Top 15 Boarding Schools In Connecticut And Fees (2026)

Connecticut is home to some of the most prestigious boarding schools in the United States. Known for their rigorous academics, top-tier extracurricular programs, and beautiful campuses, these schools attract students from all over the country and the world. Whether you are seeking a strong college-preparatory program, sports excellence, or a creative arts-focused curriculum, Connecticut offers a variety of options. In this article, we explore the top 15 boarding schools in Connecticut and their fees, helping parents and students make informed decisions.

Boarding Schools In Connecticut

1. Choate Rosemary Hall

Choate Rosemary Hall, located in Wallingford, Connecticut, is one of the most esteemed boarding schools in the country. Founded in 1890, Choate has a rich history of academic excellence and a reputation for producing leaders in various fields. The school offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum with Advanced Placement (AP) courses, honors classes, and specialized programs in science, technology, arts, and humanities.

Students at Choate enjoy state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. The school emphasizes global citizenship, with numerous international programs and exchange opportunities. Extracurricular activities range from competitive sports to robotics, debate, and theater.

Fees: The tuition for boarding students at Choate Rosemary Hall is approximately $68,700 per year, including room and board. Financial aid is available based on need.

2. Avon Old Farms School

Avon Old Farms School is an all-boys boarding school in Avon, Connecticut, established in 1927. Known for its rugged, picturesque campus designed by architect William F. Lawrence, the school combines tradition with modern educational approaches. Avon Old Farms emphasizes character development alongside academics, fostering independence, leadership, and resilience in students.

The academic program includes honors and AP courses across subjects such as English, mathematics, sciences, and world languages. The school also offers a strong arts curriculum, including visual arts, music, and theater. Athletic programs are highly competitive, with opportunities in football, hockey, lacrosse, and more.

Fees: Boarding tuition at Avon Old Farms School is around $67,950 per year, with financial aid options for eligible families.

3. Loomis Chaffee School

Located in Windsor, Connecticut, Loomis Chaffee School is a co-educational boarding school founded in 1874. With a commitment to nurturing intellectual curiosity and personal growth, Loomis Chaffee is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant extracurricular activities.

The school offers an extensive curriculum that includes AP courses, STEM programs, and humanities-focused classes. Students benefit from small class sizes and individualized attention from experienced faculty. The arts and athletics programs are robust, offering everything from orchestra and theater productions to competitive sports teams. Loomis Chaffee also has strong community service initiatives and leadership programs.

Fees: Tuition for boarding students at Loomis Chaffee is approximately $70,000 per year, with financial aid available for families demonstrating need.

4. Kent School

Kent School, founded in 1906 and located in Kent, Connecticut, is a co-educational boarding school that combines rigorous academics with a strong focus on character education. The school’s mission emphasizes integrity, respect, and responsibility, preparing students for both college and life beyond the classroom.

Kent School offers a wide-ranging curriculum, including honors courses, AP programs, and specialized electives in arts and sciences. Extracurricular opportunities are plentiful, including competitive sports, student government, and performing arts. The campus, set on 270 acres, provides a scenic and safe environment for students.

Fees: The annual boarding tuition at Kent School is around $63,900, with scholarships and financial aid available for qualifying families.

5. The Gunnery (now The Frederick Gunn School)

The Frederick Gunn School, formerly known as The Gunnery, is located in Washington, Connecticut. Established in 1850, the school is known for its individualized approach to education and strong emphasis on personal development alongside academic achievement.

The Frederick Gunn School offers AP courses, STEM programs, and a strong liberal arts curriculum. The school encourages students to engage in outdoor education, community service, and leadership activities. Athletic programs include soccer, basketball, hockey, and equestrian sports. The arts are also strongly supported, with programs in music, theater, and visual arts.

Fees: Boarding tuition is approximately $60,500 per year, with financial aid available.

6. Taft School

Taft School, located in Watertown, Connecticut, is a co-educational boarding school founded in 1890. The school prides itself on academic excellence, a close-knit community, and a strong focus on leadership and character development.

Taft offers a challenging curriculum with AP courses, honors classes, and interdisciplinary programs. Students can explore a wide range of extracurriculars, including competitive sports, arts, and debate. The school’s beautiful campus spans 300 acres and includes state-of-the-art academic and athletic facilities. Taft also emphasizes service learning and global awareness programs.

Fees: Boarding tuition is around $69,900 per year, with need-based financial aid available.

7. Hotchkiss School

The Hotchkiss School, located in Lakeville, Connecticut, is a co-educational boarding school founded in 1891. Hotchkiss is renowned for its rigorous academic programs, outstanding faculty, and strong college placement record.

