Texas Public High Schools Achieve Record Graduation Rates

Graduating students from Texas high schools celebrate their success as the state reaches record graduation rates.

News Summary

Texas public high schools have reached a graduation rate of 89.7%, surpassing the national average and ranking 5th in the country. With over 3,300 high schools, Texas showcases excellence through various recognized institutions. The commitment to enhancing educational standards is evident as schools like the School for the Talented & Gifted and the School of Science & Engineering excel in academic performance and college readiness, contributing to the state’s impressive educational landscape.

Dallas, Texas — Public high schools across Texas have achieved a remarkable milestone for 2025, with an impressive graduation rate of 89.7%, surpassing the national average of 85.9%. Texas now ranks 5th in the nation for high school graduation rates, reflecting a commitment to improving education standards statewide.

Among Texas’ 3,346 public high schools spanning 1,207 districts and charter systems, numerous institutions are recognized nationally for their academic excellence. The evaluations are based on key metrics, including teacher-to-student ratios, overall graduation rates, academic performance, availability of extracurricular activities, college preparation programs, and diversity among the student body.

The top five public high schools in Texas for the year 2025 highlight exceptional achievements in education:

School for the Talented & Gifted (TAG), Dallas
- Enrollment: 534 students in grades 9-12
- Student-to-teacher ratio: 18:1
- National rank: #6
- NICHE Grade: A+
School of Science & Engineering, Dallas
- Enrollment: 490 students in grades 9-12
- Student-to-teacher ratio: 18:1
- National rank: #29
- Proficiency rates: 95% in both math and reading
- NICHE Grade: A+
Liberal Arts & Science Academy, Austin
- Enrollment: 1,432 students in grades 9-12
- Student-to-teacher ratio: 18:1
- National rank: #38
- NICHE Grade: A+
Carnegie Vanguard High School, Houston
- Enrollment: 823 students in grades 9-12
- Student-to-teacher ratio: 22:1
- Proficiency rates: 95% in math, 99% in reading
- National rank: #31
- NICHE Grade: A+
Westlake High School, Austin
- Enrollment: 2,825 students in grades 9-12
- Student-to-teacher ratio: 14:1
- Graduation rate: 99%
- SAT average: 1275; ACT average: 27.9

The continuous recognition of Texas high schools on a national scale can be attributed to ongoing improvements in education and student engagement. Schools, such as Carnegie Vanguard, have consistently achieved high academic performance with an SAT average of 1380 and an ACT average of 31, often sending graduates to prestigious universities within Texas.

The School for the Talented & Gifted is noted for its small class sizes, enabling personalized attention and superior performance on standardized tests, with an SAT average of 1400 and ACT average of 32. The Liberal Arts & Science Academy is recognized for its strong commitment to diversity and academic rigor, with students averaging an SAT score of 1420.

In addition to the top five, Texas is home to other notable schools such as BASIS San Antonio and DeBakey High School for Health Professions, both of which excel in specialized academic programs and have achieved significant recognition for their students’ accomplishments.

The increasing focus on enhancing educational standards statewide has resulted in a considerable boost in graduation rates, with Texas public high schools working diligently to meet the diverse needs of their student populations. This focus on academic excellence and readiness for college is vital for the future of Texas students and is a significant indicator of the state’s educational landscape.