Irvine High School
General Information
Reviews
Irvine High School is widely regarded by students, parents, and alumni as a high-performing comprehensive public high school known for academic rigor, strong extracurriculars, and a supportive learning environment. Reviews frequently highlight the school’s balanced emphasis on college preparation, personal development, and student well-being. Parents often praise the accessibility and professionalism of teachers and counselors, noting proactive academic advising, clear communication, and meaningful support for diverse learning needs. Students describe a collaborative yet challenging academic culture with abundant opportunities in Advanced Placement courses, performing arts, athletics, and student leadership. Community feedback regularly references the school’s inclusive campus climate, school pride, and strong traditions that foster engagement and belonging. Alumni commonly report that Irvine High School prepared them well for university-level expectations through critical thinking, time management, and independent learning skills. While some reviews acknowledge competitive academic pressure typical of high-achieving districts, the overall sentiment remains positive. Irvine High School is consistently viewed as a dependable institution that combines academic excellence, extracurricular depth, and a student-centered approach to prepare graduates for higher education and future careers.
Contact Information
• Phone Number: +1 949-936-7000
• Main Address: 4321 Walnut Avenue, Irvine, California 92604, United States
• Email Address: info@iusd.org
• District Administration Office: Irvine Unified School District, Irvine, California
• Student Services Office: Counseling and Academic Support, Main Campus
• Administrative Office: School Administration, Irvine Campus
School Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1975 |
| School Type | Public High School |
| Grades Served | 9–12 |
| Motto | Inspiring Excellence |
| School District | Irvine Unified School District |
| Campus Setting | Suburban |
| School Colors | Blue and Gold |
| Mascot | Vaqueros |
Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position |
|---|---|
| National Standing | Recognized Public High School |
| State Ranking (California) | High-Performing |
| District Standing | Strong Academic Outcomes |
| College Readiness Indicator | Very High |
Irvine High School, California Academics
Faculties / Departments
• English Language Arts
• Mathematics
• Science
• Social Studies
• World Languages
• Visual and Performing Arts
• Career and Technical Education
• Physical Education and Health
• Special Education
• Student Support Services
Irvine High School, California Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
• Comprehensive College Preparatory Curriculum
• Advanced Placement Programs
• Honors Courses
• STEM and Engineering Pathways
• Computer Science and Technology
• Career and Technical Education Pathways
• Visual and Performing Arts Programs
• World Language Studies
• Academic Intervention and Enrichment
Online Learning
Online learning at Irvine High School is integrated as a flexible supplement to in-person instruction, supporting blended learning and independent study options. Teachers use secure digital platforms to distribute instructional materials, assignments, assessments, and collaborative tools aligned with state and district standards. Online resources allow students to review lessons, participate in virtual discussions, and access academic support beyond the traditional classroom. The school also offers online options for credit recovery, course acceleration, and continuity during short-term absences. Emphasis is placed on digital citizenship, academic integrity, and responsible technology use to ensure students are prepared for college and modern workplaces. Online learning enhances accessibility and personalization while maintaining a strong foundation in teacher-led, face-to-face instruction.
Degrees and Certifications
The school awards a California high school diploma upon completion of graduation requirements. Students may earn college credit through Advanced Placement courses and participate in career and technical education pathways that support industry exposure and workforce readiness.
Summer School
Summer school programs offer credit recovery, academic reinforcement, and acceleration opportunities. Students may use summer sessions to remain on track for graduation or advance coursework in a structured academic setting.
Average Test Scores
| Assessment | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT Evidence-Based Reading & Writing | 620 |
| SAT Mathematics | 640 |
| ACT Composite | 28 |
| AP Exam Pass Rate | High |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Retention and graduation rates are consistently strong, reflecting high levels of student engagement, effective counseling, and alignment between academic programming and postsecondary goals.
Irvine High School, California Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
The typical GPA range for enrolled students is approximately 3.3 to 4.4 on a weighted scale. SAT scores commonly range from 1150 to 1400, while ACT scores range from 24 to 32, reflecting a competitive college-preparatory profile.
Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | Open Enrollment |
| Admission Policy | District-Based |
| Selectivity | Non-Selective |
Application Requirements
Admission follows district and state public school guidelines. Families must submit proof of residency within the attendance boundary, prior academic records, immunization documentation, and student identification. Counselors review transcripts to ensure appropriate course placement and identify academic or support needs. The admissions process is transparent and student-centered, ensuring alignment with graduation requirements and academic pathways.
Enrollment Overview
Enrollment includes students from the surrounding suburban community. Class sizes and course availability support both academic rigor and individualized guidance.
Application Process
• Verify attendance boundary eligibility
• Complete enrollment application
• Submit academic records
• Provide immunization documentation
• Meet with counseling staff
• Finalize course schedule
Application Deadlines and Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Enrollment Opens | Spring |
| Course Registration | Spring |
| Student Orientation | Late Summer |
| Academic Year Begins | August |
Essay Prompt
No admission essay is required. Students may complete academic planning surveys for counseling purposes.
Irvine High School, California Scholarships
Scholarships are not awarded directly by the school. Counseling staff provide guidance on external scholarships, financial aid opportunities, and college planning resources.
Irvine High School, California Tuition Fees and Costs
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | No Tuition for Residents |
| Activity Fees | Moderate |
| Technology Fees | As Applicable |
| Extracurricular Costs | Program Dependent |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
The student body reflects a diverse suburban population with representation from various cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Low-Income Students and Students with Disabilities
Support services include free and reduced meal programs, individualized education plans, counseling services, and academic accommodations to ensure equitable access to education.
Student Body Overview
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Minority Students | 60% |
| Economically Disadvantaged | 18% |
| Special Education | 10% |
| English Language Learners | 8% |
University Diversity
Diversity is a defining strength of the school’s academic and social environment. Students engage with peers from varied cultural and linguistic backgrounds, promoting empathy, collaboration, and global awareness. Inclusive instructional practices and extracurricular opportunities encourage mutual respect and cultural understanding. Exposure to diverse perspectives enhances critical thinking and prepares students for success in college, careers, and civic life.
Average Earnings
Average earnings are not directly applicable at the high school level. However, graduates demonstrate strong long-term earning potential through successful college placement and entry into competitive professional fields supported by rigorous academic preparation.
Graduation Rate
The graduation rate is consistently high, reflecting effective academic support systems, student engagement, and strong guidance counseling.
Irvine High School, California Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Teachers and staff are certified professionals with expertise in subject-area instruction, student mentorship, and academic advising.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members bring diverse academic backgrounds and professional experience, emphasizing instructional excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Irvine High School, California Campus and Student Life
Campus Life and Housing
As a day school, campus life emphasizes academics, athletics, arts, clubs, and leadership activities that foster engagement and school pride.
Transportation
Transportation services are provided through district-operated bus routes serving the attendance area.
Job Openings and Career Opportunities
Employment opportunities may be available in teaching, instructional support, and administrative roles. The school also supports student career exploration through internships, career counseling, and college readiness programs.