Finding the right boarding school can shape a child’s academic journey and personal growth. Cleveland, Ohio, is home to some outstanding private schools with rigorous academics, strong extracurriculars, and supportive environments. While not all Cleveland-area private schools offer full boarding programs, many provide day and partial boarding options, and several nearby schools in Ohio and neighboring states are popular with Cleveland families seeking boarding opportunities.

This guide explores the top 20 boarding schools in Cleveland and surrounding regions, highlighting their tuition fees, academic strengths, extracurricular offerings, and what makes each institution unique.

Top 20 Boarding Schools In Cleveland And Fees

1. Western Reserve Academy – Hudson, OH

Located about 30 minutes from Cleveland, Western Reserve Academy (WRA) is one of the most prestigious boarding schools in Ohio. Founded in 1826, WRA combines tradition with innovation, offering a campus rich in history and modern facilities.

The school provides a college-preparatory liberal arts education with strong emphasis on STEM programs, humanities, and fine arts. Students benefit from small class sizes and personalized instruction, allowing them to thrive academically while building leadership and critical thinking skills.

Boarding life at WRA is vibrant, with residential halls that foster independence and community. Extracurricular opportunities are plentiful, including competitive athletics, music, drama, robotics, and student-led clubs.

Fees: Approximately $70,000 per year for boarding students.

Western Reserve Academy is highly selective and sends graduates to top-tier universities in the U.S. and abroad. Its strong alumni network and focus on global citizenship make it one of the most attractive options for Cleveland families seeking an elite boarding education.

2. Andrews Osborne Academy – Willoughby, OH

Just 20 miles from downtown Cleveland, Andrews Osborne Academy (AOA) is an independent, co-educational boarding and day school serving grades 6–12. With students from more than 20 countries, AOA offers a globally diverse environment where cultural exchange is a key part of student life.

AOA emphasizes academic rigor, creativity, and character development. The school offers Advanced Placement courses and a strong college counseling program, ensuring students are well-prepared for higher education. The arts are another standout, with top-tier programs in theater, dance, and visual arts.

Boarding students at AOA live in safe and supportive residence halls, enjoying weekend activities, excursions, and leadership opportunities. The school prides itself on fostering independence while maintaining close faculty mentorship.

Fees: Around $57,000 annually for boarding students.

Families appreciate AOA’s balanced focus on academics, athletics, and creative expression, making it a strong choice for students who want both intellectual and personal growth.

3. University School – Hunting Valley, OH

University School is one of Cleveland’s premier private schools for boys, serving grades K–12 with a campus in Hunting Valley. While primarily a day school, it offers limited boarding and residential arrangements, particularly for high school students.

The school’s academic program is rigorous, with a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship, sciences, and leadership development. Students are encouraged to explore research opportunities, business startups, and STEM innovation. The all-boys environment allows for tailored instruction and mentorship, fostering confidence and responsibility.

University School also excels in athletics, with competitive teams in football, baseball, hockey, and more. Arts programs, debate, and public speaking provide further opportunities for personal growth.

Fees: Boarding fees average about $55,000 per year.

Graduates of University School consistently gain admission to Ivy League and top universities, making it a strong option for Cleveland-area families seeking elite all-boys education with limited boarding options.

4. Laurel School – Shaker Heights, OH

Laurel School, located in Shaker Heights, is a leading private girls’ school serving students from pre-K through grade 12. While it primarily operates as a day school, Laurel provides boarding arrangements through homestays and partnerships, particularly for international students.

Academically, Laurel emphasizes leadership, STEM, and global education. The school has a unique focus on experiential learning, offering outdoor education and research opportunities at its 150-acre Butler Campus. Students benefit from mentorship programs and advanced science initiatives.

The arts and athletics are equally strong, with competitive teams, theater productions, and music ensembles enriching campus life.

Fees: Boarding arrangements with tuition typically range from $50,000–$55,000 annually.

Laurel’s mission is to empower young women to become leaders and innovators. With a balance of academic excellence, co-curricular opportunities, and character development, it stands out as a top choice for girls in the Cleveland area.

5. Gilmour Academy – Gates Mills, OH

Located in the picturesque suburb of Gates Mills, Gilmour Academy is a Catholic, independent, co-educational school serving students from pre-K to grade 12. It offers a full boarding program for grades 9–12.

Gilmour combines a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum with Catholic values and global perspectives. The school emphasizes academic excellence, leadership, and service, while also nurturing creativity through strong arts and athletics programs.