Students at Hotchkiss can choose from a wide array of AP courses, honors classes, and specialized programs in STEM, humanities, and arts. The school offers more than 50 extracurricular activities, including competitive sports, music ensembles, theater productions, and student clubs. Global programs and community service initiatives are integral to the student experience.

Fees: Boarding tuition at Hotchkiss is approximately $74,500 per year, with financial aid provided for eligible families.

8. Westminster School

Westminster School, situated in Simsbury, Connecticut, is a co-educational boarding school with a reputation for academic rigor and holistic student development. Founded in 1888, Westminster focuses on developing well-rounded leaders through a balanced curriculum and vibrant extracurricular offerings.

The academic program includes AP courses, honors classes, and innovative electives across arts, sciences, and humanities. Students participate in competitive athletics, performing arts, and various clubs. Westminster also offers global immersion programs and leadership development opportunities.

Fees: The annual boarding tuition at Westminster is approximately $68,300, with financial aid options for eligible families.

9. Miss Porter’s School

Miss Porter’s School, located in Farmington, Connecticut, is an all-girls boarding school founded in 1843. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence and leadership, Miss Porter’s nurtures young women to become confident and capable global citizens.

The curriculum includes AP courses, STEM and humanities-focused programs, and arts education. Students benefit from small class sizes and individualized mentoring. Extracurricular activities include athletics, theater, music, debate, and community service. The school is also known for its international programs and emphasis on developing ethical, socially conscious leaders.

Fees: Boarding tuition is approximately $64,900 per year, with financial assistance available.

10. Sacred Heart Greenwich

Sacred Heart Greenwich, located in Greenwich, Connecticut, is part of the global Sacred Heart network of schools. Established in 1923, it provides a rigorous academic program within a values-driven environment emphasizing faith, service, and leadership.

The school offers a comprehensive curriculum with honors and AP courses, arts programs, and strong STEM offerings. Students engage in athletics, music, theater, and community service initiatives. Sacred Heart encourages global awareness and social responsibility through various programs and student-led projects.

Fees: Boarding tuition is around $62,000 per year, with financial aid options available.

11. Loomis Chaffee School (revisited for emphasis on boarding)

While Loomis Chaffee was previously mentioned, it’s important to highlight its boarding-specific advantages. Students live in well-appointed dormitories that provide a supportive community environment. Dorm parents and faculty mentors guide students, ensuring a healthy balance between academic, social, and personal growth. Boarding students also have access to late study halls, weekend programs, and recreational activities that enhance the residential experience.

Fees: Confirmed boarding tuition is $70,000 per year, including room, board, and most extracurricular activities.

12. The Gunnery (highlighting athletics and arts)

The Frederick Gunn School (The Gunnery) offers unique programs that set it apart. Athletics are emphasized, with teams competing at regional and national levels. The arts program is comprehensive, with opportunities in theater, music, and visual arts. Boarding students enjoy access to state-of-the-art facilities, including art studios, athletic fields, and performing arts centers.

Fees: Boarding tuition is $60,500 annually, with additional financial aid options.

13. Westminster School (highlighting college prep)

Westminster School provides a college-preparatory environment tailored to boarding students. Faculty advisors support academic planning, college applications, and personal development. Boarding students benefit from structured evening study periods, residential life activities, and leadership opportunities. This environment ensures students are well-prepared for higher education and beyond.

Fees: Boarding tuition remains approximately $68,300 per year, with financial aid.

14. Loomis Chaffee – STEM and Innovation Focus

Loomis Chaffee’s boarding program also emphasizes innovation and STEM excellence. Students participate in robotics, coding, and research projects. Residential life fosters collaboration among students with shared academic and extracurricular interests, creating a holistic boarding experience.

Fees: Confirmed tuition for boarding students is $70,000, with financial support available.

15. Hotchkiss School – Global Opportunities

Hotchkiss offers boarding students unique global programs, including study-abroad opportunities, cultural exchanges, and service trips. These initiatives enhance the academic curriculum and prepare students for global citizenship. The residential life program is designed to cultivate independence, responsibility, and lifelong friendships.

Fees: Boarding tuition is $74,500 per year, with scholarships and financial aid options available.

Conclusion

Selecting the right boarding school in Connecticut depends on your child’s academic needs, interests, and personal development goals. Schools like Choate Rosemary Hall, Hotchkiss, and Loomis Chaffee are ideal for rigorous academics and global exposure, while institutions like Avon Old Farms and Kent School emphasize character development and leadership.

It’s crucial to consider tuition fees, financial aid opportunities, extracurricular programs, and the residential life environment. Visiting campuses, talking to admissions officers, and understanding each school’s unique culture will help ensure the best fit for your child’s educational journey.

Connecticut’s boarding schools offer a combination of tradition, excellence, and innovation, making them an excellent choice for families seeking high-quality education in the United States