What are the top all-girls private schools in California?

California offers a wide range of prestigious all-girls private schools that provide outstanding education. Notable schools include Castilleja School in Palo Alto, which is known for its rigorous academics and commitment to fostering leadership. Marlborough School in Los Angeles is another standout, offering a curriculum that emphasizes intellectual curiosity and creative problem-solving. In Pasadena, Westridge School focuses on a well-rounded education with strong STEM and arts programs. The Archer School for Girls in Los Angeles is recognized for its diverse community and social impact initiatives, while Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy blends academic excellence with a strong emphasis on character development. These schools not only excel academically but also empower young women to thrive as leaders and innovators.

What distinguishes top all-girls schools in California from other schools?

Top all-girls private schools in California distinguish themselves through their unique focus on empowering young women. Schools like Castilleja, Marlborough, and Westridge prioritize academic excellence in a supportive, all-female environment that fosters self-confidence, leadership, and personal growth. These schools often feature rigorous STEM curricula, arts programs, and service learning projects that encourage students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In addition, their leadership development programs prepare students to excel not just academically but in real-world challenges. Moreover, these schools emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusion, creating environments where every student feels valued and prepared to take on global leadership roles. These distinct characteristics make them stand out in providing well-rounded educational experiences.

How do all-girls schools in California foster leadership in students?

All-girls schools in California, such as Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy, Archer, and Westridge, are renowned for their leadership development programs. These institutions provide opportunities for young women to engage in leadership roles both in the classroom and beyond. Whether through student government, leadership training programs, or community service projects, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, collaboration, and decision-making skills. Schools like Marlborough emphasize experiential learning, where students participate in activities that build confidence and the ability to inspire and lead others. These schools also offer mentorship programs, ensuring that each student has the support to grow into a self-assured, socially responsible leader, equipped to succeed in college and future careers.

What types of extracurricular opportunities are available at all-girls schools in California?

All-girls schools in California like The Hamlin School, Archer, and Castilleja offer an array of extracurricular activities that encourage personal development and exploration. Students can engage in arts programs, athletics, STEM clubs, and volunteer opportunities that foster teamwork, creativity, and leadership. For example, Westridge School provides an extensive arts curriculum, while Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy excels in offering opportunities for students to participate in sports and community outreach programs. Many of these schools also provide unique initiatives such as entrepreneurship programs, coding workshops, and sustainability projects. These extracurriculars complement the academic curriculum and are designed to empower students, helping them develop the skills needed to thrive in all aspects of life.

Best All-Girls Private School in California

Looking for a school that hits the sweet spot between standout academics and student life? That is, real friendships and a campus experience you’ll never forget? Well, you’re in the right place. California’s all-girls private schools are where future leaders, innovators, and bold thinkers find their spark.

Suppose you’re a parent exploring options or a student imagining your next chapter, fret not, because this countdown covers ten of the best. These are schools where confidence grows, curiosity thrives, and tradition makes room for progress. Let’s start with number ten and see where excellence lives.

Please note that this ranking is based on Cardinal Education’s professional experience as educational consultants and feedback from hundreds of families we have worked with. It reflects our informed opinion and is intended to provide insight for families exploring private school options. This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially representative of any of the schools mentioned.

Top 10 All-Girls Schools in California

#10 – The Hamlin School | San Francisco, CA

Tucked into San Francisco’s iconic Pacific Heights, The Hamlin School is more than just a pretty campus with history. Founded in 1896, it holds the honor of being the oldest non-sectarian all-girls school in the Western U.S., but don’t mistake it for old-school. Hamlin is a K–8 powerhouse where academic foundations are strong, community matters, and girls leave ready to crush it at top high schools.

What is The Hamlin School Known For?

At Hamlin, learning has a serious personality. The curriculum is designed to help girls ask bold questions, speak with purpose, and actually enjoy the process of figuring things out. One of the most talked-about experiences is the Rise to the Challenge project in seventh grade. It’s not just a school assignment. It’s a deep dive into real-world issues where students get to think big and take action.

What really makes Hamlin click is how its values show up in the everyday stuff. The school’s CREED—Compassion, Courage, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility—isn’t just something you recite during assemblies. It shapes how people treat each other, how classrooms feel, and how the community stays grounded. Diversity here isn’t decoration. It’s a way of thinking, living, and showing up for one another.

