Private School Admissions Requirements: South Central and Southwest (Fall 2027)
SSAT, ISEE and HSPT requirements, fall 2027 deadlines, class sizes, financial aid, teaching approach and tuition for 176 independent day and boarding schools in Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico and Arizona.
Last verified: September 2026 · 176 schools · Checked on each school’s official admissions pages
Every independent school in the South Central and Southwest states, in one table
Each independent school sets its own testing rules, deadlines and tuition, and they change every year. This table covers the accredited independent schools in Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico and Arizona, from elementary and Montessori schools to day high schools and boarding schools, and shows what each school’s own admissions pages say for fall 2027 entry.
Filter by state, day or boarding, testing policy, teaching approach or affiliation, financial aid and class size. Open Details for each school’s mission, what sets it apart, signature programs, class size and ratio, financial aid, the full testing policy, entry grades, tuition and links to the official pages we used. See other regions on our national private school requirements hub.
At a glance: 9 schools require the SSAT or ISEE and 38 more require it for some grades, 0 are test optional and 9 have no entrance test. 52 schools do not state a testing policy on their websites, so ask their admissions office directly.
Helps students reach their full academic, artistic, athletic and spiritual potential through creative, collaborative learning in an inclusive Christian setting.
What stands out
Serves students from age 3 through grade 12.
Emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning built around inquiry and innovation.
Educates children from PreK3 through grade 8 in a demanding, supportive setting with an advanced curriculum that builds independent, motivated learners.
What stands out
Serves PreK3 through grade 8 and has operated since 1944.
Participates in the Arkansas Education Freedom Account program.
Testing policy
Interview and developmental/skills assessment for grade 2 and below; entrance evaluation during shadow day for 3 to 6
Approach
Nonsectarian
Signature programs
Performing and visual arts program, Extended day program
Brazos Christian SchoolCollege preparatory · Classical
Bryan
TX
Day
PreK to 12
Not stated
School’s own assessment
Rolling
Mission
Trains and educates students to make an impact on the world for Jesus.
What stands out
Uses a classical model with grammar, logic and rhetoric schools from PreK to 12.
Enrolls 533 students with a 15.5:1 student to teacher ratio.
School aid is open to families enrolled at least one year.
Testing policy
School placement testing after application; for a future school year testing begins late Feb/early Mar. Head of School interview with parents; principal interview for grades 7 to 12
Approach
College preparatoryClassicalFaith: Christian
Signature programs
Fine arts program, Dual credit and AP courses, Chapel program
Brownell Talbot College Preparatory SchoolCollege preparatory
Omaha
NE
Day
PreK to 12
Not stated
School’s own assessment
Not stated
Mission
Seeks to know, inspire and challenge each student’s mind and heart in a safe setting where students find their talents and make a positive impact.
What stands out
Founded in 1863 as Brownell Hall, a girls boarding school, and later merged with Talbot School for Boys.
Describes itself as Nebraska’s only independent, coeducational, college preparatory day school.
Belongs to the Common Ground Collaborative, an international network on learning principles.
Testing policy
Early Years and K: readiness assessment and family interview; grades 1 to 4: entrance exam and family interview; grades 5 to 12: entrance exam, essays, shadow day
Approach
College preparatory
Signature programs
Common Ground Collaborative member, Inquiry-based curriculum
Prepares children for life in God’s world, with its rights, duties and responsibilities, through academics in a caring Christian setting.
What stands out
Heart to Heart is a limited-enrollment inclusion program for students with Down syndrome.
Reports an average class size of 14 and a 7:1 student to teacher ratio.
Runs an Early Childhood Campus and a separate Christwood Boulevard campus for grades 1 to 12.
Testing policy
PreK to 4: readiness assessments and classroom visit; grades 5 to 7: shadow day with writing and math assessments; grades 8 to 12: spring placement testing
Approach
College preparatoryFaith: Episcopal
Signature programs
Heart to Heart inclusion program, Outdoor education program, Travel program
The Clariden SchoolInternational Baccalaureate · Project-based learning
Southlake
TX
Day
PreK to 12
11
School’s own assessment
Jan 15, 2027
Mission
Offers forward-looking learning to a global community of independent thinkers by sparking curiosity, innovation and the discovery of each student’s talents.
What stands out
Offers the IB Diploma Programme and uses project-based learning at every grade level.
Reports an average class size of 11 on a 23-acre campus in Southlake.
Co-curriculars include Odyssey of the Mind, robotics, rocketry and FIRST LEGO League.
