Best High Schools in Brisbane 2026: Top ATAR Results & School Rankings

As a parent, choosing the right high school for your child is one of the biggest decisions you'll make. The school your child attends shapes their academic future, social development and the opportunities available to them after graduation.

In this guide, we rank the best high schools in Brisbane using 2025 ATAR results and academic performance data. We break the rankings down by private schools, public schools and selective schools so you can compare your options and find the right fit for your family.

Table of Contents:

• Queensland's 2025 ATAR Results at a Glance

• Top Brisbane High Schools by 2025 ATAR Performance

• Best Private High Schools in Brisbane

• Best Public High Schools in Brisbane

• Best Selective and Academically Selective Schools in Brisbane

• Top 20 Brisbane High Schools by Year 9 Academic Results (2025)

• ATAR vs IB: Understanding Brisbane's Two Academic Pathways

• How to Choose the Right High School in Brisbane

• Frequently Asked Questions

Queensland's 2025 ATAR Results at a Glance

Before we look at individual schools, here's a snapshot of Queensland's Year 12 outcomes in 2025 to give you some context on where these schools sit statewide:

• 57,909 students completed Year 12 across Queensland

• 93.4% of graduates achieved a Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE)

• 30,167 students received an ATAR (roughly half the graduating cohort)

• 37 students achieved a perfect ATAR of 99.95

• Around 25% of ATAR recipients scored 90 or above, placing them in the top 10% nationally

• 1,744 students from 229 schools received a Certificate of Academic Commendation for achieving A grades in at least six General subjects

  
  

Brisbane schools dominated the top end of these results, with Brisbane Grammar School producing the most 99.95 ATAR scorers in the state (8 students) and Brisbane Girls Grammar School recording the highest median ATAR of any school in Queensland (96.45).

Source: Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) and school-reported data, December 2025.

Top Brisbane High Schools by 2025 ATAR Performance

The table below ranks Brisbane's top-performing high schools based on their 2025 ATAR results. Rankings are sorted by median ATAR, which reflects the performance of the middle student in each school's cohort and is a strong indicator of how well the entire school performs, not just its top students.

These results are self-reported by schools. Since the QCAA no longer publishes individual school ATAR results publicly, these figures are based on data shared directly by schools through their own performance reports and websites.

"n/a" indicates data not publicly disclosed by the school. Data sourced from school websites and performance reports as of early 2026.

A note on these rankings: Not all Brisbane high schools publicly share their ATAR results, so some strong schools may not appear in this table. Brisbane State High School and QASMT, for example, often release results on a different timeline or report IB equivalents rather than ATAR directly. This doesn't reflect poorly on these schools and simply reflects what data is available at the time of publishing.

Best Private High Schools in Brisbane

Private schools continue to dominate Brisbane's ATAR rankings, occupying all of the top positions in 2025. Here are the standout private high schools and what makes each one worth considering.

1) Brisbane Girls Grammar School

Location: Spring Hill | Years: 7 to 12 | Type: Private girls' school | Median ATAR (2025): 96.45

Brisbane Girls Grammar is a non-selective private secondary school for girls and recorded the highest median ATAR of any school in Queensland in 2025. The entire cohort performs at an exceptionally high level, making BGGS one of the most consistently top-ranking high schools in Brisbane.

• 60.94% of students scored an ATAR above 95

• 20.17% scored above 99, placing them in the top 1% statewide

• 4 students achieved a perfect ATAR of 99.95

• Non-selective enrolment with a cohort of 249 Year 12 students

• Well known for innovative teaching, strong academic culture and comprehensive co-curricular programs

2) Brisbane Grammar School

Location: Spring Hill | Years: 5 to 12 | Type: Private boys' school | Median ATAR (2025): 95.00

Brisbane Grammar is one of the oldest and most established private secondary schools for boys in Brisbane. BGS produced the most perfect ATAR scores in the state in 2025, cementing its reputation as a top-performing high school in Queensland.

