10 Best High Schools in Chicago: A Complete Guide

Chicago is home to many reputable high schools, where your child will learn, grow, and feel supported during some of the most important years of their life. Choosing is not an easy decision. With so many strong options, selective enrollment, magnet, and neighborhood schools, it can feel overwhelming for parents and students alike. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to highlight the very best high schools in Chicago for 2025, so you can see what makes each one stand out.

How We Chose These Schools

Numbers alone don’t tell the whole story, so we dug deeper. We reviewed national and local rankings from U.S. News & World Report, Niche, and Chicago Magazine to understand how each school performs academically. However, we also examined what parents and students have to say in surveys and online forums, particularly regarding the learning environment and teacher support.

Beyond that, we considered the extras that shape the high school experience: advanced programs, extracurriculars, dual enrollment options, and how well schools prepare students for life after graduation. The goal was simple: to highlight schools that consistently deliver strong results while offering an environment where teenagers can thrive.

1. Walter Payton College Preparatory High School (Old Town)

Ranking: #1 in Illinois, #32 nationally (U.S. News & World Report)

Highlight: Known for high SAT scores and a Confucius Institute for Chinese language studies.

Address: 1034 N Wells St, Chicago, Illinois

Ask any Chicago parent about their top school choice, and Walter Payton College Prep will probably come up in conversation. The school has built a solid reputation as one of the best high schools in Illinois due to the fact that it genuinely supports its students by combining tough academics with a school culture. 

Academics and Reputation

At Payton, students can choose from a full range of AP, honors classes, and strong elective options. The STEM program gets a lot of attention, but the school's world language offerings (especially the Chinese program) have become the most discussed and praised program in recent years. Many graduates end up at top-tier universities, including Ivy League schools.

Student Experience

The workload is heavy, and classes move at a quick pace. Still, students often describe it as challenging in a good way rather than overwhelming. Teachers are accessible and encouraging, creating an environment where kids help each other succeed instead of competing against one another. 

Parents appreciate how the school balances high academic standards with attention to student well-being. Getting accepted is competitive, though, and the demanding pace isn't right for every student.

Programs and Opportunities

Payton gives students a broader perspective on the world: exchange programs and study-abroad opportunities (unusual for a public school) expose students to different cultures and ways of thinking. 

The school also partners with Chicago cultural and academic institutions, which is especially valuable for students interested in international relations or global studies.

Campus Life

There's no shortage of ways to get involved. Students can join robotics teams, debate clubs, Model UN, theater groups, and plenty more. The athletic teams are competitive, but Payton is better known for the academic and cultural activities that help prepare students for leadership roles later on.

The Takeaway

Payton pushes its students hard, but motivated kids who enjoy intellectual challenges and want exposure to global opportunities will find it an excellent preparation for top colleges and future careers.

2. Northside College Preparatory High School (North Park)

Ranking: #2 in Illinois, #40 nationally (U.S. News & World Report)

Highlight: Unique block schedule with colloquium and flex blocks.

Address: 5501 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, Illinois

Northside College Prep has established a reputation as one of Chicago's most forward-thinking, selective enrollment schools, consistently ranking among the best in Illinois. What makes it different? Instead of the usual seven-period day, Northside uses extended block periods and seminar-style classes, which are not typically found at most other public schools in the city.

Academics and Reputation

The block schedule gives students more time to dig into each subject, which means less rushing through material and more hands-on projects. Northside has earned national recognition for academic excellence, especially in science and math, and graduates regularly land spots at highly competitive colleges. 

A lot of people also highlight the colloquium program. That’s where students can explore topics like philosophy or robotics, subjects most high schoolers never get to touch.

Student Experience

It's demanding but never feels hostile. Teachers make themselves available and seem genuinely invested in helping students grow. While other selective schools can feel like pressure cookers, Northside has managed to build a community where students root for each other. The school consistently scores high on measures of teacher-student relationships and overall school climate.