The residential program fosters a sense of independence, responsibility, and community. Students enjoy access to state-of-the-art facilities, advanced courses, and extracurriculars ranging from varsity sports to robotics and theater.

Fees: About $58,000 per year for boarding students.

Families choose Gilmour for its combination of Catholic tradition, innovative academics, and supportive environment that prepares students for top universities worldwide.

6. St. Edward High School – Lakewood, OH

St. Edward High School, located in Lakewood, is an all-boys Catholic institution known for its strong academics and athletics. While mainly a day school, it accommodates international boarding students through residential partnerships.

The school’s academic program emphasizes faith, leadership, and service, preparing young men for success in college and beyond. St. Edward is particularly known for its athletics excellence, with nationally recognized football and wrestling teams.

Beyond sports, students engage in music, theater, clubs, and service initiatives that build character and leadership. The school’s Catholic identity remains central, instilling values of community, humility, and responsibility.

Fees: Boarding tuition averages $45,000–$50,000 annually.

St. Edward graduates are well-prepared for college and life, making it a top choice for families seeking a combination of faith-based education and strong extracurriculars.

7. Hathaway Brown School – Shaker Heights, OH

Hathaway Brown (HB) is one of the nation’s oldest and most respected girls’ schools, founded in 1876. While it primarily serves local students, HB accommodates international boarding students through homestays.

HB is renowned for its Institute for 21st Century Education, which offers advanced opportunities in science, technology, business, and global studies. Students are encouraged to pursue internships, research, and leadership programs beyond traditional academics.

The school’s arts programs, athletics, and student organizations add to a vibrant campus life. HB’s focus on empowering girls to lead has made it a pioneer in progressive education.

Fees: Around $55,000–$60,000 per year for boarding students.

Hathaway Brown graduates consistently gain admission to top universities, making it a standout choice for families prioritizing leadership, innovation, and academic excellence for young women.

8. St. Ignatius High School – Cleveland, OH

St. Ignatius High School, located in the heart of Cleveland, is an all-boys Jesuit institution founded in 1886. It primarily serves day students but provides limited residential opportunities for students from outside the region.

Known for its Jesuit tradition of academic excellence, St. Ignatius offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum, including AP courses and strong humanities programs. The school emphasizes service, leadership, and character development.

Extracurricular life is dynamic, with award-winning debate teams, music ensembles, and athletics programs. Football and soccer are especially prominent, and the school boasts state championship titles in several sports.

Fees: Approximately $45,000 annually for boarding students.

Families choose St. Ignatius for its combination of Catholic tradition, academic strength, and vibrant extracurricular opportunities.

9. Montessori High School at University Circle – Cleveland, OH

Montessori High School at University Circle (MHS) offers a unique educational approach in Cleveland by blending the globally recognized Montessori philosophy with the rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. This combination allows students to develop independence, creativity, and strong analytical skills while preparing them for success at top universities worldwide.

The school provides boarding through homestay arrangements, particularly popular with international students who wish to experience Cleveland’s cultural richness. Situated near museums, research centers, and universities, MHS integrates the local environment into its learning model. Students often engage in project-based learning, internships, and research partnerships that extend beyond the classroom.

MHS emphasizes individualized education, allowing students to pursue their passions while ensuring they meet global academic standards. The small class sizes promote close faculty-student relationships, creating a nurturing environment.

Extracurricular activities include arts, environmental initiatives, and community service, complementing the academic experience.

Fees: Approximately $47,000 per year for boarding students.

MHS appeals to families seeking a progressive, globally minded education in Cleveland. It is especially well-suited for students who thrive in independent learning environments and are interested in pursuing the IB curriculum.

10. Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School – Chardon, OH

Located about 30 minutes east of Cleveland, Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School (NDCL) is a coeducational Catholic school with a strong reputation for academic excellence and values-based education. While it primarily serves day students, NDCL partners with residential programs to accommodate international students.

NDCL’s curriculum is centered on college preparation, offering honors, Advanced Placement (AP), and dual-credit college courses. Students benefit from a supportive faculty who emphasize not only academic achievement but also character development and leadership.

The school’s Catholic identity is at the heart of its mission, encouraging students to grow spiritually while serving their community. Regular service projects and faith-based programs instill values of compassion, humility, and responsibility.

Boarding students enjoy a safe and structured living environment while participating fully in NDCL’s vibrant campus life. Athletics and extracurriculars are a major part of the experience, with opportunities in soccer, basketball, music, theater, and student clubs.

