Austin, Texas is not just known for its vibrant music scene and booming tech industry—it’s also home to some of the best educational institutions in the state. Whether you’re a parent moving to the city or a local looking for better educational options, choosing the right school is a critical decision that can shape your child’s future.
In this guide, we explore the best public, private, and charter schools in Austin in 2025. Our rankings are based on several factors including test scores, student-teacher ratios, college readiness, extracurricular programs, diversity, and school facilities. We’ve segmented the list by type—public, private, and charter—so you can find the best fit based on your preferences and needs.
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Best Schools in Austin
1. Liberal Arts and Science Academy (LASA)
Location: Austin Independent School District (AISD)
Type: Public Magnet School
Grades: 9–12
The Liberal Arts and Science Academy (LASA) is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious public high schools not only in Austin but across Texas. Known for its academic excellence, LASA provides a challenging, college-preparatory curriculum that focuses heavily on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) while also supporting the humanities and creative disciplines. It routinely appears in state and national rankings of top public schools, and its graduates often gain admission to elite universities, including Ivy League institutions and top-tier public colleges.
LASA emphasizes academic exploration, critical thinking, and innovation. Students can enroll in a wide selection of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and are encouraged to pursue original research projects, especially in areas like engineering, robotics, biotechnology, and environmental science. Hands-on learning is a hallmark of the LASA experience.
Beyond academics, LASA offers a vibrant student life. The school boasts dozens of active clubs and extracurricular opportunities, such as Science Olympiad, Debate Team, Model United Nations, Math Club, and coding organizations. This well-rounded environment ensures that students grow not only intellectually but socially and emotionally as well.
Admission to LASA is competitive and based on a holistic application process that includes academic performance, essays, teacher recommendations, and standardized test scores. The school serves motivated students who are ready to challenge themselves and thrive in a rigorous academic environment.
Student-Teacher Ratio: ~17:1
Special Notes: Application required; students from across AISD can apply.
2. Westlake High School
Location: Eanes Independent School District (EISD)
Type: Public High School
Grades: 9–12
Westlake High School is one of the most prestigious and sought-after public high schools in the Austin area. Located in the highly rated Eanes Independent School District, Westlake is renowned for its academic rigor, robust extracurricular offerings, and a strong tradition of excellence in athletics. With a 99% graduation rate and a long list of National Merit Scholars, the school sets a high bar for student achievement.
Academically, Westlake offers a broad array of Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses, allowing students to challenge themselves and prepare for competitive college admissions. The faculty is known for being experienced and dedicated, and the low student-teacher ratio of approximately 14:1 ensures personalized support and attention in the classroom.
Westlake is equally celebrated for its extracurricular culture. It has a nationally recognized football program, award-winning band and choir, competitive academic teams, and dynamic theater productions. The school’s facilities are top-notch, including advanced science labs, an expansive library, and a professional-grade performing arts center. Whether students are interested in STEM, the arts, or athletics, Westlake provides resources and mentorship to help them thrive.
Often described as having the benefits of a private school within a public system, Westlake benefits from strong parental engagement, a safe and inclusive environment, and a tight-knit community culture.
Student-Teacher Ratio: ~14:1
Special Notes: Exceptional sports and arts programs; located in one of Texas’s top school districts.
3. St. Stephen’s Episcopal School
Location: West Austin
Type: Private Boarding/Day School
Grades: 6–12
St. Stephen’s Episcopal School stands out as one of Austin’s premier private institutions, offering both day and boarding options for students in grades 6 through 12. Nestled on a breathtaking 370-acre campus in the hills of West Austin, the school provides a serene, nature-rich environment ideal for learning, exploration, and personal growth.
As a pioneer in experiential and outdoor education, St. Stephen’s blends rigorous academics with a holistic curriculum that emphasizes leadership, service, creativity, and global awareness. Students are encouraged to think critically, act ethically, and engage deeply with their communities and the wider world. With an inclusive Episcopal foundation, the school fosters spiritual reflection while being fully welcoming to students of all backgrounds and beliefs.
Diversity is a cornerstone of the St. Stephen’s experience. Its boarding program attracts students from more than 20 countries, creating a culturally rich environment where students gain valuable global perspectives. Class sizes are intentionally small, allowing for personalized instruction and close mentorship from faculty.
College preparation is seamlessly integrated into the academic journey, with dedicated counselors and a strong record of student admissions to top universities. The campus is equipped with advanced facilities for science, arts, athletics, and outdoor programs.