Who are Some Notable Hamlin Alumni?

Judge Katherine Feinstein — Former San Francisco Superior Court judge
Jennifer Dulski — Founding team member at Change.org and former president of Care.com
Ivy Getty — Artist, philanthropist, and member of the Getty family

Hamlin grads don’t just move forward. They stand out, speak up, and shape the world around them. A strong start here leads to big things later on.

#9 – The Girls’ Middle School | Palo Alto, CA

Middle school tends to get a bad rap, but not at The Girls’ Middle School (GMS). Since 1998, GMS has flipped the script on these years, turning them into a launchpad for girls who are ready to take on the world with brains, bravery, and a serious sense of purpose. Nestled in Palo Alto, just down the road from some of tech’s biggest players, GMS offers an education that feels fresh, fearless, and completely future-facing.

At GMS, expectations are high, but so is the support. The school leans into a culture where every voice counts, where failure is part of the learning curve, and where curiosity is treated like a superpower. The faculty gets middle school, and more importantly, they get what middle school girls need to thrive.

What is The Girls’ Middle School Known For?

The Seventh-Grade Entrepreneurship Program is a rite of passage here. Students take on real startup roles with real funding and real products. They pitch to Silicon Valley investors, launch their own ventures, and learn more about business than most adults do in their first jobs.

STEM at GMS is just as bold. Over three years, students work through a hands-on, deeply relevant curriculum that brings engineering and data to life. It’s not about memorizing concepts. It’s about building, experimenting, and solving problems that matter.

Who are Some Notable GMS Alumni?

Emily Laiterman — Carnegie Mellon grad in computer science and linguistics, now a public speaking coach
And plenty more alumnae are making moves in tech, media, and entrepreneurship after getting their start in these very classrooms.

GMS doesn’t just teach girls how to keep up. It teaches them how to lead, how to build something from nothing, and how to walk into any room with confidence.

#8 – Notre Dame High School | San Jose, CA

Notre Dame High School in San Jose is where tradition meets tomorrow. Founded in 1851, it holds the title of California’s oldest all-girls high school, but there’s nothing outdated about it. Sitting right in the middle of downtown San Jose, this school blends Catholic values with a bold, modern approach that centers on leadership, innovation, and real-world impact.

What is Notre Dame High School Known For?

One of the school’s signature experiences is its Education for Justice & Leadership program. It’s more than a curriculum but also a mindset. Students take on projects that spark change, like the Women’s Place Project and the Young Women’s Advocacy Summit. These aren’t just class assignments. There are ways for girls to take what they’re learning and turn it into something meaningful.

STEM at Notre Dame is anything but one-dimensional. With programs in Technology, Engineering, and Design, students explore big ideas with real-world relevance. Courses like AP Computer Science aren’t taught in isolation; rather, they’re tied to ethics, collaboration, and innovation.

Notre Dame proudly claims its role as Silicon Valley’s Center for Women’s Leadership. That’s not just a motto. It shows up in the way the school mentors its students, partners with industry leaders, and creates a culture where girls are encouraged to take charge and speak up.

Who are Some Notable Notre Dame Alumni?

Angela Dimayuga — Executive chef and cultural powerhouse
Michelle Do — Olympic table tennis competitor,
Fatima Farheen Mirza — Bestselling author of A Place for Us

Notre Dame doesn’t just prepare girls for college. It prepares them for whatever they want to take on next, with purpose, confidence, and a strong sense of who they are.

#7 – Presentation High School | San Jose, CA

At Presentation High School, success isn’t just about GPA. It’s about the kind of impact students leave behind. Since 1962, this Catholic college-prep school in San Jose’s Willow Glen neighborhood has built a reputation for offering serious academics rooted in meaningful values. It’s a place where sharp minds meet open hearts, and where doing good is just as important as doing well.

What is Presentation High School Known For?

Pres delivers the kind of academic challenge that gets girls into top colleges, but that’s only half the story. The curriculum pushes students to think critically, communicate clearly, and approach the world with curiosity that doesn’t quit. And all that learning? It’s grounded in a bigger purpose.

