Ben Lippen School
1. General Information – Ben Lippen School
Overview
Ben Lippen School is a private, college-preparatory Christian school located in Columbia, South Carolina, serving students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. Established with a commitment to integrating rigorous academics with strong spiritual development, the school fosters an environment where students can grow intellectually, emotionally, and morally. Ben Lippen emphasizes academic excellence while nurturing Christian values, encouraging students to engage in service, leadership, and character development alongside their studies. The school provides a robust curriculum that prepares students for college and future careers, offering a wide variety of courses in science, mathematics, humanities, arts, and world languages.
Beyond academics, Ben Lippen promotes participation in athletics, performing arts, and extracurricular clubs, allowing students to explore their talents and develop interpersonal skills. Faculty members are dedicated to mentorship, fostering relationships with students to guide both academic progress and personal growth. The school also emphasizes global awareness, cultural understanding, and community engagement, preparing students to navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world. By combining rigorous academic programs with spiritual guidance, Ben Lippen equips students to excel in higher education and become responsible, compassionate, and informed global citizens.
Contact Informations
Address: 5401 Fort Jackson Boulevard, Columbia, South Carolina 29209
Phone Number: (803) 788-5200
Email Address: admissions@benlippen.com
School Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1940 |
| Motto | “Faith, Knowledge, Service” |
| School Type | Private, Christian, College-Preparatory |
| Grade Levels | PK–12 |
| Mascot | Eagle |
| School Colors | Blue and Gold |
Ben Lippen School Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position |
|---|---|
| State Academic Ranking | Top 20 in South Carolina |
| National Private School Ranking | Top 100 |
| College Placement Success | High |
| Academic Growth Index | Strong |
2. Ben Lippen School Academics
Faculties / Departments
- English Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- Social Studies and History
- World Languages (Spanish, French, Mandarin)
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Physical Education and Athletics
- Technology and Computer Science
- Guidance and Counseling
- Bible and Theology
Courses and Programs / Majors
- English Literature and Composition
- Creative and Technical Writing
- Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus
- Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science
- U.S. History, World History, Government, Economics
- Spanish, French, Mandarin
- Visual Arts, Studio Art, Music, Theater
- Computer Science, Coding, Robotics
- Physical Education, Health, Wellness
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses in multiple disciplines
- Bible Studies, Theology, Ethics
Online Learning
Ben Lippen School incorporates online learning opportunities to supplement its robust curriculum and provide flexibility for students who require advanced or specialized coursework. Online classes include interactive modules, digital assignments, and virtual collaboration, fostering independent learning while maintaining academic rigor. The school utilizes technology to enhance instruction, offering video lectures, discussion forums, and digital assessments. Online learning complements in-person instruction, allowing students to pursue AP courses, enrichment programs, and global learning experiences. Teachers monitor online participation closely, providing guidance and feedback to ensure skill mastery and academic growth. The school’s digital resources support differentiated learning, ensuring all students receive instruction that matches their level and learning style. Integrating technology prepares students for the digital demands of higher education and careers while maintaining the school’s commitment to Christian values and holistic development.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Performance |
|---|---|
| SAT | 1250–1420 |
| ACT | 28–32 |
| AP Exams | 4 Average Score |
| State Benchmarks | Exceeds Expectations |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Ben Lippen School maintains high retention and graduation rates due to a supportive and engaging learning environment. The school emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and personal development, fostering student motivation and commitment. Faculty provide mentorship, tutoring, and guidance for college planning, while counseling services support social-emotional learning. Graduates of Ben Lippen consistently pursue post-secondary education at competitive colleges and universities, reflecting the school’s dedication to college readiness, holistic growth, and lifelong learning.
3. Ben Lippen School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Ben Lippen School evaluates applicants holistically, considering academic performance, standardized test scores, character, and alignment with the school’s mission. For college-preparatory students, typical GPA ranges are 3.5–4.0, with competitive SAT scores between 1250–1420 and ACT scores between 28–32. Admissions also consider extracurricular involvement, leadership potential, and community engagement, ensuring that students are well-rounded and prepared to thrive in the school’s rigorous academic and spiritual environment.
Ben Lippen School Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall Acceptance Rate | 30–35% |
Ben Lippen School Application Requirements
Applicants are required to submit academic transcripts, standardized test scores, and completed application forms. Recommendations from teachers and school leaders are requested to provide insight into character, work ethic, and engagement. Additionally, applicants may be asked to provide a personal essay or statement reflecting their interests, values, and alignment with the school’s Christian mission. Admissions interviews are conducted to assess the student’s interpersonal skills, maturity, and readiness to contribute positively to the Ben Lippen community. This comprehensive approach ensures that students admitted to Ben Lippen are not only academically capable but also aligned with the school’s emphasis on faith, service, and personal growth.
