What is the number one private school in Miami?
There is no official #1, as rankings vary based on a variety of criteria (educational quality, college admissions, amenities, etc.). But according to most reliable rankings and expert opinions, one school is often considered the best:
Ransom Everglades School
Widely recognized as the most prestigious private school in Miami.
Known for its elite college-preparatory curriculum, leadership programs, and extremely high acceptance rates.
Frequently described as the #1 private school in Miami in multiple rankings and guides.
Other top private schools in Miami (close competitors)
While Ransom Everglades often ranks #1, several other schools are also considered elite:
Miami Country Day School – often ranks #1 on some lists.
Gulliver Preparatory School – Strong academic standards + IB/AP program.
Palmer Trinity School – Excellent college prep school.
Belen Jesuit Preparatory School – Top Catholic school for boys.
Carlton School of the Sacred Heart – Top school for girls.
Ransom Everglades School – Full Description
Basic Overview
- Location: Coconut Grove, Miami, Florida, United States.
- Type: Private, independent, non-profit school.
- Founded: 1903.
- Grades: 6–12.
- Gender: Coeducational.
- Motto: Honor and Excellence.
It is widely recognized as one of the most prestigious college-preparatory schools in Miami.
Education and Curriculum
- Strong college-preparatory curriculum that emphasizes:
- Critical thinking.
- Research and discussion-based learning.
- Interdisciplinary studies.
- Emphasis on leadership, ethics, and global citizenship.
- 100% of graduates enroll in four-year colleges/universities.
The school is known for preparing students for top universities (Ivy League and elite colleges).
Key Facts & Figures
- Students: ~1,100–1,200.
- Student-teacher ratio: ~8:1 to 9:1.
- Average class size: ~14 students.
- Faculty: ~100+ teachers.
- Diversity: Over 50% multicultural student body.
Tuition & Financial Aid
- Tuition (2025–26): About $54,820 per year.
Financial Aid:
- Awarded ~$8.5 million annually.
- ~17% of students receive aid.
- Considered a high-cost elite private school, it offers strong financial aid.
Campuses & Facilities
Ransom Everglades has two campuses:
- Middle School Campus (Grades 6–8)
2045 South Bay Shore Drive
- Upper School Campus (Grades 9–12)
3575 Main Highway (on the Biscayne Bay Waterfront)
Features:
- Historic buildings (over 100 years old).
- Modern STEM lab and arts facilities.
- Library and waterfront learning space.
One of the oldest schools in South Florida still on its original site.
Athletics and Sports
Over 18 sports and over 70 teams.
Popular sports:
Water polo (multiple state champions).
Soccer, tennis, volleyball.
Team name: Raiders.
Arts and student life
- Over 55 arts courses (music, drama, visual arts).
- Over 60 clubs and student organizations. Focus:
Leadership
Community Service.
Social Responsibility.
History.
Started as a boys’ school by Paul C. Ransom.
It later merged with a girls’ school in 1974 to form today’s coeducational institution. It has over 120 years of educational heritage.
Reputation & Rankings
Often ranked:
- Among the top private schools in Miami.
- Among the top schools in North America.
Known for:
- Elite education system.
- High college acceptance rate.
- Strong global reputation.
Admissions & Process
- Highly selective admissions process.
- Requirements:
- Strong academic record.
- Entrance tests and interviews.
- Highly competitive academic environment.