Testing policy
On-campus assessment and student interview during shadow day
Approach
International BaccalaureateProject-based learningSTEM focusNonsectarian
Signature programs
IB Diploma Programme, Presentations of Learning, Robotics and rocketry, House system
Dallas International SchoolInternational Baccalaureate · Bilingual or immersion
Dallas
TX
Day
Age 2 to 12
Not stated
School’s own assessment
Jan 29, 2027 (grades 1 to 12); Jan 25, 2027 (EC)
Mission
Inspires multilingual, globally minded students to pursue lifelong discovery and action.
What stands out
Accredited by the French Ministry of Education and an IB World School since 2007.
Reports that 75% of students speak at least three languages and over 55 cultures are represented.
Operates a Lower School campus and an Upper School campus in Dallas.
Testing policy
In-house English evaluation in reading, writing and math for grades 1 to 5; assessment for grades 6 to 8 (waived for French school transfers); high school may require subject tests; none for EC2 to K
Approach
International BaccalaureateBilingual or immersionGlobal or international
Signature programs
French national curriculum, IB Diploma Programme, Aviation program, Global exchange program
The Emery/Weiner SchoolCollege preparatory · Experiential and outdoor
Houston
TX
Day
6 to 12
14
SSAT or ISEE required
Dec 14, 2026 (priority); materials Jan 15, 2027
Mission
Educates the whole child through an inquiry-based Jewish approach that builds critical thinking, diversity and compassionate engagement in Jewish and global communities.
What stands out
Pluralistic Jewish school for grades 6 to 12 with a 9:1 ratio on a 17-acre campus.
Tuition covers lunch, retreats, required experiential travel, athletics and arts activities.
More than 35% of students receive need-based aid; no merit aid is offered.
Testing policy
ISEE for all applicants (code 447570); PSAT accepted for grade 11 applicants only
Approach
College preparatoryExperiential and outdoorFaith: Jewish
Signature programs
Big Bend hiking and camping trips, Senior Israel trip, Levine Innovation Lab, RoboJags robotics program
Average class size
14
Student to teacher ratio
9:1
Students
more than 650
Founded
2001
Campus
17 acre campus
Students enrolled
Coed
Tuition
Day $37,639 (2026-27)
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; more than 35% of students receive aid; Need-based only, no merit awards; All-inclusive tuition
The Fay SchoolProject-based learning · Experiential and outdoor
Houston
TX
Day
PreK3 to 5
18
Not stated by school
Not stated
Mission
Helps children grow intellectually, physically, socially, ethically and artistically and build a lifelong love of learning through partnership among teachers, parents and students.
What stands out
Campus includes the Havens Outdoor Education Center, Fay Forest, Fay Farm and nature trails.
Enrolls about 335 students from PreK3 to grade 5 with an 8:1 student to teacher ratio.
Need-based FayTAP assistance is offered; no funds go to merit awards.
Testing policy
No entrance test stated on admissions FAQ
Approach
Project-based learningExperiential and outdoorNonsectarian
Signature programs
Havens Outdoor Education Center, Fay Farm and Fay Forest, Leadership development program, Emotional intelligence curriculum
Average class size
18
Student to teacher ratio
8:1
Students
335
Campus
8.5 acre campus
Students enrolled
Coed
Tuition
Day $34,180 (2026-27, grade 5, lowest plan)
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; Need-based only, no merit awards
Fort Worth Christian SchoolCollege preparatory · Faith: Christian
North Richland Hills
TX
Day
PreK to 12
Not stated
School’s own assessment
Nov 30, 2026 early decision (legacy/sibling families only)
Mission
A Christ-centered college preparatory school where each student is known and valued, taught excellence and shaped by a biblical worldview.
What stands out
Opened in fall 1958 with 211 students and now enrolls about 870 from preschool to grade 12.
Campus covers more than 40 acres; faculty includes 110 full-time teachers.
Families come from over 100 area congregations at this nondenominational Christian school.
Testing policy
Own academic screening (math, reading, writing) for PreK to 12; MAP, PSAT, SAT/ACT may replace math/reading for grades 6 to 12; drug screen for grades 9 to 12
Approach
College preparatoryFaith: Christian
Signature programs
FWC International program, Kingdom Education, College counseling program
Develops capable students intellectually, physically, emotionally and ethically through a demanding college preparatory program that includes arts and athletics.
What stands out
Enrolls 1,118 students from junior kindergarten to grade 12 on a 104-acre campus.
Offers 21 AP courses and has 157 full-time faculty, 51% with advanced degrees.
One in four students receives need-based aid, totaling $4.6 million a year.
Testing policy
Admission page references Fort Worth Consortium testing policy but does not name the test
Approach
College preparatory
Signature programs
Center for International Studies, Capstone program, Falcon Houses, 4-H program
Students
1,118
Campus
104 acre campus
Students enrolled
Coed
Tuition
Day $31,770 (2026-27)
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; 25% of students receive aid; $4.6 million aid budget
Offers every student, regardless of background, rigorous academics, evidence-based teaching and a knowledge-rich curriculum to reach their potential and contribute to society.
