Maine, known for its picturesque landscapes, rugged coastlines, and strong academic tradition, is home to some of the most prestigious boarding schools in the United States. These institutions not only provide top-notch education but also foster character development, independence, and leadership in their students.

In this guide, we’ll explore the Top 9 Boarding Schools in Maine, their fees, academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, and why each school stands out.

Top Boarding Schools In Maine And Fees

1. Phillips Exeter Academy (Exeter, ME – honorary mention for Maine proximity)

Although technically located in New Hampshire, Phillips Exeter Academy attracts many students from Maine due to its proximity and reputation. Founded in 1781, it remains one of the most selective and prestigious boarding schools in the U.S.

Annual Tuition (Boarding): Around $65,000 – $70,000
Day Tuition: Approx. $40,000

Phillips Exeter is renowned for the Harkness teaching method, where students sit around a large oval table and learn through discussion. This approach builds confidence, critical thinking, and leadership. The academy also boasts state-of-the-art facilities, extensive extracurriculars, and strong college placement records.

While not directly in Maine, families seeking the best options nearby often consider Phillips Exeter alongside Maine-based schools.

2. Gould Academy (Bethel, Maine)

Founded in 1836, Gould Academy is situated near the White Mountains and provides an excellent blend of academics, outdoor education, and athletics.

Annual Boarding Tuition: About $65,000
Day Tuition: Around $35,000

Gould Academy is known for its On-Snow Program, offering ski and snowboard training due to its location near Sunday River ski resort. The school emphasizes experiential learning, arts, and sciences, giving students a balanced education. Boarding students enjoy personalized attention with small class sizes and supportive faculty.

For students who thrive in both academics and athletics, Gould Academy stands out as one of Maine’s top choices.

3. Hebron Academy (Hebron, Maine)

Founded in 1804, Hebron Academy is one of the oldest boarding schools in Maine. It blends tradition with innovation, offering a strong academic program and diverse extracurriculars.

Annual Boarding Tuition: About $63,000
Day Tuition: Around $32,000

Hebron Academy emphasizes creativity, leadership, and global citizenship. Students engage in project-based learning, arts, music, and athletics. Its strong commitment to STEM programs, coupled with a welcoming community, makes it appealing for families seeking a holistic approach to education.

Hebron also prides itself on its close-knit campus and mentoring relationships between students and faculty.

4. Fryeburg Academy (Fryeburg, Maine)

Founded in 1792, Fryeburg Academy is a private, independent secondary school located near the White Mountains.

Annual Boarding Tuition: Approximately $50,000 – $55,000
Day Tuition: About $18,000

Fryeburg Academy has a reputation for academic excellence and inclusivity, serving both local and international students. With over 1,000 students, it is larger than many other Maine boarding schools, providing a diverse cultural environment.

Programs in visual and performing arts, athletics, and Advanced Placement (AP) courses are particularly strong. Fryeburg Academy is known for preparing students for both college and lifelong success.

5. Thornton Academy (Saco, Maine)

Thornton Academy, established in 1811, is one of the largest independent schools in New England, serving both day and boarding students.

Annual Boarding Tuition: Around $55,000 – $60,000
Day Tuition: Approx. $20,000

Thornton offers over 200 courses, including AP and IB programs, giving students diverse academic opportunities. The school emphasizes arts, music, and technology, making it ideal for well-rounded learners.

Its international student community adds a global perspective, while the school’s historic campus in Saco offers both tradition and modern facilities.

6. Washington Academy (East Machias, Maine)

Founded in 1792, Washington Academy combines tradition with innovation, offering both a strong academic foundation and modern extracurriculars.

Annual Boarding Tuition: $45,000 – $50,000
Day Tuition: Around $12,000 – $15,000

Washington Academy has a diverse student body, with students coming from across the U.S. and around the world. The school focuses on STEM, leadership, and environmental studies, given its proximity to Maine’s coast and forests.

Small class sizes, individualized attention, and a welcoming community make Washington Academy a great option for families seeking affordability with quality.

7. Lee Academy (Lee, Maine)

Established in 1845, Lee Academy offers a strong academic program and is particularly appealing for international students.

Annual Boarding Tuition: About $45,000
Day Tuition: Approx. $15,000

Lee Academy prides itself on its inclusive community and emphasis on the arts, music, and athletics. With students from over 20 countries, it provides a global learning environment.

The school focuses on preparing students for higher education, with a solid record of college placements and a nurturing campus community.

8. Maine Central Institute (Pittsfield, Maine)

Founded in 1866, Maine Central Institute (MCI) is a co-educational boarding and day school with a long history of academic excellence.

Annual Boarding Tuition: Around $50,000
Day Tuition: $15,000 – $18,000

MCI offers Advanced Placement courses, strong arts programs, and competitive athletics. It is particularly known for its basketball program, which has produced professional athletes.

The school’s supportive faculty and personalized academic guidance help students excel academically and personally.

9. Kents Hill School (Kents Hill, Maine)

Founded in 1824, Kents Hill School is one of the oldest coeducational boarding schools in the U.S., combining tradition with modern innovation.

Annual Boarding Tuition: Around $66,000
Day Tuition: About $35,000

Kents Hill offers small class sizes, a close-knit community, and a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum. Its location in the heart of Maine provides students with opportunities for outdoor exploration, environmental learning, and athletics.

The school also emphasizes character development, arts, and leadership, ensuring students graduate ready for success in college and beyond.

Why Choose a Boarding School in Maine?

Maine’s boarding schools stand out because of their natural settings, commitment to academic excellence, and focus on holistic development. Students benefit from personalized learning, strong extracurricular activities, and opportunities for leadership.

Whether it’s the outdoor adventures near Gould Academy, the global environment at Lee Academy, or the traditional yet innovative approach at Kents Hill, Maine has options for every type of learner.

Estimated Fees Range for Boarding Schools in Maine

High Range Schools (Prestigious, Large Programs): $60,000 – $70,000 per year
Mid-Range Schools (Balanced Offerings): $45,000 – $55,000 per year
Lower Range (Smaller or Community-Oriented): $12,000 – $20,000 for day tuition; $40,000 – $50,000 for boarding

Conclusion

Maine is home to some of the best boarding schools in the U.S., offering rigorous academics, strong extracurriculars, and supportive communities. With tuition ranging from $45,000 to $70,000 annually, these schools are an investment in a child’s future, preparing them for success in higher education and beyond.

Choosing the right boarding school depends on your child’s academic strengths, extracurricular interests, and long-term goals. Whether it’s the historic traditions of Hebron Academy, the athletic edge of Gould, or the international flavor of Lee Academy, Maine has a boarding school to match every student’s needs.

Top 9 Boarding Schools In Maine And Fees (2025)