Best Private Schools in Nashville Tennessee - June 2026

USA / Tennessee / Nashville
Discover the top-rated private schools in Nashville, Tennessee, offering exceptional academic programs and holistic development. Find the perfect educational environment for your child's future success.
1

Montgomery Bell Academy

USA, Nashville
4.9

A prestigious all-boys college preparatory school.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1867
  • Employees: 100-200
  • Price Range: $$$$
  • Phone: +16152985514
  • Email: admissions@montgomerybell.edu

About the Company

Montgomery Bell Academy offers an elite academic curriculum with a strong emphasis on character development and athletic excellence. It is widely recognized as one of the top preparatory institutions in Tennessee.

Pros

  • Exceptional academic rigor
  • Strong alumni network

Cons

  • Competitive admissions
  • High tuition costs
2

Harpeth Hall School

USA, Nashville
4.8

Premier college preparatory school for girls.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1865
  • Employees: 100-200
  • Price Range: $$$$
  • Phone: +16152979543
  • Email: admissions@harpethhall.org

About the Company

Harpeth Hall provides a transformative educational experience for young women, focusing on intellectual discovery and leadership. The school boasts excellent STEM programs and a supportive community.

Pros

  • Empowering environment
  • Advanced STEM curriculum

Cons

  • Limited extracurricular variety
  • Strict dress code
3

University School of Nashville

USA, Nashville
4.7

An independent K-12 school known for progressive education.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1915
  • Employees: 150-250
  • Price Range: $$$$
  • Phone: +16153218000
  • Email: admissions@usn.org

About the Company

USN offers a progressive, creative, and student-centered curriculum. It encourages independent thinking and civic engagement within a diverse and inclusive campus culture.

Pros

  • Creative learning approach
  • Urban campus location

Cons

  • High tuition
  • Limited parking space
4

Ensworth School

USA, Nashville
4.8

A coeducational K-12 school with a focus on holistic development.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1958
  • Employees: 200-500
  • Price Range: $$$$
  • Phone: +16153830661
  • Email: admissions@ensworth.com

About the Company

Ensworth focuses on excellence in academics, arts, and athletics. With two campuses, the school provides a comprehensive learning environment that prepares students for college and beyond.

Pros

  • State-of-the-art facilities
  • Balanced student life

Cons

  • Large student body size
  • Heavy athletics focus
5

Father Ryan High School

USA, Nashville
4.6

A premier Catholic coeducational high school.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1925
  • Employees: 100-200
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +16153833967
  • Email: admissions@fatherryan.org

About the Company

Father Ryan combines academic excellence with faith-based formation. The school is known for its strong community spirit and diverse extracurricular offerings for students.

Pros

  • Inclusive community
  • Strong spiritual foundation

Cons

  • Religious curriculum requirements
  • Large class sizes
6

Franklin Road Academy

USA, Nashville
4.5

An independent, non-denominational K-12 school.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1971
  • Employees: 100-200
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +16158328845
  • Email: admissions@fra.org

About the Company

FRA emphasizes a balanced education, promoting individual growth within a supportive Christian environment. They offer strong arts programs alongside challenging academics.

Pros

  • Nurturing environment
  • Excellent fine arts

Cons

  • Smaller endowment
  • Less competitive sports
7

Battle Ground Academy

USA, Franklin
4.6

A college preparatory school serving grades K-12.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1889
  • Employees: 150-250
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +16157943501
  • Email: admissions@bga.edu

About the Company

BGA is a leading independent school that challenges students to achieve their full potential. They focus on academic inquiry and community service in a historic setting.

Pros

  • Strong academic reputation
  • Beautiful campus

Cons

  • Commute for Nashville families
  • Expensive tuition
8

Davidson Academy

USA, Nashville
4.5

A private Christian school in the Nashville area.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1980
  • Employees: 50-100
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +16158605000
  • Email: info@davidsonacademy.com

About the Company

Davidson Academy provides a biblically-integrated curriculum that prepares students for collegiate success. They are recognized for their supportive and dedicated faculty.

