In this guide, we’ll highlight the Top 20 Boarding Schools in America and Their Fees, giving you a clear idea of what each institution offers and how much it costs to attend. Whether you’re a parent seeking the best fit for your child or a student curious about boarding school life, this list will serve as a comprehensive resource.

Top 20 Boarding Schools in America and Their Fees

1. Phillips Exeter Academy – Exeter, New Hampshire

Phillips Exeter Academy, founded in 1781, is one of the most prestigious boarding schools in the world. Known for its Harkness teaching method (discussion-based learning), Exeter fosters intellectual curiosity and collaboration.

• Tuition Fees: Around $64,000 per year for boarding students.

• Highlights: Outstanding STEM and humanities programs, state-of-the-art facilities, diverse student body, and highly competitive admissions.

2. Phillips Academy Andover – Andover, Massachusetts

Phillips Academy Andover, or simply “Andover,” has produced U.S. presidents, Nobel Prize winners, and leaders across industries. Its emphasis on academic rigor, cultural diversity, and social responsibility makes it a top choice.

• Tuition Fees: About $63,850 per year.

• Highlights: Advanced Placement courses, cutting-edge research opportunities, strong arts and athletics programs.

3. Choate Rosemary Hall – Wallingford, Connecticut

Choate Rosemary Hall is renowned for combining traditional academics with innovative programs such as environmental immersion and advanced robotics. Its sprawling campus and strong mentorship culture stand out.

• Tuition Fees: Around $63,250 per year.

• Highlights: Global studies curriculum, excellent arts conservatory, and personalized college counseling.

4. Deerfield Academy – Deerfield, Massachusetts

Founded in 1797, Deerfield Academy offers a traditional yet forward-thinking education. Its rigorous curriculum and community-centered values create an environment where students thrive academically and socially.

• Tuition Fees: Approximately $63,000 per year.

• Highlights: Historic campus, strong athletics, and emphasis on leadership development.

5. The Lawrenceville School – Lawrenceville, New Jersey

Lawrenceville is known for its unique House System, which fosters camaraderie and a strong sense of belonging. With an emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, students gain a holistic education.

• Tuition Fees: About $66,360 per year.

• Highlights: Collaborative teaching, experiential learning programs, and strong community engagement.

6. Hotchkiss School – Lakeville, Connecticut

Hotchkiss combines academic excellence with a commitment to sustainability. Its 827-acre campus includes a working farm and lake, supporting outdoor learning.

• Tuition Fees: Around $64,000 per year.

• Highlights: Strong science and humanities departments, environmental studies, global exchange programs.

7. St. Paul’s School – Concord, New Hampshire

St. Paul’s is an Episcopal boarding school offering a rigorous academic curriculum alongside a deep emphasis on character development.

• Tuition Fees: Approximately $65,000 per year.

• Highlights: Strong arts and music programs, expansive campus, and values-driven education.

8. Groton School – Groton, Massachusetts

Founded in 1884, Groton maintains small class sizes and a personalized approach to education. Known for leadership training, Groton prepares students for top universities.

• Tuition Fees: Around $62,700 per year.

• Highlights: Tight-knit community, extensive outdoor programs, strong academics.

9. Cate School – Carpinteria, California

Cate School offers breathtaking ocean views along with strong academics and a balance between intellectual rigor and personal growth.

• Tuition Fees: Around $65,000 per year.

• Highlights: Focus on well-being, robust outdoor education, and a supportive community.

10. The Thacher School – Ojai, California

Thacher is unique for incorporating horseback riding into its curriculum, fostering responsibility and discipline. Its academic programs are equally outstanding.

• Tuition Fees: About $66,000 per year.

• Highlights: Outdoor skills training, leadership programs, and small student-to-teacher ratio.

11. Milton Academy – Milton, Massachusetts

Milton Academy combines academic rigor with a strong sense of community. Its students often proceed to Ivy League institutions.

• Tuition Fees: Around $64,800 per year.

• Highlights: Inclusive environment, strong debate and theater programs, and excellent college preparation.

12. Middlesex School – Concord, Massachusetts

With its motto “True to Each Other,” Middlesex fosters an inclusive, supportive environment while providing top-tier academics.

• Tuition Fees: Approximately $63,800 per year.

• Highlights: Strong athletics, arts, and emphasis on values-driven leadership.

13. Loomis Chaffee School – Windsor, Connecticut

Loomis Chaffee is known for nurturing global citizens with its emphasis on ethics, creativity, and collaboration.

• Tuition Fees: About $64,350 per year.

• Highlights: Renowned music and theater programs, strong STEM focus, and diverse student community.

14. Blair Academy – Blairstown, New Jersey

Blair Academy offers small class sizes, hands-on learning, and a supportive environment for students to excel academically and socially.

• Tuition Fees: Around $65,000 per year.

• Highlights: Leadership training, athletics, and vibrant arts programs.

15. Episcopal High School – Alexandria, Virginia

This historic boarding school combines a strong college-prep curriculum with character education grounded in Episcopal traditions.

• Tuition Fees: Approximately $65,500 per year.

• Highlights: Close to Washington D.C., service-based learning, and leadership development.

16. Kent School – Kent, Connecticut

Located in scenic New England, Kent offers challenging academics alongside a strong focus on personal growth.

• Tuition Fees: About $63,800 per year.

• Highlights: Wide array of extracurricular activities, supportive faculty, and robust athletics.

17. Northfield Mount Hermon School – Gill, Massachusetts

Known as NMH, this school blends academics with work programs, preparing students for life beyond the classroom.

• Tuition Fees: Around $64,200 per year.

• Highlights: Leadership programs, global studies, and experiential learning opportunities.

18. The Taft School – Watertown, Connecticut

Taft School is well-regarded for academic excellence and character development, encouraging students to lead and serve.

• Tuition Fees: Approximately $65,500 per year.

• Highlights: Rich arts programs, strong athletics, and a focus on community service.

19. The Hill School – Pottstown, Pennsylvania

The Hill School emphasizes leadership, discipline, and responsibility while preparing students for elite universities.

• Tuition Fees: About $64,900 per year.

• Highlights: Tradition-rich culture, rigorous academics, and competitive athletics.

20. The Putney School – Putney, Vermont

The Putney School is unique in its progressive education style, combining academics with creativity, farming, and the arts.

• Tuition Fees: Around $62,800 per year.

• Highlights: Student-run work program, innovative arts curriculum, and strong sustainability focus.

Why Choose a Boarding School in America?

Boarding schools in the U.S. are not just about academics—they provide holistic development. Students learn independence, resilience, and leadership skills while enjoying access to top-notch facilities and mentorship. Many of these schools also prioritize diversity, ensuring students gain a global perspective.

Average Boarding School Fees in America

While tuition varies, the average cost for prestigious boarding schools in America ranges from $60,000 to $70,000 per year. This typically covers tuition, housing, meals, and access to facilities. Additional costs may include travel, textbooks, and extracurricular activities.

Conclusion

The Top 20 Boarding Schools in America and Their Fees list showcases institutions that combine academic rigor with life skills, character development, and unique experiences. Choosing the right school depends on your child’s interests, strengths, and career goals—but with this guide, you have a clearer picture of what each school offers and the investment required.

These schools not only prepare students for higher education but also instill values and skills that last a lifetime