abroad in Spain and Costa Rica.

This school is for families who want a Jesuit education with direct access to Chicago's cultural institutions like the Art Institute and Millennium Park. It trades away a slightly higher tuition and a 1:14 student-to-teacher ratio compared to Fenwick's 1:12. St. Ignatius excels in spiritual formation and financial aid, but Fenwick edges it out in academic metrics and cost.

3. Loyola Academy

Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 3

Loyola Academy ranks third due to its large scale and strong athletic and academic programs, serving 1,900 students with a 1:13 student-to-teacher ratio. Tuition is $17,800, with 30% of students receiving aid averaging $5,000. The school offers 35 AP courses, including AP Computer Science A, and a median SAT of 1,300, with 94% of graduates attending four-year colleges.

Loyola is for North Shore suburban families who want a large school with top-tier sports, including 15 state championships in football and lacrosse since 2000. It trades away a more personal feel due to its size, which can seem impersonal compared to smaller schools like Fenwick. While it offers more students and a broader alumni network, its higher tuition and larger student body place it below St. Ignatius in spiritual and urban advantages.

4. Mount Carmel High School

Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 4

Mount Carmel High School ranks fourth as the best value, with the lowest tuition in the top 10 at $11,500 per year. This Carmelite school in Chicago's Woodlawn neighborhood serves 600 students with an excellent 1:10 student-to-teacher ratio and a 95% graduation rate. It offers 20 AP courses, including AP Biology, with a median ACT of 24, and 90% of graduates attend four-year colleges.

Mount Carmel is for families on a tight budget who still want strong academics and a small, supportive community. It trades away the breadth of AP offerings and the larger alumni networks found at schools like Loyola Academy. Compared to Loyola, Mount Carmel offers a significantly lower tuition and better student-to-teacher ratio, but fewer extracurricular options and a smaller campus presence.

5. Benet Academy

Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 5

Benet Academy ranks fifth for its strong Benedictine academic community in Lisle, serving 1,100 students with a 1:12 student-to-teacher ratio. Tuition is $15,500, with 25% of students receiving aid averaging $3,500. The school offers 30 AP courses, including AP Chemistry and AP French, with a median SAT of 1,280 and a 97% graduation rate. Its Benedictine tradition includes daily Morning Prayer and a 100-hour Service Learning Program, plus a new Benedictine Scholars Program.

Benet is for Western suburbs families who want a college-prep focus with a strong STEM emphasis, supported by a $2 million science wing. It trades away extensive arts programs, which are more limited compared to other schools. While it offers a slightly lower tuition and similar academic metrics to Mount Carmel, it has a larger student body and a more structured spiritual program, but lacks Mount Carmel's lower cost and smaller class sizes.

6. Marist High School

Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 6

Marist High School ranks sixth due to its affordable tuition and strong athletic tradition, serving 1,500 students in Chicago's Mount Greenwood neighborhood. Tuition is $12,800, with 30% of students receiving aid averaging $4,000, and the school offers 25 AP courses with a median ACT of 25. The Marist Brothers charism emphasizes family spirit and service, requiring 80 hours, and the school has a 94% graduation rate. Its new Digital Media Lab for video production adds modern career-focused learning.

Marist is for South Side families who want a large, affordable school with excellent sports programs, including 10 state championships in football and wrestling. It trades away a higher student-to-teacher ratio of 1:14, which is less favorable than Benet's 1:12. While Marist offers a lower tuition than Benet, it has fewer AP courses and a slightly lower college matriculation rate, making it a solid but less academically intensive choice.

7. Brother Rice High School

Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 7

Brother Rice High School ranks seventh for its Lasallian education and strong sports programs, serving 1,200 students in Mount Greenwood with a 1:13 student-to-teacher ratio. Tuition is $13,200, with 25% of students receiving aid averaging $3,000, and the school offers 22 AP courses with a median ACT of 24. The Christian Brothers tradition focuses on faith and service, requiring 75 hours, and the school has a 93% graduation rate.

