By Eddie Franklin Finding the right private school is an important step in securing a child’s academic future. For parents in Arkansas, the decision involves more than simply choosing a school. Factors such as academic quality, educational philosophy, tuition, extracurricular activities, location, and admission requirements can all influence the final choice.
Fortunately, Arkansas has a diverse selection of private schools offering different educational experiences. These include Christian academies, Catholic schools, independent college-preparatory institutions, boys’ and girls’ schools, and schools that embrace alternative teaching methods.
Whether you are looking for a private elementary school, middle school, or high school, understanding what each institution offers can help you make a more informed decision.
In this guide, we explore 20 private schools in Arkansas, their educational characteristics, locations, and general admission requirements.
Important: Admission requirements and grade availability may change. The requirements outlined below are general guidance, not a guarantee of current school policies. Contact each institution to confirm its latest admissions information before applying.
Top 20 Private Schools in Arkansas
1. Subiaco Academy – Subiaco, Arkansas
Subiaco Academy is a Catholic college-preparatory school for boys in grades 7–12. Rooted in Benedictine traditions, the school combines academic education with spiritual development, discipline, leadership, and character formation.
One distinctive feature is its boarding option, which allows students from outside the local area to attend. Families considering a residential educational experience may find this particularly relevant.
The academy’s religious foundation also makes it an option for parents who want Catholic values to form part of their children’s education.
Admission requirements:
- Completed application form.
- Previous academic transcripts or report cards.
- Student and parent information.
- Any required entrance assessments or interviews.
- Additional documentation for boarding applicants, where applicable.
Parents should ask about grade placement, boarding arrangements, tuition, and financial assistance.
2. Pulaski Academy – Little Rock, Arkansas
Pulaski Academy is a nonsectarian private school serving students from prekindergarten through grade 12.
Its college-preparatory approach provides students with opportunities to develop academically while participating in athletics, extracurricular activities, and other aspects of school life.
Families seeking a private institution that combines academic preparation with opportunities for personal development may wish to consider Pulaski Academy.
Admission requirements:
- Completed admissions application.
- Student and family information.
- Previous school records, where applicable.
- Any required assessments or interviews.
- Application fees and enrolment documents, where applicable.
Applicants should confirm whether additional evaluations are required for their intended grade.
3. Thaden School – Bentonville, Arkansas
Thaden School is an independent school serving students from kindergarten through grade 12.
The school is known for its distinctive educational approach, which emphasises experiential learning, interdisciplinary studies, and the practical application of knowledge.
Rather than focusing exclusively on conventional classroom instruction, its educational model encourages students to explore ideas and connect their learning with real-world experiences.
Families interested in an independent school with a distinctive curriculum may find Thaden School worth exploring.
Admission requirements:
- Completed application.
- Previous academic records, where applicable.
- Student and family information.
- Any required assessments or admissions activities.
- Additional documentation requested by the admissions office.
Parents should confirm grade availability, application deadlines, and the requirements for entering at different educational stages.
4. Little Rock Christian Academy – Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock Christian Academy is a Christian private school serving students from prekindergarten through grade 12.
The academy combines academic instruction with Christian education, spiritual development, and character formation.
Its broad grade coverage allows families to explore the possibility of keeping their children within the same school community from early education through high school.
The school may appeal to parents who want their children’s academic development to take place within a Christian environment.
Admission requirements:
- Completed application form.
- Previous school records, where applicable.
- Student and parent information.
- Any required assessments or admissions meetings.
- Additional documentation relating to school policies and expectations.
Families should confirm the school’s current admissions criteria and any faith-related expectations.
5. The Episcopal Collegiate School – Little Rock, Arkansas
The Episcopal Collegiate School is an independent school offering education from prekindergarten through grade 12.
Its educational environment combines academic instruction with an Episcopal tradition and opportunities for students to participate in extracurricular activities.
Parents considering an independent school with a faith-based foundation may wish to explore the institution’s curriculum, educational philosophy, and student support services.
Admission requirements:
- Completed admissions application.
- Previous academic records, where applicable.
- Student and family information.
- Any required entrance assessments or interviews.
- Additional enrolment documentation requested by the school.
Applicants should contact the admissions office for current requirements and grade-specific deadlines.
6. Central Arkansas Christian Schools – North Little Rock, Arkansas
Central Arkansas Christian Schools provides education from prekindergarten through grade 12.