• 8 students achieved a perfect ATAR of 99.95 (highest of any school in Queensland)

• 50% of students scored an ATAR above 95

• 41 perfect subject scores of 100 across 9 different subjects

• Non-selective cohort of 287 boys

• Strong co-curricular culture with extensive sport, music and over 45 clubs

3) St Aidan's Anglican Girls' School

Location: Corinda | Years: Prep to 12 | Type: Private girls' school | Median ATAR (2025): 94.95

St Aidan's is a private girls' secondary school in Brisbane's western suburbs known for exceptional cohort depth and strong pastoral care. It is a popular choice for families seeking academic rigour in a supportive school environment.

• 50% of students scored an ATAR of 95 or above

• 10% scored above 99

• Offers Prep to Year 12 education with a focus on holistic development

• Strong reputation for wellbeing programs and student support

• Consistently ranked among the top private schools in Brisbane

4) All Hallows' School

Location: Fortitude Valley | Years: 5 to 12 | Type: Private girls' school (Catholic) | Median ATAR (2025): 93.40

All Hallows' is the oldest secondary school in Queensland and one of Brisbane's leading Catholic girls' schools. It delivers consistently strong academic results year after year alongside a wide range of extracurricular opportunities.

• 39% of students achieved an ATAR above 95

• 8% scored above 99

• Broad subject offerings across the QCE curriculum

• Strong focus on community involvement and leadership

• Rich history dating back to 1861

5) John Paul College

Location: Daisy Hill | Years: Prep to 12 | Type: Private co-ed school | Median ATAR (2025): 91.00

John Paul College is a large co-educational private school in Brisbane's south offering both QCE and IB pathways. Its academic results have been consistently competitive with Brisbane's top-ranking private high schools in recent years.

• 12% of students scored above 99

• 32% scored above 95

• 1 student achieved a perfect ATAR of 99.95

• Offers both QCE and IB Diploma programs

• Comprehensive Prep to Year 12 education with strong co-curricular programs

6) Anglican Church Grammar School (Churchie)

Location: East Brisbane | Years: Prep to 12 | Type: Private boys' school | Median ATAR (2025): 90.85

Churchie is a well-known private boys' secondary school offering education from Prep to Year 12. It is recognised for its holistic approach to education, combining strong academics with character development, sport and leadership programs.

• 13% of students scored above 99

• 3 students achieved a perfect ATAR of 99.95

• Boarding program attracting students from across Queensland and interstate

• Extensive sports, arts and co-curricular offerings

• Strong alumni network and school community

7) St Peters Lutheran College

Location: Indooroopilly | Years: Prep to 12 | Type: Private co-ed school | Median ATAR (2025): 90.50

St Peters Lutheran College is one of Brisbane's top co-educational private schools, offering both the QCE/ATAR and International Baccalaureate (IB) pathways. This gives families a choice between two recognised academic programs under one roof.

• 30% of students scored an ATAR above 95

• 7% scored above 99

• 2 students achieved a perfect ATAR of 99.95

• Offers both QCE and IB Diploma programs

• Known for strong pastoral care and diverse extracurricular options

Best Public High Schools in Brisbane

While private schools lead the ATAR rankings, several public high schools in Brisbane deliver outstanding results and are highly sought after by families. Here are the top public school options.

1) Brisbane State High School

Location: South Brisbane | Years: 7 to 12 | Type: Public co-ed secondary school (partially selective)

Brisbane State High is widely regarded as the best public high school in Brisbane for academic outcomes. It operates a partially selective model, meaning some students are admitted through a competitive academic program while others are enrolled based on their catchment area.

• Consistently produces some of the top ATAR results among public schools in Queensland

• Partially selective enrolment with a separate academic stream

• Separate classes for selective students in English, Maths and Science

• Strong co-curricular programs across sport, arts and leadership

• One of the most competitive catchment zones in the state

  
  

Catchment note: Living within the Brisbane State High catchment area does not guarantee enrolment into the selective stream, which requires a separate application process.

