Benjamin PhilipsChoosing the right high school in Arlington can shape your child’s future — academically, socially, and emotionally. With so many great options, parents want clear insight into which schools excel in academics, college readiness, career pathways, STEM, arts, and athletics. This guide highlights the top 10 high schools in Arlington for 2026, helping you compare options and decide with confidence as you plan your student’s next big step.
High Schools in Arlington Comparison Table
| School Name | Type | Grades | Known For | Best For Students Who |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TCCSE Early College HS at Timberview | Public | 9–12 | Early college credit | Students aiming for college credits while in high school |
| Arlington College and Career HS | Public | 9–12 | Career pathways & academics | Students seeking career certification options |
| Arlington Collegiate HS | Public | 9–12 | High graduation rate | Students focused on college readiness |
| Martin High School | Public | 9–12 | Comprehensive programs | Students seeking traditional high school experience |
| Bowie High School | Public | 9–12 | Large campus & athletics | Students interested in a full extracurricular experience |
| Arlington High School | Public | 9–12 | Diverse student body | Students looking for a large high school environment |
| Seguin High School | Public | 9–12 | Recognized academic outcomes | Students focused on academic excellence |
| Newman International Academy of Arlington | Charter | 7–12 | Smaller class sizes | Students who thrive in smaller, charter settings |
| Premier High School of Arlington | Charter | 9–12 | Alternative programming | Students who benefit from flexible learning paths |
| Grace Preparatory Academy | Private | K–12 | College preparatory | Students seeking a private, faith‑based education |
Top 10 High Schools in Arlington
1. TCCSE Early College High School at Timberview
TCCSE Early College High School at Timberview (often called Timberview Early College) offers a rigorous environment where students can earn both a high school diploma and college credits simultaneously. The school partners with local colleges and focuses on helping students get a head start toward a degree by the time they graduate.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Opportunity to earn college credits while in high school
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Strong academic reputation for advanced coursework
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Smaller community feel within a larger district
Programs & Activities
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Dual credit classes
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College readiness workshops
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Support services for college transition
Best For: Students aiming to graduate with college credits
Location: 7700 S Watson Rd, Arlington, TX 76002
Phone: (682) 314‑1300
2. Arlington College and Career High School
Arlington College and Career High School serves students with a focus on practical career pathways and academic preparation. It’s recognized for blending traditional academics with technical and career training that helps students move directly into the workforce or continue higher education after graduation.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Career‑focused programs
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Support for real‑world job skills
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Academic and technical balance
Programs & Activities
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Career certifications
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Technical training pathways
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Student clubs tied to industries
Best For: Students interested in workforce pathways or applied technical learning
Location: 4900 W Arkansas Ln, Arlington, TX 76016
Phone: (817) 515‑3550
3. Arlington Collegiate High School
Arlington Collegiate High School earns high marks for its graduation rate and emphasis on preparing students for higher education. It’s known as one of the district’s standout campuses for academic achievement and college readiness, helping students build strong foundations for life after high school.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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High graduation rate
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Rigorous college preparatory environment
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Personalized academic guidance
Programs & Activities
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College prep seminars
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Tutoring and academic support
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Student leadership opportunities
Best For: Students focused on post‑secondary education
Location: 2224 Southeast Pkwy, Arlington, TX 76018
Phone: (817) 515‑3550
4. Martin High School
Martin High School is a traditional comprehensive high school offering a wide variety of academic and extracurricular options. With a large student body and broad program choices, Martin is a hub for many Arlington families seeking a full high school experience.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Wide range of classes and clubs
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Strong athletics and school spirit
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Diverse academic offerings
Programs & Activities
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AP and honors courses
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Athletics (UIL sports)
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Arts and performance programs
Best For: Students who want a traditional high school environment
Location: 4501 W Pleasant Ridge Rd, Arlington, TX 76016
Phone: (682) 867‑8600
5. Bowie High School
James Bowie High School serves a large student population and is known for its strong athletics, arts, and academic programs. As part of Arlington ISD, Bowie gives students a chance to engage in a broad array of activities and prepares them for both college and career paths.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Broad extracurricular opportunities
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Competitive athletics
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Large, diverse student body
Programs & Activities
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UIL sports programs
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Band and arts ensembles
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AP and advanced courses
Best For: Students who enjoy school spirit, athletics, and varied programs
Location: 2101 Highbrank Dr, Arlington, TX 76018
6. Arlington High School
Arlington High School is one of the largest traditional public high schools in the city, serving a diverse range of students. With a variety of academic and extracurricular offerings and a focus on inclusive education, it’s a strong choice for families wanting a comprehensive education.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Large variety of courses
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Inclusive community
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Many student clubs and activities
Programs & Activities
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Advanced and regular academic tracks
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Fine arts programs
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Student organizations
Best For: Students who thrive in larger school settings
Location: 818 W Park Row, Arlington, TX 76013
Phone: (682) 867‑8100
7. Seguin High School
Seguin High School is recognized among Arlington’s academically strong campuses and was honored in recent national rankings for excellence. It offers a balanced mix of academics, athletics, and arts with opportunities for students to pursue college and career goals.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Recognized academic performance
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Supportive student environment
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Variety of extracurriculars
Programs & Activities
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Honors and AP classes
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Sports teams
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Clubs and community partnerships
Best For: Students striving for academic success
Location: Arlington, TX
8. Newman International Academy of Arlington
Newman International Academy is a charter school that serves grades 7–12, integrating rigorous academics with smaller class sizes. It’s a good fit for families who want a focused, structured charter environment with strong academic support.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Smaller classroom sizes
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Personalized learning approach
