University School
General Information
About University School Ohio
University School Ohio is a prestigious, all-boys, independent day school serving Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12, with two distinctive campuses in the Greater Cleveland area (Shaker Heights for K-8 and Hunting Valley for 9-12). Founded in 1890 by Newton M. Anderson, the school was born from a vision to combine rigorous academics with hands-on, practical training, creating a generation of young men who are not only intellectually curious but also responsible and skilled.
Over more than a century, University School has nurtured a community that values character, leadership, and academic excellence. The school’s mission is to inspire boys of promise to become men of character who lead and serve, an ambition supported by a dedicated faculty, strong advisory system, and programs that foster both personal and intellectual growth. University School emphasizes experiential learning—its curriculum includes a robust manual-arts tradition, innovation labs, and outdoor classrooms, while athletic and extracurricular opportunities provide outlets for physical, creative, and social development. Through a balanced education that addresses the whole person—mind, body, and character—students are shaped to thrive in competitive colleges and to make meaningful contributions in their communities.
Contact Information
Address (Shaker Heights Campus): 20701 Brantley Road, Shaker Heights, Ohio 44122
Phone Number (Shaker Heights): (216) 321-8260
Address (Hunting Valley Campus): 2785 SOM Center Road, Hunting Valley, Ohio 44022
Phone Number (Hunting Valley): (216) 831-2200
Email Address: info@us.edu
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1890 |
| Motto | “Responsibility, Loyalty, Consideration” |
| Type | Private, all-boys, day school |
| Grade Levels | Junior Kindergarten – Grade 12 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | Approximately 7:1 |
| Accreditation | Independent School Association of the Central States (ISACS) and Ohio State Department of Education |
University School Ohio Rankings
| Category | Rank / Status |
|---|---|
| Top Private K-12 School in Ohio | #1 |
| Best All-Boys School in Ohio | #1 |
| Best High School for STEM in Ohio | #1 |
| National Private K-12 Schools (STEM) | Top 5% nationally |
University School Ohio Academics
University School Ohio Faculties / Departments
- English / Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental)
- Social Studies / History
- World Languages
- Physical Education & Athletics
- Arts (Visual & Performing)
- Technology / Innovation / Design
- Manual Arts / Woodshop / Maker Labs
- Counseling & Character Education
University School Ohio Courses and Programs / Majors
- Junior Kindergarten – Grade 8 core curriculum (English, Math, Science, Social Studies)
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses (16+ at Upper School)
- Post-AP courses and electives (design, robotics, innovation)
- Manual Arts / Woodworking / Metalwork (hands-on learning)
- Robotics, CAD, and Engineering Design
- Visual and Performing Arts (2D, 3D, music, theater)
- Outdoor & Environmental Studies (forest ecology, apiary, hatchery)
- Athletic Programs (13 varsity sports)
Online Learning
University School Ohio primarily emphasizes in-person education given its tradition of hands-on, experiential learning. While the school does incorporate technology-rich environments—such as innovation labs, robotics, and maker spaces—it does not promote itself as a fully online institution. Its model is strongly rooted in physical presence, using workshops, outdoor classrooms, woodshops, and science labs to foster learning. That said, digital resources likely supplement traditional classes, especially for design, CAD, and project-based learning, but core instruction remains on campus.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average / Typical Score |
|---|---|
| SAT (Upper School) | Around 1380 |
| ACT | Approximately 30 |
| AP Exam Results | High participation; many students take multiple AP exams; 91% of AP exams score 3+ (per school) |
Retention and Graduation Rates
University School Ohio boasts strong retention and graduation outcomes, consistent with high-performing independent day schools. With a close-knit faculty, an advisory system, and strong school community, students are well supported through middle and upper school transitions. The graduation rate for senior boys is effectively 100%, with nearly all graduates moving on to four-year colleges. This high retention and completion reflect the school’s ability to maintain student engagement, academic challenge, and character development from Junior Kindergarten through Grade 12.