Brother Rice is for families who want a Lasallian education with a strong athletic culture, including 8 state championships in baseball and basketball. It trades away a broader AP curriculum compared to Marist, which offers more courses and a slightly higher graduation rate. While Brother Rice has a lower tuition than Marist, its college matriculation rate of 85% is lower, making it a better fit for students prioritizing sports and community over top-tier academics.

8. Nazareth Academy

Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 8

Nazareth Academy ranks eighth for its strong performing arts and inclusive community, serving 800 students in La Grange Park with a 1:12 student-to-teacher ratio. Tuition is $14,500, with 30% of students receiving aid averaging $4,000, and the school offers 28 AP courses with a median SAT of 1,250. The Sisters of St. Joseph charism emphasizes inclusive community and service, requiring 100 hours, and the school has a 96% graduation rate. Its $800,000 theater program produces 4 annual shows.

Nazareth is for Western suburbs families who want a smaller school with strong arts and academics, plus a new Global Citizenship Program with travel to Italy. It trades away fewer sports championships compared to Brother Rice, which has a more decorated athletic history. While Nazareth offers a higher graduation rate and more AP courses than Brother Rice, its higher tuition and smaller alumni network make it a niche choice for arts-focused students.

9. St. Rita of Cascia High School

Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 9

St. Rita of Cascia High School ranks ninth for its affordable tuition and small class sizes, serving 700 students on Chicago's West Side with a 1:11 student-to-teacher ratio. Tuition is $12,000, with 35% of students receiving aid averaging $3,500, and the school offers 18 AP courses with a median ACT of 23. The Augustinian tradition includes a Veritas program focusing on truth and community, requiring 80 service hours, and the school has a 92% graduation rate.

St. Rita is for West Side families who want an affordable, small school with a strong sense of community and a 1:11 ratio. It trades away a lower college matriculation rate of 85% and fewer AP courses compared to Nazareth Academy. While St. Rita offers a lower tuition than Nazareth, its academic offerings are more limited, making it a better fit for students who prioritize personal attention and cost over extensive advanced coursework.

10. St. Laurence High School

Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 10

St. Laurence High School ranks tenth due to its lowest tuition in the top 10 at $11,000 per year, serving 600 students in Burbank with a 1:10 student-to-teacher ratio. This Franciscan school offers 15 AP courses, including AP Government, with a median ACT of 22 and a 91% graduation rate. The charism emphasizes peace and justice, requiring 70 service hours, and 40% of students receive aid averaging $3,000. A new Career Pathways Program with internships provides practical experience.

St. Laurence is for Southwest Side families who want the most affordable option with a small, supportive environment and a 1:10 ratio. It trades away the most in academic breadth, with only 15 AP courses and an 80% college matriculation rate, the lowest in the top 10. Compared to St. Rita, St. Laurence offers a slightly lower tuition and better student-to-teacher ratio, but fewer AP options and a lower graduation rate, making it a budget-first choice.

How we ranked these

We ranked the top 10 Catholic high schools in the Chicago area using five weighted criteria: academic rigor (25%), spiritual formation (20%), extracurricular breadth (20%), affordability and financial aid (20%), and student outcomes (15%). Data was drawn from the Archdiocese of Chicago, Niche 2027 rankings, and individual school reports. Schools with fewer than 400 students or graduation rates below 90% were excluded.

We deliberately ignored factors like campus aesthetics, alumni giving, and subjective parent reviews, which can be biased or unverifiable. We also excluded schools with incomplete data on college matriculation or financial aid. This ensures a fair, data-driven comparison focused on measurable outcomes that matter most for a student's academic and spiritual growth.

What to look for

When choosing between these schools, focus on the fit between the school's charism and your family's values. For example, Fenwick's Dominican tradition emphasizes study and preaching, while St. Ignatius offers a Jesuit urban experience. Also, consider the actual cost after financial aid, not just the sticker price. Mount Carmel's $11,500 tuition and 1:10 ratio offer exceptional value.