Programs and Opportunities

STEM and research opportunities are everywhere. Students get access to university partnerships, well-equipped labs, and competitive robotics programs that regularly place in major competitions. 

The colloquium courses provide students with the opportunity to explore ideas and think creatively beyond what they'd find in standard AP classes. It's perfect for students who want something more than the typical college prep track.

Campus Life

Students run everything from math teams and debate clubs to cultural organizations and environmental groups. While you can play sports and join arts programs, the school culture definitely leans toward academic and research-focused activities. The robotics and math teams have particularly strong track records in citywide and state competitions.

The Takeaway

Northside works well for students who want to be challenged academically while being part of a school that values curiosity as much as grades. The innovative schedule and collaborative atmosphere prepare students not only for college admissions but also for becoming lifelong learners who can think critically and work effectively with others.

3. Whitney M. Young Magnet High School (Near West Side)

Ranking: #4 in Illinois, #104 nationally (U.S. News & World Report)

Highlight: Diverse student body with strong AP offerings.

Address: 211 S Laflin St, Chicago, Illinois

Whitney Young has earned its place as one of Chicago's most balanced selective enrollment schools. It's near the West Loop, draws students from all over the city, and somehow manages to be both academically serious and genuinely welcoming, which’s not always an easy combination to pull off.

Academics and Reputation

This is the kind of place where you can take advanced calculus and AP art history in the same semester without anyone batting an eye. Whitney Young offers one of the city's most comprehensive academic programs, with plenty of AP courses, honors classes, and electives spread across every subject area. 

Students regularly compete well nationally and move on to prestigious universities. What's different here is that the school doesn't play favorites between subjects: science students get the same respect as theater students, and humanities students aren't treated as second-class citizens.

Student Experience

Walk the halls and you'll notice something: students seem to like being there. The culture feels inclusive rather than exclusive, and kids often mention feeling safe and respected on campus.

Teachers stick around after class to help, and students tend to cheer each other on instead of sabotaging competitors. Parents consistently give the school high marks for creating a positive environment where their teenagers can thrive.

Programs and Opportunities

Whitney Young doesn't make students choose between being smart and being creative. You can dive deep into advanced STEM courses, tackle challenging AP classes, or spend your afternoons rehearsing for the school's well-regarded theater productions. 

The fine arts and performing arts programs have particularly strong reputations, not something you find at every academically focused school. Students can also get college credits through dual enrollment programs and partnerships with local universities.

Campus Life

There's always something happening here. Sports teams regularly bring home championships, cultural clubs celebrate different communities, and debate teams compete at high levels. The performing arts scene is especially active: dance, choir, and theater programs that draw audiences from beyond the school community. Students seem to find their people pretty easily, whether that's through academics, arts, or athletics.

The Takeaway

Whitney Young works with students who don't want to pick just one thing to be good at. It's a place where you can focus on academics, but still doing the creative or athletic activities you enjoy.

4. Albert G. Lane Technical High School (Lane Tech) (Roscoe Village)

Ranking: #3 in Illinois, #72 nationally (U.S. News & World Report)

Highlight: Largest public high school in Chicago with over 4,400 students.

Address: 2501 W Addison St, Chicago, Illinois

Lane Tech is massive. It feels more like a small college than a high school; more than 4,400 students sprawl across a campus. Parents often joke that their kids get a preview of university life here, and they're not wrong.

Academics and Reputation

Lane has figured out how to be both excellent and flexible, which isn't easy at this size. Students can choose from one of the state's largest AP course selections, as well as specialized classes in a wide range of subjects, including engineering, computer science, and advanced humanities.

The dual enrollment program lets high schoolers take actual college courses, which saves money later and gives kids confidence that they can handle real university work. It's the academic preparation that pays off when students hit their freshman year of college.

Student Experience

You might think a school this big would feel impersonal, but most students say they find their tribe pretty quickly through academic tracks, teams, or clubs. The diversity is incredible: kids from all over the city with completely different backgrounds and interests. 