Social justice isn’t something that happens after school. It’s part of the school day. Inspired by Catholic Social Teaching, students take on service projects and advocacy work that make a real difference for marginalized communities. Pres doesn’t just teach girls about injustice. It gives them the tools to do something about it.

The school’s culture runs on empathy and inclusion. Girls are encouraged to explore who they are and what they stand for in a community that listens, supports, and celebrates each voice. It’s a school where girls learn to lead, and they don’t wait until graduation to start.

Who are Some Notable Presentation Alumni?

Danielle Slaton — Olympic soccer medalist and sports broadcaster
Aly Wagner — Former pro soccer player and commentator
Jennifer Joines — Olympic volleyball star

Presentation girls don’t just show up. They take the lead. With strong academics and a deep commitment to service, this school is shaping young women who are ready to make a difference.

#6 – Marymount High School | Los Angeles, CA

Up in the Bel Air hills, with just enough distance from the Hollywood chaos, Marymount High School has been doing something quietly impressive since 1923—raising smart, thoughtful young women who know how to lead. Founded by the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, this Catholic all-girls high school blends tradition with ambition, and it does so with a serious heart.

What is Marymount High School Known For?

College prep at Marymount isn’t just a promise. It’s a pattern. Every graduate lands at a four-year college, and the list includes some very familiar names—UCLA, USC, Stanford, and Georgetown, to start. Students dive into APs and Honors courses, and nearly seven out of ten take on the challenge head-on.

The school’s academic stats go beyond solid. Marymount students regularly score well above national averages on standardized tests. But it’s not just about getting into college. It’s about making sure girls feel ready once they get there. The school encourages deep thinking, resilience, and independence, all within a community that has their back.

Outside the classroom, Marymount students get involved and stay involved. There are clubs, sports teams, and arts programs that let girls try new things, chase passions, and build leadership without waiting for someone to hand it to them. With students coming from dozens of zip codes and a wide mix of backgrounds, the campus feels like a small version of LA itself—diverse, dynamic, and full of energy.

Who are Some Notable Marymount Alumni?

Giada De Laurentiis — Celebrity chef and culinary powerhouse
Mariska Hargitay — Emmy-winning actress and advocate
Kim, Kourtney, and Khloé Kardashian — Entrepreneurs, media icons, and Marymount grads

Marymount doesn’t just talk about changing the world. It shows young women how to step up and do it.

#5 – Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy | La Cañada Flintridge, CA

Perched high above the San Gabriel Valley, Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy feels like a retreat and a launchpad all in one. With 41 acres of sunshine and skyline, this Catholic all-girls boarding and day school has been guiding students since 1931. Founded by the Dominican Sisters, it’s a place where young women find their voice, sharpen their minds, and learn what it means to lead with purpose.

What is Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy Known For?

Academic strength here goes hand in hand with emotional well-being. One of the school’s signature features is a four-year research program that helps students develop college-level skills in critical thinking and independent inquiry.

STEM is another standout. Graduates are ten times more likely to pursue science and tech degrees than the national average. Whether they’re building robots or designing experiments, girls here are trained to lead, not just follow.

The school is deeply rooted in Dominican values. Students grow through study, service, and spiritual reflection, but also through sisterhood and meaningful community life. The balance of structure and heart shows up in every part of campus life, from the classroom to the arts studio to the athletic field.

Boarding students bring global perspectives to campus, adding richness to the school’s already vibrant culture. With strong support systems and a beautiful environment to grow in, boarding life here feels like more than a dorm—it feels like home.

Who are Some Notable Flintridge Alumni?

Camille Johnston — Former Director of Communications for First Lady Michelle Obama
Barbara Ling — Academy Award-winning production designer (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood)

Flintridge Sacred Heart isn’t just preparing girls for college. It’s preparing them to move through the world with intention, courage, and the confidence to lead from wherever they are.

#4 – The Archer School for Girls | Los Angeles, CA

Right in the heart of Brentwood, The Archer School for Girls is rewriting the rules on what school can be. Since opening in 1995, Archer has grown into a powerhouse for grades 6 through 12. Don’t let its youth fool you—this school has become a national standout for progressive education, tech-savvy learning, and unapologetic girl power.

