Hershey, Pennsylvania, famously known as the “Sweetest Place on Earth,” is not only home to Hershey’s chocolate legacy but also to some of the finest educational institutions in the state. Families seeking quality education with structured boarding environments often look to Hershey and its surrounding areas for schools that blend academics, character building, extracurricular activities, and life skills.

In this article, we highlight the Top 10 Boarding Schools in Hershey, PA and their fees, giving you a clear guide if you are considering sending your child to one of these prestigious institutions.

Top 10 Boarding Schools In Hershey PA And Fees

1. Milton Hershey School

Milton Hershey School (MHS) is perhaps the most renowned boarding school in Hershey. Founded in 1909 by Milton and Catherine Hershey, it was established to provide education and full-time care for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Today, MHS is one of the largest and most generous private boarding schools in the U.S.

The school provides students with free tuition, housing, food, clothing, healthcare, and even college scholarships. Its holistic model focuses on academic growth, character development, and career readiness. The curriculum is broad, covering STEM, arts, athletics, and vocational training, giving students a strong foundation for the future.

One of the unique aspects of MHS is its family-style home life, where students live in small groups under the guidance of houseparents. This structure promotes stability and nurtures personal growth. With advanced facilities, counseling services, and an emphasis on leadership, Milton Hershey School is more than just a school — it’s a life-changing opportunity.

Fees: Free of charge (fully funded by the Milton Hershey Trust).

2. Linden Hall School for Girls

Located in nearby Lititz (just 20 minutes from Hershey), Linden Hall is the oldest independent girls’ boarding school in the U.S., founded in 1746. It provides a rigorous college-preparatory education with a strong emphasis on leadership, critical thinking, and personal growth.

The boarding program fosters independence while creating a nurturing environment where girls are encouraged to excel academically and socially. Linden Hall also emphasizes arts, equestrian programs, and STEM, offering a balanced curriculum that prepares young women for global opportunities.

The school is also recognized for its small class sizes, giving students personalized attention and a strong support network. Boarding students live in comfortable residences with modern facilities, and the school ensures that they build lasting friendships and a sense of belonging.

Fees: Boarding tuition ranges from $59,900 to $62,900 per year.

3. The Hill School

Located in Pottstown (less than an hour from Hershey), The Hill School is one of the most prestigious co-educational boarding schools in Pennsylvania. Established in 1851, it is often referred to as the “family boarding school” for its close-knit community and traditional values.

Academically, The Hill School provides a challenging curriculum that balances classical education with modern innovations. With strong programs in humanities, sciences, arts, and athletics, students are prepared for top-tier universities. The school also emphasizes character, leadership, and service, making graduates well-rounded individuals.

The Hill School campus is a blend of history and modernity, featuring advanced science labs, athletic centers, and performing arts spaces. Boarding students benefit from strong mentorship and a supportive residential life program that builds lifelong skills.

Fees: Boarding tuition is approximately $68,600 per year.

4. Mercersburg Academy

Just a little over an hour from Hershey, Mercersburg Academy is another elite boarding school with a reputation for academic excellence and leadership development. Founded in 1893, it offers a globally focused education to students from across the world.

The curriculum is diverse, offering over 170 courses including Advanced Placement (AP) and honors options. The school is also known for its arts and athletics programs, with state-of-the-art theaters, studios, and sports facilities. Its strong alumni network and college counseling programs give students a competitive edge when applying to top universities.

Residential life at Mercersburg fosters independence while ensuring students feel supported. With cultural diversity at the heart of the community, students learn valuable lessons about global citizenship and collaboration.

Fees: Boarding tuition is about $71,950 per year.

5. Westtown School

Located in West Chester, around 90 minutes from Hershey, Westtown School is a Quaker-affiliated institution that blends academic rigor with spiritual and ethical values. Established in 1799, it is among the oldest continuously operating boarding schools in the U.S.

The school is renowned for its focus on social justice, environmental sustainability, and leadership. Its curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, innovation, and collaboration, with strong programs in STEM, global studies, and arts. Westtown also offers an outdoor education program that enhances resilience and teamwork.