Students learn to be independent here, which some love and others find overwhelming at first. It's definitely not the kind of place where teachers hold your hand, but that's exactly what some teenagers need.

Programs and Opportunities

STEM programs are the school's claim to fame. Engineering, computer science, and biotechnology programs give students real hands-on experience, plus connections to local universities and businesses for internships and research projects. 

But Lane isn't just for future engineers; the journalism program has produced actual working reporters, the fine arts department puts on impressive productions, and world language offerings rival those of many colleges.

Campus Life

With over 4,400 students, you can find almost anything here. Dozens of sports teams, cultural clubs representing every imaginable community, service organizations, and academic competitions. The list goes on.

The size means you can try different things without everyone knowing your business, which some students find liberating. Want to quit debate and join the robotics team? No one will even notice.

The Takeaway

Lane is good for students who want choices and don't mind a busy environment. It's like practice for college. You'll figure out how to handle a big school, find your people among thousands of students, and discover what you really like. But you'll need to make those decisions yourself.

5. William Jones College Preparatory High School (Printers Row)

Ranking: #5 in Illinois, #106 nationally (U.S. News & World Report)

Highlight: Strong SAT performance and vibrant downtown setting.

Address: 700 S State St, Chicago, Illinois

Jones College Prep sits right in the heart of downtown Chicago, and that location changes everything. Students here don't just go to school; they're immersed in one of America's great cities, with all the opportunities and energy that come with it.

Academics and Reputation

The numbers don't lie: Jones has some of the state's highest SAT scores and sends students to top colleges. You can take challenging AP classes in all subjects, plus they focus on real career prep, which isn't common everywhere. It's hard to get in, and the academic work is demanding. But graduates seem ready for whatever's next, whether that's college or jumping into professional programs.

Student Experience

Most students say Jones is intense but not cutthroat. The tough admission process filters out kids who can't handle the work, but once you're there, classmates help each other instead of competing. Even though it's downtown, the school feels like a community. 

Programs and Opportunities

The downtown location is a huge advantage. Students can secure internships at major companies, shadow professionals in their roles, and collaborate with organizations that suburban schools may not have access to. Do you need to research for a history project? The Chicago History Museum is a short walk away. Into art? The Art Institute is right there. It's like the whole city is part of your school.

Campus Life

Extracurricular activities range from the usual suspects (debate, cultural clubs, sports, and arts programs) to those that take advantage of being downtown. Students get involved in citywide service projects and community initiatives that connect them to Chicago in ways most high schoolers never experience. The whole atmosphere feels energetic and connected to the larger world.

The Takeaway

Jones works with students who want their high school experience to prepare them for adult life, not just college applications. If your teenager thrives on being challenged and wants to start building real-world connections before graduation, the combination of strong academics and urban opportunities is hard to beat. Be prepared for a school experience that feels more like city living than suburban safety.

6. Gwendolyn Brooks College Preparatory Academy (Roseland)

Ranking: #6 in Chicago (Chicago Magazine, 2024)

Highlight: Supportive environment with high graduation rates.

Address: 250 E 111th St, Chicago, Illinois

Brooks College Prep doesn't grab headlines like some of Chicago's other selective enrollment schools, but families who know it understand what they're getting: solid academics, genuine support, and a school that pays attention to each student as an individual.

Academics and Reputation

Brooks offers the full college-prep package, plenty of AP courses across science, humanities, and arts, plus a curriculum designed to get students ready for higher education. The graduation and college acceptance rates tell the story: students leave here prepared for what comes next. It's smaller than Lane Tech or Payton, which means classes don't feel like lecture halls and teachers can remember your name.

Student Experience

This is where Brooks really stands out. Students consistently express a sense of being known and supported by their teachers and administrators. It's not the kind of place where you can disappear into the background: staff notice when students are struggling and do something about it. That personal attention makes a real difference in building confidence, especially for kids who might get lost at larger schools.

