Looking for a private school option in Alabama? Families can now use education savings accounts to pay some of the cost – but they still must find and apply to a school that fits their needs.

AL.com compiled a list of private schools that are currently open and operating around the state. For the first time, families can see a list of 226 private schools, 2025 tuition rates if posted and whether schools participate in the new CHOOSE tax credit program. Scroll down to see the list.

“We’re a true slice of what the community of Montgomery has to offer, and we’re proud of that,” Justin Constanza, president of Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School, told AL.com.

(Can’t see the table? See it here. AL.com’s full database of private schools is available here.)

Alabama does not regulate private schools. AL.com used National Center for Education Statistics and Alabama Department of Revenue data to compile a list of schools that are open in 2025, have a physical address in Alabama and serve children in first grade and above.

We excluded online-only programs, tutoring centers, child care centers and ad hoc homeschool co-ops. We also excluded schools that did not list 2025 enrollment or tuition information. We found schools in 49 of Alabama’s 67 counties.

How much does a private education cost?

Some private schools charge families more than it costs to attend college. The most expensive private school in the state is the Altamont School with a rough annual cost of $30,632 in 2025, though some families may receive discounts or scholarships.

The median annual tuition in our dataset is $7,200 – about the same amount offered in new education savings accounts. Families should review a school’s price sheet, which may include additional fees, discounts or scholarships.

Evaluating private school options

Even if a family can afford a local private school, it may be tough to claim a seat: Students may need to take a test and academically qualify. They may need to sign a statement of faith at a religious school. And they may need to decide to forgo certain services for transportation, disabilities, school meals, extracurriculars and more.

In Shelby County, Hilltop Montessori’s tuition costs between $12,762 and $14,390 annually; families can claim a $7,000 CHOOSE Act education savings account to defray some of the cost.

Head of School Emily Nelson said Hilltop uses a “rigorous” accreditation process and holistic Montessori curriculum. Students get personalized materials and instruction.

“We’re always reflecting on what we do for students and asking the question, ‘Is this what’s best for kids? Is this educational best practice? Can we do better?’” Nelson said.

AL.com examined more than 200 private schools participating in the CHOOSE program. We discovered a vast range of offerings that differ widely in price, curricula and admissions requirements. Some schools hire experienced teachers and use high-quality curriculum. Others do not follow recommended practices for teacher certification or for instruction in reading, math or science.

One of the oldest schools in the state is UMS-Wright Preparatory Academy, founded in 1893; the newest is Kingdom Heights Preparatory Academy, which opened this year.

AL.com journalists Breonna Atkins and Diane Mwai contributed to this reporting