As college admissions grow more competitive and a global perspective becomes increasingly valuable, many Oakland County families are turning to private schools to give their children an academic edge.
To help families make informed choices, this list highlighting the best private schools in Oakland County, uses a combination of publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Census Bureau, along with community reviews, survey feedback and academic performance indicators such as test scores and college readiness.
Read on for our guide to the top private schools in Oakland County.
Read more: Best Private Schools in Metro Detroit
Featured private schools in Oakland County
In this section, Metro Parent’s advertising partners share their top school offerings.
Aim High School
- Address: 29230 W. 12 Mile Road, Farmington Hills
- Phone: 248-702-6922
- Grades served: 6-12
- Number of students: 95
- Type: Private School, Special Education School
Aim High School is a private, tuition-based school for students in grades 6–12 that offers a supportive, small-scale alternative to large traditional schools. Designed for students with special social and learning needs, Aim High provides a safe, structured environment where academic focus, wellness and communication skills are nurtured.
With a college and work-ready curriculum, the school tailors learning to each student’s strengths and interests through individualized instruction and hands-on experiences. Small class sizes—averaging just eight students—allow teachers to build strong relationships with students and families, making learning highly personal and effective.
At Aim High, students aren’t defined by their challenges—they’re empowered by their potential. The school’s expert faculty emphasizes real-world application, personal growth and the confidence students need to succeed in school and beyond.
Eton Academy
- Address: 1755 Melton, Birmingham
- Phone: 248-642-1150
- Grades served: K-12
- Number of students: 220
- Type: Private School, Special Education School
Eton is the school home of over 200 thriving and talented K-12 students who happen to learn differently. Eton Academy gives students with ADHD, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Executive Functioning Disorder, or other learning difficulties the skills they need to be confident and successful.
Eton Academy prides itself on providing: A maximum class size of 10 students and a student to educator ratio of 5:1, individualized instruction and support that students need to regain a true love of learning while also moving forward socially and emotionally and a partnership with students, teachers, staff members and parents to form a nurturing and supportive environment where everyone feels included, valued and accomplished.
Minto’s Casa Childcare Center
- Address: 28190 Farmington Road, Farmington Hills
- Phone: 248-489-3055
- Grades served: 6 weeks-6 years old
- Number of students: 80
- Type: Private School, Montessori School
At Minto’s Casa, the team strives to provide a home away from home for each child. It is a unique childcare and learning center with a caring and homely atmosphere, ideal for every child’s emotional, physical and social growth.
While the staff follows an age-appropriate structured program, the focus is always on the individual needs of each child. The staff consists of experienced, certified teachers and caregivers with more than ten years of experience, all dedicated to providing the best for every child.
Minto’s Casa encourages one-on-one teacher-child interaction and communication so that each child feels they have a special place there.
Novi Christian Academy
- Address: 40800 W. 13 Mile Road, Novi
- Phone: 248-668-7100
- Grades served: K-12
- Number of students: 400
- Type: Private School, Religious School
Novi Christian Academy stands out as a vibrant, Christ-centered school committed to academic excellence and spiritual growth. With small class sizes and passionate, dedicated teachers, students receive personalized instruction that prepares them for college and beyond. NCA’s rigorous curriculum is infused with a biblical worldview, fostering both intellectual development and strong moral character. From advanced placement courses to hands-on STEM programs, students are challenged and inspired every day.
Beyond the classroom, NCA offers a dynamic array of extracurriculars including championship-winning athletic teams, fine arts programs, robotics, and missions outreach. Students regularly participate in local and global service projects, living out their faith in meaningful, real-world ways. Whether it’s leading worship in chapel, competing in state tournaments, or serving on international missions trips, students at Novi Christian Academy are equipped to lead and make a difference for Christ in every arena of life.
Novi Northville Montessori Center
- Address: 23835 Novi Road, Novi
- Phone: 248-348-3033
- Grades served: 2.5-6 years old
- Number of students: 75
- Type: Private School, Montessori School
At Novi Northville Montessori Center (NNMC), “It’s Not What We Say, It’s What We Do” that maximizes a child’s ability to learn. They speak softly, walk slowly, respect each other through their words and their actions.