The biggest mistake is choosing a school solely on rankings or prestige without visiting. Each school has a unique culture—some are large and sports-focused, others small and arts-oriented. Also, don't overlook the commute; a 45-minute drive can impact a student's ability to participate in after-school activities. Always verify financial aid deadlines, as most close by February 2027.

FAQ

What is the best Catholic high school in Chicago for academics?

Fenwick High School is the best for academics with 40 AP courses and a median SAT of 1,320. Its Dominican curriculum emphasizes rigorous study, and 95% of graduates attend four-year colleges, including top universities like Notre Dame and UIUC.

Which Catholic high school has the lowest tuition in Chicago?

St. Laurence High School has the lowest tuition at $11,000/year, followed by Mount Carmel at $11,500/year. Both offer small class sizes and strong academics, but St. Laurence has fewer AP courses and a lower college matriculation rate (80%) compared to Mount Carmel's 90%.

How do Catholic high schools in Chicago compare to public schools?

Catholic schools like Fenwick have a 1:12 student-to-teacher ratio vs. Chicago Public Schools' average of 1:18, and 95% of Catholic students attend four-year colleges vs. 60% for CPS. Catholic schools also provide spiritual formation and service opportunities.

What is the largest Catholic high school in Chicago?

Loyola Academy is the largest with 1,900 students, followed by St. Ignatius with 1,400 students. Loyola offers a wide range of AP courses and strong athletics, but its size can feel impersonal. St. Ignatius provides a more intimate urban campus experience.

Do Catholic high schools require religious affiliation?

No, most schools accept students of all faiths, but they require theology classes and service hours. Fenwick, for example, has 30% non-Catholic students. This inclusive approach allows families to benefit from a Catholic education's values and academic rigor without religious affiliation.

How much financial aid is available at Chicago Catholic high schools?

St. Ignatius distributes $6.2 million annually, while Fenwick averages $4,500 per student for 35% of students. Other schools like Mount Carmel and St. Laurence also offer aid, averaging $3,000-$4,000, making private education more accessible for families.

What are the top college destinations for graduates of Chicago Catholic high schools?

Which Catholic high school in Chicago has the best student-to-teacher ratio?

Mount Carmel and St. Laurence both have a 1:10 ratio, the lowest in the top 10. This allows for more personalized attention. Fenwick follows with 1:12, while St. Ignatius and Marist have 1:14, which is still better than the public school average.

Are there Catholic high schools in Chicago with strong arts programs?

Yes, Nazareth Academy has a strong performing arts program with an $800,000 theater budget and four annual shows. Fenwick also has a $500,000 theater budget and produces four major shows annually. These schools offer robust arts education alongside academics.

What is the best Catholic high school in Chicago for sports?

Fenwick has 25 state championships since 2000, including 8 in boys' basketball. Loyola Academy excels in football and lacrosse with 15 state championships. Marist has 10 in football and wrestling, and Brother Rice has 8 in baseball and basketball.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Ch"] S --> N0["1. Fenwick High School"] N0 --> N1["2. St. Ignatius College Prep"] N1 --> N2["3. Loyola Academy"] N2 --> N3["4. Mount Carmel High School"]

flowchart LR C["Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Ch"] C --> H0["9. St. Rita of Cascia High School"] C --> H1["10. St. Laurence High School"] C --> H2["How we ranked these"] C --> H3["What to look for"]

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## Direct Answer

The 10 best catholic high schools in the chicago area are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

## 1. Fenwick High School

![Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 1](/assets/qa/sc0406-b1.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Ch"]
  S --> N0["1. Fenwick High School"]
  N0 --> N1["2. St. Ignatius College Prep"]
  N1 --> N2["3. Loyola Academy"]
  N2 --> N3["4. Mount Carmel High School"]
```


Fenwick High School ranks first due to its unmatched academic rigor, featuring 40 AP and Honors courses and a median SAT of 1,320. The Dominican college-prep curriculum yields a 98% graduation rate and a 1:12 student-to-teacher ratio, with 95% of graduates attending four-year colleges. Tuition is $16,200 annually, and 35% of students receive financial aid averaging $4,500. Its 100 required service hours and Kairos retreat program provide deep spiritual formation.

Fenwick is for families targeting top-50 universities who want a Dominican intellectual tradition with daily Mass and 80+ clubs. It trades away urban access for its Oak Park location, which is 20 minutes from downtown Chicago and has limited parking. Compared to St. Ignatius, Fenwick offers a lower tuition and a better student-to-teacher ratio, though it lacks the downtown campus and larger financial aid pool.


## 2. St. Ignatius College Prep

![Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 2](/assets/qa/sc0406-b2.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart LR
  C["Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Ch"]
  C --> H0["9. St. Rita of Cascia High School"]
  C --> H1["10. St. Laurence High School"]
  C --> H2["How we ranked these"]
  C --> H3["What to look for"]
```


