Head-to-head · 2026
Abbotsleigh vs Ascham School
Side-by-side 2026 comparison: fees, ICSEA, sector, gender, programs and boarding. Both in Sydney. Sourced from each school's published 2026 schedule and ACARA MySchool. Verified 13 May 2026.
At a glance
The headline differences
- Sector: Abbotsleigh is Anglican; Ascham School is Independent (non-denominational).
- ICSEA gap of 11: Ascham School draws from a more advantaged community.
- Both schools are in Sydney, so catchment + commute considerations are similar.
Comparison
Side-by-side
| Metric | Abbotsleigh | Ascham School |
|---|---|---|
| City / suburb | Wahroonga, Sydney | Edgecliff, Sydney |
| Sector | Anglican | Independent (non-denominational) |
| Gender | girls | girls |
| Year levels | Pre-K to Year 12 | K-Year 12 |
| ICSEA | 1217 | 1228 |
| Year 12 fee 2026 | $41,960 | $41,680 |
| Year 7 fee 2026 | $39,400 | $38,280 |
| Boarding | Yes | Yes · $33,200/yr |
| Founded | 1885 | 1886 |
| Religion | Anglican Church of Australia | Non-denominational |
All fees verified 13 May 2026 against each school's published 2026 schedule. Excludes uniforms, technology, camps, capital + boarding (unless shown).
Abbotsleigh
Standout strengths
- ›Consistently top HSC results among Sydney girls' schools
- ›Strong music and choral program
- ›Sister school to Knox Grammar (joint events)
Anglican girls school in Wahroonga, Sydney. Consistently top HSC results among Sydney girls' schools
See full profile →Ascham School
Standout strengths
- ›Dalton Plan pedagogy (only one in NSW)
- ›Strongest HSC results in Eastern Suburbs
- ›Non-denominational secular ethos
Independent girls' school in Edgecliff, Sydney's eastern suburbs. Founded 1886. Uses Dalton Plan pedagogy.
See full profile →Common questions
FAQs
Which is better, Abbotsleigh or Ascham School?
"Better" depends on family priorities. By ICSEA, Ascham School. By 2026 Year 12 fee, Ascham School is more affordable. Both are in Sydney. The most meaningful comparison is on culture, programs, transport and entry pathway for your specific child — visit open days and talk to current parents.
What are the 2026 fees for Abbotsleigh and Ascham School?
Abbotsleigh's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $41,960 (Year 7: $39,400). Ascham School's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $41,680 (Year 7: $38,280). Both schools also charge additional levies (technology, camps, capital, uniform) typically adding 8-15% to headline tuition.
What are the ICSEA scores for Abbotsleigh vs Ascham School?
Abbotsleigh has an ICSEA score of 1217; Ascham School has 1228. The Australian median is 1000. ICSEA measures the socio-educational advantage of the school community — it correlates with academic outcomes but does NOT measure teaching quality or value-add. ICSEA is published by ACARA on MySchool.
Which school is older, Abbotsleigh or Ascham School?
Abbotsleigh is the older school (founded 1885 vs 1886 for Ascham School).
Do Abbotsleigh or Ascham School offer boarding?
Abbotsleigh: Yes. Ascham School: Yes, 2026 boarding fee from $33,200/yr.
Next step
Model the 6-year cost for either school
Project Year 7-12 tuition with 4.5% annual indexation. Add boarding, levies and sibling discounts. Compare side-by-side.
Open calculator →