NNMC offers one-on-one learning and a place for a child to grow academically and emotionally in a nourishing environment. With their highly individualized program, meeting the needs of each individual child, NNMC’s success is determined by the child’s individual growth meeting their needs.
Southfield Christian School
- Address: 28650 Lahser Road, Southfield
- Phone: 248-357-3660
- Grades served: Preschool-12
- Number of students: 616
- Type: Private School, Religious School
Southfield Christian School is a leading Christian college preparatory school in Metro Detroit, built on the belief that academic excellence and spiritual growth go hand in hand. With a mission of “Pursuing Excellence for the Glory of God,” the school encourages students to see every area of life as an act of worship. A strong partnership between school, family and church fosters a Christ-centered community rooted in shared values and purpose.
Recognized as the #1 Christian school in Metro Detroit for 2025, Southfield Christian prepares students with critical thinking, problem-solving and academic rigor. The school offers a robust curriculum that includes Advanced Placement and dual enrollment opportunities, with 100% of graduates accepted to the college of their choice.
Beyond academics, students have the opportunity to explore their interests in fine arts and athletics. Whether in the classroom, on stage, or on the field, Southfield Christian equips students to excel—and to do so with faith and purpose.
The Roeper School
- Address: Roeper Lower School, 41190 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills;
Roeper Middle & Upper Schools, 1051 Oakland Ave., Birmingham - Phone: 248-203-7300
- Grades served: Preschool-Grade 12
- Number of students: 480
- Type: Private School, Gifted/Talented Program School
The Roeper School is an independent day school for gifted students in preschool through grade 12, with campuses in Bloomfield Hills and Birmingham. Founded in 1941, Roeper offers a challenging, interdisciplinary curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity and global awareness.
Students engage in project-based learning, advanced coursework and hands-on experiences across science, technology, the arts and humanities. With a strong focus on social justice, Roeper encourages students to lead service initiatives, participate in Model UN and forensics and explore real-world issues.
The school fosters a collaborative environment where students take intellectual risks, pursue their interests and grow into confident, capable leaders. A no-cut policy in athletics and performing arts ensures that all students can participate, build skills and contribute as valued members of their teams and ensembles.
More private schools in Oakland County
This section features some of the best private schools in Oakland County and are based on public data, academic performance, community reviews and survey feedback to help families find the right fit.
Cranbrook Schools
- Address: 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills
- Why it stands out: Students of Cranbrook Schools gain a unique education–rigorous academics, picturesque facilities and world-class museums are all part of the experience.
It’s no surprise that Cranbrook Schools takes the top spot for best private schools in the Detroit area. The private PreK-12 education system is renowned for its rigorous academics and picturesque campus.
Students of Cranbrook Schools can expect a thoughtful education experience unique to their own needs and interests. Students might take Latin or stellar astronomy then head to a dance showcase after school. Student life at Cranbrook is unique–students experience all 319 acres of the campus as part of the classroom. Plus, the upper school offers a boarding program.
In addition, Cranbrook Schools students have access to the resources of the Cranbrook Institute of Science and Cranbrook Art Museum.
- Address: 22305 W. 13 Mile Road, Beverly Hills
- Why it stands out: Detroit Country Day School is a premier private school with impressive academics and a commitment to creating well-rounded global citizens.
Detroit Country Day School is a nationally recognized independent college prep school serving grades PreK-12.
The school’s curriculum is focused on the principles of providing a globally-minded liberal arts education. Students in upper levels might take a 21st century global issues class or an introductory philosophy course.
Students may also participate in an exchange program to different European countries beginning in the eighth grade.
Frankel Jewish Academy of Metro Detroit
- Address: 6600 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield
- Why it stands out: A faith-based school with excellent facilities and a college prep environment.
Frankel Jewish Academy of Metro Detroit is a college preparatory high school with rigorous academics. The school is committed to furthering Jewish literacy and values.
Students may take Advanced Placement (AP) courses, STEAM classes and fine arts. Roughly two-thirds of students play sports through the school’s participation in the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA). A partnership with the Jewish Community Center offers students excellent facilities for training.
Academy of the Sacred Heart
- Address: 1250 Kensington Road, Bloomfield Hills
- Why it stands out: A longstanding Catholic institution known for its close knit community and commitment to creating confident leaders.