University School Ohio Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
As a selective private school, University School Ohio considers a student’s academic record, standardized test scores, and overall character. Prospective upper school students (grades 9–12) typically present strong GPAs from prior schooling, and many perform well on admission assessments and interviews. While the school does not publicize a strict GPA cutoff, its high average SAT (around 1380) and ACT (around 30) indicate that admitted students are well prepared academically for college-preparatory work.
University School Ohio Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall Acceptance Rate | ~10% (per private school data) |
University School Ohio Application Requirements
The admissions process for University School Ohio is thoughtfully structured to identify students who not only excel academically but are also aligned with the school’s values of character, leadership, and service. Applicants are required to submit academic records (transcripts) from previous schools, teacher recommendations, and standardized test scores (for some grades). For upper school candidates, there is often an entrance exam and a personal interview, which helps assess the student’s intellectual curiosity, maturity, and fit with the school’s mission. Families also complete an application form, and financial aid forms if seeking assistance. The admissions team places great weight on attributes such as responsibility, initiative, and a willingness to contribute to the school community.
Application Process
- Complete the University School application form for the appropriate grade level
- Submit prior school transcripts / academic records
- Provide teacher recommendations
- Take the required entrance exam
- Attend an admissions interview with faculty or admissions staff
- Submit financial aid application (if seeking assistance)
- Receive admissions decision and enrollment offer
University School Ohio Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Typical Date |
|---|---|
| Admission Application Deadline | January 30 (rolling) |
| Entrance Exam Dates | Multiple test dates throughout fall and winter |
| Financial Aid / Tuition Assistance Deadline | Coincides with application or shortly after admissions notification |
| Enrollment Confirmation / Decision | Spring of application year |
Essay Prompt
When required, the essay or personal statement typically asks students to reflect on their personal values, leadership experiences, or aspirations. The admissions interview also often serves as a chance for candidates to verbally articulate their motivations, goals, and how they envision contributing to the University School community.
University School Ohio Scholarships
University School Ohio offers substantial financial support via need-based financial aid and merit-based awards. Roughly half of families participate in its financial assistance program, and the school distributes millions in aid each year. Awards such as the Jarvis Scholarship are available to academically outstanding students entering the Upper School. The financial aid program is designed to make the school accessible to a broad range of economic backgrounds while maintaining its rigorous standards.
University School Ohio Tuition and Fees
| Category | Cost / Range |
|---|---|
| Annual Tuition (Upper School) | $30,000 – $39,000 (depending on grade) |
| Lower & Middle School Tuition | Typically lower than upper school, varies by grade (private school scale) |
| Additional Fees | Program- or grade-specific (books, materials, activities) |
Student Profile and Demographics — University School Ohio
Student Demographics
University School Ohio is exclusively for boys, spanning ages from Junior Kindergarten (around 4–5) to Grade 12 (around 17–18). The school’s demographic composition reflects a commitment to a diverse and inclusive student body, though as an independent school, its student population tends to be more economically and racially varied than many suburban public schools. Historically, the school has reported a significant portion of its student body coming from racially and socioeconomically diverse backgrounds, with approximately 19–34% minority representation in different years. The community includes boys who bring a wide range of perspectives, cultural experiences, and personal stories, all contributing to a rich, supportive, and high-achieving school environment.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
University School Ohio is committed to accessibility through its robust financial aid program, which supports students from a broad range of economic backgrounds. Approximately half of the school’s families benefit from financial assistance, enabling talented boys to attend regardless of family income. For students with learning differences or other educational needs, the school offers support through differentiated instruction, advisory mentoring, and counselling. While publicly available data does not highlight a large program for severe disabilities, University School’s culture of individual attention, small class sizes, and character-based education ensures that many students with varying needs can thrive.
Student Body Composition
| Category | Approximate Number / Percentage |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment (K–12) | ~840 boys |
| Upper School Enrollment (Grades 9–12) | ~400+ boys |
| Percentage of Families Receiving Financial Aid | ~50% |
| Faculty with Advanced Degrees | ~77% |
University School Ohio Diversity
Diversity at University School Ohio is a central part of the institution’s identity. Although the school is all-boys, it draws students from a wide variety of socioeconomic and racial backgrounds, supporting an inclusive environment that values not only academic excellence but also character, empathy, and community. The school’s financial aid programs make it accessible to many families who might not otherwise afford a top-tier independent school, and this economic diversity enriches interactions in classrooms and extracurricular programs.