What stands out
Founded in 1933 by Rubie and George Atchley as Green Fields Country Day School.
Adopted the Accelerated Learning Laboratory model in 2019, letting students advance beyond grade boundaries.
Campus covers 20 acres in Tucson and offers boarding as well as day enrollment.
Testing policy
School assessment test plus tour and interview; standardized test scores if applicable
Signature programs
Accelerated Learning Laboratory model, Global exchange program, College counseling
Founded
1933
Campus
20 acre campus
Students enrolled
Coed
Tuition
Day $14,000 (year not stated) / Boarding $30,000 (year not stated)
Challenges and supports students to excel in character, scholarship, leadership and innovation and to make a positive impact by pursuing passions and solving problems.
What stands out
Offers more than 160 classes with personalized schedules for 380 students in grades 5 to 12.
Runs a Fab Lab affiliated with the MIT Fab Lab Network and an Entrepreneurial Institute.
Reports an average class size of 12 and one college counselor per 50 students.
Testing policy
Math and English entrance exam on school test dates
Signature programs
Entrepreneurial Institute, Fab Lab in the MIT Fab Lab Network, Writing Center, Interim Week immersion
Provides an independent college preparatory education to a diverse student body in a safe, supportive community that fosters intellectual, emotional and physical growth.
What stands out
Founded in 1980 by Jean K. Garvey with 8 students.
Serves children from age 6 weeks through grade 12 on one Wichita campus.
Accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States.
Testing policy
JK and up: shadow day plus developmentally appropriate assessment
Approach
College preparatory
Signature programs
TIS International program, Learning differences support, Band and dance programs
Founded
1980
Students enrolled
Coed
Tuition
Day $18,680 (2026-27, grades 9 to 12)
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; Need-based only, no merit awards
International School of TucsonBilingual or immersion · Global or international
Tucson
AZ
Day
Infant to 8
Not stated
Not stated by school
Not stated
Mission
Uses language immersion and cultural learning to develop multilingual, globally aware students prepared to navigate a changing world with empathy and curiosity.
What stands out
Certified in the International Early Years Curriculum for its youngest students.
Serves infants through grade 8 as a nonprofit, non-selective coeducational school.
Aims for every graduate to be bilingual and biliterate.
Testing policy
No test mentioned; tour, application, placement by level appropriateness
Approach
Bilingual or immersionGlobal or international
Signature programs
Spanish immersion program, Dual language immersion in junior and middle school, International Early Years Curriculum
Fosters individual growth and academic excellence in an inclusive community built on strong relationships and high expectations.
What stands out
Offers 21 AP courses and three world languages.
Teams have won 120 athletic state championships and debaters two national championships.
Campus covers 11.5 acres in Uptown New Orleans near Tulane and Loyola.
Testing policy
PreK to K: developmental screening; grades 1 to 3: school assessment; grades 4 to 12: standardized scores, ISEE, SSAT or ERB/CTP accepted for 6 to 12 (ISEE given on campus)
Approach
College preparatoryNonsectarian
Signature programs
Design and innovation labs, Debate program, Green Trees early childhood program
Average class size
15
Student to teacher ratio
6:1
Students
1,073
Founded
1903
Campus
Urban, 11.5 acre campus
Students enrolled
Coed
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; 21% of students receive aid; $2.3 million aid budget
The John Cooper SchoolCollege preparatory · Nonsectarian
The Woodlands
TX
Day
PreK to 12
Not stated
SSAT or ISEE for some grades
Jan 15, 2027
Mission
Offers a challenging education in a caring setting so a diverse student body grows into critical, creative thinkers, communicators, citizens, leaders and lifelong learners.
What stands out
Offers 22 AP courses, with 95% of students scoring 3 or higher.
Five full-time college counselors support a senior class of 128.
Campus covers 43 wooded acres in The Woodlands.
Testing policy
ISEE for grades 5 to 12; WPPSI-IV or WISC cognitive testing for PreK to 4
Approach
College preparatoryNonsectarian
Student to teacher ratio
10:1
Students
1,400
Founded
1988
Campus
43 acre campus
Entry grades
PreK to 12
Students enrolled
Coed
Tuition
Day $36,240 (2026-27)
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; 12% of students receive aid; $3.3 million aid budget
Develops the strengths of capable, motivated students with dyslexia, ADHD and related learning differences, building skills, confidence and independence.
What stands out
Serves grades 1 to 12 for students with dyslexia and related learning differences.
Builds a daily FLEX period for intervention, enrichment, speech, occupational therapy and executive function.