Programs and Opportunities

Beyond regular AP classes, Brooks really focuses on getting students ready for college and finding scholarships. Counselors don't just give you a college brochure and say good luck; they help you figure out financial aid, find scholarships, and get through the application process. The school also connects students to programs across the city that create opportunities beyond campus.

Campus Life

You'll find the usual mix of activities, sports teams, arts programs, debate, and service clubs, but there's something different about how they approach it here. The school's connection to Gwendolyn Brooks shows up in a real commitment to creativity and self-expression. Cultural events and arts programs get genuine support, not just lip service.

The Takeaway

Brooks won't impress you with flashy programs or famous alumni, but it offers something better: a place where students can grow academically and personally without getting lost in the crowd. If you want your kid challenged but not overwhelmed, and supported but not babied, it's exactly the kind of school that turns out confident, college-ready graduates.

7. John Hancock College Preparatory High School (West Elsdon)

Ranking: #7 in Chicago (Chicago Magazine, 2024)

Highlight: Strong teacher collaboration and student support systems.

Address: 4034 W 56th St, Chicago, Illinois

John Hancock College Prep isn't trying to be the biggest or most famous selective enrollment school in Chicago. Instead, it's built a reputation around something harder to measure but just as valuable: making sure every single student actually matters.

Academics and Reputation

Hancock offers solid college-prep classes with lots of AP and honors options. The school's rankings keep going up, but what families really notice is how teachers care about more than just test scores. Students learn good study habits and build the kind of academic confidence that helps in college. It's a popular choice for families who want solid college prep without all the stress.

Student Experience

Here's what sets Hancock apart: teachers actually talk to each other about how students are doing. Parents always mention how the staff works together to catch problems early and help before kids fall behind. The school feels organized yet not strict, friendly yet not overly so. Since it's smaller than places like Lane Tech, you can't hide in the back; teachers know who you are and how you're doing.

Programs and Opportunities

Hancock puts a lot of energy into helping students grow, not just get smarter. Students are expected to take ownership of their learning and step into leadership roles around school. The college counseling here isn't just about applications; staff guide students through scholarship searches, financial aid, and the whole transition to post-secondary life. Local partnerships create opportunities for internships and community involvement that help students figure out what they want to do after graduation.

Campus Life

There aren't many clubs, but the ones they do have matter. Sports, arts, and student groups welcome everyone instead of being cliquey. Kids join through athletics, volunteering, or competitions because they genuinely want to, not just for the sake of college applications.

The Takeaway

Hancock is suitable for students who want challenging classes but also want to grow as people. Teachers actually work together, and kids succeed without losing their sense of identity. If you want strong academics with personal attention, it's a school that sets students up well for what comes next.

8. Back of the Yards College Preparatory High School (Back of the Yards)

Ranking: #10 in Chicago (Chicago Magazine, 2024)

Highlight: Non-selective school with strong SAT scores and graduation rates.

Address: 2111 W 47th St, Chicago, Illinois

Back of the Yards College Prep doesn't have selective admissions or entrance exams. It takes whoever walks through the door, and then proves that zip code doesn't determine potential. This neighborhood school serves low-income primarily families but has built something remarkable: a track record that rivals schools with much more selective student bodies.

Academics and Reputation

The key feature here is the International Baccalaureate program, which offers the same rigorous curriculum found in expensive private schools. Having IB at a neighborhood school is rare, but Back of the Yards pulls it off. Test scores and graduation rates keep getting better, and students leave ready for college, not just hoping to get in.

Student Experience

Teachers and staff here fight for their students, not just teach them. Kids talk about feeling valued and believed in, no matter what's happening at home. The school builds confidence and helps students see themselves as future scholars and leaders. That makes a huge difference, especially for kids who don't get that support elsewhere.