What is The Archer School Known For?

STEM at Archer isn’t just a class—it’s a mindset. Inside the Saban IDEALab, students jump into robotics, engineering, and code like it’s second nature. Programs like Advanced Study Research in Science and Engineering let girls go beyond the basics, and the annual STEM Symposium turns student projects into head-turning showcases.

Of course, science isn’t the only scene here. Archer’s curriculum is built around big ideas and bold thinking. It encourages girls to ask sharp questions, write with impact, and turn creativity into action. The school prides itself on academic excellence, but not at the expense of joy, mental health, or peer support.

And then there’s The Oracle—Archer’s student-run newspaper. It’s won the First Amendment Press Freedom Award eight years straight, which says a lot. At Archer, media literacy and student voice aren’t just posters on the wall. They’re part of how the school works.

Who are Some Notable Archer Alumni?

Emma Roberts — Actress and producer
Gia Coppola — Film director and screenwriter

Archer doesn’t just prepare girls for what’s next. It gives them the tools to build what comes after.

#3 – Westridge School | Pasadena, CA

At Westridge School, tradition and ambition go hand in hand. Since 1913, this private day school for girls in grades 4 through 12 has been focused on one thing: raising thoughtful, bold young women who know how to lead with purpose and speak up when it counts.

What is the Westridge School Known For?

Ranked among California’s best all-girls schools, Westridge consistently delivers when it comes to academics. Students here post SAT and ACT scores that turn college admissions heads, and many go on to places like Stanford, Brown, and the top UC campuses.

But Westridge doesn’t see college prep as a box to check. Starting in junior year, students get serious support through one-on-one guidance, college counseling seminars, and face time with more than 130 college reps. The goal isn’t just to get in somewhere. It’s to get in where you truly belong.

Wellness is just as important as performance. The school puts real energy into creating a space where girls feel supported, not just challenged. Peer mentors, a dedicated support team, and a culture of trust help students stay grounded while they aim high.

Westridge isn’t afraid to do things differently. It celebrates individuality, encourages big questions, and nurtures a sense of responsibility to something larger than yourself. Girls are taught to advocate for others—and for themselves.

Who are Some Notable Westridge Alumni?

Julia Child — Culinary legend and author
Sophia Bush — Actress, director, and activist

From curious fourth graders to confident high school seniors, Westridge girls grow into leaders who don’t wait for permission to make a difference.

#2 – Marlborough School | Los Angeles, CA

Marlborough School has been shaping brilliant minds since 1889, making it the oldest independent girls’ school in Southern California. Tucked into Hancock Park, this grade 7–12 school offers the kind of environment where students are challenged to think deeply, act boldly, and grow into the kind of women who make headlines for all the right reasons.

What is Marlborough School Known For?

Let’s just say Marlborough doesn’t mess around when it comes to academics. Ranked among the top all-girls schools in the nation, students here post some of the highest SAT and ACT scores around. The classrooms are small, the attention is personal, and the bar is high from day one.

But academic excellence is only part of the story. Leadership is baked into Marlborough’s culture. Students are encouraged to speak up, think ethically, and get involved in projects that tackle real-world issues. The school doesn’t just prepare girls for college, but also helps them figure out how they’ll show up in the world and what kind of impact they’ll make.

The campus is as dynamic as the students who walk it. From cutting-edge science labs to studios for arts, film, and design, it’s a space built for exploration. With over 40 clubs and activities, students are encouraged to try new things, lead boldly, and take ownership of their learning.

Who are Some Notable Marlborough Alumni?

Anne Archer — Academy Award-nominated actress
Zoe Kazan — Actress, writer, and playwright
Sabaah Folayan — Filmmaker and activist
Kate Grace — Olympic runner and professional athlete

Whether they’re telling stories, breaking records, or challenging norms, Marlborough grads are known for using their voice—and knowing exactly what to say.

#1 – Castilleja School | Palo Alto, CA

Founded in 1907, Castilleja School stands as the only non-sectarian all-girls school in the Bay Area serving grades 6 through 12. Right in the heart of Palo Alto, just steps from the brainpower of Silicon Valley, Castilleja has built a national reputation for academic excellence and meaningful leadership development. This isn’t just a top-tier school—it’s a launching pad for the next generation of changemakers.