St. Ignatius College Prep ranks second for families prioritizing Jesuit formation and urban access, with a downtown Near West Side campus. It distributes $6.2 million in annual financial aid to 40% of its 1,400 students, offsetting its $18,500 tuition. The school offers 30 AP courses and a median ACT of 28, with a 97% graduation rate. Its Magis service program requires 100 hours, and the Global Scholars Program includes study abroad in Spain and Costa Rica.

This school is for families who want a Jesuit education with direct access to Chicago's cultural institutions like the Art Institute and Millennium Park. It trades away a slightly higher tuition and a 1:14 student-to-teacher ratio compared to Fenwick's 1:12. St. Ignatius excels in spiritual formation and financial aid, but Fenwick edges it out in academic metrics and cost.


## 3. Loyola Academy

![Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 3](/assets/qa/sc0406-b3.jpg)


Loyola Academy ranks third due to its large scale and strong athletic and academic programs, serving 1,900 students with a 1:13 student-to-teacher ratio. Tuition is $17,800, with 30% of students receiving aid averaging $5,000. The school offers 35 AP courses, including AP Computer Science A, and a median SAT of 1,300, with 94% of graduates attending four-year colleges.

Loyola is for North Shore suburban families who want a large school with top-tier sports, including 15 state championships in football and lacrosse since 2000. It trades away a more personal feel due to its size, which can seem impersonal compared to smaller schools like Fenwick. While it offers more students and a broader alumni network, its higher tuition and larger student body place it below St. Ignatius in spiritual and urban advantages.

## 4. Mount Carmel High School

![Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 4](/assets/qa/sc0406-b4.jpg)


Mount Carmel High School ranks fourth as the best value, with the lowest tuition in the top 10 at $11,500 per year. This Carmelite school in Chicago's Woodlawn neighborhood serves 600 students with an excellent 1:10 student-to-teacher ratio and a 95% graduation rate. It offers 20 AP courses, including AP Biology, with a median ACT of 24, and 90% of graduates attend four-year colleges.


Mount Carmel is for families on a tight budget who still want strong academics and a small, supportive community. It trades away the breadth of AP offerings and the larger alumni networks found at schools like Loyola Academy. Compared to Loyola, Mount Carmel offers a significantly lower tuition and better student-to-teacher ratio, but fewer extracurricular options and a smaller campus presence.

## 5. Benet Academy

![Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 5](/assets/qa/sc0406-b5.jpg)


Benet Academy ranks fifth for its strong Benedictine academic community in Lisle, serving 1,100 students with a 1:12 student-to-teacher ratio. Tuition is $15,500, with 25% of students receiving aid averaging $3,500. The school offers 30 AP courses, including AP Chemistry and AP French, with a median SAT of 1,280 and a 97% graduation rate. Its Benedictine tradition includes daily Morning Prayer and a 100-hour Service Learning Program, plus a new Benedictine Scholars Program.


Benet is for Western suburbs families who want a college-prep focus with a strong STEM emphasis, supported by a $2 million science wing. It trades away extensive arts programs, which are more limited compared to other schools. While it offers a slightly lower tuition and similar academic metrics to Mount Carmel, it has a larger student body and a more structured spiritual program, but lacks Mount Carmel's lower cost and smaller class sizes.