2) Mansfield State High School

Location: Mansfield | Years: 7 to 12 | Type: Public co-ed secondary school

Mansfield State High has built a strong reputation as one of Brisbane's highest-performing non-selective public high schools. Its ATAR results are comparable to many private schools, making it one of the most popular state schools in the city.

• Around 45% of students have achieved an ATAR above 90 in recent years

• Specialised programs in French immersion, music and IT

• Non-selective enrolment based on catchment area

• Attracts academically motivated students from across Brisbane

• Student to teacher ratio of approximately 1🕒

3) The Gap State High School

Location: The Gap | Years: 7 to 12 | Type: Public co-ed secondary school | Median ATAR (2025): 86.80

The Gap State High is a non-selective public school in Brisbane's western suburbs that appeared in the 2025 ATAR rankings with strong results for a government school.

• Median ATAR of 86.80 in 2025

• Nearly 14% of students scored an ATAR above 95

• Non-selective public school open to students within the catchment zone

• Popular with families in Brisbane's western suburbs

• Growing reputation as a high-performing state high school

4) Indooroopilly State High School

Location: Indooroopilly | Years: 7 to 12 | Type: Public co-ed secondary school

Indooroopilly State High is an Independent Public School with a diverse, multicultural student body. It is a strong public school option for families in Brisbane's inner western suburbs.

• Recognised for flagship academic courses and specialist programs

• Intensive programs designed to accelerate student learning

• Students regularly gain admission to top Queensland universities

• Diverse and multicultural school community

• Strong option for families seeking a well-rounded public secondary school

5) Kelvin Grove State College

Location: Kelvin Grove | Years: Prep to 12 | Type: Public co-ed state college

Kelvin Grove is one of the few Prep to Year 12 public state colleges in Brisbane, combining strong academics with real-world learning and one of the largest performing arts programs in Queensland.

• Partnerships with QUT, Griffith University and the Australian Computer Society

• One of the largest arts faculties of any school in Queensland

• Prep to Year 12 education under one campus

• Strong academic results alongside creative and vocational pathways

• Good fit for students with diverse interests beyond traditional academics

Best Selective Schools in Brisbane

Brisbane is home to several selective-entry schools that admit students based on academic merit rather than catchment area. These schools are worth understanding if your child is a high achiever, as the application and entry process is quite different from standard enrolment.

1) Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology (QASMT)

Location: Toowong | Years: 7 to 12 | Type: Public selective secondary school | Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (IB)

QASMT is consistently ranked as the top academic school in Brisbane and one of the highest-performing selective schools in Queensland. Unlike most schools in the state, QASMT follows the International Baccalaureate curriculum rather than the QCE/ATAR pathway.

• 7 students achieved perfect IB scores in 2025 (equivalent to an ATAR of 99.95)

• 45% of the graduating cohort achieved IB scores of 40 or above (equivalent to an ATAR of 97.9+)

• Fully selective entry based on a competitive entrance exam

• Takes around 224 students per year in Year 7 with limited Year 10 places

• Operates in partnership with the University of Queensland

• Strong focus on STEM subjects and research-based learning

• IB program fees of approximately $2,600 per year

Important: Because QASMT follows the IB rather than QCE, its students don't appear in standard ATAR rankings. However, IB scores are converted to ATAR equivalents for university admission purposes and QASMT's results are among the best in the state on this basis.

2) Queensland Academy for Creative Industries (QACI)

Location: Kelvin Grove | Years: 10 to 12 | Type: Public selective secondary school | Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (IB)

QACI is a selective-entry public school offering the IB curriculum with a focus on creative industries. It is a strong option for academically capable students interested in creative fields.