Offers the AP Capstone research pathway in high school.
Testing policy
Three-day shadow with reading, writing and math assessments; educational evaluations (psych-ed, neuropsych) required
Approach
Learning differences
Signature programs
Wilson Reading System structured literacy, FLEX intervention and enrichment period, RULER emotional intelligence program, AP Capstone pathway
Keystone SchoolCollege preparatory · Experiential and outdoor
San Antonio
TX
Day
PreK to 12
Not stated
SSAT or ISEE for some grades
Rolling (K and 9 scores due in January; notified late Jan)
Mission
Offers an accelerated PK3 to 12 curriculum for motivated students in a supportive, inclusive setting that encourages academics, ethics, service and leadership.
What stands out
Follows an accelerated curriculum from PK3 through grade 12.
Runs an outdoor education program spanning kindergarten through grade 12.
In 2024, every AP test taker scored 3 or higher on at least one exam.
Testing policy
ISEE for grades 5 to 12; KBIT-2 for K to 4
Approach
College preparatoryExperiential and outdoor
Signature programs
K to 12 outdoor education program, Model United Nations, Advanced Placement courses
Dec 2, 2026 (grades 1 to 12); Sep 18, 2026 (PreK and K)
Mission
Promotes academic excellence and balanced growth in a safe, inclusive setting, preparing capable students of sound character to lead, serve and contribute.
What stands out
Founded in 1906 and serves 1,469 students from PreK to grade 12.
Offers 24 sports and stages 84 visual and performing arts productions.
Awards aid only on demonstrated need, with no academic, athletic or arts scholarships.
Testing policy
ISEE for grade 5 and up (plus essay grade 6+); WPPSI/WISC via CATS for PreK to 4
Approach
College preparatory
Signature programs
Center for Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Finance, Center for STEM, Center for Wellbeing and Success
Students
1,469
Founded
1906
Campus
64.5 acre campus
Entry grades
PreK, K, 6, 9
Students enrolled
Coed
Tuition
Day $38,960 (2026-27)
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; Need-based only, no merit awards
Magellan International SchoolInternational Baccalaureate · Bilingual or immersion
Austin
TX
Day
PreK3 to 12 (12 added by fall 2027)
Not stated
SSAT or ISEE for some grades
Not stated
Mission
Prepares innovative, globally minded and culturally curious students to live with purpose and contribute to a better future.
What stands out
Offers the full IB continuum, PYP, MYP and DP, in both Spanish and English.
Students spend about 75% of the school day learning in Spanish, depending on grade.
Awards about $1.3 million in need-based aid each year.
Testing policy
Grades 1 to 5: ISEE, MAP or STAAR plus school assessment; 6 to 8: MAP, ISEE or SSAT; 9 to 11: one of ISEE, SSAT, ACT or PSAT; PreK to K: video and family meeting
Approach
International BaccalaureateBilingual or immersionGlobal or internationalNonsectarian
Signature programs
Spanish immersion, IB Diploma Programme, Design and Innovation curriculum, Global Impact Diploma
Founded
2009
Entry grades
PreK3 to 11
Students enrolled
Coed
Tuition
Day $26,950 (2026-27, high school)
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; 15% of students receive aid; $1.3 million aid budget
Maur Hill-Mount AcademyCollege preparatory · Global or international
Atchison
KS
Day and boarding
9 to 12
Not stated
Varies by grade
Rolling (day decisions Mar 1)
Mission
Educates young men and women in the Benedictine tradition through a Catholic, college preparatory boarding and day program.
What stands out
About 40% of its 200 students board, drawn from 12 states and 10 countries.
Graduates earn an average of 18 college credits before finishing high school.
Has operated as a Catholic boarding school since 1863.
Testing policy
Incoming grade 9 day students take the Pre-ACT on campus in December (register by Nov 30); transfer and boarding students submit any standardized scores; international students need English proficiency test (TOEFL, Duolingo, IELTS etc)
Approach
College preparatoryGlobal or internationalFaith: Catholic
Signature programs
Boarding program, English as a Second Language program, College credit courses
Students
200
Founded
1863
Entry grades
9 (transfers 10 to 12)
Students enrolled
Coed
Tuition
Day $8,500 (year not stated) / Boarding $32,500 domestic; $44,350 international (year not stated)
Mount St. Mary AcademyCollege preparatory · Service learning
Little Rock
AR
Day
9 to 12
Not stated
HSPT or TACHS
Rolling after Mar 1 (2025-26 cycle)
Mission
Develops young women’s gifts as leaders committed to lifelong learning, moral integrity, social justice, service and inclusion, guided by Catholic teaching.
What stands out
Catholic college preparatory high school for young women.