The institution also emphasizes cultural awareness and inclusive leadership through its advisory system, community service, and co-curricular activities. Boys learn not only from rigorous academic courses, but also from collaboration with peers who bring different experiences, family backgrounds, and worldviews. This inclusive mindset aligns with the school’s mission to build young men who lead and serve, recognizing that leadership is more meaningful when informed by diversity, respect, and integrity.
Average Earnings
Because University School Ohio is a K–12 institution rather than a college or university, direct data on graduate earnings is not tracked or reported in the same way. However, the school’s strong academic reputation, high college matriculation rate (nearly 100% of seniors attend four-year colleges), and rigorous college-preparatory curriculum position its graduates for strong long-term career success. Many alumni go on to attend selective colleges and pursue careers in fields such as business, engineering, medicine, law, and technology. The character development, leadership skills, and lifelong learning habits fostered at University School likely contribute to graduates’ ability to achieve meaningful professional success and stable financial futures. The school’s emphasis on both intellectual and moral formation helps students make thoughtful decisions, build strong networks, and pursue fulfilling work, all of which support long-term earning potential.
University School Ohio Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
University School Ohio employs a highly qualified and deeply committed faculty of educators, mentors, and coaches who support each boy’s intellectual, physical, and character development. With a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 7:1, teachers can form meaningful relationships with students, provide individualized feedback, and monitor growth closely. The faculty includes specialists in math, science, humanities, arts, athletics, and innovation, along with experienced counselors, advisors, and house mentors. About 77% of the faculty hold advanced degrees, indicating a strong culture of academic expertise and professional learning. Staff members participate in continuous professional development and collaborate cross-campus to maintain a cohesive educational philosophy and uphold the school’s mission of building young men of character.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty at University School Ohio bring a rich array of professional experiences, scholarly credentials, and creative talents. Many teach not only core subjects but also lead innovation labs, robotics teams, and maker-space projects. Teachers have published works, launched entrepreneurial or scientific ventures, and supported student initiatives in research, design, and service. In addition to subject-matter experts, the school’s advisory and house system fosters mentorship: each student is connected with an adult in the community who supports his personal development, service participation, and long-term growth.
The school’s athletic coaches and PE staff, as well as its arts instructors, are similarly accomplished, guiding students to achieve state-level athletic championships, creative performances, and meaningful team experiences. Together, the faculty blend rigorous academic instruction with mentorship that supports the school’s core values of responsibility, loyalty, and consideration.
University School Ohio Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
University School Ohio does not offer boarding or residential housing, as it is a day school with two campuses in Northeast Ohio. The Shaker Heights campus serves younger students (Junior K through Grade 8), and offers a warm, community-centered environment with innovation labs, themed classrooms, and a focus on experiential learning. The Upper School campus in Hunting Valley spans over 250 wooded acres and features state-of-the-art academic facilities including science labs, robotics and design studios, art and maker spaces, and performing arts centers.
The school’s house system provides social structure, belonging, and mentorship across grades, with regular house activities, competitions, and community gatherings. Students engage in character-building traditions like Founders’ Day and advisory meetings, which reinforce school values and allow strong peer relationships. The campus design supports both academic rigor and personal growth, with quiet spaces for reflection, collaborative studios for building, and outdoor classrooms that invite exploration, leadership, and environmental stewardship.
Transportation
Given its day-school model, University School Ohio relies on daily transportation provided by families, school buses, and possibly regional transportation options. The Shaker Heights campus is embedded in a suburban neighborhood, making it accessible for students who live nearby or travel via family drop-off. The Hunting Valley campus, located on a vast rural and wooded site, requires dedicated commuting; buses likely transport many Upper School students, and families arrange transportation based on their schedules.
Once on campus, students navigate well-designed facilities that include walking paths, outdoor classrooms, athletic fields, and academic buildings. The campus layout encourages mobility, collaboration, and exploration—with green spaces, maker labs, and academic wings all connected by walkable routes. The school’s structure and culture support daily movement among various learning environments in a safe and engaging way.