Are you in search of high schools in Chicago? Then you are in the right place, finding the top-rated schools in Chicago, whether you’re looking for the best public and private, or college preparatory institutions in the Chicago area.
In 2025, several high schools stand out for their exceptional quality of education, extracurricular activities, and overall student experience. In this article, we have a comprehensive list of the top 10 best high schools in Chicago, Illinois, of 2025, based on factors such as academic excellence, student support, and community involvement.
Table of Contents
1. Walter Payton College Prep High School
Walter Payton College Preparatory High School is a public high school that focuses on challenging courses like honors and Advanced Placement classes in subjects like math, science, language, and the humanities. Students at Payton can also explore the world through exchange programs in places like France, Brazil, and South Africa. Besides their regular classes and international experiences, the school provides optional seminars in activities like horseback riding and Pilates.
It is a great high school if you want a school with extracurriculars and sports activities.
Ranking:
- # 1 in Chicago, IL Metro Area Rankings
- # 10 in National Rankings
Location: 1034 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610, United States
2. Northside College Preparatory High School
At Northside College Preparatory High School, the curriculum delves into subjects like physics, constitutional law, and computer science, providing students with a deep understanding of these topics. There are also various language programs and a wide array of clubs and extracurricular activities for students to choose from. Most classes at Northside are at the honors or Advanced Placement level, and students have the opportunity to enrich their education through study abroad programs.
Ranking:
- # 2 in Chicago, IL Metro Area Rankings
- # 37 in National Rankings
Location: 5501 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60625, United States
3. Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) is a specialized public high school in Illinois that focuses on mathematics and science education. IMSA is known for its rigorous academic programs, and it provides a challenging curriculum to academically talented students from across the state. Students at IMSA have the opportunity to study advanced mathematics and science subjects, participate in research projects, and take part in extracurricular activities related to these fields.
The school is highly competitive and selective in its admissions process, and it aims to nurture the talents of the next generation of scientists, engineers, and mathematicians. IMSA plays a significant role in the education and development of high-achieving students in Illinois.
Ranking:
- # 3 in Chicago, IL Metro Area Rankings
- # 56 in National Rankings
Location: 1500 Sullivan Rd, Aurora, IL 60506, United States
4. Jones College Prep High School
Jones College Prep High School holds the impressive third ranking among high schools in Illinois. It offers students the chance to engage in Advanced Placement courses and exams, with a high AP participation rate of 92%. The school has a diverse student body, with a total minority enrollment of 60%. Jones College Prep High School is one of 151 high schools within the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) system.
Ranking:
- # 4 in Chicago, IL Metro Area Rankings
- # 60 in National Rankings
Location: 700 S State St, Chicago, IL 60605, United States
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5. Whitney Young Magnet High School
Young Magnet High School is an esteemed educational institution, securing the fourth position among high schools in Illinois. The school provides students with the option to participate in Advanced Placement coursework and exams, boasting a substantial AP participation rate of 94%. Young Magnet High School has a diverse student population, with a total minority enrollment of 73%. It is one of the 151 high schools within the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) system.
Ranking:
- # 5 in Chicago, IL Metro Area Rankings
- # 63 in National Rankings
Location: 211 S Laflin St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
6. Lane Technical High School
Lane Technical High School is a prominent institution, earning the fifth position among high schools in Illinois. It provides students with the option to engage in Advanced Placement coursework and exams, with an impressive AP participation rate of 97%. The school maintains a diverse student body, with a total minority enrollment of 61%. Lane Technical High School is one of the 151 high schools operating within the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) system.
Ranking:
- # 6 in Chicago, IL Metro Area Rankings
- # 73 in National Rankings
Location: 2501 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60618, United States
7. Adlai E Stevenson High School
Adlai E Stevenson High School is the sixth-best school in Illinois. Here, students can choose to do Advanced Placement courses and exams. About 75% of students take part in AP programs. The school has a diverse student body, with 51% being from minority backgrounds. Adlai E Stevenson High School is the only high school in the Adlai E Stevenson High School District 125.
Ranking:
- # 7 in Chicago, IL Metro Area Rankings
- # 201 in National Rankings
Location: 1 Stevenson Dr, Lincolnshire, IL 60069, United States
8. Vernon Hills High School
Vernon Hills High School holds the seventh rank among high schools in Illinois. It provides students with the chance to enroll in Advanced Placement courses and take AP exams, with a participation rate of 79%. The school maintains a diverse student body, with a total minority enrollment of 45%. Vernon Hills High School is one of two high schools within the Community High School District 128.
Ranking:
- # 8 in Chicago, IL Metro Area Rankings
- # 207 in National Rankings
Location: 145 Lakeview Pkwy, Vernon Hills, IL 60061, United States
9. Lakeview Technology Academy
Lakeview Technology Academy is highly regarded, securing the second position among high schools in Wisconsin. Students at Lakeview have the opportunity to pursue Advanced Placement coursework and exams, with a respectable AP participation rate of 70%. The school’s student body is diverse, with a total minority enrollment of 34%, and a notable 23% of students facing economic disadvantages. Lakeview Technology Academy is one of the nine high schools within the Kenosha School District.
Ranking:
- # 9 in Chicago, IL Metro Area Rankings
- # 234 in National Rankings
Location: 5533 26th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53140, United States
10. Proviso Mathematics and Science Academy
Proviso Math and Science Academy holds the eighth position among high schools in Illinois. Students at this academy can opt for Advanced Placement coursework and exams, with a notable AP participation rate of 94%. The school’s student body is characterized by a high level of diversity, with a total minority enrollment of 94%. Proviso Math and Science Academy is one of three high schools within the Proviso Township High School District 209.
Ranking:
- # 10 in Chicago, IL Metro Area Rankings
- # 281 in National Rankings
Location: 8601 Roosevelt Rd, Forest Park, IL 60130, United States
Conclusion
Choosing the right high school in Chicago is a crucial decision, and these top 10 high schools in Chicago for 2025 offer an excellent education and a nurturing environment for students. Whether your child is focused on academic excellence, the arts, or community involvement, Chicago’s diverse educational landscape has a school to match their needs. Make sure to research each school’s admission requirements and offerings to determine the best fit for your child’s future.
Additionally, some honorable mentions come very close to making this list. It includes:
- Lincoln Park High School
- Frederick Douglass Academy High School
Thank you for your time.