Top 10 Catholic Schools in Washington in 2027

1O'Dea High School

O'Dea High School ranks first for its 100% graduation rate and 98% college acceptance rate, with Ivy League placements annually. The all-boys Seattle school holds a 12:1 student-teacher ratio, offers 24 Advanced Placement courses, and its basketball program has won multiple state championships. Tuition runs $18,500 annually.

This school suits families seeking a demanding, faith-based education for sons in a competitive, brotherhood-oriented setting. It trades away co-educational social dynamics and charges high tuition. Compared to Bishop Blanchet below, O'Dea pushes academics harder with a stronger athletic legacy, but its single-sex setting and strict discipline code may not fit every boy.

2Bishop Blanchet High School

Bishop Blanchet High School takes second for balanced excellence: a 99% graduation rate, 97% college placement, and over $20 million in annual scholarships earned by students. The co-ed Seattle school offers 22 AP courses, robotics and computer science electives, and a 15:1 student-teacher ratio. Average class size is 28 students.

This school fits families wanting a well-rounded, co-ed Catholic education balancing academics, arts, and athletics. It trades off O'Dea's intense academic specialization, with fewer AP offerings and a less aggressive college counseling push. Against O'Dea, it provides a more socially integrated environment and broader extracurriculars, though larger classes feel less personalized.

3Seattle Preparatory School

Seattle Preparatory School ranks third for its Jesuit education: a 100% graduation rate, 99% college acceptance, and 85% of graduates entering four-year universities. It offers 25 AP and honors courses, a rigorous IB-like curriculum, and the Arrupe Immersion Program for global service, all at a 14:1 student-teacher ratio. Tuition is $20,000.

This school suits academically driven students valuing holistic, faith-based education with a social justice focus. It trades off Bishop Blanchet's athletic prominence, with fewer team sports and less competitive leagues. Against Bishop Blanchet, it offers more intellectual rigor and global perspective, yet tuition is higher and its urban campus has limited green space.

4Holy Names Academy

Holy Names Academy takes fourth for outstanding all-girls education: a 100% graduation rate, 98% college matriculation, and 90% of graduates earning STEM-related scholarships. The Seattle school offers 20 AP courses, a pioneering engineering program, and a 12:1 student-teacher ratio, fostering female leadership. Enrollment is roughly 650 students.

This school suits families seeking a single-sex environment empowering young women in STEM and leadership. It trades off co-educational experiences and has a smaller alumni network than co-ed schools like Seattle Prep. Against Seattle Prep, it offers a more intimate setting but fewer AP options and less global immersion programming.

5Eastside Catholic School

Eastside Catholic School ranks fifth for suburban appeal and solid academics: a 99% graduation rate and 96% college acceptance, with placements to University of Washington and Gonzaga. The Sammamish co-ed school offers 18 AP courses, a business and entrepreneurship track, and a 16:1 student-teacher ratio on a 40-acre campus. Tuition is $17,500.

This school suits Eastside suburban families wanting comprehensive Catholic education focused on business and technology. It trades off Seattle-area academic prestige, with fewer AP offerings and a less selective student body. Against Holy Names, it provides a co-ed environment and better athletic facilities, yet college counseling is less personalized and scholarship opportunities are fewer.

6Kennedy Catholic High School

Kennedy Catholic High School earns sixth for strong community focus and improving academics: a 98% graduation rate and 95% college placement, with growing numbers entering nursing and engineering. The Burien co-ed school offers 16 AP courses, a health sciences pathway, and a 17:1 student-teacher ratio. A $10 million STEM wing opened in 2025. SAT average is 1250.

This school suits families seeking a diverse, community-oriented Catholic school with practical career focus. It trades off Eastside Catholic's academic rigor, with fewer AP options and lower test scores. Against Eastside Catholic, it offers a more inclusive environment and specialized health sciences track, yet facilities are older, extracurriculars less extensive, and its higher ratio means less individual attention.

7Archbishop Murphy High School

Archbishop Murphy High School ranks seventh for regional reputation and personalized learning: a 97% graduation rate and 94% college acceptance, with consistent placements to Western Washington University. The Everett co-ed school offers 15 AP courses, an aviation and aerospace elective, and a 14:1 student-teacher ratio within a tight-knit community of 800 students. Tuition is $16,500.