Tuition: ~$30,000/year (day), ~$60,000/year (boarding)
Special Notes: Ideal for families seeking a progressive, faith-rooted education with a global outlook.
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4. Austin High School (Stephen F. Austin HS)
Location: Downtown Austin, AISD
Type: Public High School
Grades: 9–12
Austin High School, officially known as Stephen F. Austin High School, is a cornerstone of the Austin Independent School District and one of the oldest continuously operating public high schools in Texas, with a legacy dating back to 1881. Over the decades, it has transformed into a forward-thinking educational hub that blends tradition with innovation, offering students a well-rounded, 21st-century education.
Located in the heart of downtown Austin, the school is uniquely positioned to offer experiential learning through proximity to the Texas Capitol, law firms, museums, universities, and performing arts centers. This urban setting enables students to take part in internships, civic engagement, and enrichment activities that many other high schools simply can’t provide.
Austin High is particularly well known for its award-winning journalism and media programs. Students consistently earn regional and national honors for their work in newspaper, broadcast, and yearbook production, making the school a top choice for aspiring writers, editors, and content creators. The school also boasts robust fine arts and performing arts departments, offering programs in theater, music, and visual arts.
With a student-teacher ratio of approximately 16:1, learners benefit from individualized attention and a supportive environment. The school also features a variety of AP and honors courses, athletics, and student leadership opportunities.
Student-Teacher Ratio: ~16:1
Special Notes: A standout for students interested in media, law, urban studies, and the arts.
5. Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders
Location: Austin ISD
Type: Public All-Girls School
Grades: 6–12
The Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders is a standout public school in Austin that focuses on empowering young women through education, leadership, and service. Named after the legendary Texas Governor Ann Richards, the school opened in 2007 with the mission to provide a high-quality, college-preparatory education in a supportive all-girls environment.
As a public magnet school within Austin ISD, Ann Richards School serves grades 6 through 12 and is known for its strong emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math), as well as social justice and civic engagement. The curriculum is intentionally designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and confidence in young women, preparing them to become future leaders in any field they choose.
One of the most impressive aspects of the school is its 100% college acceptance rate, a testament to the school’s academic rigor and personalized college counseling. In addition to academics, students engage in real-world leadership opportunities through internships, community service, and public speaking events. The school also offers a variety of clubs and sports, contributing to a well-rounded education.
The all-girls format helps create a safe and focused atmosphere where students support each other and build lifelong friendships. With a student-teacher ratio of around 15:1, the school ensures personalized instruction and mentorship.
Student-Teacher Ratio: ~15:1
Special Notes: Admission is competitive; ideal for families seeking a nurturing, empowering, and academically rigorous environment for girls.
6. Austin Jewish Academy
Location: West Austin
Type: Private Religious School
Grades: K–8
Austin Jewish Academy (AJA) is a well-respected private school in West Austin offering a K–8 education grounded in Jewish values, academic excellence, and character development. While rooted in the Jewish faith and traditions, AJA embraces a pluralistic and inclusive approach, welcoming families from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds who value a moral, spiritual, and community-centered education.
The school’s curriculum is both rigorous and well-rounded, combining core academic subjects with a strong emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), Hebrew language, Jewish studies, and the visual and performing arts. This blend allows students to build critical thinking skills while also developing creativity, cultural understanding, and ethical reasoning.
A standout feature of AJA is its small class sizes, which foster a personalized and supportive learning environment. Teachers are able to adapt instruction to meet individual student needs, encouraging both academic achievement and personal growth. The school also emphasizes social-emotional learning, leadership, and community service as key components of a well-rounded education.
In addition to classroom learning, students participate in holiday celebrations, service projects, and cultural events that reinforce values such as compassion, respect, and social responsibility.
With a tuition of around $20,000 per year, Austin Jewish Academy offers a private school experience that’s academically challenging, spiritually enriching, and emotionally supportive.
Tuition: ~$20,000/year
Special Notes: Inclusive, values-driven school ideal for families seeking both academic excellence and cultural depth.
7. KIPP Austin College Prep
Location: Part of KIPP Texas Public Schools
Type: Public Charter School
Grades: 5–8
KIPP Austin College Prep is part of the larger KIPP (Knowledge Is Power Program) network—a national, nonprofit organization that operates high-performing public charter schools in underserved communities. Located in East Austin, this middle school is dedicated to equipping students with the academic and character skills necessary for success in college and life.