Programs and Opportunities

Besides IB, the school has career courses and partnerships for different paths after graduation. Bilingual programs turn speaking Spanish at home into an advantage instead of a problem. Community partnerships give students mentoring, volunteer work, and leadership chances that help them see their neighborhood as full of possibilities.

Campus Life

Extracurriculars here often connect back to community involvement. Sports teams, arts programs, and cultural clubs give students ways to develop skills while making an actual impact in their neighborhood. It's the kind of civic engagement that builds both individual confidence and collective pride; something you can feel when you visit the school.

The Takeaway

Back of the Yards shows that great schools don't need fancy buildings or wealthy families. Good academics, caring staff, and strong community ties create opportunities that many students never thought they could have. For families who want their teenagers to get an excellent education while staying connected to their roots, it's precisely the kind of school that changes lives and strengthens neighborhoods.

9. Kenwood Academy High School (Hyde Park)

Ranking: #86 in Illinois, #2357 nationally (U.S. News & World Report)

Highlight: Offers University of Chicago courses and has a renowned music program.

Address: 5015 S Blackstone Ave, Chicago, Illinois

Kenwood Academy occupies a sweet spot that's hard to find: serious academics paired with world-class arts programs. Sitting in Hyde Park with the University of Chicago practically next door, it attracts students who refuse to choose between being smart and being creative.

Academics and Reputation

The academics here are solid; plenty of honors and AP courses, plus something most high schools can't offer: actual classes at the University of Chicago for qualified students. Getting college credits while still in high school gives students a huge leg up when they start applying to universities. The college enrollment rates reflect this academic strength, but what families really appreciate is how the school prepares students for the intellectual demands they'll face after graduation.

Student Experience

Students say Kenwood is energetic and welcomes all kinds of talents. Your calculus classmate might be playing violin in a jazz ensemble after school. Teachers understand that some kids are good at multiple things and support them instead of forcing them to pick just one. Being in Hyde Park helps too; it's a neighborhood that cares about learning and culture.

Programs and Opportunities

The music program is legitimately impressive. Choir, jazz ensemble, orchestra; students here compete at city and state levels and often win. It's not just an afterthought or something to pad college applications; the musical education rivals that found at specialized arts schools. Combined with dual enrollment opportunities and partnerships with local cultural organizations, students get exposure to both serious scholarship and professional-level artistic training.

Campus Life

Arts events are a significant part of the local culture here. Concerts and performances draw families and community members, giving students real audiences for their work. You'll also find the usual mix of sports, service clubs, and debate teams, but the arts calendar often drives the school's social life. For many students, that creative energy becomes as important to their high school identity as their GPA.

The Takeaway

Kenwood works for students who want an intellectual challenge without sacrificing their creative passions. The University of Chicago connection provides academic opportunities most high schoolers never see, while the music and arts programs offer genuine artistic growth. It's the kind of place where being well-rounded isn't just encouraged; it's the whole point.

10. Lindblom Math & Science Academy (West Englewood)

Ranking: #46 in Illinois, #1139 nationally (U.S. News & World Report)

Highlight: STEM-focused school with a proficiency-based learning model.

Address: 6130 S Wolcott Ave, Chicago, Illinois

Lindblom sits in a gorgeous old Beaux-Arts building that looks like it belongs at an Ivy League university, but inside you'll find one of Chicago's most forward-thinking STEM programs. It's the kind of place where future engineers and computer scientists figure out who they want to become.

Academics and Reputation

Everything here revolves around science, technology, engineering, and math, but not in a boring drill-and-kill way. Lindblom uses proficiency-based learning, which means students move ahead once they've actually mastered material instead of just sitting through a semester. Some kids race ahead while others take the time they need; either way, everyone gets appropriately challenged. 

Student Experience

The block schedule helps a lot. You're not racing between seven different classes: there's time for lab work, coding projects, and working with other students on problems. Kids say they feel pushed but also supported. Students come from all over Chicago, and there's competition, but it's more about figuring things out than trying to beat everyone else.

