91 private schools across all 8 wards of the District of Columbia.
Washington DC's private school landscape includes elite independent K–12 schools, established Catholic and parochial institutions, Episcopal day schools, and Jewish day schools. Unlike DCPS public schools and public charter schools, private schools do not participate in the My School DC lottery — each school sets its own application timeline, admissions criteria, and tuition.
Washington DC has a long tradition of private education. Private schools in DC fall into four broad categories:
Most DC private schools open applications in September or October for the following academic year. Deadlines for general admission usually fall in December or January, with priority deadlines for financial aid often earlier. Decisions are typically released in March, with revisit days for accepted families in March–April.
Most independent schools offer need-based financial aid. Many schools partner with School and Student Services (SSS) for need analysis. Aid packages can cover up to 100% of tuition for qualifying families.
DCSchools.com lists 91 private schools across the District of Columbia — 51 independent (non-religious) schools, 34 parochial schools, 3 Catholic schools, and 3 Episcopal schools.
No. The My School DC lottery is for DCPS public schools and public charter schools only. Private schools have their own application processes, deadlines, and admissions criteria. Contact each private school directly to apply.
Most private schools in DC open applications in September or October for the following school year, with deadlines in December or January. Priority deadlines for need-based financial aid often fall earlier than general admission deadlines.
Tuition at DC private schools varies widely. Independent K–12 schools typically range from $35,000 to $55,000 per year. Catholic and parochial schools are usually $10,000 to $20,000. Most schools offer need-based financial aid.
Ward 3 has the highest concentration of private schools (30 schools), covering neighborhoods like Cleveland Park, Tenleytown, Chevy Chase, and Georgetown. Ward 2 is second with 15 schools.
Yes. The Kids Ride Free program covers all DC residents ages 5–21 enrolled in any school in the District — public, charter, parochial, or private. Free Metrobus, Metrorail, and DC Circulator on school days.
Private schools don't participate in the DC lottery. If you're weighing both, our DCPS and charter school directories cover lottery eligibility, in-boundary rules, and grade-band differences.