Head-to-head · 2026
Brisbane Grammar School vs Somerville House
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.
At a glance
The headline differences
- Sector: Brisbane Grammar School is Independent (non-denominational); Somerville House is Independent (PMSA).
- Gender: Brisbane Grammar School is boys; Somerville House is girls.
- ICSEA gap of 28: Brisbane Grammar School draws from a more advantaged community.
- Brisbane Grammar School is the older school (est. 1868 vs 1899).
- Both schools are in Brisbane, so catchment + commute considerations are similar.
Comparison
Side-by-side
| Metric | Brisbane Grammar School | Somerville House |
|---|---|---|
| City / suburb | Spring Hill, Brisbane | South Brisbane, Brisbane |
| Sector | Independent (non-denominational) | Independent (PMSA) |
| Gender | boys | girls |
| Year levels | Year 5-Year 12 | Prep-Year 12 |
| ICSEA | 1212 | 1184 |
| Year 12 fee 2026 | $36,300 | $31,872 |
| Year 7 fee 2026 | $36,300 | $31,872 |
| Boarding | Yes · $35,660/yr | Yes |
| Founded | 1868 | 1899 |
| Religion | Non-denominational | Presbyterian and Uniting Church (PMSA) |
All fees verified 13 May 2026 against each school's published 2026 schedule. Excludes uniforms, technology, camps, capital + boarding (unless shown).
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
See full profile →Somerville House
Standout strengths
- ›All-inclusive fee (laptop, camps, QGSSSA sport)
- ›Strong academic record - QLD top OP/ATAR results
- ›International + STEM programs
Independent (PMSA) girls school in South Brisbane, Brisbane. All-inclusive fee (laptop, camps, QGSSSA sport)
See full profile →Common questions
FAQs
Which is better, Brisbane Grammar School or Somerville House?
"Better" depends on family priorities. By ICSEA, Brisbane Grammar School. By 2026 Year 12 fee, Somerville House 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 Grammar School and Somerville House?
Brisbane Grammar School's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $36,300 (Year 7: $36,300). Somerville House's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $31,872 (Year 7: $31,872). Both schools also charge additional levies (technology, camps, capital, uniform) typically adding 8-15% to headline tuition.
What are the ICSEA scores for Brisbane Grammar School vs Somerville House?
Brisbane Grammar School has an ICSEA score of 1212; Somerville House has 1184. 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 Grammar School or Somerville House?
Brisbane Grammar School is the older school (founded 1868 vs 1899 for Somerville House).
Do Brisbane Grammar School or Somerville House offer boarding?
Brisbane Grammar School: Yes, 2026 boarding fee from $35,660/yr. Somerville House: Yes.
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 →