Focus

Mind, character, community

Day fees 2024/25

$57,100

Pupils

1,300

Ages

4–18

Spear’s Review

Located across two campuses, Riverdale Country School is a co-educational, independent day school in New York City that educates children from pre-kindergarten through to 12th grade. Established in 1907, it aims to empower young minds and build a community ‘in order to change our world for the good’. The school is renowned for its academic excellence, while innovation and a culture of critical thinking are embedded in the school’s ethos. 

The Riverdale experience blends interdisciplinary learning, research, travel and experiential education with athletics, extracurricular clubs and activities. Students are able to take a range of interesting classes to develop their learning, such as robotics, science fiction, climate change, constitutional law, finance and asset management, Japanese and Latin. Outside of the classroom, students can partake in a range of activities, including joining one of the academy's many sports teams, or partaking in debating, storytelling club or animal welfare club. 

Academics

In 2024, the average SAT score was 1440.

In 2024, the average ACT score was 33.

University and college destinations

With consistently high SAT scores, pupils of Riverdale Country School regularly go on to matriculate at top US and international universities, including all eight Ivy League schools.

Head teacher

Kari Ostrem is Riverdale’s seventh head of school. Joining in 2023, Ostrem brings more than 25 years of experience at independent, public and charter schools to Riverdale, including as the founding head of school at the Haile-Manas Academy in Ethiopia. She has also served as academic dean at the Lawrenceville School in New Jersey; co-director and co-founder of the Bronx Lab School; and director of science for KIPP NYC. An experienced engineer, Ostrem holds a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering from Princeton University and a Master of Science degree in environmental engineering from Columbia University.

Admissions

According to the school, the admissions committee takes into account applicants’ character strengths, potential for community engagement and academic preparation. Prior to admission, the school makes an effort to learn about students in multiple contexts, including via an interactive group activity that is typical of a Riverdale learning experience. ‘Students who demonstrate kindness, honesty, self-discipline, resilience and independence, and families who will embrace the school’s diverse and inclusive community, are particularly sought-after.’

Accessibility

JFK Airport: 45 minutes

Location

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