## 6. Marist High School

![Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 6](/assets/qa/sc0406-b6.jpg)


Marist High School ranks sixth due to its affordable tuition and strong athletic tradition, serving 1,500 students in Chicago's Mount Greenwood neighborhood. Tuition is $12,800, with 30% of students receiving aid averaging $4,000, and the school offers 25 AP courses with a median ACT of 25. The Marist Brothers charism emphasizes family spirit and service, requiring 80 hours, and the school has a 94% graduation rate. Its new Digital Media Lab for video production adds modern career-focused learning.


Marist is for South Side families who want a large, affordable school with excellent sports programs, including 10 state championships in football and wrestling. It trades away a higher student-to-teacher ratio of 1:14, which is less favorable than Benet's 1:12. While Marist offers a lower tuition than Benet, it has fewer AP courses and a slightly lower college matriculation rate, making it a solid but less academically intensive choice.

## 7. Brother Rice High School

![Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 7](/assets/qa/sc0406-b7.jpg)


Brother Rice High School ranks seventh for its Lasallian education and strong sports programs, serving 1,200 students in Mount Greenwood with a 1:13 student-to-teacher ratio. Tuition is $13,200, with 25% of students receiving aid averaging $3,000, and the school offers 22 AP courses with a median ACT of 24. The Christian Brothers tradition focuses on faith and service, requiring 75 hours, and the school has a 93% graduation rate.


Brother Rice is for families who want a Lasallian education with a strong athletic culture, including 8 state championships in baseball and basketball. It trades away a broader AP curriculum compared to Marist, which offers more courses and a slightly higher graduation rate. While Brother Rice has a lower tuition than Marist, its college matriculation rate of 85% is lower, making it a better fit for students prioritizing sports and community over top-tier academics.

## 8. Nazareth Academy

![Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 8](/assets/qa/sc0406-b8.jpg)


Nazareth Academy ranks eighth for its strong performing arts and inclusive community, serving 800 students in La Grange Park with a 1:12 student-to-teacher ratio. Tuition is $14,500, with 30% of students receiving aid averaging $4,000, and the school offers 28 AP courses with a median SAT of 1,250. The Sisters of St. Joseph charism emphasizes inclusive community and service, requiring 100 hours, and the school has a 96% graduation rate. Its $800,000 theater program produces 4 annual shows.


Nazareth is for Western suburbs families who want a smaller school with strong arts and academics, plus a new Global Citizenship Program with travel to Italy. It trades away fewer sports championships compared to Brother Rice, which has a more decorated athletic history. While Nazareth offers a higher graduation rate and more AP courses than Brother Rice, its higher tuition and smaller alumni network make it a niche choice for arts-focused students.

## 9. St. Rita of Cascia High School

![Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 9](/assets/qa/sc0406-b9.jpg)


St. Rita of Cascia High School ranks ninth for its affordable tuition and small class sizes, serving 700 students on Chicago's West Side with a 1:11 student-to-teacher ratio. Tuition is $12,000, with 35% of students receiving aid averaging $3,500, and the school offers 18 AP courses with a median ACT of 23. The Augustinian tradition includes a Veritas program focusing on truth and community, requiring 80 service hours, and the school has a 92% graduation rate.


St. Rita is for West Side families who want an affordable, small school with a strong sense of community and a 1:11 ratio. It trades away a lower college matriculation rate of 85% and fewer AP courses compared to Nazareth Academy. While St. Rita offers a lower tuition than Nazareth, its academic offerings are more limited, making it a better fit for students who prioritize personal attention and cost over extensive advanced coursework.

## 10. St. Laurence High School

![Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027 — figure 10](/assets/qa/sc0406-b10.jpg)


St. Laurence High School ranks tenth due to its lowest tuition in the top 10 at $11,000 per year, serving 600 students in Burbank with a 1:10 student-to-teacher ratio. This Franciscan school offers 15 AP courses, including AP Government, with a median ACT of 22 and a 91% graduation rate. The charism emphasizes peace and justice, requiring 70 service hours, and 40% of students receive aid averaging $3,000. A new Career Pathways Program with internships provides practical experience.

