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.

Walter Payton is often described as the crown jewel of Chicago’s selective enrollment schools, and for good reason. It has an international focus, with programs that open doors for students to study abroad and engage in global learning. Families appreciate the school’s combination of rigorous academics and unique opportunities, such as its emphasis on Chinese language studies.

Of course, Payton is also highly competitive. Admission is tough, and the academic environment is fast-paced. But for students who thrive in a challenging setting and want to be surrounded by motivated peers, it’s one of the best stepping stones to top universities.

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.

Northside appears to operate a distinct kind of school. Instead of a regular timetable, students get block periods, which may allow deeper work and project-based learning. The colloquium element might allow kids to explore niche subjects, such as philosophy or robotics, breaking the usual classroom mold for them and possibly even for teachers, too.

Parents consistently praise Northside’s supportive environment, highlighted in the city’s 5Essentials survey. It’s rigorous, but not cold; teachers work closely with students, and the sense of community is strong. If you’re looking for a place where academic excellence meets innovation, Northside delivers.

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.

Whitney Young seems to be a balanced school, offering tough classes yet also a friendly vibe. Moreover, the campus feels inclusive, with teachers often providing help and peers supporting one another. Therefore, many students may say they feel safe and encouraged in their daily lessons.

What makes Whitney Young shine is its diversity of programs. Whether a student is interested in AP classes, arts, or STEM, there’s something here for them. It’s a place where high achievers don’t feel like they have to fit into just one box; they can explore different passions and still excel.

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.

Lane Tech is practically a city within a city. With its massive student body, it offers an incredible variety of courses, extracurricular activities, and programs. Families often note that Lane feels like a college campus, as it prepares students for university life from an early age.

The school is also a leader in dual enrollment, meaning students can take real college courses while still in high school. That’s a huge advantage for families who want their kids to get a head start, save on tuition, and build confidence in handling higher-level academics.

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.

William Jones College sits in downtown Chicago, so students seem to feel the city’s buzz every day. That spot provides them with quick links to museums, galleries, and internships that a campus located in the suburbs simply cannot offer. Academically, the school appears to strike a balance between rigor and practical training. It is very selective, yet it pushes pre‑career programs and keeps strong neighborhood ties. Families seeking grades and local, real-world experience may find Jones a good fit.

6. Gwendolyn Brooks College Preparatory Academy (Roseland)

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

Highlight: Supportive environment with high graduation rates.

Brooks Prep may not always be the flashiest name in the rankings, but families often speak highly of its sense of community. Teachers and administrators put a lot of emphasis on student support, which helps explain its strong graduation outcomes.

The focus here is on preparing students for life after high school: college readiness, scholarships, and building the confidence to succeed. If you’re looking for a school where your child won’t feel like “just another student,” Brooks is worth considering.

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

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

Highlight: Strong teacher collaboration and student support systems.

Hancock Prep has built a reputation as a school where students feel noticed. Parents often point out how teachers work as a team, making sure no student slips through the cracks. That sense of community is one of its biggest strengths.

While it’s a selective enrollment school, Hancock doesn’t just zero in on academics or test scores. In addition to its challenging curriculum, the school emphasizes personal growth and responsibility, helping students develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed in their future endeavors.

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.

Back of the Yards perhaps shows that a school can succeed without a selective roster. It's a community school, and its scores look pretty good even though many kids come from low‑income homes. Parents notice the emphasis on fairness and chance. 

What really stands out is the leadership and community support behind it. Together, they’ve created a place where students can succeed no matter their background. For families who want quality education without the stress of selective admissions, Back of the Yards is a real and inspiring option.

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.

Kenwood blends academics and arts in a way that’s truly special. Students can take classes at the nearby University of Chicago, which provides an academic edge that few other schools can offer.

At the same time, Kenwood has one of the city’s strongest music programs. From choir to jazz, students have opportunities to shine creatively while also excelling academically. Families seeking a school that values both academic excellence and creativity should consider Kenwood.

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.

Lindblom is the go-to option for families looking for a strong math and science program. Its proficiency-based model means students advance as they master skills, making the learning process feel more personalized.

The school’s block schedule also encourages deeper dives into subjects. Combine that with its unique Beaux Arts architecture and strong reputation, and you have one of Chicago’s most distinctive high schools.

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!

In Chicago, a smart solution is Studio Pod, a self-service photo booth designed for professional-quality portraits. In just 15 minutes, students can take well-lit, polished photos: changing outfits and capturing different angles. It’s a small investment that makes a big difference on applications, student IDs, and even resumes down the line.

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

What’s the difference between selective enrollment and neighborhood schools?

Selective enrollment schools require an application through GoCPS, using grades, test scores, and sometimes socio-economic factors to determine admission. Neighborhood schools, on the other hand, are open to students residing within their designated attendance zone. Both can offer strong academics, but the experience is very different: selective schools often bring higher pressure, while neighborhood schools may provide a more balanced experience.

How important are school rankings when making a decision?

Rankings are a helpful starting point, but they don’t tell the whole story. A school might be top-ranked for academics, but could lack the extracurriculars or supportive environment your child needs. Always pair rankings with first-hand visits, conversations with current families, and your own child’s interests.

What if my child doesn’t get into a selective enrollment school? 

It’s not the end of the world. Chicago has strong neighborhood and magnet options, like Back of the Yards or Amundsen, that don’t require testing. Many students thrive in these environments and go on to top colleges. The key is finding a place where your child feels motivated and supported.

When should we start preparing for applications?

Ideally, start in 7th grade. Grades, attendance, and test scores from that year often play a role in GoCPS applications. Research schools early, visit open houses, and talk with counselors to stay ahead of deadlines.

How can I help my child adjust to a new school?

Encourage them to get involved right away: join a club, a team, or a student organization. That helps them build friendships quickly. At home, keep routines consistent and check in often. The transition is smoother when students feel supported both in and out of school.