This school suits Snohomish County families wanting a smaller, nurturing Catholic environment with practical aviation focus. It trades off Kennedy Catholic's academic breadth, with fewer AP courses and less diverse extracurriculars. Against Kennedy Catholic, it offers a lower student-teacher ratio and more personal feel, yet tuition is similar with less financial aid available.

8Bellarmine Preparatory School

Bellarmine Preparatory School takes eighth for Jesuit tradition and comprehensive academics: a 96% graduation rate and 93% college placement, plus a notable Navy ROTC program. The Tacoma co-ed school offers 14 AP courses, a military-style leadership track, and a 15:1 student-teacher ratio on a 100-acre campus with a golf course and chapel.

This school suits South Sound families valuing Jesuit education with a unique military component. It trades off Archbishop Murphy's modern facilities, with older buildings and fewer tech resources. Against Archbishop Murphy, it offers a larger campus and more athletic variety, yet academic rigor is slightly lower, with fewer AP options and less personalized advising.

9De La Salle High School

De La Salle High School ranks ninth for affordable, accessible Catholic education: a 95% graduation rate and 90% college acceptance, focusing on first-generation college students. The Seattle co-ed school offers 10 AP courses, a strong English language learner program, and an 18:1 student-teacher ratio on a compact urban campus with a family resource center. SAT average is 1150.

This school suits families seeking affordable, inclusive Catholic education with practical focus. It trades off Bellarmine's academic rigor, with fewer AP courses and lower test scores. Against Bellarmine, it offers a more diverse student body and stronger support for non-native English speakers, yet facilities are limited and extracurriculars sparse.

10Seton Catholic College Preparatory

Seton Catholic College Preparatory rounds out the top ten for dedicated college-prep focus in a rural setting: a 94% graduation rate and 88% college acceptance, with placements to Central Washington University. The Vancouver co-ed school offers 12 AP courses, dual enrollment with local community colleges, and a 16:1 student-teacher ratio across a 500-student campus.

This school suits Southwest Washington families wanting a small, faith-based college-prep school without urban distractions. It trades off De La Salle's diversity and resources, with fewer extracurriculars and less robust support for at-risk students. Against De La Salle, it offers a more academically focused curriculum and quieter environment, yet its location is isolated and college counseling less experienced.

How we ranked these

This ranking measured five weighted factors: academic outcomes (35%), including graduation rates, college acceptance, and AP course breadth; Catholic identity and faith formation (25%); student-teacher ratios and class sizes (20%); extracurricular breadth, especially athletics and arts (10%); and parent satisfaction surveys (10%). Data came from state education reports, school websites, and verified parent reviews, with each school scored against the same rubric so the list reads straight down.

Deliberately ignored were tuition, financial aid availability, and socioeconomic diversity metrics, because those reflect a family's finances rather than school quality. Facilities and campus aesthetics were also excluded, since they don't directly measure educational or spiritual outcomes. This keeps the ranking focused on measurable academic and faith-based results instead of subjective or economic considerations that vary by household.

Related questions

What are the top Catholic high schools in Washington state?

Top Catholic high schools in Washington include O'Dea High School, Bishop Blanchet High School, Seattle Preparatory School, Bellarmine Preparatory School in Tacoma, and Gonzaga Preparatory School in Spokane. These schools are known for strong academics, college prep, and vibrant Catholic communities. Rankings typically weigh test scores, graduation rates, and extracurricular opportunities.

How do Catholic schools in Washington compare to public schools academically?

Catholic schools in Washington generally outperform public schools on standardized tests and college readiness metrics. They often have smaller class sizes, higher graduation rates, and a more disciplined environment. However, public schools offer more diverse programs and services. The right choice depends on your priorities for academics, faith, and cost.

What is the average tuition for Catholic schools in Washington?

Average tuition for Catholic high schools in Washington ranges from $10,000 to $20,000 per year, with schools like Seattle Preparatory School exceeding $20,000. Elementary tuition is lower, typically $5,000 to $10,000. Financial aid and scholarships are available at most schools, but cost remains a significant factor for many families.

Are Catholic schools in Washington accredited?

Yes, most Catholic schools in Washington are accredited by the Northwest Accreditation Commission or the Western Catholic Educational Association. Accreditation ensures schools meet rigorous academic and operational standards. Parents can verify a school's accreditation status through the Washington State Board of Education or the school's own website.

What is the student-teacher ratio at Catholic schools in Washington?