KIPP Austin is especially known for serving first-generation college students, low-income families, and students from historically marginalized backgrounds. The school operates on an extended-day and extended-year schedule, providing more instructional time, consistent support, and greater access to enrichment opportunities than traditional public schools.
The academic environment at KIPP is both structured and nurturing. Teachers follow a rigorous college-prep curriculum and receive specialized training in culturally responsive teaching and trauma-informed education. The school places a strong emphasis on literacy, mathematics, and critical thinking, starting from the 5th grade, and builds toward college readiness in every subject.
Beyond academics, students are encouraged to develop their character and leadership skills. Core values such as perseverance, integrity, responsibility, and respect are integrated into daily lessons and school culture. Family engagement is also a major focus, with regular check-ins, workshops, and events that promote strong home-school connections.
With a student-teacher ratio of about 13:1, KIPP Austin ensures that every student receives personalized attention and the tools needed to thrive.
Student-Teacher Ratio: ~13:1
Special Notes: A powerful choice for families seeking equity-focused education with high standards and strong outcomes.
8. Magellan International School
Location: North Austin
Type: Private IB World School
Grades: Pre-K–8
Magellan International School is a standout private institution in North Austin that offers a globally focused, bilingual education through the renowned International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Serving students from Pre-K through 8th grade, Magellan is one of the few schools in Texas that combines Spanish-English dual-language instruction with the academically rigorous IB framework.
The school’s mission is to cultivate global citizens who are not only academically prepared but also culturally fluent and socially responsible. Students engage in inquiry-based learning, where curiosity is encouraged, critical thinking is nurtured, and real-world problem-solving is emphasized across all subjects. From a young age, children are taught to approach education through an international lens, helping them understand diverse cultures and global issues.
Magellan’s immersive bilingual model ensures that students graduate with fluency in both English and Spanish, a skill that is increasingly valuable in today’s interconnected world. The curriculum also includes STEM, visual and performing arts, physical education, and social-emotional learning, fostering balanced, well-rounded development.
The school is especially popular with expatriate families, multilingual households, and globally minded parents seeking an internationally recognized education that’s rooted in academic excellence and intercultural understanding. Class sizes are small, allowing for individualized attention and strong teacher-student relationships.
Tuition: ~$23,000/year
Special Notes: Ideal for families looking for a bilingual, multicultural education that prepares students for global success.
Comparison Table
| School Name | Type | Grades | Specialty | Tuition | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LASA | Public Magnet | 9–12 | Advanced STEM, AP | Free | 17:1 |
| Westlake HS | Public | 9–12 | Academics + Athletics | Free | 14:1 |
| St. Stephen’s Episcopal | Private Boarding | 6–12 | Outdoor Ed, Global Learning | $30K–$60K | 8:1 |
| Austin HS | Public | 9–12 | Media, Law, Arts | Free | 16:1 |
| Ann Richards School | Public (Girls) | 6–12 | STEM + Leadership | Free | 15:1 |
| Austin Jewish Academy | Private | K–8 | Ethics + STEM | ~$20K | 10:1 |
| KIPP Austin College Prep | Charter | 5–8 | College Ready | Free | 13:1 |
| Magellan International | Private (IB) | Pre-K–8 | Bilingual IB + Global Citizenship | ~$23K | 11:1 |
Conclusion
Austin stands out as one of Texas’s most dynamic educational cities, offering a wide array of schools that reflect the community’s diversity, values, and commitment to excellence. Whether you’re seeking a STEM-focused curriculum, a school that nurtures leadership in young women, an arts-heavy learning environment, or a globally-minded bilingual education, Austin has a high-quality school tailored to nearly every student’s strengths and aspirations.
What makes these schools truly exceptional is not just their academic performance—but their ability to cultivate well-rounded individuals. From the globally diverse environment at St. Stephen’s and Magellan to the public excellence of LASA and Westlake, each institution we’ve highlighted brings something unique to the table. These schools aren’t just preparing students for college—they’re preparing them to lead, create, and succeed in a rapidly changing world.
While rankings, test scores, and college acceptances are important, choosing the right school goes beyond numbers. Families are encouraged to tour campuses, talk to current students and faculty, and understand the culture and values each school promotes.
At the end of the day, the best school for your child is where they feel challenged, supported, and inspired to grow.
Stay informed, stay engaged, and help your child unlock their full potential with one of Austin’s best schools in 2025!
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