Picking a school can feel overwhelming—especially in a state like New Jersey, where great options are everywhere.
However, some schools truly stand out, not because of numbers, but because of what they offer daily: a place where students want to show up and learn.
This list is about those schools—the ones that stick with you long after graduation.
From strong academics to environments that make students feel at home, these are the best schools in NJ worth checking out.
Heads up: We’ve numbered the schools in no particular order; they all have their strong suits.
High Technology High School, Lincroft
High Technology High School, better known as High Tech, is often called the best STEM-focused school in the state.
Located in Lincroft, it’s a public magnet school that consistently ranks at the top of high schools in New Jersey for its rigorous academics and unique opportunities.
Why It Stands Out
High Tech’s curriculum revolves around engineering, robotics, and computer science. Therefore, it’s a top pick for students interested in STEM.
With small class sizes (13:1 student-teacher ratio) and partnerships with local colleges, students can take their learning further, both in and out of the classroom.
Key Stats That Matter
- Ranked #1 in New Jersey and #24 nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
- A perfect 100% graduation rate.
- Every student takes and passes at least one AP exam—a rare statistic nationwide.
- Enrollment: About 285 students across grades 9–12.
Beyond the Books
High Tech’s students excel in academics, but they’re also making a name for themselves in extracurriculars:
- The LaserHawks Robotics Team is a regular competitor in state championships, recognized for its innovative solutions and teamwork.
- The school’s Math League is a big name in regional tournaments.
Why Families Choose High Tech
Parents praise the school for its focus on academic rigor and personalized learning.
The supportive environment and opportunities to explore real-world STEM applications make it a clear choice for students looking to excel in competitive fields.
Bergen County Academies, Hackensack
Bergen County Academies (BCA) in Hackensack is a no-brainer when it comes to the best high schools in New Jersey.
This public magnet school takes a different approach to education, and that gives students a chance to specialize in one of seven academies, from medical science to engineering to culinary arts.
Why It Stands Out
BCA is built around the idea that high school should be more than a series of general classes.
Students join one of seven academies—like the Academy for Visual and Performing Arts or the Academy for Business and Finance—and dive deep into their interests through hands-on learning and advanced coursework.
It’s like choosing a major but in high school.
Key Stats That Matter
- Selective Admissions: Around 20% of applicants make the cut, so getting in is no small feat.
- Diverse Student Body: More than 1,100 students from 70+ towns across Bergen County make up the school’s talented and motivated community.
- National Recognition: A Blue Ribbon School of Excellence and a leader in STEM education.
Beyond the Books
BCA students are known for pushing boundaries inside and outside the classroom.
- Research Opportunities: Students can access advanced labs and resources, with many earning U.S. patents for their innovative projects.
- Clubs and Sports: With over 130 clubs and 17 varsity sports, there’s no shortage of ways for students to explore their interests or build leadership skills.
Why Families Choose BCA
Parents say the specialized academies are the biggest draw, as they allow students to explore potential career paths while still in high school.
Combined with strong academics and a supportive environment, BCA helps students grow in ways that go beyond grades.
It’s no wonder families across the county set their sights on this school.
Dr. Ronald E. McNair Academic High School, Jersey City
Dr. Ronald E. McNair Academic High School is consistently ranked among the best in the state, and for good reason.
This public magnet school in Jersey City combines academic rigor with a sense of community, which draws in motivated students from all backgrounds.
Why It Stands Out
With one of the highest AP participation rates in the state and a curriculum that encourages critical thinking, students are pushed to excel while being supported every step of the way.
The school also strongly emphasizes leadership and civic engagement, which is extremely important, as students will have the tools to thrive beyond academics.
Key Stats That Matter
- Rankings: #6 in New Jersey and #79 nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
- AP Success: 95% of students take at least one AP course, and 86% achieve passing scores.
- Graduation Rate: 100%, showing the school’s dedication to seeing every student succeed.
Beyond the Books
At McNair, education doesn’t stop when the bell rings:
- Clubs and Competitions: From the debate team to cultural and academic organizations, students have countless opportunities to explore their passions and build their skills.
- Community Engagement: The school encourages students to get involved with local initiatives, foster leadership, and give back to the community.
Why Families Choose McNair
Families appreciate McNair for its balance of high expectations and support.
Teachers are deeply invested in student success, and the school’s culture of academic rigor paired with civic responsibility prepares students for the best colleges.
Parents often highlight the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, which helps students from all walks of life feel at home while striving for their goals.
Edison Academy Magnet School, Edison
Edison Academy Magnet School is a regular contender in the New Jersey high school rankings thanks to its focused STEM curriculum and strong academic outcomes.
With small classes and advanced facilities, this public magnet school prepares students to tackle big challenges—whether in engineering, robotics, or environmental science.
Why It Stands Out
Edison Academy is huge on hands-on learning.
Students work on real-world problems, whether they’re designing new tech in state-of-the-art labs or conducting research projects that could influence future industries.
Partnerships with local colleges and organizations give students access to college-level coursework and professional experience before graduation.
Key Stats That Matter
- Rankings: #2 in New Jersey and #33 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
- Graduation Rate: A perfect 100%, with students consistently moving on to top-tier universities.
- Class Size: Small and selective, the school ensures students get personalized attention.
Beyond the Books
At Edison Academy, students are encouraged to push boundaries outside the classroom:
- STEM-Focused Activities: Robotics competitions, coding clubs, and engineering expos give students the chance to showcase their skills.
- Real-World Connections: Partnerships with industries and colleges allow students to gain early exposure to professional STEM environments.