The school combines academic learning with Christian principles and offers students opportunities to participate in activities such as athletics and fine arts.
Its range of educational stages may be attractive to families seeking a Christian school community that serves children as they progress through their education.
Admission requirements:
- Completed application form.
- Previous academic records, where applicable.
- Student and parent details.
- Any required assessments or interviews.
- Additional documents specified by the school.
Parents should enquire about available places, tuition, curriculum, and the school’s religious expectations.
7. Shiloh Christian School – Springdale, Arkansas
Shiloh Christian School is a Baptist-affiliated private school serving students from kindergarten through grade 12.
Its educational approach combines classroom learning with Christian teaching and character development.
Students may also have opportunities to participate in athletics and other extracurricular activities, depending on the programmes available.
For families seeking Christian education in the Springdale area, Shiloh Christian School is an institution to investigate.
Admission requirements:
- Completed application.
- Previous school transcripts or report cards, where applicable.
- Student and family information.
- Any required entrance assessments or interviews.
- Additional documentation requested by the school.
Parents should confirm current admissions policies and any expectations concerning religious participation.
8. Providence Academy – Rogers, Arkansas
Providence Academy is a Christian private school serving students from kindergarten through grade 12.
The school integrates academic instruction with Christian education, offering families an option that places faith and learning within the same educational environment.
Its broad grade range may also be useful for families looking for a school community that accommodates children through several stages of their education.
Admission requirements:
- Completed admissions application.
- Previous academic records, where applicable.
- Student and parent information.
- Any required assessments or admissions meetings.
- Additional enrolment documents specified by the school.
Families should ask about current tuition, grade availability, and the admissions process.
9. Crowley’s Ridge Academy – Paragould, Arkansas
Crowley’s Ridge Academy is a Christian school serving students from prekindergarten through grade 12.
Its educational programme combines academic learning with Christian principles and provides students with opportunities to participate in school activities.
The school may be of interest to families seeking a faith-based educational environment in northeastern Arkansas.
Admission requirements:
- Completed application form.
- Previous academic records, where applicable.
- Student and family details.
- Any required assessments or interviews.
- Additional documentation requested by the admissions office.
Parents should confirm grade placement procedures and the school’s current enrolment policies.
10. The New School – Fayetteville, Arkansas
The New School is a private educational institution in Fayetteville that offers an alternative educational environment for students.
Families considering the school should investigate its educational philosophy, classroom structure, curriculum, and approach to student development.
Understanding how the school’s teaching methods differ from those of more conventional institutions can help parents determine whether its environment suits their child’s learning preferences.
Admission requirements:
- Completed application.
- Student information and previous academic records, where applicable.
- Family information.
- Any required student meetings or evaluations.
- Additional enrolment documentation requested by the school.
Parents should verify the current grade levels served and the admissions process for their child’s age group.
11. Catholic High School for Boys – Little Rock, Arkansas
Catholic High School for Boys is a Catholic secondary school for boys in Little Rock.
The school combines high-school academic instruction with Catholic religious formation and opportunities for students to participate in school activities.
Its single-sex educational environment may appeal to families specifically seeking a boys’ secondary school.
Admission requirements:
- Completed high-school application.
- Previous academic transcripts or report cards.
- Student and parent information.
- Any required placement assessments or interviews.
- Additional documents requested by the school.
Families should confirm grade-entry eligibility, application deadlines, and any religious education expectations.
12. Mount St. Mary Academy – Little Rock, Arkansas
Mount St. Mary Academy is a Catholic secondary school for girls in Little Rock.
The academy combines academic education with Catholic traditions and opportunities for students to participate in extracurricular activities.
Parents looking for a girls’ high-school environment with a Catholic educational foundation may wish to explore its academic programmes and student development opportunities.
Admission requirements:
- Completed application form.
- Previous school transcripts or report cards.
- Student and parent information.
- Any required assessments or admissions meetings.
- Additional enrolment documents requested by the school.
Applicants should ask about current entry requirements, tuition, and financial assistance.
13. Arkansas Christian Academy – Bryant, Arkansas
Arkansas Christian Academy is a Christian private school serving students from kindergarten through grade 12.
The school combines academic instruction with Christian education and provides families with a faith-based educational option in Bryant.