The Academy of the Sacred Heart is a Catholic PreK-12 school for students of all faiths. The private school serves boys from infancy to grade 8 and girls from infancy to grade 12.
High schoolers engage with challenging college-prep studies, take class retreats and have weekly service learning.
The school is part of the Network of Sacred Heart Schools and is affiliated with the Society of the Sacred Heart.
- Address: 7101 Lahser Road, Bloomfield Hills
- Why it stands out: An all-boys school in the Catholic tradition. Brother Rice graduates are trained to be ethical and civic leaders.
At Brother Rice High School, Catholic values are an integral part of education.
Students are expected to challenge themselves academically–choosing from 41 honors and Advanced Placement (AP) classes.
Student life is engaging at this all-boys college prep school. Roughly 96% of Brother Rice students participate in an extracurricular. As for athletics, the school is highly competitive, with 80 state championship titles.
Notre Dame Preparatory School
- Address: 1300 Giddings Road, Pontiac
- Why it stands out: Notre Dame Preparatory School is the only Catholic school in the state offering the International Baccalaureate program.
Notre Dame Preparatory School, a PreK-12 Catholic school, is known for its stellar academic offerings. Students can participate in Advanced Placement (AP) courses as well as the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.
Students in lower grades are prepared for IB in high school through the Primary Year Programme (IB-PYP). Notre Dame Preparatory School is one of few schools in the region to offer the IB-PYP.
Mercy High School
- Address: 29300 West Eleven, Farmington Hills
- Why it stands out: An all-girls private high school with a focus on Catholic values.
Mercy High School is a founding member of the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools. The all-girls private school is committed to helping young women reach the highest levels of leadership.
Students can choose from 37 Advanced Placement (AP) courses, more than 50 extracurriculars and 22 sports.
Its education system is rooted in the Gospel, through the Catholic faith and the Mercy charism, the school says.
Detroit Catholic Central High School
- Address: 27225 Wixom Road, Novi
- Why it stands out: All-male Catholic, college-prep high school with a brand new state-of-the-art STEM center.
If your student would thrive in an all-boys, college prep environment centered on Catholic values, consider Detroit Catholic Central High School.
The private school has been educating young men since 1928 under the direction of the Basilian Fathers. Teachers instill values into their students following the school’s motto, “teach me goodness, discipline and knowledge.”
In 2024, the school constructed the George and Mary Turek Hall of Science. The state-of-the-art STEM center has eight dedicated science labs, a 130-seat lecture hall, sustainability-focused greenhouses and more.
Everest Collegiate High School & Academy
- Address: 5935 Clarkston Road, Clarkston (Independence Township), MI
- Why It Stands Out: The only pre-K–12 school in Michigan designated both a National Blue Ribbon School and a Cardinal Newman Society School, Everest offers gender-specific education from grade 3 onward, rooted in the “Integral Formation” philosophy (academic, spiritual, human, apostolic development), with strong academics, international boarding and over 60 athletic and extracurricular programs.
Founded in 1991 (Academy) and expanded to high school in 2008, Everest follows the educational model of the Legion of Christ and Regnum Christi, blending Catholic identity with rigorous college-prep and character formation.
St. Mary’s Preparatory
- Address: 3535 Commerce Road, Orchard Lake Village, MI
- Why It Stands Out: A historic Catholic preparatory school set on a 125-acre lakeside campus, St. Mary’s offers co-divisional (single-sex classes with co-ed extracurriculars) education and is known for its rich Polish-American Catholic heritage, enormous library, NHL-grade hockey arena and commitment to faith and leadership development.
Founded in 1885 in Detroit to serve Polish seminarians, the school moved to its current Orchard Lake campus in 1909 (former site of the Michigan Military Academy) and became part of the Orchard Lake Schools in 1927; it recently transitioned to include female students in a co-divisional format.
Auburn Hills Christian School
- Address: 3655 N. Squirrel Road, Auburn Hills
- Why It Stands Out: Emphasizes student-led chapel services and offers a strong athletic program.
Founded in the late 1900s, Auburn Hills Christian School has been dedicated to providing a Christ-centered education to students in the Auburn Hills area.