Why Families Choose Edison Academy
Parents often highlight the school’s specialized focus on STEM, saying it gives their kids an edge in competitive college applications.
The smaller class sizes also mean more attention from teachers deeply invested in student success.
Edison Academy is a great option for families looking for a school that’s serious about preparing students for future careers in STEM.
The Academy for Mathematics, Science, and Engineering, Rockaway
The Academy for Mathematics, Science, and Engineering in Rockaway has earned its spot among the best high schools in New Jersey for its no-nonsense focus on STEM education.
With a small, driven student body, it’s the kind of place where ambitious students come to learn, innovate, and push themselves to the limit.
Why It Stands Out
The Academy operates more like a college program, with advanced coursework, real-world projects, and partnerships with universities and industries that give students a serious head start.
From engineering labs to coding competitions, students constantly engage in hands-on learning that goes much further than textbooks.
Key Stats That Matter
- Small and Selective: With fewer than 50 students accepted annually, the Academy keeps class sizes small to give students personalized attention.
- 100% Graduation Rate: Every student graduates, with most heading to competitive universities and STEM programs.
- STEM Excellence: Known for its focus on math, science, and engineering, the school consistently ranks among the top STEM programs in the state.
Beyond the Books
At The Academy, students build, compete, and collaborate:
- Clubs and Teams: The Math Club, Robotics Club, and Science Olympiad are just some extracurriculars.
- Competitions: The Robotics Club has competed in FIRST Tech Challenge events, while the Science Olympiad team consistently performs at regional and state levels.
Why Families Choose The Academy
Families love The Academy for its combination of academic rigor and real-world experience.
The small class sizes, passionate teachers, and opportunities for internships and research make it an obvious choice for students aiming to break into STEM fields.
Union County Magnet High School, Scotch Plains
Union County Magnet High School in Scotch Plains consistently makes the list of top high schools in New Jersey for its focus on STEM education and a strong academic foundation.
Small, selective, and hands-on, it’s a place for students who thrive in a collaborative, project-based learning environment.
Why It Stands Out
Union County Magnet thoroughly prepares students for the challenges of STEM careers.
The curriculum is heavy on engineering, programming, and advanced math, but it’s not just about theory.
Students spend their days solving problems in fully equipped labs, building prototypes, and collaborating on projects that mimic what they’ll face in the real world.
Partnerships with local colleges and companies extend that learning, giving students a competitive edge when it comes time to apply to college or their first job.
Key Stats That Matter
- Small and Selective: With fewer than 300 students, it’s one of the most selective schools in the state, creating a tight-knit community.
- 100% Graduation Rate: Every student graduates, and most go to top colleges like MIT, Princeton, and Carnegie Mellon.
- Test Scores That Impress: SAT averages consistently outpace state and national numbers, reflecting the rigorous academic program.
Beyond the Books
At Union County Magnet, academics are just the beginning:
- Clubs That Shine: The school’s Robotics Club regularly makes waves at FIRST Robotics competitions, while the Math League and Science Olympiad teams rack up trophies at regional and state levels.
- Research Projects: Many students take on individual or group research projects, some of which have been presented at conferences or won awards at STEM fairs.
Why Families Choose Union County Magnet
Parents love the school’s laser focus on STEM, the small class sizes, and the dedicated teachers who know how to push students while keeping them engaged.
Families often say Union County Magnet offers the perfect balance: challenging coursework paired with real-world skills that set students up for success in competitive college programs and beyond.
Marine Academy of Science and Technology (MAST), Highlands
Located in Sandy Hook, MAST offers a high school experience like no other.
This public magnet school specializes in marine sciences and engineering, pairing rigorous academics with hands-on learning in one of New Jersey’s most stunning natural settings.
Why It Stands Out
At MAST, students are often out on the water-conducting research or in the lab analyzing samples.
The Navy Junior ROTC (NJROTC) program is a big part of the school’s identity, teaching leadership, discipline, and maritime skills.
And thanks to its location in the Gateway National Recreation Area, MAST’s “classroom” often includes boats, bays, and beaches.
Key Stats That Matter
- Enrollment: Just 266 students in grades 9–12, creating an intimate environment where students receive personalized attention.
- Academic Strengths: 72% of students score proficient in math, while 95% excel in reading—well above state averages.
- Graduation Rate: An impressive 95%, preparing nearly every student for higher education.
Beyond the Books
Education at MAST goes beyond traditional academics:
- Marine Labs and Fieldwork: Students handle water testing, study marine ecosystems, and even learn how to navigate and operate boats.
- NJROTC Program: Every student participates, learning essential leadership and maritime skills. The program also opens doors to scholarships and opportunities in maritime fields.
- Clubs and Competitions: The Marine Technology Club builds underwater robotics for regional contests, while the Environmental Club works on real-world conservation projects.
Why Families Choose MAST
Parents love MAST for its mix of rigorous academics and hands-on learning.
The school’s focus on marine sciences and environmental stewardship appeals to students who are passionate about STEM and the natural world.
Families also appreciate the leadership skills students gain through NJROTC, which prepare them for college, careers, and beyond.
These NJ High Schools Get It Right
Picking the right school isn’t easy, but the ones here make it clear why they stand out.
These are places where students are leading robotics teams, researching ecosystems, or diving into advanced STEM projects that feel more like real-world work than homework.
What makes these schools different isn’t flashy rankings or over-the-top marketing. It’s how they challenge students to think, grow, and find what excites them while giving them the support they need to thrive.
And the list we’ve covered today shows exactly where to start for families looking for schools that deliver something special—a mix of purpose, opportunity, and community.
Bonus: If you’re moving to the Garden State, you might want to look at the best places to live in New Jersey.
