What makes a great high school? At United Charter High Schools, we believe it’s a combination of academic rigor, personalized support, and real-world opportunities that prepare students for whatever comes next. Across our seven campuses in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens, we’re proving that tuition-free public education can rival the best private schools. Here are our top 10 reasons you’ll love our tuition-free high schools.
1. 95%+ Graduation Rate
Our rigorous model of education, coupled with unwavering support from teachers and administrators, has helped us achieve one of the most enviable graduation rates in the state. We ensure success with 20% more class time, a diverse offering of courses, a dedicated counseling program, and personalized support for all learners.
2. College and Career Readiness is Our Goal for Every Student
Our exceptionally high college acceptance rate is evidence of our commitment to post-secondary readiness for all students. We prepare students for college and careers by providing opportunities like internships, AP courses, and trade programs. We also provide support for the entire college application process, from campus visitations to financial aid forms.
3. Award-Winning Excellence
Five of our seven schools have been recognized by Niche as some of NYC’s top charter high schools. UCHS – Advanced Math & Science II (AMS II) was awarded a 2022 National Blue Ribbon from the U.S. Department of Education and all of our schools have been recognized by Niche as outstanding across a variety of indicators: everything from top public school teachers to the best schools for diversity and more.
4. Tuition-Free College Prep
Our tuition-free public charter school model rivals what private schools can offer and achieve. With rigorous academics, a robust in-house college advising program, and college and career readiness skills, we prepare students to read, write, and think critically. Our students learn about civic responsibility through real-world projects, community partnerships, and meaningful action that makes a difference in New York City and beyond. Additionally, internships and trade programs for seniors connect classroom learning to careers.
5. Small Classes = Big Impact
Our intentionally small classes foster strong relationships, individual support, and a caring community – ensuring all students receive the attention they need to succeed. Our network-wide focus on values like perseverance, respect, and responsibility cultivate a healthy community that embraces all students.
6. STEM Innovation Hub
At AMS I, II, III, & IV, project-based STEM learning prepares students for future careers in engineering, technology, and medicine. Students are not only exposed to a wide variety of STEM fields, but they also have access to AP courses like Biology and Computer Science, as well as resources and technology that grow their expertise as innovators and critical thinkers.
7. Humanities Focus Option
At HUM I, II, & IV, students receive our high-quality college preparatory curriculum in addition to opportunities to grow as creative and well-rounded thinkers. HUM students can choose from a variety of arts electives like creative writing, dance, and visual arts that foster collaboration and civic engagement – essential skills for college and beyond. AP courses, such as World History and Literature, develop students as critical readers, writers, and thinkers.
8. Support for All Learners
We provide comprehensive support through dedicated counselors, learning specialists, and teachers trained in differentiated instruction strategies. All learners, regardless of learning styles and needs, are invited to enroll at United Charter High Schools. Whether a student needs acceleration, small group instruction, or additional academic support, our expert educators ensure everyone has what they need to thrive in school.
9. Full Roster of Athletics & Extracurriculars
As a member of the NYC Charter School Athletic Association, we proudly offer competitive football, volleyball, soccer, basketball, baseball, tennis, softball, and track & field. With a little variety between campuses, we also offer clubs like Music for the Soul, Creative Writing, and Anime that are tailored to student interests and keep teens engaged and active.
10. Community that Cares
Rounding out the top reasons people love our schools is our tight-knit, caring community. We are proud that our students named our network of seven schools “United” — we think it reflects the positive and collaborative culture that empowers our students to reach their full potential and develop as leaders with strong character.
At United Charter High Schools, we believe every student is deserving of a high-quality education and caring community to support their launch into post-secondary life. As tuition-free public charter schools, we’re raising the bar and impacting our communities, one student at a time.
We invite you to join us as we engage minds and elevate outcomes. Applications for the 2026-27 school year are now open. Visit our enrollment page to get started or learn more.
About United Charter High Schools
United Charter High Schools is a network of seven award-winning and tuition-free charter schools serving 9th-12th grade students and families across the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens. We are united in our mission to close the opportunity gap by ensuring equal access to rigorous STEAM and Humanities academics and unwavering support for post-secondary readiness. Get to know us at www.unitedcharter.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Applications for the 2026-27 school year are open now.
