BISC South Loop Named #1 Best Private K-12 School in Illinois in Niche's 2027 Rankings

British International School of Chicago, South Loop has once again been named the #1 Best Private K-12 School in Illinois and the #1 Best Private K-12 School in the Chicago Area in Niche’s 2027 Best Schools rankings. This marks the third year in a row that BISC South Loop has achieved these #1 rankings. Additionally, the school also earned #1 Best Private High School in Cook County and received an A+ overall Niche grade, continuing its strong recognition among private schools locally and nationally.

The 2027 results build on an already strong position. BISC South Loop retained both of its #1 state and Chicago-area K-12 rankings for a second consecutive year, while moving from #38 nationally in 2026 to #28 among the Best Private K-12 Schools in America in 2027.

Leading private education in Illinois and Chicago

Alongside its #1 K-12 positions, BISC South Loop is ranked #2 among the Best Private High Schools in Illinois. These results reflect the breadth of the school’s offering from Early Years through High School and its continued standing within Chicago’s private-school landscape.

Niche develops its school rankings using an analysis of data and reviews, with factors for the private K-12 ranking including student-teacher ratio, private school ratings and the colleges students consider. For families researching schools, the rankings provide one external point of comparison alongside school visits, conversations with admissions teams and a closer look at each school’s educational approach.

Local heritage. Global education.

Located in downtown Chicago, BISC South Loop provides a personalized international education for students ages 3 to 18. The school describes its approach as combining local heritage with global education, with a focus on helping students achieve excellence academically, personally and socially in an inclusive and vibrant community.

Personalized learning sits at the heart of the school’s approach. From the Early Years Foundation Stage through Primary and Middle School, students follow English and international curricula designed to support and challenge them as individuals. In High School, students progress through IGCSEs and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, internationally recognized pathways designed to prepare them for university and life beyond school.

The international character of the community is equally important. BISC South Loop welcomes families from around the world and reports more than 48 nationalities within its school community. As part of Nord Anglia Education, students also benefit from global learning opportunities and collaborations with organizations including The Juilliard School, MIT and UNICEF.

Discover BISC South Loop

Niche’s 2027 results reinforce British International School of Chicago, South Loop’s position as a leading private K-12 school in Chicago and Illinois, while its rise to #28 nationally provides further recognition of the school’s educational experience.

Inquire today to speak with our admissions team at admissions@bischicagosl.org or call 1-773-312-4352 to schedule a visit to BISC South Loop.