You won't find any football fields or gymnasiums at Stockton Collegiate International School.
But, what you will find are students anxious to learn in a rigorous teaching environment.
"The school has a lot to offer that not a lot of schools can. What I like about it specifically is that it's really small so you get that one-on-one time," said sophomore Ashley Rivas.
The school was recently recognized by U.S. News and World Report as the third best high school in California and the 37th best in the country.
It's all based on state required tests and how they prepare students.
The school, which is located in downtown Stockton, the K-12 school is housed in four buildings, including the Chase Bank building at Sutter and Main Streets.
It is a public, charter school with open enrollment. Getting in is not based on "who you know", but on a simple lottery system when a student applies.
What makes the school so sought after is it is an IB Diploma Programme or International Baccalaureate. It's an academically challenging curriculum that prepares students for success at a university with college level work in their junior and senior years.
"The seniors just finished three weeks of tests in five or six subjects. Those exams translate into college credit, translate in to college admission," said Lisa Lee, Project Coordinator for the school.
Not surprisingly, there is a long waiting list to get into the school.