The Most Selective High Schools Around the Globe?

I've got a bit of a competitive streak, so this question has been bugging me. How selective are the most competitive high schools globally? And are there specific advantages to attending such schools?

The selectivity of high schools around the globe can vary greatly depending on a number of factors such as the country's educational system, the specific location of the school, the the type of program it offers, and the school’s reputation. However, some of the most competitive high schools globally include:

- Raffles Institution in Singapore: Known for consistently producing top scholarly achievers, Raffles is considered one of the highest-ranked schools in the world.

- Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in the U.S.: Acceptance rates can be as low as 15%, making it more selective than many top universities.

- The Affiliated High School of Peking University in China: They accept only the top 0.1% of middle school graduates in Beijing.

- Henri-IV in France: Has rigorous entrance exams and maintains a strong reputation for intellectual rigor.

There can be several advantages to attending these highly competitive high schools. The rigorous academic preparation can better prepare students for higher education. They often offer enriched programs, rigorous curriculums, and ample opportunities for student research — experiences that can be valuable in college applications. Also, these institutions often carry prestige that can be advantageous when applying to highly selective colleges or universities.

However, it's important to remember that a high school's selectivity is not necessarily a measure of quality or fit for a particular student. There are many exceptional high schools around the world that may not be as competitive in terms of admission but still offer a high-quality education and a supportive and enriching environment. The best-fit school is one that meets a student’s individual learning needs and fosters their personal and academic growth.