• Selective entry based on academic merit and creative aptitude

• IB Diploma program with a focus on film, media, visual arts and design

• Partnership with Queensland University of Technology (QUT)

• Senior secondary school only (Years 10 to 12)

• Located at the QUT Kelvin Grove campus

3) Brisbane State High School (Selective Stream)

Location: South Brisbane | Years: 7 to 12 | Type: Public co-ed secondary school (partially selective)

Brisbane State High operates both a selective academic stream and standard catchment-based enrolment, making it one of the few public schools in Brisbane offering a dedicated selective high school program.

• Competitive academic testing required for selective stream entry

• Selective students receive separate instruction in English, Maths and Science

• Smaller class sizes within the selective program

• Catchment-based enrolment available alongside the selective stream

• Consistently one of the top-performing public secondary schools in Queensland

Top 20 Brisbane High Schools by Year 9 Academic Results (2025)

In addition to ATAR results which reflect Year 12 performance, we've also compiled a list ranking the best Brisbane high schools based on Year 9 academic results. These rankings use NAPLAN-based performance data across English, Maths and overall academic achievement to evaluate schools for Years 7 to 10.

The table is based on the 2025 academic results rankings. Note that the three Queensland Academies (QASMT, QACI and QAHS) are excluded from this list because they are senior-only schools. It's also worth noting that the Year 9 academic rankings and the Year 12 ATAR rankings don't always align. A school might rank highly for ATAR results but sit lower on the Year 9 list, or vice versa. This is because ATAR performance reflects a specific senior cohort, while the Year 9 rankings capture a different group of students and a different set of academic measures.

Source: 2025 academic results rankings based on Year 9 performance data. QASMT is included in this ranking despite being primarily a senior school, as it expanded to include Year 7 students from 2019.

ATAR vs IB: Understanding Brisbane's Two Academic Pathways

Most Brisbane high schools follow the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) pathway, where students receive an ATAR at the end of Year 12. However, a number of schools offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma as an alternative, and some offer both.

🎓 What is ATAR?

The QCE/ATAR pathway is the standard senior secondary qualification in Queensland. Students study General subjects assessed through internal assessments and external exams. Their results are scaled and ranked by QTAC to produce an ATAR, which is used for university admissions. For more information on the subjects available under this system, visit the QCAA senior subject syllabuses.

📕 What is IB?

The IB Diploma (International Baccalaureate) is an internationally recognised qualification where students study six subjects across different groups, complete an extended essay, a theory of knowledge course and community service hours. IB scores (out of 45) are converted to ATAR equivalents for Australian university entry.

Brisbane schools offering the IB include:

• Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology (QASMT) (IB only)

• Queensland Academy for Creative Industries (QACI) (IB only)

• St Peters Lutheran College (both QCE and IB)

• John Paul College (both QCE and IB)

For families considering the IB, it's worth noting that the curriculum is broader than the QCE and requires students to study subjects across multiple disciplines, including a foreign language. This can be a great fit for well-rounded learners but may feel more demanding for students who prefer to specialise early.

How to Choose the Right High School in Brisbane

Rankings are a useful starting point, but the best school for your child depends on much more than ATAR results. Here are the key factors to consider when comparing Brisbane high schools.

• 👩‍🎓 Academic fit. Consider whether your child would thrive in a highly academic environment or one that offers more flexibility. Some schools have a very strong exam-focused culture, while others balance academic rigour with vocational pathways, creative programs or sports.

• 🏫 Public vs private. Private schools in Brisbane generally lead the ATAR rankings, but several public schools, particularly Brisbane State High and Mansfield State High, deliver comparable academic results without the high fees. Public school fees are minimal compared to private schools, which can charge anywhere from $10,000 to $35,000+ per year in tuition.

• 🏠 Catchment areas. For public schools, your residential address determines which school your child can attend. High-performing schools like Brisbane State High and Mansfield State High have some of the most competitive catchment zones in the city. Check your catchment eligibility before setting your heart on a specific public school.