Fees: Estimated $42,000–$45,000 annually for boarding students.

Families seeking a strong blend of faith-based education, academic rigor, and community involvement find NDCL an excellent choice in the Cleveland area.

11. Lake Ridge Academy – North Ridgeville, OH

Lake Ridge Academy is an independent, nonsectarian, coeducational college-preparatory school serving grades K–12. Located west of Cleveland, it offers residential opportunities for international students through homestay partnerships.

Lake Ridge Academy prides itself on a personalized education, with small class sizes that allow students to receive individual attention. Its curriculum balances the arts, sciences, and entrepreneurship, helping students develop well-rounded skills. The school also offers a Center for Scientific Exploration and Research (CSER), giving students hands-on experience in advanced science projects.

Boarding students enjoy the benefits of living close to Cleveland while being part of a welcoming, close-knit school community. The school supports cultural diversity and global perspectives, preparing students to adapt to an interconnected world.

Athletics, performing arts, and extracurricular activities enrich the student experience. From robotics teams to theater productions, there is something for every student to explore.

Fees: Boarding tuition typically ranges from $40,000–$45,000 annually.

Families seeking a nonreligious, innovative, and inclusive school in the Cleveland area often find Lake Ridge Academy a perfect fit.

12. Walsh Jesuit High School – Cuyahoga Falls, OH

Located about 45 minutes south of Cleveland, Walsh Jesuit High School is a Jesuit institution serving grades 9–12. While primarily a day school, it provides boarding opportunities for international students through host family arrangements.

Walsh Jesuit emphasizes academic excellence, service, and leadership, following the Jesuit tradition of educating the whole person. Students benefit from a challenging college-prep curriculum, including honors and AP courses, while also engaging in spiritual growth and community service.

The school offers a wide range of athletic programs, including football, basketball, and track, as well as arts opportunities such as choir, theater, and visual arts. Students are also encouraged to participate in service-learning programs, both locally and internationally, which foster global awareness.

Fees: Approximately $42,000 annually for boarding students.

Families choose Walsh Jesuit for its balance of faith, academics, and extracurricular activities, along with its strong reputation for preparing students for higher education.

13. Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School – Cleveland, OH

Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School (VASJ) is a Catholic, coeducational institution in Cleveland that serves as a hub for both faith-based learning and academic growth. It offers selective boarding opportunities for international students.

Academically, VASJ provides a comprehensive college-prep curriculum, along with honors and AP courses. Teachers focus on nurturing not only intellectual development but also the values of faith, community, and leadership.

The school emphasizes extracurricular involvement, with programs in athletics, performing arts, and student organizations. Athletics are a particular strength, with opportunities in basketball, football, volleyball, and track.

VASJ’s Catholic foundation is central to its mission, shaping students into responsible citizens who serve both their community and the world. Boarding students are welcomed into a caring environment where they can fully integrate into school life.

Fees: About $40,000 annually.

Families seeking a Catholic, community-driven education in Cleveland often find VASJ a well-rounded choice.

14. Andrews School for Girls – Willoughby, OH (Historic)

The Andrews School for Girls, located in Willoughby, has a rich history as one of Ohio’s oldest institutions dedicated to educating young women. While it has transitioned from a full-time boarding school, it still maintains residential partnerships that allow international students to attend.

The school has always focused on empowering girls through education, combining strong academics with leadership development. Students are encouraged to pursue higher education with confidence, supported by faculty who emphasize critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.

Arts and extracurriculars play a significant role, with opportunities in theater, music, visual arts, and athletics. Andrews School continues its tradition of providing a supportive, small-class environment, making it ideal for families seeking personalized attention.

Fees: Estimated $40,000–$45,000 annually for boarding students.

Though historic in nature, Andrews School remains a respected institution that continues to impact girls’ education in the Cleveland area.

15. Benedictine High School – Cleveland, OH

Benedictine High School, located in Cleveland, is an all-boys Catholic school with a strong emphasis on brotherhood, discipline, and leadership. It provides boarding options for international students, allowing them to join its supportive community.

Academically, Benedictine offers a college-prep curriculum enriched with AP courses and honors classes. The school prepares students for both academic and personal success, instilling Catholic values of service, humility, and responsibility.

Benedictine is also known for its athletic programs, particularly in football, basketball, and track, which help foster teamwork and resilience. Extracurricular opportunities extend to music, clubs, and student government.

