Pacific Ridge School
Excellence through Challenge
Founded in 2007, Pacific Ridge School offers a dynamic and comprehensive education for students in grades 6 through 12. Located in Carlsbad, California, PRS is dedicated to fostering academic excellence, ethical responsibility, and global engagement. The school prepares students for college and a purposeful life by developing their intellect, agility, and courage to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Our Mission
"In a community that fosters academic excellence, ethical responsibility and global engagement, Pacific Ridge School prepares students for college and a purposeful life.
"
Key Info
Grades
Grades 9-12
Language Requirement
ISEE or SSAT Required
Cost of Attendance
$45k - $50k
Accommodation
Homestay families
Admission Information
Fall Admission
August Start
•Application Deadline: February 1
Primary enrollment period offering complete academic year experience with full course selection and comprehensive extracurricular opportunities
Rolling Admission
Based on availability
•Contact admissions office
Limited spaces may be available after the priority deadline for qualified applicants
Application Requirements
- ISEE or SSAT examination scores
- Academic transcripts from previous schools
- Teacher recommendations (2 required)
- Student interview (on-campus or virtual)
- Application fee: $110
- English proficiency demonstration
Why Study at Pacific Ridge School?
Harkness Learning Method - Innovative Collaborative Education
PRS employs the renowned Harkness method, where students learn around a shared table through discussion and collaboration. This innovative approach to learning fosters critical thinking, effective communication, and leadership skills. Students engage deeply with both the material and with each other, developing the intellectual agility and confidence needed for success in college and beyond. The Harkness method transforms passive learning into active discovery, making every student a vital contributor to the learning community.
Global Learning and Service - Preparing World Citizens
PRS places a strong emphasis on global education and service learning, offering students the opportunity to engage in international travel, service projects, and cross-cultural experiences. These programs help students develop a global perspective and understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives. Through hands-on service projects and immersive travel experiences, students learn to become thoughtful and responsible citizens of the world, prepared to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the global society.
Comprehensive Arts and Athletics Programs
At PRS, the arts and athletics are integral parts of the student experience and personal development. The school offers a wide range of visual and performing arts programs, including music, theater, digital media, photography, and design. The competitive sports teams encourage students to pursue their passions, develop teamwork, discipline, and resilience. With state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated coaches and instructors, students have the resources and support to excel in their chosen pursuits while developing lifelong skills and healthy habits.
Life at Pacific Ridge School
Experience Excellence in Southern California's Coastal Community
Located in Carlsbad, a beautiful coastal city in San Diego County, Pacific Ridge School students enjoy Southern California's perfect year-round climate, stunning beaches, and vibrant community. Just 30 miles north of San Diego and 90 miles south of Los Angeles, Carlsbad offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and access to major metropolitan resources. The safe, family-friendly community is known for its excellent quality of life and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Carlsbad's Vibrant Community
Experience one of America's most desirable coastal communities with beautiful beaches, perfect weather, and excellent quality of life
Convenient Access
Just 45 minutes from San Diego International Airport and 90 minutes from Los Angeles, providing easy connections for international students
University Proximity
Close to UC San Diego, SDSU, and numerous other top universities offering academic collaboration and enrichment opportunities
Campus Life at Pacific Ridge
Explore our dynamic campus featuring innovative learning spaces, creative arts facilities, and competitive athletics programs
Pacific Ridge Campus
Modern campus designed to inspire learning, creativity, and collaboration
Robotics Lab
Students are in the Robotics Lab working on their projects.
Arts Building & Community Hall
The Arts Building & Community Hall is home to the school’s art programs, music programs, and theater programs.
Innovation Center & Library
The new center is home to the school’s robotics lab and maker space, tech-electronics lab, bio-tech lab, library, and support spaces.
Athletic Center
Modern gymnasiums, standard sports fields, swimming pools supporting many interscholastic athletic programs
Harkness Learning
Each student is seen, heard, and actively included, helping them develop the critical thinking and communication skills.
Global Engagement
Students gain insight into diverse perspectives and ways of life – deepening their academic understanding while developing the curiosity, resilience, and sense of purpose that shape who they are and who they aspire to be.
Academic Excellence
Through real-world challenges, innovative thinking, and a growth mindset students are inspired to achieve and exceed their own goals while growing both personally and academically.
Pacific Ridge School By The Numbers
Impressive statistics demonstrating our commitment to excellence and student success
Academic Excellence Programs
Pacific Ridge School offers an exceptional academic program with 18 AP courses and numerous honors courses, combined with the innovative Harkness teaching method. With an average SAT score of 1360 and 100% college acceptance rate, our students consistently gain admission to the nation's top universities including Ivy League schools, Stanford, MIT, and leading UC campuses.
18 Advanced Placement (AP) courses across all disciplines
Comprehensive honors program for advanced learners
Average SAT score of 1360 (well above national average)
Average ACT score of 32
100% four-year college acceptance rate
Harkness method - innovative collaborative learning
1:7 student-to-teacher ratio for personalized attention
77% of faculty hold advanced degrees
Three world languages: Chinese (Mandarin), French, Spanish
Global learning and service programs
College counseling support from Grade 9
Graduates attend Ivy League, Stanford, MIT, Caltech, top UCs
Ready to Join the Pacific Ridge Community?
Join Pacific Ridge School and experience innovative education through the Harkness method, global learning opportunities, and comprehensive arts and athletics programs. With 100% college acceptance and an average SAT score of 1360, PRS prepares you for success at the world's top universities.