• 📝 Selective entry. If your child is a strong academic performer, selective programs at QASMT or Brisbane State High offer outstanding opportunities. Entry is competitive, though, and requires preparation for entrance exams and academic testing.

• 📖 Co-ed vs single-sex. Brisbane has a mix of co-educational and single-sex schools. Some of the city's top-performing schools are girls-only (BGGS, St Aidan's, All Hallows') or boys-only (BGS, Churchie). Research suggests both models can be effective, and it comes down to what environment suits your child best.

• 🏇 Extracurriculars and culture. Beyond grades, think about what else matters to your family. Does your child want strong sports programs, music and performing arts, outdoor education or community service opportunities? The school's culture and values should align with your family's priorities.

• 🚗 Location and commute. A school might look great on paper, but a long daily commute can impact your child's wellbeing and study time. Consider practical factors like transport options and travel time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best high school in Brisbane?

Based on 2025 ATAR results, Brisbane Girls Grammar School achieved the highest median ATAR (96.45) in Queensland. Brisbane Grammar School produced the most perfect ATAR scorers statewide with 8 students achieving 99.95. QASMT is often considered the top school overall when IB equivalent scores are included.

What are the top 10 public high schools in Brisbane?

The top public high schools in Brisbane based on academic performance include Brisbane State High School, Mansfield State High School, The Gap State High School, Indooroopilly State High School and Kelvin Grove State College. QASMT is also a public school, though it operates as a fully selective institution with a separate entrance process.

What are the top 10 private high schools in Brisbane?

Based on 2025 ATAR results and academic rankings, the leading private high schools in Brisbane are Brisbane Girls Grammar School, Brisbane Grammar School, St Aidan's Anglican Girls' School, All Hallows' School, Anglican Church Grammar School (Churchie), St Peters Lutheran College, John Paul College, St Joseph's Nudgee College, Somerville House and Ormiston College.

Which Brisbane school has the highest ATAR score?

In 2025, Brisbane Grammar School had the most students achieve a perfect ATAR of 99.95, with 8 students reaching the top score, the highest of any school in Queensland. Brisbane Girls Grammar School had the highest median ATAR overall at 96.45.

What is the hardest high school to get into in Brisbane?

QASMT is generally considered the hardest school to gain entry to in Brisbane. It is a fully selective public school that admits students based on academic testing, and it receives far more applications than it has places available. Brisbane State High School's selective stream is also highly competitive.

How many students get 99.95 ATAR in Queensland?

In 2025, 37 Queensland students achieved the perfect ATAR of 99.95. An additional 7 QASMT students achieved perfect IB scores (equivalent to 99.95), though these were counted separately from the official ATAR tally due to the different qualification system.

What is the most expensive school in Brisbane?

Brisbane's most expensive schools by annual tuition fees typically include Brisbane Grammar School, St Margaret's Anglican Girls School and Anglican Church Grammar School (Churchie), with Year 12 fees often exceeding $30,000 per year. Fees vary by year level and whether boarding is included.

Is it worth paying for private school in Brisbane?

Private schools lead Brisbane's ATAR rankings, but the best public schools, particularly Brisbane State High and Mansfield State High, deliver results that rival many private institutions. The right choice depends on your family's priorities, budget and what type of learning environment suits your child. Academic results are just one piece of the picture.

What is the difference between ATAR and IB?

The ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) is calculated from QCE results and ranks students as a percentile from 0 to 99.95. The IB (International Baccalaureate) Diploma is an international qualification scored out of 45. Both are accepted by Australian universities, and IB scores are converted to ATAR equivalents for admission purposes.

What is a good ATAR in Queensland?

An ATAR of 90 or above places a student in the top 10% of their age group in Queensland. In 2025, roughly 25% of ATAR recipients achieved this level. An ATAR of 80 puts a student in the top 20% and is sufficient for entry into many popular university courses. The "right" ATAR depends on your child's university and course goals.