Fees: Around $38,000–$42,000 annually.

Families seeking a faith-based, all-boys education with strong academics and athletics often find Benedictine High School an excellent choice.

16. Lutheran High School East – Cleveland Heights, OH

Lutheran High School East serves as a Christian college-preparatory school in Cleveland Heights. It provides boarding opportunities for international students through homestay arrangements.

The school’s curriculum emphasizes academic excellence and spiritual growth, offering a blend of rigorous coursework with Christian values. Students benefit from small class sizes, which ensure individualized instruction.

Athletics and extracurricular activities are integral to student life, with programs in basketball, soccer, track, and the arts. The school also focuses heavily on community involvement, encouraging students to volunteer and participate in local outreach.

Fees: Approximately $35,000 annually.

Lutheran East provides families with a faith-centered, affordable education while also preparing students for success in college and beyond.

17. Lutheran High School West – Rocky River, OH

Lutheran West, located in Rocky River, is another strong Christian institution serving Cleveland families. Like Lutheran East, it offers boarding opportunities for international students.

The school combines academic rigor with Christian values, providing students with the foundation for spiritual, intellectual, and social growth. Students benefit from honors courses, AP offerings, and strong college counseling.

Athletics, arts, and service opportunities enrich the student experience. Lutheran West emphasizes leadership and community, encouraging students to take active roles both in school and society.

Fees: Roughly $35,000–$38,000 annually.

Families seeking a values-driven education with strong academics in a suburban Cleveland setting often choose Lutheran West.

18. St. Joseph Academy – Cleveland, OH

St. Joseph Academy is an all-girls Catholic high school located in Cleveland. It offers boarding arrangements for international students, creating a diverse and inclusive environment.

Academically, St. Joseph provides a college-prep curriculum enriched with honors and AP courses. The school’s mission is to empower young women through leadership, academic rigor, and faith.

Extracurriculars include athletics, performing arts, and clubs. Students are encouraged to engage in service and leadership opportunities, reflecting the school’s Catholic values.

Fees: Around $38,000–$40,000 annually.

St. Joseph Academy is ideal for families seeking a faith-based, all-girls education with a balance of academics, leadership, and community engagement.

19. Padua Franciscan High School – Parma, OH

Padua Franciscan High School in Parma is a coeducational Catholic high school with limited boarding opportunities for international students.

The school emphasizes Franciscan values of service, humility, and compassion while providing a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum. AP courses, honors programs, and strong university guidance ensure academic success.

Extracurricular life includes athletics, music, theater, and service organizations, creating a vibrant school community. Athletics are particularly strong, with competitive sports in football, basketball, and soccer.

Fees: Approximately $37,000 annually.

Padua Franciscan is a great choice for families seeking a Catholic, value-centered education that balances academics and extracurricular engagement.

20. Archbishop Hoban High School – Akron, OH

Located about 45 minutes from Cleveland, Archbishop Hoban High School is a Catholic, coeducational institution with a reputation for academic rigor and strong extracurriculars. It provides boarding options for international students through residential partnerships.

Academically, Hoban offers a challenging curriculum, including AP and honors courses, with a focus on preparing students for top universities. The school emphasizes leadership, faith, and service, staying true to its Catholic mission.

Students benefit from a wide range of extracurriculars, including championship-level athletics, performing arts, and service opportunities. Boarding students are fully integrated into school life, enjoying a structured yet supportive environment.

Fees: Around $38,000 annually.

Archbishop Hoban appeals to families seeking a faith-driven education with strong academics and a vibrant community.

Why Choose Boarding Schools in Cleveland?

Boarding schools in and around Cleveland provide families with diverse educational options — from elite college-prep academies like Western Reserve Academy to faith-based schools such as Gilmour Academy and St. Ignatius. They combine academic rigor, extracurricular richness, and community values, preparing students not just for college but for lifelong success.

Whether you’re looking for all-boys, all-girls, Catholic, Christian, or progressive Montessori education, Cleveland offers schools that meet a variety of needs.

Conclusion

From Western Reserve Academy to Archbishop Hoban High School, Cleveland and its surrounding areas provide families with a wide range of boarding school options and fees. Each institution has unique strengths, whether it’s academic excellence, leadership development, faith-based education, or global perspectives.

By carefully considering these options, families can choose a school that not only fits their child’s academic goals but also helps shape their character, confidence, and future success.

Top 20 Boarding Schools In Cleveland And Fees (2026)