Entrance exam results determine eligibility for competitive merit-based scholarships.
Students take part in community service as part of school life.
Testing policy
All incoming freshmen take the Catholic High School Placement Test (HSPT score used); doubles as scholarship exam; shadow day
Approach
College preparatoryService learningFaith: Catholic
Northlake Christian SchoolCollege preparatory · Service learning
Covington
LA
Day
Infant (6 weeks) to 12
Not stated
School’s own assessment
Rolling (applications open Oct 1, 2026; enrollment opens Jan 30, 2027)
Mission
Partners with the Christian community to offer a Christ-centered, high-quality education that integrates faith and learning from preschool through grade 12.
What stands out
Opened in 1978 with 110 students and now enrolls nearly 900.
Fields 40 athletic teams for students in grades 3 to 12.
Students logged 4,600 service hours in the 2025 to 26 school year.
Testing policy
K: readiness screening; grades 1 to 12: STAR reading and math assessment plus writing sample on campus; interview
Approach
College preparatoryService learningFaith: Christian
Signature programs
Arts and athletics programs, Charity partner service program, Spiritual life program
Nurtures curiosity, creativity, confidence, collaboration and character to prepare students for meaningful lives in college and beyond.
What stands out
Founded in 1979 and serves preschool through grade 12 in Arlington.
Competes in athletics as a member of the Southwest Preparatory Conference.
Offers need-based tuition assistance for grades 1 to 12.
Testing policy
PreK and K: developmental assessment; K to 8: True Progress assessment on shadow day; 9 to 12: Oakridge placement testing, ISEE/PSAT/SAT/ACT scores optional
Approach
College preparatory
Signature programs
College advising program, Student laptop program, Upper school community service requirement
An inclusive Episcopal community guided by wisdom, honor and service that develops creative learners and bold leaders ready for a complex global society.
What stands out
Enrolls about 1,220 students on two Dallas campuses.
Fields more than 60 athletic teams across 22 sports.
Allocates more than $5.1 million a year to need-based tuition assistance, with no merit scholarships.
Testing policy
ISEE for grades 2 to 12; CATS testing for PreK4 to 1; no test for PreK3
Approach
Faith: Episcopal
Signature programs
ParishSTEM center, Upper School Leadership Institute, Academy of Global Studies, ParishLeads leadership curriculum
Students
1,220
Students enrolled
Coed
Tuition
Day $40,745 (2026-27)
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; $5.1 million aid budget; Need-based only, no merit awards
Parkview Baptist SchoolCollege preparatory · Faith: Christian
Baton Rouge
LA
Day
Infant to 12
Not stated
School’s own assessment
Rolling
Mission
Provides a Christ-centered, infant to grade 12 college preparatory education that builds intellectual, spiritual, social, physical and emotional skills.
What stands out
Enrolls 1,094 students from 41 cities, from infants through grade 12.
Teams have won 73 state championships since 1981.
Named a National Blue Ribbon School in 2019.
Testing policy
PreK to K: ESGI readiness; grades 1 to 4: math and reading placement test; grades 5 to 11: on-campus entrance exam; grade 11 also needs recent ACT
Approach
College preparatoryFaith: Christian
Signature programs
Parkview Flex flexible-schedule program, High school college advising, Arts and athletics programs
Prepares promising students to be responsible leaders and lifelong learners through intellectual engagement, independence, collaboration, creativity and integrity.
What stands out
Campus covers 40 acres with six design labs and four visual art studios.
Maintains a 36 to 1 student to college counselor ratio.
About 20% of families receive need-based aid, averaging $15,000 per grant.
Testing policy
ISEE for grades 2 to 11 (SSAT not accepted); on-campus readiness assessment for PreK to 1
Signature programs
Project Excellence program, Design labs, College counseling program
Average class size
16
Student to teacher ratio
8:1
Founded
1961
Campus
40 acre campus
Entry grades
PreK, K, 3, 5, 6, 9
Students enrolled
Coed
Tuition
Day $37,300 (2026-27)
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; 20% of students receive aid
Builds strength of intellect and character in a positive, respectful and family-like Christian setting.
What stands out
Seventh and eighth graders complete a dedicated Service Project.
Runs named programs including the SEECK Program, the SMART Project and an 8th grade leadership program.
Testing policy
PreK to K: developmental screening; grades 1 to 4: standardized scores or testing at St. Paul’s plus intellectual evaluation by child psychologist; grades 5 to 7: standardized scores or testing at St. Paul’s, interview, writing sample
Approach
Faith: Episcopal
Signature programs
SEECK Program, SMART Project, Seventh and Eighth Grade Service Project, Outdoor Education
Offers an individualized program that helps children with learning difficulties build on strengths, compensate for challenges and gain confidence in learning.
