Head-to-head · 2026
Abbotsleigh vs Sydney Grammar 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; Sydney Grammar School is Independent (non-denominational).
- Gender: Abbotsleigh is girls; Sydney Grammar School is boys.
- Abbotsleigh offers boarding; Sydney Grammar School is day-only.
- Year 12 fees differ by $10,450: Abbotsleigh is more affordable.
- ICSEA gap of 57: Sydney Grammar School draws from a more advantaged community.
- Both schools are in Sydney, so catchment + commute considerations are similar.
Comparison
Side-by-side
| Metric | Abbotsleigh | Sydney Grammar School |
|---|---|---|
| City / suburb | Wahroonga, Sydney | Darlinghurst, Sydney |
| Sector | Anglican | Independent (non-denominational) |
| Gender | girls | boys |
| Year levels | Pre-K to Year 12 | K-Year 12 (boys K-Year 12 College St; co-ed Edgecliff and St Ives Prep) |
| ICSEA | 1217 | 1274 |
| Year 12 fee 2026 | $41,960 | $52,410 |
| Year 7 fee 2026 | $39,400 | $52,410 |
| Boarding | Yes | Day school |
| Founded | 1885 | 1857 |
| Religion | Anglican Church of Australia | Non-denominational secular independent (per founding Act of Parliament) |
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 →Sydney Grammar School
Standout strengths
- ›Consistently Sydney's top HSC academic results
- ›Strong Classics, Latin and humanities tradition
- ›GPS sport member with strong rowing and athletics
Independent (non-denominational) boys school in Darlinghurst, Sydney. Consistently Sydney's top HSC academic results
See full profile →Common questions
FAQs
Which is better, Abbotsleigh or Sydney Grammar School?
"Better" depends on family priorities. By ICSEA, Sydney Grammar School. By 2026 Year 12 fee, Abbotsleigh 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 Sydney Grammar School?
Abbotsleigh's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $41,960 (Year 7: $39,400). Sydney Grammar School's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $52,410 (Year 7: $52,410). 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 Sydney Grammar School?
Abbotsleigh has an ICSEA score of 1217; Sydney Grammar School has 1274. 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 Sydney Grammar School?
Sydney Grammar School is the older school (founded 1857 vs 1885 for Abbotsleigh).
Do Abbotsleigh or Sydney Grammar School offer boarding?
Abbotsleigh: Yes. Sydney Grammar School: Day school only.
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 →