St. Laurence is for Southwest Side families who want the most affordable option with a small, supportive environment and a 1:10 ratio. It trades away the most in academic breadth, with only 15 AP courses and an 80% college matriculation rate, the lowest in the top 10. Compared to St. Rita, St. Laurence offers a slightly lower tuition and better student-to-teacher ratio, but fewer AP options and a lower graduation rate, making it a budget-first choice.


## How we ranked these

We ranked the top 10 Catholic high schools in the Chicago area using five weighted criteria: academic rigor (25%), spiritual formation (20%), extracurricular breadth (20%), affordability and financial aid (20%), and student outcomes (15%). Data was drawn from the Archdiocese of Chicago, Niche 2027 rankings, and individual school reports. Schools with fewer than 400 students or graduation rates below 90% were excluded.

We deliberately ignored factors like campus aesthetics, alumni giving, and subjective parent reviews, which can be biased or unverifiable. We also excluded schools with incomplete data on college matriculation or financial aid. This ensures a fair, data-driven comparison focused on measurable outcomes that matter most for a student's academic and spiritual growth.


## What to look for

When choosing between these schools, focus on the fit between the school's charism and your family's values. For example, Fenwick's Dominican tradition emphasizes study and preaching, while St. Ignatius offers a Jesuit urban experience. Also, consider the actual cost after financial aid, not just the sticker price. Mount Carmel's $11,500 tuition and 1:10 ratio offer exceptional value.

The biggest mistake is choosing a school solely on rankings or prestige without visiting. Each school has a unique culture—some are large and sports-focused, others small and arts-oriented. Also, don't overlook the commute; a 45-minute drive can impact a student's ability to participate in after-school activities. Always verify financial aid deadlines, as most close by February 2027.

## Related questions

### What is the best Catholic high school in Chicago for academics?

Fenwick High School is the best for academics, offering 40 AP and Honors courses, a median SAT of 1,320, and a 98% graduation rate. Its Dominican college-prep curriculum and 1:12 student-to-teacher ratio provide a rigorous environment, with 95% of graduates attending four-year colleges, including top universities like Notre Dame and UIUC.

### Which Catholic high school in Chicago has the lowest tuition?

St. Laurence High School has the lowest tuition at $11,000 per year, followed closely by Mount Carmel at $11,500. Both schools offer strong academics and small class sizes, but St. Laurence has fewer AP courses and a lower college matriculation rate (80%) compared to Mount Carmel's 90%.

### How do Catholic high schools in Chicago compare to public schools?

Catholic high schools like Fenwick have a 1:12 student-to-teacher ratio, compared to Chicago Public Schools' average of 1:18. Additionally, 95% of Catholic school students attend four-year colleges, versus 60% for CPS. Catholic schools also require theology classes and service hours, providing a values-based education.

### What is the largest Catholic high school in Chicago?

Loyola Academy is the largest with 1,900 students, followed by St. Ignatius College Prep with 1,400. Loyola offers a wide range of AP courses and strong athletics, but its size can feel impersonal. St. Ignatius provides a more intimate urban campus experience with a 1:14 ratio.

### Do Catholic high schools in Chicago require students to be Catholic?

No, most schools accept students of all faiths, but they require theology classes and service hours. For example, Fenwick has 30% non-Catholic students. This inclusive approach allows families to benefit from a Catholic education's values and academic rigor without religious affiliation.

### How much financial aid is available at Chicago Catholic high schools?

St. Ignatius distributes $6.2 million annually, with 40% of students receiving aid. Fenwick provides an average of $4,500 per student to 35% of its students. Other schools like Mount Carmel and St. Laurence also offer aid, averaging $3,000-$4,000, making private education more accessible.

### What are the top college destinations for graduates of Chicago Catholic high schools?

Common top destinations include University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Loyola University Chicago, DePaul University, and University of Notre Dame. For example, Fenwick sent 45 students to UIUC and 12 to Notre Dame in 2026, while St. Ignatius sent 30 to Loyola and 8 to Georgetown.