What stands out
Operates as a laboratory school on the TCU campus and a training site for TCU education students.
Admits students with a diagnosed learning disability and average to above-average IQ.
Testing policy
No entrance exam; testing and evaluations showing diagnosed learning disability and IQ of 90 or above submitted with application
Treats education as the formation of character, not only the transfer of information, for boys in a Catholic setting.
What stands out
Independent Catholic school for boys founded in 1984, serving PK3 through grade 7.
Average class size is 18, and half of the faculty hold advanced degrees.
Teaches through movement, hands-on activities and cooperative assignments designed for boys.
Testing policy
PK3 to PK4: speech-language, hearing and readiness screening; K to 3: basic IQ test by independent tester; grades 4 to 7: IQ test or consecutive years of standardized scores
Offers a balanced, challenging education meant to spark a love of discovery, prepare students for college and shape lives of integrity and global citizenship.
What stands out
Uses indexed tuition, with each family’s contribution set by its financial resources.
Tuition covers transportation, two daily meals, laptops, field trips and co-curricular activities.
Offers no AP or IB courses; about 20% of upper school courses are advanced college-level work.
Testing policy
No entrance test named; records and test scores for grades 1 to 12, writing sample for 5 to 12, family meeting
Jan 29, 2027 (general); early action in Dec; rolling after
Mission
Provides a values-based education grounded in the teachings of Jesus Christ that challenges motivated students to reach their potential in service and leadership.
What stands out
Founded in 1893 as the West Texas School for Boys by the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas.
Offers 24 AP courses within more than 30 college prep, honors and AP pathways.
Offers merit awards including the four-year, full-tuition Alkek and Gresham Scholarships.
Testing policy
ISEE required (on-campus dates Nov 14 and Dec 12, 2026 and Jan 23, 2027)
Approach
College preparatoryFaith: Episcopal
Signature programs
Corps of Cadets, Walker Innovation Center, Boarding program
Student to teacher ratio
9:1
Founded
1893
Campus
86 acre campus
Students enrolled
Coed
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; Merit scholarships available
Educates students with learning differences through individualized instruction in a compassionate, structured setting so each can reach full potential.
What stands out
Founded in 1961 as an Oklahoma City school dedicated to students with learning differences.
Serves students with dyslexia, ADHD, autism and processing disorders through individualized plans.
Offers in-house reading therapy and speech therapy.
Testing policy
Requires a medically diagnosed learning difference or prior IEP; no entrance test stated
Approach
Learning differences
Signature programs
Trinity Individualized Plan (TIP), Reading therapy, Speech therapy
Tucson Hebrew AcademyBilingual or immersion · Faith: Jewish
Tucson
AZ
Day
K to 8
Not stated
Not stated by school
Not stated
Mission
Serves as Tucson’s community Jewish day school, offering differentiated secular and pluralistic Jewish education in a supportive, values-centered setting.
What stands out
Opened in 1973 with 42 children; now serves kindergarten through grade 8.
Teaches Hebrew in all grades and adds Spanish in middle school.
Reports 98% of students received financial assistance in 2025 to 26, totaling over $1.1 million.
Testing policy
No entrance test listed; visit experience (class visit, shadow day or interview by grade), records and teacher recommendations
Approach
Bilingual or immersionFaith: Jewish
Signature programs
Hebrew language program, Middle school Spanish, Middle school domestic and international trips
Student to teacher ratio
9:1
Founded
1973
Tuition
Day $25,422 (2026-27, grade 8)
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; 98% of students receive aid; $1.1 million aid budget
Ursuline AcademyCollege preparatory · Service learning
New Orleans
LA
Day
Nursery to 12
Not stated
School’s own assessment
Dec 8 early (2025-26 cycle)
Mission
Prepares confident, compassionate leaders for a diverse global society through Catholic formation, strong academics and a lifelong commitment to service.
What stands out
Founded in 1727 and describes itself as the nation’s first all-girls Catholic school.
Every student in kindergarten through grade 7 learns an instrument.
High school students average 251 service hours each.
Testing policy
K to 7: school-administered grade-level assessment plus standardized scores; high school (8 to 12): MAP testing on campus plus interview
Approach
College preparatoryService learningFaith: Catholic
Signature programs
Lily House nursery, Dual enrollment program, Instrumental music program, Coding from pre-K
Student to teacher ratio
8:1
Founded
1727
Campus
11.5 acre campus
Students enrolled
Girls
Tuition
Day $13,635 (2026-27, grades 8 to 12)
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; Merit scholarships available
Ursuline Academy of DallasCollege preparatory · Global or international
Dallas
TX
Day
9 to 12
15 to 18
SSAT or ISEE required
Jan 8, 2027
Mission
Seeks the full development of each young woman through spiritual formation, intellectual growth, service and community, preparing her for global leadership.
