Best Aliso Viejo High Schools (2025 Guide)

Looking for the right Aliso Viejo high school? You have plenty of options. This city is part of one of the strongest academic areas in Southern California, with public and private schools known for high graduation rates, strong college prep, and active student life.

We reviewed the best schools in the Aliso Viejo area in 2025 to figure out their personality, strengths, and community vibe so you don’t have to.

Top High Schools in Aliso Viejo (2025 Overview)

School	Type	Enrollment	Graduation Rate	Vibe Summary
Aliso Niguel High School	Public	~2,800	97%	Large, spirited, and high-achieving. Known for academics, athletics, and school pride.
JSerra Catholic High School	Private (Catholic)	~1,250	99%	Faith-based and structured with strong college prep and sports.
Capistrano Valley High School	Public	~2,300	96%	Balanced academics with standout AP and arts programs.
Tesoro High School	Public	~2,600	97%	Well-rounded school with strong academics and performing arts.
St. Margaret’s Episcopal School	Private (College-Prep)	~1,250	100%	Small classes, strong college counseling, and nurturing environment.
Halstrom Academy (Fusion Academy South OC)	Private (1:1 Learning)	Very small	100%	Personalized, one-on-one learning for flexible schedules or unique needs.
Sage Hill School	Private (College-Prep)	~600	100%	Innovative, diverse, and academically rigorous. Ideal for motivated students.
Mission Viejo High School	Public (IB Program)	~2,200	96%	Known for its International Baccalaureate program and community spirit.
San Joaquin Hills High (Alternative)	Public (Continuation)	~180	90%	Supportive and flexible environment for credit recovery or smaller settings.
Pacific Academy	Private (College-Prep)	~164	100%	Quiet, structured, and highly personalized learning model.

1. Aliso Niguel High School

Type: Public
District: Capistrano Unified School District
Enrollment: ~2,800
Graduation Rate: 97%
Location: 28000 Wolverine Way, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

Aliso Niguel High School is the city’s flagship campus. It’s large, lively, and known for balancing strong academics with active student life. The campus has a friendly, competitive atmosphere where students push themselves but still enjoy the experience.

Academic Programs: Students have access to dozens of AP and honors courses, especially in STEM and language arts. The school also offers career electives like business, engineering, and digital media for hands-on learning.

Extracurriculars & Student Life: Athletics, arts, and clubs are all available here. Football and swim teams are popular, while the theater and music programs attract big crowds. There’s a strong sense of community and pride that runs through everything the students do.

2. JSerra Catholic High School

Type: Private (Catholic, College-Preparatory)
District: Independent
Enrollment: ~1,250
Graduation Rate: 99%
Location: 26351 Junipero Serra Rd, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

JSerra Catholic High School is one of the top private schools for those living in Aliso Viejo. It offers a structured, values-based education that focuses on academics, faith, and leadership. The campus feels organized and close-knit, with teachers who know their students well.

Academic Programs: The school runs a rigorous college-prep curriculum with strong AP offerings and specialized magnet programs in law, engineering, medical science, and business. Each track gives students early exposure to real-world career paths.

Extracurriculars & Student Life: Sports are a big part of JSerra’s culture and its teams compete at a high level across Southern California. Students can also join service clubs, music groups, and campus ministry programs that help build leadership and community involvement.

3. Capistrano Valley High School

Type: Public
District: Capistrano Unified School District
Enrollment: ~2,300
Graduation Rate: 96%
Location: 26301 Via Escolar, Mission Viejo, CA 92692

Capistrano Valley High School has a strong academic reputation and a friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere. It offers a mix of challenging coursework, active clubs, and standout arts programs.

Academic Programs: The school offers over 20 AP classes, including advanced options in science and social studies. Its performing arts and visual arts programs are among the best in the district, giving students both academic and creative outlets.

Extracurriculars & Student Life: Students stay busy with sports, theater, band, and a wide range of clubs. The campus has a supportive culture where teachers encourage participation and involvement beyond the classroom.

4. Tesoro High School

Type: Public
District: Capistrano Unified School District
Enrollment: ~2,600
Graduation Rate: 97%
Location: 1 Tesoro Creek Rd, Las Flores, CA 92688

Tesoro High School is known for strong academics and a creative, upbeat campus culture. It attracts students who want both academic challenge and a lively environment filled with school spirit.

Academic Programs: Students can choose from a full range of AP and honors classes, plus programs in visual and performing arts. The school’s academic standards are high, and graduates regularly move on to top universities.

Extracurriculars & Student Life: The Titan community is active and supportive. Sports teams, theater, and choir are all major parts of campus life, and student-led events keep the energy high throughout the year.

5. St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

Type: Private (College-Preparatory)
District: Independent
Enrollment: ~1,250
Graduation Rate: 100%
Location: 31641 La Novia Ave, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

St. Margaret’s Episcopal School is one of Orange County’s most respected private schools, known for academic excellence and a close, caring community. It combines strong college preparation with small class sizes and individualized attention.