What is Castilleja School Known For?

Castilleja’s academic program doesn’t just impress on paper. With small classes, a 7-to-1 student-teacher ratio, and a faculty packed with advanced degrees, students here get more than attention—they get mentorship. Nearly all graduates go on to four-year colleges, and many land at the most selective universities in the country.

But Castilleja isn’t just about college prep. The school’s mission is rooted in empowering students to lead with integrity and compassion. Through a curriculum focused on ethics, justice, and personal growth, students develop the confidence to speak up, the empathy to lead well, and the vision to create change where it matters.

The campus offers more than just a beautiful setting. It’s equipped with modern science labs, creative arts studios, and facilities designed to support everything from athletics to robotics. Students explore passions and discover new ones through a wide range of activities that keep learning exciting, both in and out of class.

Who are Some Notable Castilleja Alumni?

Grace Slick — Iconic lead singer of Jefferson Airplane
Penny Pritzker — Former U.S. Secretary of Commerce
Amy Chow — Olympic gold medalist and pediatrician
Julie Packard — Executive director of the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Castilleja doesn’t just prepare girls for the future. It gives them the voice, tools, and mindset to shape it.

Interested in One of These Schools? Let Cardinal Education Help You!

If you’re interested in one of these top all-girls private schools in California, Cardinal Education is here to help you navigate the application process. With expert guidance and tailored strategies, we can assist you in showcasing your strengths, preparing for entrance exams, and presenting a compelling application. These schools provide outstanding academic opportunities, but getting in requires more than just good grades—it’s about aligning your passions, achievements, and aspirations with the unique culture of each school.

Let Cardinal Education be your partner in making your dream school a reality. Contact us today!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top all-girls private schools in California?
California offers a wide range of prestigious all-girls private schools that provide outstanding education. Notable schools include Castilleja School in Palo Alto, which is known for its rigorous academics and commitment to fostering leadership. Marlborough School in Los Angeles is another standout, offering a curriculum that emphasizes intellectual curiosity and creative problem-solving. In Pasadena, Westridge School focuses on a well-rounded education with strong STEM and arts programs. The Archer School for Girls in Los Angeles is recognized for its diverse community and social impact initiatives, while Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy blends academic excellence with a strong emphasis on character development. These schools not only excel academically but also empower young women to thrive as leaders and innovators.
What distinguishes top all-girls schools in California from other schools?
Top all-girls private schools in California distinguish themselves through their unique focus on empowering young women. Schools like Castilleja, Marlborough, and Westridge prioritize academic excellence in a supportive, all-female environment that fosters self-confidence, leadership, and personal growth. These schools often feature rigorous STEM curricula, arts programs, and service learning projects that encourage students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In addition, their leadership development programs prepare students to excel not just academically but in real-world challenges. Moreover, these schools emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusion, creating environments where every student feels valued and prepared to take on global leadership roles. These distinct characteristics make them stand out in providing well-rounded educational experiences.
How do all-girls schools in California foster leadership in students?
All-girls schools in California, such as Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy, Archer, and Westridge, are renowned for their leadership development programs. These institutions provide opportunities for young women to engage in leadership roles both in the classroom and beyond. Whether through student government, leadership training programs, or community service projects, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, collaboration, and decision-making skills. Schools like Marlborough emphasize experiential learning, where students participate in activities that build confidence and the ability to inspire and lead others. These schools also offer mentorship programs, ensuring that each student has the support to grow into a self-assured, socially responsible leader, equipped to succeed in college and future careers.
What types of extracurricular opportunities are available at all-girls schools in California?
All-girls schools in California like The Hamlin School, Archer, and Castilleja offer an array of extracurricular activities that encourage personal development and exploration. Students can engage in arts programs, athletics, STEM clubs, and volunteer opportunities that foster teamwork, creativity, and leadership. For example, Westridge School provides an extensive arts curriculum, while Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy excels in offering opportunities for students to participate in sports and community outreach programs. Many of these schools also provide unique initiatives such as entrepreneurship programs, coding workshops, and sustainability projects. These extracurriculars complement the academic curriculum and are designed to empower students, helping them develop the skills needed to thrive in all aspects of life.