Head-to-head · 2026
Ascham School 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
- Gender: Ascham School is girls; Sydney Grammar School is boys.
- Ascham School offers boarding; Sydney Grammar School is day-only.
- 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 | Ascham School | Sydney Grammar School |
|---|---|---|
| City / suburb | Edgecliff, Sydney | Darlinghurst, Sydney |
| Sector | Independent (non-denominational) | Independent (non-denominational) |
| Gender | girls | boys |
| Year levels | K-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 | on request | $52,410 |
| Year 7 fee 2026 | on request | $52,410 |
| Boarding | Yes | Day school |
| Founded | 1886 | 1857 |
| Religion | Non-denominational independent | 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).
Ascham School
Standout strengths
- ›Dalton Plan progressive education methodology (one of few in Australia)
- ›Top HSC results among Eastern Suburbs girls' schools
- ›Strong rowing program on Sydney Harbour
Independent (non-denominational) girls school in Edgecliff, Sydney. Dalton Plan progressive education methodology (one of few in Australia)
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, Ascham School or Sydney Grammar School?
"Better" depends on family priorities. By ICSEA, Sydney Grammar 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 Ascham School and Sydney Grammar School?
Ascham School's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $undefined. 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 Ascham School vs Sydney Grammar School?
Ascham School 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, Ascham School or Sydney Grammar School?
Sydney Grammar School is the older school (founded 1857 vs 1886 for Ascham School).
Do Ascham School or Sydney Grammar School offer boarding?
Ascham School: 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 →