Academic Programs: The curriculum has advanced courses in STEM, humanities, and the arts. Students receive detailed college counseling from early on, and the school’s placement record at top universities is impressive.

Extracurriculars & Student Life: Students are active in athletics, performing arts, and service projects. There’s a strong culture of inclusion and leadership, giving students the confidence to take initiative both on and off campus.

6. Halstrom Academy (Fusion Academy South OC)

Type: Private (1:1 Learning)
District: Independent
Enrollment: Very small (individualized)
Graduation Rate: 100%
Location: 23456 Moulton Pkwy, Laguna Hills, CA 92653

Halstrom Academy, now known as Fusion Academy South OC, takes a completely personalized approach to education. Every class is taught one-on-one, and students learn at their own pace with the teacher’s full attention.

Academic Programs: The school follows a college-prep curriculum but adapts lessons to fit each student’s goals, schedule, and learning style. It’s especially popular with students balancing academics with athletics, travel, or creative careers.

Extracurriculars & Student Life: Students can join small social clubs, volunteer groups, or enrichment activities hosted on campus. The flexible structure creates a calm, low-pressure environment where learning feels personal and manageable.

7. Sage Hill School

Type: Private (College-Preparatory)
District: Independent
Enrollment: ~600
Graduation Rate: 100%
Location: 20402 Newport Coast Dr, Newport Coast, CA 92657

Sage Hill School is one of Southern California’s top independent high schools. It’s known for small class sizes and a campus culture built on curiosity and inclusion. Many from Aliso Viejo choose it for its strong college prep and supportive environment.

Academic Programs: The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and project-based learning. Students have access to a wide range of AP and honors courses, along with research and global studies programs that prepare them for college-level work.

Extracurriculars & Student Life: Clubs, arts, and athletics are all big parts of life here. Students are encouraged to create their own clubs and community projects, which gives the campus a creative, entrepreneurial feel.

8. Mission Viejo High School

Type: Public (IB Program)
District: Saddleback Valley Unified School District
Enrollment: ~2,200
Graduation Rate: 96%
Location: 25025 Chrisanta Dr, Mission Viejo, CA 92691

Mission Viejo High School has a long-standing reputation for strong academics, school pride, and a welcoming community. It draws many students who want a diligent education without losing that traditional high school experience.

Academic Programs: The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program alongside a wide selection of AP courses. Students can also join pathways in engineering, media arts, and health science that combine classroom learning with real-world applications.

Extracurriculars & Student Life: The Diablo community is energetic and connected. Sports, music, and student government are all big parts of campus life, and there’s strong support for both academic and creative pursuits.

9. San Juan Hills High School

Type: Public
District: Capistrano Unified School District
Enrollment: ~2,900
Graduation Rate: 96%
Location: 29211 Stallion Ridge, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

San Juan Hills High School has a reputation for strong academics, excellent facilities, and an upbeat, student-centered culture. The campus feels modern and open, with a mix of driven students, supportive teachers, and plenty of school pride.

Academic Programs: Students can choose from a wide range of AP and honors courses, plus career pathways in business, engineering, and the arts. The school’s academic focus is balanced, giving students both structure and flexibility to explore their interests.

Extracurriculars & Student Life: San Juan Hills is known for its school spirit. Sports, theater, and music programs all have strong followings, and student-led events like “Stallion Nights” and rallies bring everyone together.

10. Pacific Academy

Type: Private (College-Preparatory)
District: Independent
Enrollment: ~164
Graduation Rate: 100%
Location: 4947 Alton Pkwy, Irvine, CA 92604

Pacific Academy has a calm, structured setting designed for focused learning. Many Aliso Viejo students choose it for its small classes, flexible pacing, and supportive environment that helps students build confidence.

Academic Programs: The curriculum includes AP and college-level courses, all tailored to individual learning goals. Teachers work closely with students who need extra challenge, flexibility, or support while preparing for college.

Extracurriculars & Student Life: Campus life is low-key but meaningful. Students can join small clubs, volunteer programs, or creative projects that match their interests. The atmosphere encourages focus and self-direction without unnecessary pressure.

How to Prepare for High School Admissions in Aliso Viejo

Choosing a high school is easier when you plan early. Public schools follow district boundaries, while private schools may require applications, essays, or interviews.

Start Early: Check graduation and course requirements in advance. Strong middle school grades in math and English help with high school placement.

Research Options: Each school has its own focus like STEM, arts, or faith-based learning. Attend open houses and explore websites to find the right fit.

Get a Professional Photo: Most schools request a student photo for IDs or applications. Many families book quick sessions at Studio Pod in Aliso Viejo, where you can take professional-quality photos in just minutes.

Stay Organized: Keep deadlines and paperwork in one place so nothing slips through the cracks.

Bottom Line

Aliso Viejo has no shortage of great high schools. Each one offers something different, so focus on where your student will feel motivated and supported.

If you’re getting ready for applications or school portraits, stop by Studio Pod in Aliso Viejo or book your session now. In just a couple of minutes, you’ll walk out with professional photos ready to use anywhere.

Start early, stay organized, and choose the school that fits best.