Private high schools in Tucson provide students with exceptional academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, and strong college preparatory curriculums. For families moving to Tucson or relocating to Tucson, finding the right school is an essential part of settling into a new community. With a range of private institutions offering specialized programs, religious affiliations, and advanced placement courses, newcomers will find that Tucson’s private high schools cater to a variety of student needs.
Top 20 Private High Schools in Tucson
Whether parents are looking for faith-based education, small class sizes, or advanced STEM and arts programs, Tucson has several excellent private schools to consider. These institutions are known for their rigorous academics, strong student-teacher relationships, and impressive college acceptance rates. Below are the top 20 private high schools in Tucson ranked by Niche.com, offering high-quality education and a welcoming environment for students and their families.
BASIS Tucson North
A leading institution for rigorous academics, BASIS Tucson North is a public charter school that provides an advanced curriculum and college-level coursework. The school has a reputation for academic excellence and a strong focus on STEM subjects, making it an excellent choice for families relocating to Tucson who seek a challenging academic environment.
BASIS Oro Valley
Known for its college-prep curriculum, BASIS Oro Valley is a top-performing charter school that offers a structured, high-intensity academic environment. Families moving to Tucson who prioritize advanced placement courses and strong STEM programs will find this school a great fit.
University High School
As one of the most competitive high schools in Tucson, University High School provides an academically rigorous environment with a strong emphasis on college preparation. Families relocating to Tucson who want a school with an elite academic reputation and an excellent college acceptance rate should consider this option.
The Gregory School
The Gregory School offers a rigorous curriculum with a focus on STEM, arts, and humanities, making it a standout option for families relocating to Tucson. Small class sizes and a strong academic reputation make it a desirable choice for newcomers seeking an independent school with a personalized approach.
Sonoran Science Academy – Tucson
With a specialized focus on STEM education, Sonoran Science Academy – Tucson provides rigorous coursework in science and technology fields. Families relocating to Tucson who seek an academically competitive environment with strong college-prep resources will find this school an excellent option.
Green Fields School
A progressive independent school known for its inquiry-based learning model, Green Fields School provides small class sizes and an inquiry-based curriculum. Families moving to Tucson appreciate the school’s emphasis on creativity, problem-solving, and individualized learning.
Empire High School
An innovative public high school, Empire High School is recognized for its college-preparatory focus and supportive learning environment. It is an excellent choice for families relocating to Tucson who want a strong academic program combined with extracurricular involvement.
Salpointe Catholic High School
A top choice for families relocating to Tucson, Salpointe Catholic High School provides a faith-based college preparatory education. Its strong academics, athletics, and extracurriculars help students build a solid foundation for higher education. Families moving to Tucson appreciate the school’s commitment to leadership and service.
Presidio School
A public charter school with a college-focused curriculum, Presidio School provides a strong academic foundation with an emphasis on individualized learning. Families relocating to Tucson who want a smaller learning environment will appreciate this option.
Catalina Foothills High School
A highly rated public high school, Catalina Foothills High School provides a comprehensive curriculum, competitive athletics, and strong academic programs. Families moving to Tucson who want a balanced education with strong college prep resources will find this school appealing.
Vail Academy and High School
A charter school offering K-12 education, Vail Academy and High School is known for its small class sizes and college-readiness programs. Families relocating to Tucson who want a tight-knit learning community with high academic standards will appreciate this option.
Cienega High School
A top public high school in the Vail Unified School District, Cienega High School offers advanced placement courses and strong college preparatory resources. Newcomer families who seek a well-rounded academic experience will find this school beneficial.
Academy of Tucson High School
A small, independent college-prep school, Academy of Tucson High School provides individualized instruction and rigorous academics. Families relocating to Tucson who prefer a close-knit learning environment will appreciate the school’s personalized approach.
Desert Christian High School
Desert Christian High School integrates academics and faith, providing a strong foundation for students. Families seeking a Christian education with robust extracurricular and athletics programs find this school to be an excellent option.
Andrada Polytechnic High School
A specialized high school focusing on career and technical education, Andrada Polytechnic High School provides students with hands-on learning experiences. Families who want a blend of academics and technical training will find this school appealing.
Canyon Del Oro High School
A comprehensive public high school, Canyon Del Oro High School offers International Baccalaureate programs and dual enrollment options. Families moving to Tucson who seek a well-rounded, academically strong high school will appreciate this option.
Flowing Wells High School
A public high school known for its strong academic and extracurricular programs, Flowing Wells High School provides a supportive environment for student success. Families relocating to Tucson who want a diverse range of academic and extracurricular opportunities will find this school appealing.
Mica Mountain High School
A newer public high school in the Vail Unified School District, Mica Mountain High School offers strong academic and sports programs. Families moving to Tucson who seek a modern, well-equipped high school will find this school to be a good option.
Pusch Ridge Christian Academy
For families moving to Tucson and seeking a faith-based education, Pusch Ridge Christian Academy offers a Christ-centered curriculum with strong academics and athletics. The school provides a welcoming environment for new students while emphasizing leadership and service.
Tanque Verde High School
A public high school with a strong academic focus, Tanque Verde High School provides students with advanced coursework and college prep resources. Families relocating to Tucson who want a high school with a reputation for academic success will appreciate this school.
Choosing the Right Private High School in Tucson
Finding the right school is one of the most important decisions for families relocating to Tucson. The city’s diverse selection of private schools ensures that students receive a high-quality education tailored to their learning styles and goals. Whether families are looking for faith-based education, STEM-focused programs, or a classical curriculum, Tucson offers a variety of excellent options. Each of these schools provides the academic excellence and supportive environment needed to help students thrive in their high school years and beyond.
For families moving to Tucson, researching each institution, touring campuses, and speaking with admissions counselors are excellent ways to find the best fit. Tucson’s private high schools continue to uphold strong academic traditions, ensuring that students are prepared for college and beyond. Relocating to Tucson presents an opportunity to become part of a vibrant educational community where students can excel academically and personally.