Farber Hebrew Day School – Yeshivat Akiva
- Address: 21100 W 12 Mile Rd., Southfield
- Why It Stands Out: This Modern Orthodox Jewish day school serves Pre‑K through 12 in a close-knit, values-driven environment that consistently achieves top academic outcomes—with a student–teacher ratio of just 8:1, an A+ rating for academics and a 100% four-year college enrollment rate.
Founded in 1964 through a community-driven meeting led by Rabbis Gordon and Donin and 13 devoted parents, the school has grown through generations of philanthropy and expansion—from the dedication of a kindergarten building in 1974, the elementary in 1986, and a learning resource center in 1988, to a major shift in identity when the Schostak Family endowed the high school in 2001, and a landmark $8 million facility funded by the Farber and Davidson foundations leading to groundbreaking in 2015.
Marian High School
- Address: 7225 Lahser Road, Bloomfield Hills
- Why It Stands Out: Marian High School is a private, all‑girls, college‑prep Catholic school founded in 1959 by the IHM Sisters (with roots in five local parishes).
It is known for consistently high college‑acceptance rates (often 90–100%), strong academics – including AP and honors courses – and a robust athletics program; enrollment was about 370 in 2023–24.
Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic School
- Address: 5495 Dixie Highway, Waterford
- Why it stands out: This private pre-K–12 Catholic school – one of only five in the Archdiocese of Detroit to offer that full span – was founded in 1960 (as an elementary in 1956).
It boasts continued athletic success including multiple MHSAA state championships, and features a consolidated campus with shared parish church, refurbished over time to include gym additions and expanded facilities.
Bishop Foley Catholic High School
- Address: 32000 North Campbell Road, Madison Heights
- Why It Stands Out: A Christ‑centered, co‑educational college-prep school within the Archdiocese of Detroit, Bishop Foley delivers a balanced education with over 100 course offerings (including 20+ AP and honors), small class sizes (~18 students), and exceptional outcomes — 99–100% of graduates advance to college.
Founded in 1965 by Guardian Angels Parish (Clawson) and St. Dennis Parish (Royal Oak), Bishop Foley graduated its first class in 1969. Originally built as a single-sex institution, its structure still reflects that era, though it has since fully evolved into a co‑educational model. The school bears the name of Detroit’s first American bishop, John Samuel Foley, and continues its traditions of academic excellence and Catholic identity today.
Oakdale Academy
- Address: 3200 Beacham Drive, Waterford
- Why It Stands Out: Offers a classical Christian curriculum with a focus on developing students’ character and intellect.
Established in 2011, Oakdale Academy has been committed to providing a rigorous and biblically grounded education.
Bloomfield Christian School
- Address: 3570 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills
- Why It Stands Out: Known for its classical Christian education approach and strong athletic programs.
Founded in 1993 by a group of mothers seeking a biblically centered curriculum, the school has grown significantly over the years.
St. Catherine of Siena Academy
- Address: 28200 Napier Road, Wixom
- Why It Stands Out: This all‑girls private Catholic high school (grades nine through 12) distinguishes itself through a deeply integrated Catholic identity – students attend daily Mass before lunch, one of the few schools in the area with this built‑in spiritual rhythm, fostering calm, reflection, and moral formation.
Since opening in 2008, the school has upheld its mission of forming bold, faith‑filled young women by cultivating their “feminine genius”— merging academic rigor (Harkness-style discussions, AP/honors, dual enrollment with Madonna University), leadership, and spiritual development within its striking 137,000-square-foot campus on 33 acres – complete with a chapel-centered design, modern classrooms, labs, arts facilities, athletic complex and even a school storefront.
Wixom Christian School
- Address: 620 N. Wixom Road, Wixom
- Why It Stands Out: Provides a nurturing environment with a strong emphasis on biblical teachings.
With roots dating back to the 1800s, the school has continued to have small class sizes with individualized instruction and dynamic lessons that embrace the latest technology.
Oakland Christian School
- Address: 3075 Shimmons Road, Auburn Hills
- Why It Stands Out: Offers a comprehensive K-12 education that prepares children for college and beyond.
Founded in 1968, the school has expanded significantly, moving to its current location in 1977.
