Seattle Academy (SAAS) prepares students in grades 6–12 to Question, Imagine, and Create so they can Contribute Boldly to a Changing World. Since our founding in 1983, we’ve championed a bold, student-centered education that equips young people with the skills, mindset, and confidence to thrive in college and in life.

Accredited by the Northwest Association of Independent Schools (NWAIS) and a member of the National National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), SAAS is approved by the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction.

A Purposeful Approach to Learning

At the heart of SAAS is a belief in teaching students how to think, not what to think. Our program is anchored in five core areas—Academics, Arts, Athletics, Outdoor & Travel Experiences, and Student Life—all shaped by an entrepreneurial mindset that encourages students to think critically, adapt ideas, embrace feedback, and create with purpose.

A Community That Knows Each Student

We believe students thrive when they are known, challenged, and inspired to take risks. Our faculty, advisors, coaches, counselors, and learning support specialists work together to ensure every student is seen and supported as an individual.

Students come to SAAS from a variety of educational experiences—public, private, and homeschool—and reflect a wide range of backgrounds, identities, and perspectives. Rooted in relationships and community, SAAS is a place where students explore who they are, who they want to be, and who they could become.

Our History

Seattle Academy of Arts and Sciences (SAAS) was founded in 1983 by a dedicated group of trustees, faculty, and parents who dreamed of creating a school where students would be prepared not just for college, but for life. In that very first year, 72 students joined them in bringing this vision to life and laying the foundation for the vibrant, dynamic, and impactful SAAS community we know today.

Watch: The History of Seattle Academy 1983-2015

Quick Facts

How many students attend Seattle Academy?

How do I apply?

How much is tuition at Seattle Academy?

Tuition is set each year by the Board of Trustees at Seattle Academy.

Tuition and fees for the 2025-2026 school year is $50,900 for grades 6-12.

Financial Aid grants can range from $100 to covering the full tuition. The average
grant is 68% of tuition.

SAAS is committed to access for students of all backgrounds and financial capacity and offers Financial Aid and Community Chest in support of tuition and activity fees.

What’s a typical schedule at SAAS?

Students are encouraged to create a unique and compelling schedule that fits their interests from a combination of classes needed to meet graduation requirements and a variety of electives.

SAAS deploys an 8 block schedule which is centered on an 75-minute block, allowing for cross-discipline, project-based, problem-based learning. Our class days also have a minimum of transitions for students. In several ways, the schedule supports the school’s beliefs about how students learn best.

Does Seattle Academy offer Financial Aid?

YES! Financial accessibility is a strategic priority for Seattle Academy and we encourage families to submit information to be considered for financial support. 23% of our 2025-26 families receive financial aid with an average grant of over $35,630.

Our Admissions Department is ready to answer any of your questions and assist you in understanding how to apply for Financial Aid.

How large is the class size at Seattle Academy?

How many students participate in arts and athletics?

100% of SAAS students participate in the arts, since we have a graduation requirement that includes taking at least one course in each of the arts areas (Dance, Theater, Music, Visual & Media).

28%

10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Beyond that, 28% of Upper School students also choose to participate in performance groups that rehearse after school.

78%

10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

78% of SAAS students turn out for one or more of our teams that we offer throughout the three sports seasons.

What’s the 2025-26 calendar?

Welcome to Seattle Academy

A Purposeful Approach to Learning

A Community That Knows Each Student

Our History

Quick Facts