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Strong academic expectations
Programs & Activities
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Core academics
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Student clubs and enrichment opportunities
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College‑prep focus
Best For: Students who thrive with personalized attention
Location: 1111 Gibbins Rd, Arlington, TX 76003
Phone: (682) 207‑5265
9. Premier High School of Arlington
Premier High School of Arlington is a charter school that emphasizes flexible learning environments and alternative pathways to graduation. It’s designed for students who benefit from a different pace or structure than traditional schools.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Flexible scheduling options
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Support for credit recovery
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Practical approach to graduation goals
Programs & Activities
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Personalized learning plans
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Career readiness support
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Student clubs
Best For: Students who need flexibility and alternative pathways
Location: 551 Ryan Plaza Dr, Arlington, TX 76011
10. Grace Preparatory Academy
Grace Preparatory Academy is a private, Christian college preparatory school serving K–12, including high school grades. It’s known for its strong academics, faith‑based environment, and supportive community, helping students grow personally and academically.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Faith‑based education
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Small class sizes
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College preparatory focus
Programs & Activities
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AP and advanced classes
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Athletics and arts
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Spiritual development opportunities
Best For: Families seeking private Christian education
Location: 3300 W I‑20, Arlington, TX 76017
Phone: (817) 557‑3399
How to Choose the Right High School in Arlington, TX
Choosing the right high school is about more than just academics — it’s about finding a place where your child can thrive socially, emotionally, and academically. Here’s what to consider:
Academics
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Look for schools with strong core subjects, AP/IB options, and STEM programs.
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Check graduation rates and college acceptance statistics.
Class Size
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Smaller classes often allow more personalized attention.
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Larger schools can offer more diverse programs and extracurriculars.
Safety
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Research school safety ratings, security policies, and student support services.
Extracurriculars
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Clubs, athletics, and arts programs enrich student life.
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Ensure the school offers activities aligned with your child’s interests.
Career Pathways
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Some schools provide certifications, internships, or career prep programs.
Location
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Consider commute time and proximity to home.
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Accessibility for after-school activities and events matters.
School Culture
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Visit the school if possible.
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Observe student engagement, teacher-student relationships, and overall environment.
Admission Requirements For High Schools in Arlington, TX
Public Schools
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Usually require proof of residency, immunization records, and prior school transcripts.
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Some programs, like magnet or early college, may have GPA or test requirements.
Charter/Magnet Schools
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May require applications, essays, or interviews.
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Lotteries are common if applications exceed available spots.
Private Schools
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Often require application forms, academic records, standardized test results, and interviews.
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Recommendations and essays may be part of the process.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
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Research Schools – Identify public, charter, and private options that match your child’s needs.
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Review Requirements – Check residency, GPA, test scores, and other criteria.
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Complete Applications – Fill forms accurately; include transcripts and supporting documents.
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Attend Interviews/Open Houses – Get a feel for the school environment.
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Submit by Deadlines – Ensure all applications are submitted on time.
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Receive Admission Decisions – Schools may send acceptance letters or waitlist notifications.
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Enroll Your Child – Complete enrollment paperwork and submit necessary documentation.
High Schools in Arlington Tuition & Costs
Public Schools
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Tuition is free for residents.
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Some programs (AP exams, extracurricular fees) may require nominal fees.
Private Schools
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Tuition typically ranges from $8,000 to $25,000 per year depending on the school.
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Additional costs may include uniforms, books, technology, and activity fees.
| School Type | Tuition | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Public | Free | Fees may apply for specific programs or activities |
| Private | $8,000–$25,000 | Varies by school and grade level |
Curriculum & Extracurricular Overview
Most high schools in Arlington, TX offer:
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Academics: Core subjects, honors, AP/IB courses, dual enrollment with colleges.
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STEM Programs: Robotics, coding, engineering, and math clubs.
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Arts: Visual arts, choir, band, theater, and dance.
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Athletics: Football, basketball, soccer, volleyball, track, and UIL competitions.
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Clubs & Leadership: Student government, debate, service clubs, and career-focused organizations.
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Career Pathways: Business, health sciences, technology, and vocational certifications.
FAQ
1. What is the best high school in Arlington, TX?
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It depends on your child’s goals. For early college credits, TCCSE Early College is ideal. For private education, Grace Preparatory Academy excels. Consider academics, extracurriculars, and culture.
2. How do I enroll my child?
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Start by researching schools, then complete applications, submit required documents, and attend any interviews or orientations.
3. Are there STEM-focused schools?
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Yes, several Arlington public and charter schools provide STEM programs, including robotics, coding, and engineering tracks.
4. Private vs. public schools — which is better?
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Public schools offer free tuition and diverse programs, while private schools often provide smaller class sizes, specialized curricula, and faith-based education.
5. Can students earn college credit in high school?
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Yes, schools like TCCSE Early College and some magnet programs allow students to take college-level courses for credit before graduation.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right high school in Arlington, TX is a big decision, but focusing on academics, extracurriculars, culture, and student needs can make the process manageable. Visiting schools, speaking with teachers and current students, and considering your child’s personality will ensure you make a choice that supports their growth. With the right high school, students can excel academically, socially, and emotionally — setting the foundation for lifelong success.