Two South African private schools are shining internationally! They’ve been named among the best on the continent and in the world.
Global (20 January 2026) – Bishops Diocesan College in Cape Town and Michaelhouse in KwaZulu-Natal have been named as two of the best private schools in Africa and among 150 of the best in the world!
The Schools Index is a trusted resource used by parents around the globe. Each year, it profiles the world’s top private international institutions. The index is created by UK-based education consultancy Carfax Education.
Schools are selected through a strict research and review process under a global team of education consultants. Selected schools meet high standards in academic results, leadership, ethos, reputation, facilities, university destinations, and long-term outcomes for old pupils.
Bishops and Michaelhouse ranked as two of the world’s best private schools in the previous edition of the index covering 2023-2024. This year’s recognition cements their status as top international institutions.
South Africa’s top two private schools join the American School of Lagos, Pembroke House and The British International School in Cairo in the ranks of Africa’s best.
Across the world, a total of 150 schools have been profiled in this year’s index, across 14 different categories that feature schools in the UK, Europe, Latin America, North America, Switzerland, Asia, Africa, Australasia, China, Hong Kong and the Middle East.
Alongside its Global Schools Index, Carfax has expanded on its ‘Ones to Watch’ index, spotlighting 25 schools that are either on the verge of joining the world’s best or offer something unique that sets them apart from the mainstream. South Africa shines there, too! Hilton College in KwaZulu-Natal is featured in the most recent listing of the best private schools to watch.
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