Parents considering the institution should investigate its curriculum, teaching approach, extracurricular opportunities, and expectations for students and families.
Admission requirements:
- Completed application.
- Previous academic records, where applicable.
- Student and family information.
- Any required entrance assessments or interviews.
- Additional documentation specified by the school.
Families should confirm the latest admissions procedures and grade availability.
14. Abundant Life Christian Academy – Sherwood, Arkansas
Abundant Life Christian Academy is a Baptist-affiliated school serving students from prekindergarten through grade 12.
Its educational environment combines academic learning with Christian principles and provides families with an option for faith-based education in the Sherwood area.
Parents should consider whether the school’s religious foundation, curriculum, and student support arrangements align with their family’s educational priorities.
Admission requirements:
- Completed admissions application.
- Previous academic records, where applicable.
- Student and parent details.
- Any required assessments or admissions meetings.
- Additional documentation requested by the school.
Contact the academy to verify current tuition, application deadlines, and enrolment policies.
15. Columbia Christian School – Magnolia, Arkansas
Columbia Christian School is a Baptist-affiliated private school serving students from prekindergarten through grade 12.
The school integrates Christian teaching with academic instruction, providing an educational option for families in Magnolia and surrounding communities.
Parents interested in the institution should review its curriculum, school environment, and approach to faith-based education.
Admission requirements:
- Completed application form.
- Previous academic records, where applicable.
- Student and family information.
- Any required assessments or interviews.
- Additional enrolment documentation specified by the school.
Families should confirm the availability of places and the current admissions requirements for their child’s grade.
16. Jacksonville Christian Academy – Jacksonville, Arkansas
Jacksonville Christian Academy is a Baptist-affiliated private school serving students from prekindergarten through grade 12.
The academy combines academic instruction with Christian education and provides an alternative to public-school education for families in the Jacksonville area.
Parents should examine its educational programmes and determine whether its learning environment meets their children’s academic and personal development needs.
Admission requirements:
- Completed application.
- Previous school records, where applicable.
- Student and parent information.
- Any required assessments or admissions meetings.
- Additional documents requested by the school.
Applicants should enquire about grade placement, tuition, and religious expectations.
17. Union Christian Academy – Fort Smith, Arkansas
Union Christian Academy is a Christian private school serving students from prekindergarten through grade 12.
Its educational approach combines academic learning with Christian principles and opportunities for participation in athletics and extracurricular activities.
The school may be relevant to families seeking Christian education in Fort Smith and the surrounding area.
Admission requirements:
- Completed application form.
- Previous academic transcripts or report cards, where applicable.
- Student and parent information.
- Any required assessments or interviews.
- Additional documentation specified by the school.
Parents should confirm the current curriculum, admissions criteria, and available student support services.
18. Gospel Light Christian School – Hot Springs, Arkansas
Gospel Light Christian School is a Baptist-affiliated private school serving students from prekindergarten through grade 12.
The school provides academic instruction within a Christian environment and offers families a faith-based educational option in Hot Springs.
Parents considering the institution should review its academic programmes, religious expectations, and extracurricular opportunities.
Admission requirements:
- Completed admissions application.
- Previous academic records, where applicable.
- Student and family information.
- Any required assessments or admissions meetings.
- Additional documents requested by the school.
Families should contact the school to verify current grade offerings, fees, and application procedures.
19. South Arkansas Christian School – Lewisville, Arkansas
South Arkansas Christian School is a Baptist-affiliated school serving students from kindergarten through grade 12.
Its educational programme combines general academic instruction with Christian teaching.
The school offers an option for families in Lewisville and nearby communities who want their children to receive education within a Christian environment.
Admission requirements:
- Completed application form.
- Previous academic records, where applicable.
- Student and parent information.
- Any required placement assessments or interviews.
- Additional enrolment documentation requested by the school.
Parents should verify current grade availability, tuition, and admission deadlines before applying.
20. Little Rock Montessori School – Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock Montessori School offers a Montessori-based educational approach.
Montessori education generally emphasises hands-on learning, independence, purposeful activities, and opportunities for children to develop at an appropriate pace.
Families interested in alternatives to conventional classroom instruction should investigate the school’s specific Montessori programmes and the ages it currently serves.
Admission requirements:
- Completed application and student information.
- Previous school or developmental records, where applicable.
- Any required family meeting or student observation.