Programs and Opportunities

Computer science, engineering, and biotech programs provide students with real-world, hands-on experience. But Lindblom has strong debate, writing, and language programs too. They believe STEM students need to communicate effectively and understand the world, not just excel in math. Dual enrollment lets motivated students earn college credits while still in high school.

Campus Life

Robotics and coding clubs are popular, but there are also sports teams, theater, and other activities. The math and science teams win awards regularly, though students get just as excited about plays or basketball games. Even with the STEM focus, there's room to explore different interests and find your group.

The Takeaway

Lindblom is suitable for students who love solving problems and want to understand how things work. Strong STEM classes, creative teaching, and real support prepare students for college and careers in fields that keep changing. Just be ready for a school where curiosity and hard work matter more than just being naturally smart.

Preparing for a New High School

Once you’ve found the right school, the next step is preparing your child for the transition. For many families, this starts with GoCPS, the application system for selective enrollment schools. It weighs grades, test scores, and attendance, so it’s important to plan ahead, ideally beginning in 7th grade.

But preparation goes beyond paperwork. One detail that often gets overlooked is the student ID photo. Many students regret snapping a rushed, unflattering picture that follows them for years to come. So, you should take that photo beforehand!

Let's Talk About Those School Photos:

Starting at a new school often means new student ID photos, yearbook pictures, and eventually college application materials. For families considering competitive Chicago high schools, having a professional-quality photo can make a meaningful difference in how students present themselves.

Studio Pod is a self-service photo booth made for professional portraits. In about 15 minutes, students can:

• Take multiple high-quality photos with good lighting

• Try different angles and change outfits to get the look they want

• Walk out with photos they can use for IDs, applications, resumes, and later for professional stuff

Students will enjoy being able to control how they look and retake pictures until they get one they like.

Practical Information

• Location: 4311 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL

• Duration: Approximately 15 minutes per session

• Scheduling: Online booking system for easy planning

As you get ready for a new Chicago high school, think about how a good photo might help your student feel more confident. A decent photo is a small thing, but it can make a difference in how your student feels about school.

Bottom Line

Chicago is home to some of the strongest high schools in the country. Whether your family is aiming for the intensity of selective enrollment, the balance of a magnet program, or the community feel of a neighborhood school, there’s an option here that can fit your child’s needs. 

And while you choose the high schools in Chicago that fit your needs, don't forget to get a great photo at Studio Pod for this new phase of life. 

FAQs

How do selective enrollment schools work in Chicago?

Students apply citywide to schools like Walter Payton, Whitney Young, and Northside. Admission depends on test scores, grades, and entrance exams. Competition is fierce; only top scorers get in. Applications typically open in the fall for the next school year, so start preparing early.

Which schools are easiest to reach by public transportation?

Downtown schools like Jones College Prep and Whitney Young are most convenient for CTA users. Lane Tech and Payton also have good train access. South side families can consider Brooks or Lindblom, though commutes may be longer. High schoolers get discounted CTA passes during the school year.

Do Chicago public high schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programs?

Yes, several top schools offer IB programs. Back of the Yards College Prep stands out as a neighborhood school with a full IB program. Lincoln Park High School also has IB tracks. These programs offer rigorous, internationally recognized curricula that appeal to college-focused families.

Which Chicago high schools have the strongest arts programs?

Kenwood Academy is known citywide for its exceptional music program. Whitney Young and Jones offer strong theater and performing arts. Lane Tech and Lindblom balance STEM with solid arts programs, but Kenwood truly integrates music and culture into daily student life.

Which schools send the most students to top universities?

Walter Payton, Northside, and Whitney Young have the strongest track records for Ivy League and selective university admissions. Lane Tech and Jones also place many students at Big Ten and top private colleges. Brooks and Hancock excel at personalized college counseling and scholarship support.