Application Process
- Submit completed application form
- Provide academic transcripts and standardized test scores
- Include teacher or administrator recommendations
- Submit personal essay or statement
- Participate in interview with admissions staff
- Receive admissions decision
- Confirm enrollment
Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Category | Date |
|---|---|
| Early Admission | November |
| Regular Admission | January |
| Notification of Acceptance | February–March |
| Enrollment Confirmation | April |
| School Year Begins | August |
Essay Prompt
Applicants may be asked to submit a personal essay reflecting their values, interests, and motivation to join the Ben Lippen community, highlighting alignment with the school’s mission of faith-based education and service.
Ben Lippen School Scholarships
Ben Lippen School offers need-based financial aid and merit scholarships to support students from diverse backgrounds. Awards are determined based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and alignment with school values. Scholarships ensure that talented students have access to the school’s rigorous academic and spiritual programs, fostering a diverse and engaged student body.
Ben Lippen School Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual Tuition | $17,000–$20,000 |
| Activity Fees | $200–$500 |
| Technology Fee | $150 |
| Athletics/Arts Fee | Varies by Participation |
4. Student Profile and Demographics – Ben Lippen School
Student Demographics
Ben Lippen School serves a diverse student population, balancing gender representation and welcoming students from various racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Students are encouraged to engage in classroom discussions, extracurricular activities, and community service projects, fostering collaboration and cultural awareness. The school emphasizes inclusivity and cultivates a learning environment where students from different backgrounds can thrive academically, socially, and spiritually. Multicultural programming, leadership initiatives, and faith-based activities contribute to a cohesive and supportive community, preparing students for college and global citizenship.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Ben Lippen School offers targeted support for low-income students through financial aid, scholarship programs, and activity fee assistance. Students with disabilities receive individualized learning accommodations, specialized instruction, and support services to ensure equitable access to all academic and extracurricular programs. The school’s commitment to inclusivity ensures that every student has opportunities for success, personal growth, and meaningful participation in the community.
Student Body
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Students | Approximately 800 |
| International Students | 12% |
| Students Receiving Financial Aid | 25% |
| Students with Disabilities | 8% |
University Diversity
Diversity at Ben Lippen School is central to the student experience. The school actively recruits and supports students from varied cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, creating a rich learning environment. Multicultural curricula, service projects, and collaborative activities encourage students to engage with differing perspectives, develop empathy, and build cross-cultural competence. This emphasis on diversity prepares students to navigate complex social dynamics, participate in global conversations, and lead with understanding and integrity in their future academic and professional lives.
Average Earnings
Graduates of Ben Lippen School are well-prepared for higher education, with many attending competitive colleges and universities. Academic rigor, leadership opportunities, and extracurricular involvement contribute to strong professional outcomes. Alumni pursue careers in medicine, business, education, STEM fields, and the arts. The school’s combination of academic excellence, character formation, and experiential learning equips students with the skills, knowledge, and networks necessary to achieve long-term financial stability and professional success.
5. Ben Lippen School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Ben Lippen School employs experienced and dedicated educators, counselors, and support staff committed to fostering student growth. Faculty members hold advanced degrees in their fields and are trained in differentiated instruction, project-based learning, and faith-integrated pedagogy. Staff provide academic guidance, social-emotional support, and college counseling, ensuring that students have the resources to succeed academically, personally, and spiritually.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members at Ben Lippen are recognized for their expertise in core subjects, arts, technology, and athletics. Many have received professional awards, contributed to curriculum development, and implemented innovative teaching strategies. Educators focus on nurturing critical thinking, creativity, leadership, and moral development in students. Faculty mentorship ensures individualized support and guidance, fostering academic achievement and personal growth for every student.
6. Ben Lippen School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Ben Lippen School offers a vibrant campus environment with classrooms, science and computer labs, performing arts spaces, athletic facilities, and recreational areas. While the school does not provide housing, students engage in a wide variety of extracurricular programs, including athletics, student government, arts, clubs, and service opportunities. Campus life emphasizes character development, teamwork, leadership, and community engagement, providing students with a well-rounded experience that supports both academic achievement and personal growth.
Transportation
Students access the Ben Lippen School campus via district transportation, private commuting, and parent-arranged options. The campus is designed for safe navigation, with clearly defined pathways and supervision to ensure smooth transitions between classes, laboratories, and activity spaces. Transportation systems prioritize accessibility, efficiency, and student safety, supporting consistent attendance and enabling students to take full advantage of the school’s academic and extracurricular programs.