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Elite Academic Programs
The Urban School of San Francisco
Home – Urban School of San Francisco
14–18
Ages
420
Students
10:1
Ratio
1966
Founded
About The Urban School of San Francisco
We’re glad you have found our virtual home. Though no website can truly convey the fullness or the distinctiveness of the Urban experience, it’s our hope that you start gaining a feel for how we think about education and the role you play in it.
Institution Details
Type
Ages
Students
Ratio
Founded
City
Annual Fee
Independent Day School
14–18
420
10:1
1966
San Francisco, CA
$55,000/year
Contact & Enquiry
urbanschool.org →
Quote
“At Urban, we have an unflinching belief in the power of adolescence.”
— The Urban School of San Francisco
Philosophy
How they teach
Urban School of San Francisco seeks to ignite a passion for learning, inspiring its students to become self-motivated, enthusiastic participants in their education – both in high school and beyond. Learning is an active, joyful process of discovery where students are challenged to ask essential questions, solve problems in disciplined and creative ways, and construct substantive understandings under the guidance of passionate and inspiring teachers.
Outcomes
Where students go
Urban School graduates are accepted into top-tier universities such as Stanford, UC Berkeley, and Harvard. Alumni pursue successful careers in diverse fields, including technology, arts, and public service.
Our Assessment
How The Urban School of San Francisco performs
Expert Staff
Coaching Credentials
The Urban School curriculum provides an exceptionally strong foundation in college preparatory subjects. Many of our classes have distinctive features that set them apart as particularly challenging and comparable to college level work.
Student Care
Student Wellbeing
Urban’s academic program seeks to involve students in their broader community — the school, the city, the world — and develop in them a sense of social responsibility. Beyond a core curriculum that builds a firm framework of general knowledge and conceptual understanding in each of the disciplines, the Urban program gives students the opportunity to develop deep knowledge and fluency with skills and ways of thinking across disciplines.
Curriculum
Academic Integration
Urban’s curriculum is extensive and inclusive, including core academic classes, as well as an unusually large number of specialized courses, advanced electives and creative arts courses usually found at the college level. See our 2025-26 Curriculum Guide here.
Achievements
Competitive Pathway
Graduates from The Urban School of San Francisco are consistently admitted to prestigious universities like Stanford and UC Berkeley, often receiving accolades in national academic competitions. Alumni excel in fields such as technology, arts, and public service.
Facilities
Facilities & Resources
The Urban School boasts state-of-the-art science labs, a fully equipped theater, and dedicated art studios, fostering a dynamic learning environment. Students also benefit from access to modern athletic facilities and collaborative workspaces.
Progress
Ongoing Accountability
The Urban School utilizes a comprehensive assessment system with regular progress reports and parent-teacher conferences to ensure student success. Personalized feedback is provided to guide students in achieving their academic goals.
Admissions &
How to Apply
Prospective students must submit an online application, including transcripts and recommendations, by the January deadline. Interviews and campus visits are part of the holistic admissions process, emphasizing a student’s fit with Urban’s community and values.
Enquiries Open
Year-round
Application Deadline
Rolling admissions
Annual Fee
$55,000/year
Location
San Francisco, CA
Website
“At Urban, we have an unflinching belief in the power of adolescence.”