Head-to-head · 2026

Brisbane Boys' College vs Brisbane Grammar School

Side-by-side 2026 comparison: fees, ICSEA, sector, gender, programs and boarding. Both in Brisbane. Sourced from each school's published 2026 schedule and ACARA MySchool. Verified 13 May 2026.

The Education Desk · Editorial team, schools + fertility + family services · Updated 13 May 2026 · How we rank · Editorial standards

At a glance

The headline differences

  • Sector: Brisbane Boys' College is Independent (Presbyterian and Uniting Church); Brisbane Grammar School is Independent (non-denominational).
  • ICSEA gap of 48: Brisbane Grammar School draws from a more advantaged community.
  • Brisbane Grammar School is the older school (est. 1868 vs 1902).
  • Both schools are in Brisbane, so catchment + commute considerations are similar.

Comparison

Side-by-side

Metric Brisbane Boys' College Brisbane Grammar School
City / suburbToowong, BrisbaneSpring Hill, Brisbane
SectorIndependent (Presbyterian and Uniting Church)Independent (non-denominational)
Genderboysboys
Year levelsPrep-Year 12Year 5-Year 12
ICSEA11641212
Year 12 fee 2026$33,260$36,300
Year 7 fee 2026$33,260$36,300
BoardingYes · $32,460/yrYes · $35,660/yr
Founded19021868
ReligionPresbyterian and Uniting ChurchNon-denominational

All fees verified 13 May 2026 against each school's published 2026 schedule. Excludes uniforms, technology, camps, capital + boarding (unless shown).

Brisbane Boys' College

Standout strengths

  • GPS sport (rugby, rowing, cricket)
  • Strong cadet + outdoor education
  • Robust music and pipe band tradition

Independent (Presbyterian and Uniting Church) boys school in Toowong, Brisbane. GPS sport (rugby, rowing, cricket)

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Brisbane Grammar School

Standout strengths

  • Top NAPLAN numeracy results in QLD
  • GPS sport powerhouse
  • Strong music + debating tradition

Independent (non-denominational) boys school in Spring Hill, Brisbane. Top NAPLAN numeracy results in QLD

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Common questions

FAQs

Which is better, Brisbane Boys' College or Brisbane Grammar School?

"Better" depends on family priorities. By ICSEA, Brisbane Grammar School. By 2026 Year 12 fee, Brisbane Boys' College is more affordable. Both are in Brisbane. 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 Brisbane Boys' College and Brisbane Grammar School?

Brisbane Boys' College's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $33,260 (Year 7: $33,260). Brisbane Grammar School's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $36,300 (Year 7: $36,300). Both schools also charge additional levies (technology, camps, capital, uniform) typically adding 8-15% to headline tuition.

What are the ICSEA scores for Brisbane Boys' College vs Brisbane Grammar School?

Brisbane Boys' College has an ICSEA score of 1164; Brisbane Grammar School has 1212. 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, Brisbane Boys' College or Brisbane Grammar School?

Brisbane Grammar School is the older school (founded 1868 vs 1902 for Brisbane Boys' College).

Do Brisbane Boys' College or Brisbane Grammar School offer boarding?

Brisbane Boys' College: Yes, 2026 boarding fee from $32,460/yr. Brisbane Grammar School: Yes, 2026 boarding fee from $35,660/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.

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