Friends Seminary

School Profile

Founded in 1786, Friends Seminary is the oldest continuing coeducational school in New York City. Incorporated under the New York Quarterly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends, the School draws extensively on its Quaker heritage, providing a values-based, academically rigorous K-12 program. Academic engagement goes hand in hand with individuality, respect for community and an appreciation for the cultural vibrancy of the surrounding metropolitan area. Unique to Quaker schools, time is set aside each day for Meeting - a time when students and faculty gather in the School's landmark Meetinghouse for silent reflection.

Optimism is the operative word at Friends. The combination of challenge and support creates a K-12 learning environment in which children feel safe to take intellectual risks, gain confidence, and feel valued for their unique potential. The School offers a balanced academic program with over 125 courses in the Upper School alone. Foreign and classical languages, visual and performing arts, experiential education, advanced placement courses, many elective and extra-curricular offerings, an extensive physical education program and a cutting-edge technology network - all enhance curriculum. Service learning introduced in Lower School and required for Grades 5-12 supports the School's missions. Qualified juniors and seniors can take courses at nearby NYU as well as participate in international and domestic student programs.

Friends welcomes and encourages children of all races, ethnicities, religions and socio-economic backgrounds to apply for admissions. A substantial tuition aid program is available for families requiring financial assistance.