Boarding life at Westtown encourages self-reliance and community living. Students enjoy a diverse environment, cultural exposure, and close faculty-student interactions. The school promotes an ethos of respect, peace, and stewardship, reflecting its Quaker roots.

Fees: Boarding tuition is approximately $70,250 per year.

6. George School

Located in Newtown, Pennsylvania, George School is a Quaker co-ed boarding school that has earned a strong reputation for academic rigor and community values. Known for its International Baccalaureate (IB) program, George School prepares students to excel in college and beyond.

The school offers a broad range of subjects, from sciences and humanities to arts and athletics. Its emphasis on global education and service learning allows students to develop leadership and problem-solving skills that extend beyond the classroom.

Boarding students enjoy a safe, inclusive environment that promotes individuality while fostering community spirit. The school places strong emphasis on integrity, peace, and diversity, aligning with its Quaker heritage.

Fees: Boarding tuition is about $70,900 per year.

7. Perkiomen School

Situated in Pennsburg, about an hour from Hershey, Perkiomen School is a co-educational boarding school that balances traditional learning with innovation. The school’s curriculum includes entrepreneurship, robotics, biomedical science, and artificial intelligence — preparing students for future industries.

Students also have access to Advanced Placement (AP) and honors courses, in addition to arts, athletics, and extracurriculars. The campus is equipped with cutting-edge labs and collaborative spaces to foster creativity and hands-on learning.

Residential life at Perkiomen emphasizes independence, cultural awareness, and leadership. With students from over 30 countries, it offers a diverse community that enhances global perspectives.

Fees: Boarding tuition is approximately $68,750 per year.

8. Church Farm School

Church Farm School, located in Exton, is a unique boarding institution founded in 1918 to provide educational opportunities for boys from underserved backgrounds. Today, it continues its mission by offering high-quality education at significantly reduced costs compared to other private boarding schools.

Academically, the school provides a strong liberal arts curriculum, complemented by athletics, arts, and leadership programs. Its small class sizes ensure personalized learning, while its emphasis on service and character development sets it apart.

Boarding students live in a supportive community where mentorship and brotherhood are prioritized. With its affordability and mission-driven approach, Church Farm School is a valuable option for families seeking both quality and accessibility.

Fees: Boarding tuition ranges from $35,000 to $42,000 per year (scholarships widely available).

9. Solebury School

Located in New Hope, Pennsylvania, Solebury School is known for its progressive, student-centered approach. It offers a strong college-preparatory curriculum with over 20 AP courses, alongside individualized learning plans tailored to each student’s strengths and goals.

The school is especially noted for its arts and creative programs, including theater, music, and visual arts. Its intimate class sizes allow for deeper teacher-student engagement and mentorship. Solebury fosters inclusivity and encourages students to develop confidence and independence.

Boarding life at Solebury is vibrant, with students engaged in clubs, sports, and community activities. Its diverse student body creates an enriching environment that broadens perspectives.

Fees: Boarding tuition is about $69,800 per year.

10. Wyoming Seminary

Located in Kingston, about 90 minutes from Hershey, Wyoming Seminary (often called “Sem”) is a co-ed college-preparatory boarding school with a long history of academic distinction. It offers a comprehensive curriculum with honors, AP, and unique elective courses.

Wyoming Seminary is also recognized for its arts, athletics, and leadership programs. Students benefit from advanced facilities including science labs, athletic fields, and a performing arts center. The school encourages exploration, creativity, and service to the community.

Residential life is highly supportive, with faculty members serving as dorm parents who guide students academically and personally. International students also find Sem welcoming, with strong programs for global learning.

Fees: Boarding tuition is approximately $66,500 per year.

Conclusion

Hershey, PA, and its surrounding areas boast some of the best boarding schools in Pennsylvania, blending academic excellence, character development, and cultural diversity. From the tuition-free Milton Hershey School to elite institutions like Mercersburg Academy and The Hill School, families have a wide range of options depending on their needs and budget.

Choosing the right boarding school involves evaluating not only fees but also the values, curriculum, and environment that best fit your child. By exploring these Top 10 Boarding Schools in Hershey, PA, you’ll have a clear picture of what makes each one unique — and how they can shape your child’s future

Top 10 Boarding Schools In Hershey PA And Fees (2025)