- Additional documentation requested by the school.
- Application or enrolment fees, where applicable.
Parents should confirm the school’s current age groups, grade offerings, and admissions procedures.
Comparison Table of Private Schools in Arkansas
The following table provides a convenient overview of the schools discussed in this guide.
| No. | Private School | Location | School Type | Grade Range / Educational Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Subiaco Academy | Subiaco | Catholic, boys’ school | Grades 7–12; day and boarding |
| 2 | Pulaski Academy | Little Rock | Nonsectarian | Prekindergarten–12 |
| 3 | Thaden School | Bentonville | Independent | Kindergarten–12 |
| 4 | Little Rock Christian Academy | Little Rock | Christian | Prekindergarten–12 |
| 5 | The Episcopal Collegiate School | Little Rock | Episcopal | Prekindergarten–12 |
| 6 | Central Arkansas Christian Schools | North Little Rock | Christian | Prekindergarten–12 |
| 7 | Shiloh Christian School | Springdale | Baptist | Kindergarten–12 |
| 8 | Providence Academy | Rogers | Christian | Kindergarten–12 |
| 9 | Crowley’s Ridge Academy | Paragould | Christian | Prekindergarten–12 |
| 10 | The New School | Fayetteville | Independent | Alternative educational environment |
| 11 | Catholic High School for Boys | Little Rock | Catholic, boys’ school | High school |
| 12 | Mount St. Mary Academy | Little Rock | Catholic, girls’ school | High school |
| 13 | Arkansas Christian Academy | Bryant | Christian | Kindergarten–12 |
| 14 | Abundant Life Christian Academy | Sherwood | Baptist | Prekindergarten–12 |
| 15 | Columbia Christian School | Magnolia | Baptist | Prekindergarten–12 |
| 16 | Jacksonville Christian Academy | Jacksonville | Baptist | Prekindergarten–12 |
| 17 | Union Christian Academy | Fort Smith | Christian | Prekindergarten–12 |
| 18 | Gospel Light Christian School | Hot Springs | Baptist | Prekindergarten–12 |
| 19 | South Arkansas Christian School | Lewisville | Baptist | Kindergarten–12 |
| 20 | Little Rock Montessori School | Little Rock | Montessori | Montessori-based education |
Note: Grade availability and school programmes may change. Confirm current information directly with each institution.
General Tips for Applying to Private Schools in Arkansas
Before submitting an application, parents can take several practical steps to make the admissions process easier.
1. Research the School’s Educational Approach
Determine whether the school follows a conventional, Montessori, independent, or faith-based educational model. Consider how its teaching philosophy aligns with your child’s learning needs and your family’s expectations.
2. Prepare Academic Records Early
Many private schools request previous report cards, transcripts, or other educational records. Preparing these documents ahead of time can help prevent delays.
3. Ask About Tuition and Financial Aid
Private-school expenses may include tuition, registration fees, uniforms, transportation, books, meals, and extracurricular activities. Request a complete breakdown of costs and ask whether scholarships or financial assistance are available.
4. Confirm Grade Availability
Not every private school offers every grade. Some institutions focus exclusively on secondary education, while others serve children from preschool through high school.
Confirm that the school accepts students entering your child’s intended grade.
5. Understand the Assessment Process
Some schools may require entrance examinations, placement assessments, interviews, or student observations. Ask what is involved and whether preparation is recommended.
6. Arrange a School Visit
Where possible, visit the campus, meet members of the school community, and learn about classroom environments, student support, extracurricular activities, and daily routines.
Related
Conclusion
Arkansas offers a variety of private educational institutions, including Christian academies, Catholic schools, independent college-preparatory schools, single-sex secondary schools, and Montessori-based programmes.
The 20 schools featured in this guide provide families with a starting point for exploring private education across the state.
When comparing institutions, consider academic programmes, educational philosophy, location, tuition, extracurricular activities, and the support available to students. Families should also establish whether a school’s admission requirements and grade offerings match their children’s needs.
Ultimately, choosing a private school is a personal decision that should reflect your child’s educational goals and your family’s priorities. Researching several institutions, speaking with admissions staff, and visiting campuses can help you identify an environment in which your child can learn, grow, and develop.
Before applying, request the latest admissions information from your preferred schools to ensure that you have accurate details about application deadlines, required documents, tuition, and enrolment procedures.
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