Shrine Catholic High School & Academy
- Address: 3500 West 13 Mile Road, Royal Oak
- Why It Stands Out: Shrine Catholic High School & Academy is part of a welcoming, faith-filled K–12 coeducational system rooted in the National Shrine of the Little Flower parish. It’s distinguished by its rigorous academic offerings – including 18 AP/honors courses, dual-enrollment in world languages, engineering, and business, and strong fine arts and STEM programs – along with remarkable college outcomes such as $13.8 million in merit scholarships, National Merit recognition, and a 65% acceptance rate to the University of Michigan.
Founded in 1941 as Little Flower High School for Girls and later Shrine High School for Boys, the schools were consolidated in 1948, transitioning to Shrine High School and evolving over the decades. Major expansions include the launch of the Academy (middle school) in 1993, significant campus renovations in the 2000s (science labs, field house, auditorium), and a rebrand as Shrine Catholic High School & Academy in 2001.
St. Hugo of the Hills Elementary School
- Address: 380 E. Hickory Grove Road, Bloomfield Hills
- Why It Stands Out: St. Hugo of the Hills is a highly respected Catholic school serving Preschool through 8th grade. It is known for its academic excellence, faith-based learning, and development of strong character in students. The school offers a broad range of programs including music, visual arts, athletics, and service learning. Its beautiful, wooded campus and close connection with the historic St. Hugo of the Hills Church create a peaceful, values-driven educational environment. The school has also been recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School, affirming its outstanding academic performance.
Founded in 1940 by Monsignor John M. Gabriels, St. Hugo of the Hills Elementary School was established to serve the Catholic community in the Bloomfield Hills area. It operates under the Archdiocese of Detroit and has been a pillar of Catholic education for over 80 years. The school was built to support the growing suburban population of the Detroit area and has continuously evolved to meet modern educational standards while maintaining its religious mission.
Hillel Day School
- Address: 32200 Middlebelt Road, Farmington Hills
- Why It Stands Out: Hillel Day School is a premier Jewish day school offering Preschool through 8th grade with an innovative dual curriculum in general and Judaic studies. It provides students with a rigorous academic education while emphasizing Jewish values, cultural identity and social responsibility. The school features state-of-the-art facilities including a greenhouse, makerspace, innovation hub and community kitchen, promoting inquiry-based learning and creativity. Hillel is known for its inclusive approach, welcoming families from across the Jewish spectrum.
Hillel Day School was founded in 1958 as Michigan’s first non-Orthodox Jewish day school. Initially aligned with the Conservative movement, it transitioned to a non-denominational, pluralistic model in 2008 to better reflect the diversity of its student body. The school moved to its current Farmington Hills campus in 1970 and has undergone several expansions since. It has played a major role in shaping Jewish education in Southeast Michigan, with a legacy of academic excellence and community leadership.
Alpine Academy
- Address: 3100 W. Gunn Road, Oakland Township
- Why It Stands Out: Alpine Academy is a family-owned and operated early childhood school serving toddlers through junior kindergarten. It emphasizes a nurturing, structured environment with very small class sizes—typically around seven students per group. The school is designed to foster emotional security, social development and a love of learning in young children. Teachers are experienced and committed to long-term classroom stability, helping children build trust and consistency throughout their early years.
Founded in 1995 by Catherine Hammond, Alpine Academy began as “Cathy’s Corner,” a small preschool program developed to serve local families in Lake Orion. Due to its growing popularity, it expanded into a full early childhood center and was later renamed Alpine Academy. The school continues to be guided by Hammond’s vision of nurturing confident, independent and happy children in a warm, family-like setting.
Eagle Creek Academy
- Address: 3739 Kern Road, Lake Orion, MI
- Why It Stands Out: Eagle Creek Academy is a private, nonsectarian school for Preschool through 5th grade, with a strong emphasis on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) education. Known for its small class sizes, personalized instruction and academically advanced curriculum, Eagle Creek encourages creative thinking, collaboration and real-world problem-solving. Ninety percent of its teachers hold advanced degrees and students routinely perform above national averages on standardized tests. Families often describe the school as having a close-knit, welcoming atmosphere.
Eagle Creek Academy was founded in 1995 by Catherine Hammond as an extension of her early education work at Alpine Academy. As the demand for high-quality elementary education in the Lake Orion area grew, Eagle Creek was developed to continue the educational philosophy she began with Alpine. Over the years, it has grown into a respected private school serving families looking for innovative and individualized instruction in a supportive learning environment.
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