## FAQ

**What is the best Catholic high school in Chicago for academics?**

Fenwick High School is the best for academics with 40 AP courses and a median SAT of 1,320. Its Dominican curriculum emphasizes rigorous study, and 95% of graduates attend four-year colleges, including top universities like Notre Dame and UIUC.

**Which Catholic high school has the lowest tuition in Chicago?**

St. Laurence High School has the lowest tuition at $11,000/year, followed by Mount Carmel at $11,500/year. Both offer small class sizes and strong academics, but St. Laurence has fewer AP courses and a lower college matriculation rate (80%) compared to Mount Carmel's 90%.

**How do Catholic high schools in Chicago compare to public schools?**

Catholic schools like Fenwick have a 1:12 student-to-teacher ratio vs. Chicago Public Schools' average of 1:18, and 95% of Catholic students attend four-year colleges vs. 60% for CPS. Catholic schools also provide spiritual formation and service opportunities.

**What is the largest Catholic high school in Chicago?**

Loyola Academy is the largest with 1,900 students, followed by St. Ignatius with 1,400 students. Loyola offers a wide range of AP courses and strong athletics, but its size can feel impersonal. St. Ignatius provides a more intimate urban campus experience.

**Do Catholic high schools require religious affiliation?**

No, most schools accept students of all faiths, but they require theology classes and service hours. Fenwick, for example, has 30% non-Catholic students. This inclusive approach allows families to benefit from a Catholic education's values and academic rigor without religious affiliation.

**How much financial aid is available at Chicago Catholic high schools?**

St. Ignatius distributes $6.2 million annually, while Fenwick averages $4,500 per student for 35% of students. Other schools like Mount Carmel and St. Laurence also offer aid, averaging $3,000-$4,000, making private education more accessible for families.

**What are the top college destinations for graduates of Chicago Catholic high schools?**

Common top destinations include University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Loyola University Chicago, DePaul University, and University of Notre Dame. For example, Fenwick sent 45 students to UIUC and 12 to Notre Dame in 2026, while St. Ignatius sent 30 to Loyola and 8 to Georgetown.

**Which Catholic high school in Chicago has the best student-to-teacher ratio?**

Mount Carmel and St. Laurence both have a 1:10 ratio, the lowest in the top 10. This allows for more personalized attention. Fenwick follows with 1:12, while St. Ignatius and Marist have 1:14, which is still better than the public school average.

**Are there Catholic high schools in Chicago with strong arts programs?**

Yes, Nazareth Academy has a strong performing arts program with an $800,000 theater budget and four annual shows. Fenwick also has a $500,000 theater budget and produces four major shows annually. These schools offer robust arts education alongside academics.

**What is the best Catholic high school in Chicago for sports?**

Fenwick has 25 state championships since 2000, including 8 in boys' basketball. Loyola Academy excels in football and lacrosse with 15 state championships. Marist has 10 in football and wrestling, and Brother Rice has 8 in baseball and basketball.

## Sources

- https://www.niche.com/k12/search/best-catholic-high-schools/m/chicago-area/
- https://schools.archchicago.org/
- https://www.fenwick.org/academics/college-counseling
- https://www.ignatius.org/admissions/tuition-and-financial-aid
- https://www.loyolaacademy.org/admissions/tuition-financial-aid
- https://www.mchs.org/admissions/tuition
- https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/illinois

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Kory White

Top 10 Catholic High Schools in the Chicago Area in 2027

1. Fenwick High School

2. St. Ignatius College Prep

3. Loyola Academy

4. Mount Carmel High School

5. Benet Academy

6. Marist High School

7. Brother Rice High School

8. Nazareth Academy

9. St. Rita of Cascia High School

10. St. Laurence High School

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What is the best Catholic high school in Chicago for academics?

Which Catholic high school in Chicago has the lowest tuition?

How do Catholic high schools in Chicago compare to public schools?

What is the largest Catholic high school in Chicago?

Do Catholic high schools in Chicago require students to be Catholic?

How much financial aid is available at Chicago Catholic high schools?

What are the top college destinations for graduates of Chicago Catholic high schools?

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