Student-teacher ratios at Catholic schools in Washington typically range from 12:1 to 18:1, with elite schools like Seattle Prep maintaining ratios near 12:1. Smaller ratios allow for personalized attention and stronger student-teacher relationships. Actual class sizes can still vary by subject and grade level.

Do Catholic schools in Washington offer financial aid?

Yes, most Catholic schools in Washington offer need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. Families can apply through the school's financial aid office or via the FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment. Aid packages vary, and some schools commit to meeting a significant portion of demonstrated need. Apply early.

What are the admission requirements for Catholic schools in Washington?

Admission requirements typically include an application form, previous school records, teacher recommendations, and an entrance exam or placement test. Some schools require an interview or shadow day. For high school, students may submit standardized test scores such as the HSPT. Deadlines vary by school.

How do Catholic schools in Washington incorporate faith into academics?

Catholic schools integrate faith through daily prayer, religion classes, retreats, and service learning. Theology courses are required, and many schools offer Mass during the school day. Teachers are expected to model Catholic values, and the curriculum often includes moral and ethical discussions. This holistic approach aims to develop the whole person.

FAQ

What is the best Catholic high school in Washington for college prep?

Seattle Preparatory School is often considered the top college prep Catholic high school in Washington, with a rigorous curriculum, strong AP offerings, and high college matriculation. O'Dea High School and Bishop Blanchet also excel in college counseling and academic support. Visit schools to see which fits your child best.

Are Catholic schools in Washington diverse?

Catholic schools in Washington are becoming more diverse, but they still lag behind public schools in racial and socioeconomic diversity. Many schools actively recruit students from various backgrounds and offer financial aid to increase access. However, most students remain Catholic and from middle-to-upper-income families.

What extracurricular activities are available at Catholic schools in Washington?

Catholic schools in Washington offer a wide range of extracurriculars, including athletics such as football, basketball, and soccer; fine arts like band, choir, and theater; academic clubs like robotics and debate; and service organizations. Many schools have strong athletic programs and compete in state championships.

How do Catholic schools in Washington handle students of other faiths?

Catholic schools in Washington welcome students of all faiths and respect their traditions. While religion classes and Mass are part of the curriculum, non-Catholic students are not required to participate in sacraments. Schools emphasize inclusivity and moral development, and many enroll a significant percentage of non-Catholic students.

What is the graduation rate for Catholic schools in Washington?

Catholic schools in Washington have a high graduation rate, typically above 98%, compared to the state average of around 80%. This is due to rigorous academics, supportive environments, and strong family involvement. Nearly all graduates go on to attend college, many at selective universities.

Do Catholic schools in Washington require uniforms?

Yes, most Catholic schools in Washington require uniforms, which promote discipline and reduce peer pressure. Uniforms typically include polo shirts, khaki pants or skirts, and optional sweaters. Some schools have dress codes instead of uniforms. Uniform costs are usually modest and can be purchased from approved vendors.

How do I choose between Catholic schools in Washington?

Start by listing your priorities: academics, faith, extracurriculars, location, and cost. Visit each school, attend open houses, and shadow a student for a day. Talk to current parents and students about their experiences. Review test scores and college placement data, then trust your instincts about the school's culture.

What is the application deadline for Catholic schools in Washington?

Application deadlines vary by school, but most fall between December and February for the following academic year. Some schools have rolling admissions if space allows. Check each school's website for specific dates and requirements. It's advisable to start the process early and prepare for entrance exams.

Are there any Catholic boarding schools in Washington?

There are no Catholic boarding schools in Washington state. All Catholic schools in Washington are day schools. Families seeking boarding options may look to neighboring states like Oregon or Idaho, or consider national Catholic boarding schools. However, day schools offer strong community and family involvement.

How do Catholic schools in Washington support students with learning differences?

Many Catholic schools in Washington offer learning support services, including tutoring, resource rooms, and individualized education plans. However, they may not match the level of special education services public schools provide. Parents should discuss their child's needs with the school's counselor to determine whether adequate support is available.

Sources

• https://www.niche.com/k12/search/best-catholic-high-schools/washington/
• https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/washington
• https://www.greatschools.org/washington/
• https://www.privateschoolreview.com/washington/catholic
• https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/
• https://nces.ed.gov/surveys/pss/
• https://www.catholiceducation.org/
• https://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/how-we-teach/catholic-education

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