In its annual assessment of academic excellence, U.S. News & World Report has named Hanover High School the best high school in the state of New Hampshire for 2025, recognizing its strong college readiness programs, advanced coursework offerings, and overall student performance.
Hanover High School, located in the Upper Valley region, earned the top spot among all public high schools statewide. The school’s impressive 42% Advanced Placement® participation rate and commitment to academic rigor distinguish it as a model of excellence in the Granite State. With a total minority enrollment of 22% and 6% of students classified as economically disadvantaged, Hanover High maintains an inclusive environment that supports achievement across diverse backgrounds.
The school is part of the Dresden School District, which serves both Hanover, New Hampshire, and Norwich, Vermont—an arrangement that reflects the community’s cooperative spirit and regional commitment to educational opportunity. Hanover’s continued success highlights its well-rounded curriculum, active student body, and support from a community that values education as a cornerstone of local life.
Taking the second place in this year’s U.S. News rankings is Lebanon High School, also located in the Upper Valley. Lebanon’s consistent performance in statewide testing and dedication to college and career readiness have made it a strong contender in recent years. The school emphasizes both academic and extracurricular growth, offering a variety of Advanced Placement courses and vocational programs to prepare students for post-secondary success.
Rounding out the top three is Bedford High School, a perennial standout in southern New Hampshire known for its competitive academic environment and broad range of extracurricular opportunities. Bedford continues to produce strong college-bound graduates and has earned high marks for its student-teacher ratios and test performance.
The U.S. News & World Report rankings evaluate schools based on six key factors, including college readiness, state assessment proficiency, state assessment performance, underserved student performance, college curriculum breadth, and graduation rate.
This year’s results underscore New Hampshire’s continued strength in public education, with schools across the state maintaining high standards of teaching and learning. The top-ranked institutions—Hanover, Lebanon, and Bedford—demonstrate how different communities across the Granite State are investing in the next generation through quality education, innovation, and inclusivity.
For families relocating to New Hampshire or considering a move within the state, these rankings provide a clear snapshot of the academic opportunities available. With a blend of small-town character and top-tier academics, Hanover High School’s distinction as the state’s best is a reflection of New Hampshire’s broader commitment to educational excellence and community-driven success.