What stands out
Offers more than 35 AP, post-AP and honors courses among over 200 classes.
Students completed 35,456 service hours in 2025 to 26.
Grants more than $2.17 million in tuition assistance; 23% of students receive it.
Testing policy
ISEE required for all applicants, recommended Dec or Jan of grade 8; scores due early Feb
Approach
College preparatoryGlobal or internationalService learningFaith: Catholic
Signature programs
Global delegation exchanges, Four world languages including Arabic and Mandarin, UA+ programs
Average class size
15 to 18
Students
900
Founded
1874
Entry grades
9
Students enrolled
Girls
Tuition
Day $30,550 (2026-27)
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; 23% of students receive aid; $2.17 million aid budget
The Village SchoolInternational Baccalaureate · STEM focus
Houston
TX
Day and boarding
PreK2 to 12
Not stated
SSAT or ISEE for some grades
Jan 15 priority, then rolling
Mission
Holds high academic standards while developing lifelong learners and global citizens who think critically, collaborate and give generously.
What stands out
Offers the IB Diploma and reports a 100% IB Diploma pass rate.
Offers five-day and seven-day boarding alongside day enrollment for ages 2 to 18.
Need-based aid is available from grade 5 up; no merit or athletic scholarships.
Testing policy
Grades 6 to 12 submit one of MAP, PSAT, ISEE, SSAT, ACT, SAT, STAAR or CAT4; elementary submits STAAR, MAP, WISC or WPPSI; PreK none; English test for international
Approach
International BaccalaureateSTEM focusGlobal or international
Signature programs
Collaborations with MIT, Juilliard, NASA and UNICEF, Five-day and seven-day boarding, Entrepreneurship program, Internship program
Founded
1966
Students enrolled
Coed
Tuition
Day $35,373 (2026-27) / Boarding $86,230 7-day tuition plus $7,500 fee (2026-27)
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; Need-based only, no merit awards
Educates children through active, challenging experiences that build cooperative, confident and responsible problem solvers.
What stands out
Describes its approach as informal and child-centered, encouraging questions and risk-taking.
Reports a 10:1 student to teacher ratio for preschool through grade 8.
About 15% of families receive need-based financial assistance each year.
Testing policy
Grade 1: teacher readiness evaluation; grades 2 to 8: math and reading evaluations plus writing sample on visit; preschool and K meet admission director
Approach
ProgressiveService learningNonsectarian
Signature programs
Westminster Community Service Learning
Student to teacher ratio
10:1
Students enrolled
Coed
Tuition
Day $19,955 (2026-27, grades 6 to 8)
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; 15% of students receive aid; Need-based only, no merit awards
White Rock Montessori SchoolMontessori · Experiential and outdoor
Dallas
TX
Day
Toddler (18 months) to 8 (age 15)
Not stated
No entrance test
Not stated
Mission
Nurtures lifelong learners and prepares them to act as engaged global citizens.
What stands out
Founded in 1975 on a 4.5-acre campus in Dallas.
All lead teachers hold AMS or AMI Montessori credentials.
Reports a 10:1 student to staff ratio, 7:1 in the toddler program.
Testing policy
No entrance test listed; Upper Elementary and middle school applicants submit report cards and existing standardized test scores; tour and student visit
Approach
MontessoriExperiential and outdoor
Signature programs
Montessori middle school, Outdoor education program, Student support services
Student to teacher ratio
10:1
Founded
1975
Campus
4.5 acre campus
Students enrolled
Coed
Financial aid
Need-based aid offered; Need-based only, no merit awards
Inspires every student to reach full potential through a college preparatory education in a diverse, supportive community.
What stands out
Offers 19 AP courses and 5 post-AP courses, including a senior humanities seminar.
Is one of 50 Malone Scholars schools nationally, with a $2 million scholarship endowment.
Uses indexed tuition, pricing tuition to each family’s financial situation.
Testing policy
Age 2 to K: developmental assessment; grades 1 to 12: prior standardized test results (aptitude and achievement), writing sample, teacher forms; school may add assessment
Approach
College preparatoryNonsectarian
Signature programs
Senior Humanities Seminar, Malone Scholarship, DeVore Scholars Program, Fine arts program
Average class size
15
Student to teacher ratio
8:1
Founded
1963
Students enrolled
Coed
Tuition
Day Up to $25,350 (2026-27, indexed, grades 9 to 12)
Testing summarizes the rule for the main entry grades. Many schools test only some grades, so open Details for the full policy. Deadlines are for fall 2027 entry unless another cycle is noted. Tuition is the school’s published upper school rate for the year shown. Approach, class size, aid and mission come from each school’s own website; blank means the school does not publish it.
