A family preparing to move to Vermont was surprised when they received the application materials for private schools for the first time. The process, which includes essays, recommendation letters, and interviews, differs from the entrance exams in Korea and is also distinct from private schools in other states. Even within the same private school, the admission procedures vary by region, so it's good to be informed in advance.

One frequently mentioned school in the Burlington area is the Vermont Commons School, located in South Burlington. It serves grades 6 through 12, has received an overall Niche rating of A, and has an average SAT score of 1310. Other schools mentioned among local parents include Mater Christi School, Rock Point School, and Christ the King School. Niche ratings are based on academic performance, student reviews, and college readiness, and schools in this area generally emphasize small class sizes to provide careful attention to each student.

When looking at tuition, there can be significant differences between schools even with the same budget. The average private school tuition in Vermont is $20,681 for elementary education and $35,611 for high school, which is relatively high compared to other states. The average acceptance rate for private schools in the Burlington area is 75%, slightly higher than the state average of 71%. The student-to-teacher ratio is an average of 8 to 1, characteristic of small class sizes. Burlington is home to the University of Vermont, which contributes to an academic atmosphere typical of college towns, influencing school choices.

Even within Burlington, the location of a home can make a difference. The downtown area is close to the university and amenities, while South Burlington has relatively better school access and a higher proportion of new housing. These differences should be considered when deciding based on commuting distance and daily living routes.

In terms of housing prices, according to Zillow, the average home price in Burlington is $516,143, which has decreased by 1.9% over the past year. Other data indicates that the median sale price was $510,000 as of August 2026, and $499,000 as of May. Comparing the two areas, new listings in South Burlington tend to drive up the average price, so it's important to check the price variations by neighborhood even within Burlington. It's also good to factor in that winters are long and heating costs may be higher than in other areas.

Some families moving to Vermont choose this area because they want their children to be educated in a nature-friendly environment from a young age. However, compared to large cities, there are not many private school options, so once a family identifies a school of interest, it's advisable to mark the application deadlines on the calendar in advance. Schools with limited enrollment often close their applications early.

Burlington is not a large city, so each school typically has limited enrollment by grade. If there are no spots available in the desired grade, some families may put their names on a waiting list and wait for the next semester. In such cases, it may be worth considering renting first and proceeding with a purchase in line with the admission timing. If you want a shorter rental contract, there are generally more diverse options available in the downtown area compared to South Burlington.

Vermont is one of the least populated states in the U.S., so the absolute number of listings is lower compared to other large cities. Therefore, it is practically helpful to establish a relationship with a real estate agent in advance and be prepared to be contacted as soon as new listings become available. Visiting schools in person is also more advantageous for getting a feel for the atmosphere than attending online information sessions.

For families coming from other states, it's good to include in the budget that Vermont's property tax rate is relatively high compared to other New England areas. School district boundaries can change frequently, so it's advisable to verify the assigned school for a specific address before making a purchase. This article is not investment or legal advice, and it is recommended to consult with a professional before making any actual contracts.