Pros

  • Strong faith integration
  • Supportive teacher-student ratio

Cons

  • Fewer elective options
  • Older facilities
9

St. Cecilia Academy

USA, Nashville
4.7

A Catholic college preparatory school for young women.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1860
  • Employees: 50-100
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +16152984525
  • Email: admissions@stcecilia.edu

About the Company

St. Cecilia Academy is renowned for its rigorous classical education and commitment to faith. It offers a unique atmosphere of tradition, sisterhood, and high academic standards.

Pros

  • Classical curriculum
  • Mentorship programs

Cons

  • Limited sports offerings
  • Religious focus
10

Christ Presbyterian Academy

USA, Nashville
4.6

A K-12 Christian school offering high academics.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1985
  • Employees: 150-300
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +16153739500
  • Email: info@cpalions.org

About the Company

CPA provides a high-quality education within a Christian worldview. Known for its strong arts department and competitive athletics, it offers a well-rounded experience.

Pros

  • Excellent arts program
  • Strong community values

Cons

  • High tuition costs
  • Busy extracurricular schedules
11

Lipscomb Academy

USA, Nashville
4.6

Pre-K through 12th grade Christ-centered school.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1891
  • Employees: 200-400
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +16159666400
  • Email: admissions@lipscomb.edu

About the Company

Affiliated with Lipscomb University, the academy offers extensive resources and dual-enrollment opportunities. They emphasize innovative learning and faith development.

Pros

  • University resources
  • Strong academic paths

Cons

  • Campus overcrowding
  • High demand
12

Nashville Christian School

USA, Nashville
4.5

An intimate, family-oriented Christian school.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1971
  • Employees: 50-100
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +16153565600
  • Email: admissions@nashvillechristian.org

About the Company

NCS focuses on preparing students for college while emphasizing service and faith. Their smaller size allows for personalized attention and strong relationships.

Pros

  • Small class sizes
  • Personalized attention

Cons

  • Smaller resource pool
  • Limited facilities
13

Oak Hill School

USA, Nashville
4.8

A top-tier private elementary school in Nashville.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1961
  • Employees: 50-100
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +16152988040
  • Email: info@oakhillschool.org

About the Company

Oak Hill School provides a strong foundational education for elementary students. It is highly regarded for its warm environment and academic preparedness.

Pros

  • Great early education
  • Supportive staff

Cons

  • Elementary only (no high school)
  • High competition
14

The Webb School

USA, Bell Buckle
4.7

A prestigious boarding and day school near Nashville.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1870
  • Employees: 100-200
  • Price Range: $$$$
  • Phone: +19316844550
  • Email: admissions@webbschool.com

About the Company

Webb offers a rigorous and traditional curriculum in a global community setting. Known for its strong honor code, it fosters discipline and academic excellence.

Pros

  • Diverse boarding community
  • Rigorous honor system

Cons

  • Rural location (commute)
  • Traditionalist approach
15

Donelson Christian Academy

USA, Nashville
4.5

A private Christian K-12 academy.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1971
  • Employees: 50-100
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +16158832926
  • Email: admissions@dcawildcats.org

About the Company

DCA focuses on building a foundation of truth and character in students. With a strong history, it remains a pillar for families seeking a faith-based environment.

Pros

  • Safe environment
  • Good school spirit

Cons

  • Aging athletic facilities
  • Standardized curriculum

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

What are the best private schools in Nashville?
Nashville offers several prestigious institutions including Montgomery Bell Academy, Harpeth Hall, and Ensworth School.

How do I choose the right private school?
Consider factors like academic curriculum, extracurricular activities, tuition costs, and the school's overall mission.

Do private schools in Nashville offer financial aid?
Yes, many private schools provide financial assistance or scholarship programs for eligible families.

What is the admission process for private schools in Nashville?
Most schools require an application, entrance exams, teacher recommendations, and a student interview.

Are private schools better than public schools in Nashville?
Both offer unique benefits; private schools often provide smaller class sizes and specialized programs while public schools are funded by the state.

When should I start the application process for 2026?
It is recommended to start the application process at least one year in advance of the desired enrollment date.