Why Families in Fairfax Choose Private Schools
Fairfax County already has a strong public school system. When families go private, they're usually after something specific—smaller classes, a particular philosophy, or a community that shares their values.
Small Class Sizes
Most private schools keep classes between 8 and 12 students per teacher, giving kids more individual attention.
Strong College Placement
Many academies see college acceptance rates above 95%, with real guidance on applications and test prep.
Rigorous Academics
AP courses, IB programs, and hands-on STEM curricula teach students to think critically from an early age.
Accredited Institutions
Look for VAIS or AdvancED accreditation—it means the school meets real standards.
Types of Private Schools in Fairfax, VA
College Preparatory (Grades 6–12)
Built around getting students into strong colleges with honors tracks and AP classes.
Montessori Schools (Ages 3–15)
Self-directed, hands-on learning where kids move at their own pace.
Faith-Based Schools (Pre-K–12)
Catholic, Christian, Islamic, and Jewish schools with serious academics and spiritual life.
STEM-Focused Academies (K–12)
Robotics, coding, and project-based science with real-world applications.
Special Needs & Learning Differences
Schools set up for students with dyslexia, ADHD, autism, offering small groups and individualized plans.
International Baccalaureate (Pre-K–12)
Globally recognized curriculum respected by universities worldwide.
What to Look for When Picking a Private School in Fairfax
| Factor | Details | Why It Matters |
|---|
| Accreditation | VAIS, AdvancED, or NAEYC | Baseline for real academic standards |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 8:1 to 15:1 | More individual attention |
| Curriculum Type | AP, IB, Montessori, Classical, STEM | Should match how your child learns |
| Tuition Range | $8,000–$35,000/year | Depends on grade and school type |
| Financial Aid | Need-based, merit, EISTC | Can significantly reduce costs |
| Extracurriculars | Athletics, arts, robotics | Kids need more than classroom time |
| College Placement Rate | 90%–100% | Shows how well a school prepares graduates |
| Location | Proximity, bus, carpool | Daily commute matters more than you think |
Fairfax County Private Education by the Numbers
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|
| Fairfax County Population | ~1.15 million | U.S. Census Bureau |
| Number of Private Schools | 100+ | NCES |
| Total Private School Enrollment | ~30,000 students | Virginia DOE |
| Average Class Size | 12–15 students | VAIS |
| Average Student-Teacher Ratio | 9:1 | NCES |
| Graduation Rate | 97%+ | VCPE |
| Schools Offering Financial Aid | 75%+ | VAIS |
| Median Household Income | ~$134,000 | U.S. Census ACS |
Where to Find Private Schools Across Fairfax County
Fairfax City
A mix of faith-based programs and college prep academies, centrally located.
Burke & Springfield
Affordable Montessori and traditional programs with a strong community feel.
Reston & Herndon
STEM and international focus near the Dulles Corridor tech hub.
Centreville & Chantilly
Growing area with solid college prep and faith-based schools.
McLean & Great Falls
Well-known independent schools with big campuses and strong programs.
Vienna & Oakton
Intimate Montessori programs and serious K-12 academies with easy I-66 access.
Questions Families Ask About Private Schools in Fairfax
How much do private schools cost in Fairfax, VA?
Generally between $8,000 and $35,000 a year depending on grade level and school type. Elementary schools tend to be $8,000–$18,000, while college prep high schools can reach $20,000–$35,000. Most schools offer financial aid.
What are the best private schools in Fairfax County?
It depends on your child. Fairfax County has college prep academies, Montessori programs, faith-based schools, and STEM options. Visit in person and talk to current families.
Are there affordable private school options in Fairfax, Virginia?
Yes. Several faith-based schools come in under $12,000 a year. Many schools offer need-based aid, sibling discounts, and Virginia's EISTC tax credit program.
What types of private schools are available in Fairfax, VA?
K-12 academies, Montessori, college prep, faith-based, STEM, special needs schools, and IB programs.
How do I choose the right private school in Fairfax County?
Check accreditation, class sizes, and curriculum. Visit campuses, sit in on classes, and talk to parents and teachers.
Do private schools in Fairfax offer financial aid or scholarships?
Most do—need-based aid, merit scholarships, sibling discounts, and payment plans. Some participate in Virginia's EISTC program.