The Buckley School
General Information
About The Buckley School
The Buckley School is one of the most prestigious independent K–12 institutions in Los Angeles, California. Established in 1933, it has become synonymous with academic excellence, character development, and a holistic approach to education. The school is known for its personalized instruction, small class sizes, and balanced curriculum that integrates rigorous academics with arts, athletics, and community engagement. The Buckley School emphasizes its motto, “Dare et sapere,” meaning “To give and to know,” which reflects its commitment to developing well-rounded individuals who contribute meaningfully to society.
With a diverse student body and a strong focus on leadership and ethics, Buckley cultivates intellectual curiosity and emotional intelligence in every student. The curriculum is designed to challenge students academically while fostering creativity, collaboration, and confidence. Through dedicated faculty and modern facilities, The Buckley School prepares students not only for success in top universities but also for a lifetime of learning, service, and leadership in a globalized world.
Contact Information
Address: 3900 Stansbury Avenue, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Phone Number: (818) 783-1610
Email Address: admissions@buckley.org
School Facts
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1933 |
| Motto | “Dare et Sapere” (“To Give and To Know”) |
| Type | Private, Coeducational |
| Grades | K–12 |
| Average Class Size | 15 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 8:1 |
The Buckley School Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position |
|---|---|
| California Private Schools | Top 5% |
| National Independent Schools | Top 10% |
| College Prep Excellence | A+ Rating |
The Buckley School Academics
The Buckley School Faculties / Departments
- English and Literature
- Mathematics and Statistics
- Science and Technology
- Social Studies and History
- World Languages (Spanish, French, Latin, Mandarin)
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Athletics and Physical Education
- Counseling and Student Support
- Advanced Placement and Honors Division
The Buckley School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
- Honors Program
- Performing Arts Conservatory
- STEM and Robotics Track
- Visual Arts and Design Program
- Humanities and Global Studies
- Leadership and Ethics Program
- Computer Science and Digital Innovation
- Business and Entrepreneurship Track
Online Learning
The Buckley School integrates technology into its academic model through its “Buckley Connected Learning” initiative. This program provides blended and virtual learning options for students who require flexibility or are pursuing enrichment courses outside the standard curriculum. Digital platforms are used to enhance classroom instruction, support independent study, and offer online electives such as coding, creative writing, and film production.
Average Test Scores
| Test Type | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | 1360 |
| ACT | 30 |
| AP Exam Pass Rate | 92% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
The Buckley School boasts an exceptional graduation rate of 100%, with nearly all graduates gaining admission to leading universities such as Stanford, Harvard, and UCLA. The student retention rate is equally impressive, at 97%, demonstrating the school’s commitment to academic and personal excellence.
The Buckley School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
The Buckley School does not have strict GPA or test score cutoffs, but successful applicants typically demonstrate high academic achievement, intellectual curiosity, and strong extracurricular involvement. For upper school applicants, a GPA above 3.7 and standardized test performance in the 85th percentile or higher are common among admitted students.
The Buckley School Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Lower and Middle School | 40% |
| Upper School | 30% |
The Buckley School Application Requirements
Admission to The Buckley School is competitive and holistic. Applicants are evaluated on academic performance, teacher recommendations, personal essays, interviews, and extracurricular involvement. Families are encouraged to highlight each student’s unique strengths, interests, and potential contributions to the Buckley community. Standardized test scores may be requested for certain grade levels.
Application Process
- Submit Online Application Form
- Provide Academic Transcripts and Teacher Recommendations
- Submit Personal Essay and Student Questionnaire
- Attend Student and Parent Interview
- Notification of Admission Decision
The Buckley School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | September 15 |
| Application Deadline | January 15 |
| Interviews | November–January |
| Admission Decisions Released | March 15 |
Essay Prompt
Applicants are often asked to respond to questions such as: “How do you demonstrate leadership in your school or community?” or “Describe a challenge you’ve faced and how it shaped your perspective.” The essay provides students an opportunity to share their voice and individuality.
The Buckley School Scholarships
The Buckley School offers need-based financial aid to ensure accessibility for qualified students. Approximately 20% of students receive tuition assistance. Scholarships are also available for academic excellence, artistic achievement, and leadership in community service.
The Buckley School Tuition and Fees
| Category | Cost (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Lower School | $40,000 |
| Middle School | $43,000 |
| Upper School | $46,000 |
| Application Fee | $150 |
| Technology and Activity Fee | $1,000 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
The Buckley School fosters a diverse and inclusive environment that mirrors the cultural richness of Los Angeles. The student body consists of approximately 50% female and 50% male students, representing multiple ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Diversity initiatives and affinity groups are embedded within the school culture to promote respect, empathy, and belonging among students of all backgrounds.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
The school actively supports low-income families through a robust financial aid program. Additionally, The Buckley School provides comprehensive academic and emotional support for students with learning differences or disabilities. Trained specialists and resource teachers work collaboratively with parents and faculty to ensure equitable learning opportunities.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 830 |
| International Students | 20 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 8:1 |
University Diversity
Diversity and inclusion are central to The Buckley School’s mission. Students from various cultural, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds are encouraged to share their experiences and perspectives. The school’s diversity council organizes events, discussions, and celebrations that foster understanding and respect. Through intentional inclusivity, Buckley prepares students to thrive in multicultural environments and become empathetic global citizens.
Average Earnings
While The Buckley School is a pre-college institution, its graduates consistently attend elite universities and pursue successful careers in business, science, arts, and public service. Alumni often credit Buckley’s rigorous academics, strong mentorship, and ethical foundation for their professional success and leadership in their chosen fields.
The Buckley School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The Buckley School employs over 100 highly qualified educators, counselors, and administrative professionals. Many teachers hold advanced degrees in education and subject-specific disciplines. The faculty is known for its personalized teaching approach, nurturing relationships, and ongoing professional development.
Faculty Profiles
Buckley’s teachers include award-winning educators, published authors, artists, and coaches who bring real-world experience into the classroom. Faculty members are deeply involved in student mentorship, research projects, and community initiatives, embodying the school’s core value of lifelong learning.
The Buckley School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The Buckley School campus spans over 18 acres in Sherman Oaks, featuring modern classrooms, science and art labs, a performing arts center, athletic fields, and outdoor learning spaces. While the school does not provide boarding facilities, students enjoy a rich on-campus experience with access to over 60 clubs, sports teams, and community service opportunities.
Transportation
The Buckley School provides transportation options across Los Angeles through its dedicated bus service network. The campus is easily accessible via major highways, and carpool programs are encouraged among families. Safe pedestrian pathways and secure parking facilities ensure smooth daily commutes for students and staff.