Head-to-head · 2026
Canberra Grammar School vs Radford College
Side-by-side 2026 comparison: fees, ICSEA, sector, gender, programs and boarding. Both in Canberra. Sourced from each school's published 2026 schedule and ACARA MySchool. Verified 13 May 2026.
At a glance
The headline differences
- Canberra Grammar School offers boarding; Radford College is day-only.
- Year 12 fees differ by $18,680: Radford College is more affordable.
- ICSEA gap of 10: Canberra Grammar School draws from a more advantaged community.
- Canberra Grammar School is the older school (est. 1929 vs 1984).
- Both schools are in Canberra, so catchment + commute considerations are similar.
Comparison
Side-by-side
| Metric | Canberra Grammar School | Radford College |
|---|---|---|
| City / suburb | Red Hill, Canberra | Bruce, Canberra |
| Sector | Anglican | Anglican |
| Gender | co-educational | co-educational |
| Year levels | Preschool-Year 12 | Pre-K-Year 12 |
| ICSEA | 1194 | 1184 |
| Year 12 fee 2026 | $44,630 | $25,950 |
| Year 7 fee 2026 | $43,455 | $25,050 |
| Boarding | Yes | Day school |
| Founded | 1929 | 1984 |
| Religion | Anglican Church of Australia | Anglican Church of Australia |
All fees verified 13 May 2026 against each school's published 2026 schedule. Excludes uniforms, technology, camps, capital + boarding (unless shown).
Canberra Grammar School
Standout strengths
- ›Computing and digital innovation program
- ›Fully co-educational since 2018
- ›Boarding houses for senior students
Anglican co-educational school in Red Hill, Canberra. Computing and digital innovation program
See full profile →Radford College
Standout strengths
- ›IB Diploma alongside ACT BSSS pathway
- ›Round Square member school
- ›Largest enrolment in ACT independent sector (2,100+)
Anglican co-educational school in Bruce, Canberra. IB Diploma alongside ACT BSSS pathway
See full profile →Common questions
FAQs
Which is better, Canberra Grammar School or Radford College?
"Better" depends on family priorities. By ICSEA, Canberra Grammar School. By 2026 Year 12 fee, Radford College is more affordable. Both are in Canberra. 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 Canberra Grammar School and Radford College?
Canberra Grammar School's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $44,630 (Year 7: $43,455). Radford College's 2026 Year 12 tuition is $25,950 (Year 7: $25,050). Both schools also charge additional levies (technology, camps, capital, uniform) typically adding 8-15% to headline tuition.
What are the ICSEA scores for Canberra Grammar School vs Radford College?
Canberra Grammar School has an ICSEA score of 1194; Radford College 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, Canberra Grammar School or Radford College?
Canberra Grammar School is the older school (founded 1929 vs 1984 for Radford College).
Do Canberra Grammar School or Radford College offer boarding?
Canberra Grammar School: Yes. Radford College: 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 →