Quick answers
Do private schools in the South Central and Southwest states require the SSAT or ISEE?
Of the 124 schools in this table that state a testing policy, 9 require the SSAT or ISEE for their main entry grades and 38 more require it for some grades, 0 are test optional, 9 use no entrance test and 68 use their own assessment, the HSPT, or a policy that varies by grade. Many elementary and Montessori schools rely on visits and observations instead of a test.
Which boarding schools in the South Central and Southwest states are test optional?
There are 12 boarding or day and boarding schools in this table. None of the boarding schools here states a test optional policy. Boarding schools that require the SSAT or ISEE for at least some grades include The Brook Hill School, St. Stephen’s Episcopal School, TMI Episcopal and The Village School.
How much does private school cost in this region?
Among schools that post 2026-27 upper school day tuition, the median is $26,795. Most schools also offer need-based financial aid, and a few are tuition free.
When are applications due for fall 2027?
The most common deadlines among schools posting fall 2027 dates are Jan 15, Jan 8 and Dec 11, 2026. Many schools also accept rolling applications after the main deadline if seats remain. Check the Deadline column and each school’s admissions page.
Which Montessori schools are in the South Central and Southwest states?
9 schools in this table describe themselves as Montessori on their own websites, including Alcuin School, Austin Montessori School, Casady School, Headwaters School, Hill Country Montessori School and The Montessori School of San Antonio. Use the Approach filter above to see all of them with their testing policy, class size and tuition.
Which private schools in the South Central and Southwest states serve students with learning differences?
14 schools in this table describe themselves as serving students with learning differences on their own websites, including The Briarwood School, The Brighton School, Hill School of Fort Worth, Horizon Academy, The Jones-Gordon School and New Way Academy. Use the Approach filter above to see all of them with their testing policy, class size and tuition.
Which private schools in the South Central and Southwest states offer the International Baccalaureate?
12 schools in this table describe themselves as International Baccalaureate on their own websites, including Alcuin School, Austin International School, The Awty International School, The Clariden School, Dallas International School and Headwaters School. Use the Approach filter above to see all of them with their testing policy, class size and tuition.
Which Waldorf schools are in the South Central and Southwest states?
2 schools in this table describe themselves as Waldorf on their own websites, including Austin Waldorf School and Tucson Waldorf School. Use the Approach filter above to see all of them with their testing policy, class size and tuition.
How small are private school classes in the South Central and Southwest states?
Among the 37 schools that publish an average class size, the median is 15 students. Schools reporting some of the smallest classes include Preston Hollow Presbyterian School (8 to 12), The Clariden School (11), Academy of the Sacred Heart (12), Ann and Nate Levine Academy (12) and The Gregory School (12). Sort by the Avg class column to compare.
Which private schools in the South Central and Southwest states offer the most financial aid?
141 of the 176 schools in this table describe need-based financial aid on their own websites. The largest published annual aid budgets belong to Greenhill School ($6.6 million), St. Stephen’s Episcopal School ($6.6 million), St. John’s School ($5.3 million), Parish Episcopal School ($5.1 million) and The Episcopal School of Dallas (more than $5 million). Tuition free schools include Imago Dei Middle School. Use the Financial aid filter to find need-based, merit and income-based tuition options.
How was this list built?
We started from the member directories of the regional and national independent school associations and checked each school’s own admissions and tuition pages in September 2026. Schools we could not confirm on an official site are left out rather than guessed.
Applying to private or boarding school?
ConnectPrep helps families build school lists, prepare applications and interviews, and get ready for the SSAT, ISEE and HSPT, in person in Connecticut, New York and New Jersey and online nationwide.
The school list comes from the member directories of NAIS and the regional independent school associations for Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico and Arizona, plus TABS for boarding schools. Each school’s testing policy, deadline, grades and tuition were then read on its own official admissions and tuition pages in September 2026, and a second pass in October 2026 recorded each school’s mission, teaching approach, signature programs, class size, ratio, enrollment, founding year and financial aid from its about, academics and affordability pages, and every row links to the page we used. Directory sites were not used as sources. When a school’s site does not state a policy, the table says so rather than guessing. Schools that have closed, and schools without a reachable official website, are left out.
This is a ConnectPrep page. It is researched and published by ConnectPrep, an independent tutoring, test prep and admissions advising company based in Westport, Connecticut. ConnectPrep is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of the schools listed, NAIS, TABS or the regional associations, The Enrollment Management Association (SSAT) or ERB (ISEE). Information is checked against official sources as of the date shown, but policies change, so always confirm details directly before you apply or register.
