Do private schools generally perform better than public schools in terms of college readiness?

Private schools generally perform better than public schools in terms of college readiness. Based on national test results, private school students tend to achieve higher scores on standardized tests like the ACT and SAT, with average ACT composite scores of 24.2 compared to 20.3 for public school students. Additionally, private schools have higher graduation rates, with a 96.4% rate compared to 86% for public schools. They also offer more advanced classes and college preparatory courses, which can enhance college readiness. Furthermore, a higher percentage of private school graduates enroll in four-year colleges immediately after graduation, with 64.5% doing so compared to 44% from public schools. These factors suggest that private schools are more effective at preparing students for college. However, the performance gap can also be influenced by other factors, such as environment, family, and the student’s motivation to succeed.