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Elite Academic Programs
Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School (CGPS)
Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School is one of the oldest and most respected independent schools in the United States, offering a student-centered education from Pre-K through Grade 12 in New York City. Founded in 1764, CGPS combines rigorous academics, strong student support, and extensive extracurricular opportunities within a close-knit community.
4–18
Ages
1300
Students
5.7:1
Ratio
1764
Founded
About Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School
Founded by King’s College (now Columbia University), Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School has evolved into the oldest nonsectarian independent school in the United States. The school is dedicated to fostering intellectual curiosity, innovative thinking, and personal growth while supporting the academic, social, and emotional development of every student. From early childhood through graduation, students are encouraged to pursue excellence both inside and outside the classroom.
Institution Details
Type
Ages
Students
Ratio
Founded
City
Annual Fee
Independent College-Preparatory Day School
4–18
1300+
5.7:1
1764
Manhattan, New York, USA
Approx. $64,740–$68,360** Tuition varies by grade level.
Contact & Enquiry
CGPS Official Website
Quote
“Students reach their full potential when they feel a deep sense of purpose, joy and self-satisfaction in their learning journey.”
— Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School
Philosophy
How they teach
CGPS delivers a balanced, student-centered education focused on intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, creativity, and character development. Faculty members work closely with students to provide personalized support while encouraging academic rigor, leadership, and meaningful engagement in school life. The school emphasizes both academic excellence and social-emotional growth.
Outcomes
Where students go
CGPS prepares students for admission to highly selective colleges and universities worldwide. The school’s college-preparatory curriculum, individualized guidance, and broad co-curricular offerings help students pursue ambitious academic and professional pathways.
Our Assessment
How Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School Performs
Expert Staff
Faculty Excellence
Experienced educators deliver rigorous academics while maintaining a personalized approach to student development. Small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio allow meaningful mentorship and individualized attention.
Student Care
Student Wellbeing
CGPS prioritizes the academic, social, and emotional wellbeing of students through a supportive environment that encourages confidence, belonging, resilience, and personal growth throughout every stage of education.
Curriculum
Academic Integration
The curriculum spans Pre-K through Grade 12 and combines strong core academics with extensive opportunities in science, mathematics, humanities, arts, athletics, research, debate, chess, and experiential learning. Programs are designed to foster inquiry, creativity, and interdisciplinary thinking.
Achievements
Competitive Pathway
CGPS has a distinguished history spanning more than 260 years and has produced notable alumni including author Herman Melville, Nobel Prize-winning physicist Murray Gell-Mann, and business and civic leaders across multiple fields.
Facilities
Facilities & Resources
Students benefit from extensive academic, athletic, arts, and recreational facilities located across the school’s Upper West Side campus. Resources support classroom learning, research, athletics, performing arts, and summer enrichment programs.
Progress
Ongoing Accountability
CGPS maintains high educational standards through comprehensive assessments, admissions benchmarks, faculty oversight, and continuous academic evaluation to ensure student success and growth.
Admissions &
How to Apply
CGPS welcomes applications from Pre-K through Grade 11. The admission process includes interviews, assessments, school records, recommendations, and standardized testing requirements depending on grade level. Applications for the 2026–27 academic year are currently open.
Enquiries Open
Applications Open for 2026–27 Academic Year
Application Deadline
Primary Application Deadline: November 15
Annual Fee
Approx. $64,740–$68,360
Location
Upper West Side, Manhattan, New York, USA
Website
“Students reach their full potential when they feel a deep sense of purpose, joy and self-satisfaction in their learning journey.”