Finding the right boarding school for your child is one of the most important decisions any parent can make. Des Moines, Iowa, is known for its warm community, strong academic standards, and safe environment, making it an ideal location for families looking into boarding school options. Whether you want a school that focuses on academic excellence, athletics, arts, or character development, the capital city of Iowa has a variety of reputable institutions.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the top 10 boarding schools in Des Moines and their fees, highlighting each school’s strengths, facilities, academic offerings, and tuition costs.

Top 10 Boarding Schools In Des Moines And Fees

1. Dowling Catholic High School

Dowling Catholic High School stands as one of the most respected faith-based schools in Des Moines. Although primarily a day school, it offers limited boarding arrangements for international students and those seeking a residential experience. Known for its integration of academics with faith and service, the school has built a strong reputation for molding disciplined and compassionate leaders.

The curriculum is rigorous, featuring advanced placement courses, STEM-focused subjects, and a strong emphasis on college readiness. Students also participate in leadership training, spiritual retreats, and service-learning programs that encourage them to be active contributors to society.

Athletics are another hallmark of Dowling Catholic. The school has consistently won championships across sports like football, basketball, and track. Its performing arts program, particularly in choir and drama, is also highly regarded.

Parents choose Dowling Catholic not just for academics, but also for its nurturing environment rooted in Catholic values. Boarding students enjoy supervised housing, structured schedules, and dedicated staff support.

Estimated Fees: $12,000 – $18,000 annually (depending on grade and boarding arrangements).

2. Des Moines Christian School

Des Moines Christian School offers a Christ-centered education that combines academic rigor with character development. The school provides residential facilities for both domestic and international students, making it one of the most attractive options in Des Moines for families seeking boarding education.

The school’s curriculum spans K–12, but its high school program is particularly strong, offering honors courses, dual-credit programs, and opportunities for career-focused learning. Technology integration is central to its teaching model, preparing students for both college and modern careers.

Beyond academics, Des Moines Christian School is known for vibrant extracurricular opportunities, including competitive sports teams, arts programs, and student organizations. Boarding students participate in weekend trips, study sessions, and spiritual mentorship programs.

The Christian environment ensures that students grow not only intellectually but also spiritually and emotionally, fostering a holistic education experience.

Estimated Fees: $13,000 – $20,000 annually.

3. Grand View Christian School

Grand View Christian School offers an excellent blend of strong academics and faith-based values. Located conveniently in Des Moines, this school provides a comprehensive K–12 education with residential programs designed to accommodate boarding students, particularly international enrollees.

The curriculum emphasizes college preparation with honors and dual-enrollment courses, allowing students to earn college credit while in high school. The school also prioritizes leadership and spiritual development, ensuring that students graduate as well-rounded individuals.

Athletics play an important role at Grand View, with active programs in basketball, volleyball, track, and soccer. The arts program is equally robust, featuring theater productions, choir, and band performances throughout the year.

Boarding students live in supervised residences with access to study lounges, recreation areas, and mentorship programs. The community-driven approach makes it easier for new students to adjust while receiving personalized academic support.

Estimated Fees: $11,000 – $17,000 annually.

4. Iowa Christian Academy

Iowa Christian Academy is another top-tier boarding option in Des Moines, emphasizing both academic achievement and Christian character. The school provides a safe and nurturing environment for both day and boarding students, making it attractive for families seeking a values-driven education.

The academy offers a strong high school curriculum, integrating technology, leadership training, and faith-based learning. Its STEM programs are particularly appealing to students preparing for careers in science and engineering. Additionally, the school partners with local colleges to offer dual-credit classes.

Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities such as basketball, choir, theater, and student government. The close-knit community fosters a supportive environment, helping boarding students feel at home.

Boarding life is structured yet enjoyable, with supervised housing, evening study times, and weekend recreational programs. The school also emphasizes community service, encouraging students to actively contribute to Des Moines.

Estimated Fees: $10,000 – $16,000 annually.

5. Faith Academy Des Moines

Faith Academy Des Moines offers a holistic approach to education, balancing academics, faith, and extracurricular growth. While primarily a day school, it has developed partnerships with host families and residential arrangements for boarding students, particularly those from outside the U.S.

The school’s curriculum is built on a foundation of Christian principles and includes a wide range of subjects, from STEM to liberal arts. Students have access to honors and AP-level classes, ensuring that college readiness is a priority.

Extracurricular programs are diverse, ranging from athletics and fine arts to leadership clubs and community service projects. The academy also organizes mission trips, leadership retreats, and workshops to help students develop practical life skills.

Boarding students are provided with supportive environments that include structured schedules, faith mentorship, and opportunities to integrate into the Des Moines community.

Estimated Fees: $9,500 – $15,000 annually.

6. Valley High School (West Des Moines Community Schools)

Though part of the West Des Moines Community School District, Valley High School has programs that cater to international and boarding students through homestay and supervised residence arrangements. This makes it a unique public-school option for families seeking affordable boarding opportunities in Des Moines.

Valley High School is recognized for its academic excellence, offering over 200 courses, including Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate (IB), and career-prep programs. The school’s diversity ensures students are exposed to a wide range of perspectives and opportunities.

Athletics are a major strength, with state championships across sports like football, swimming, and soccer. The performing arts program is equally exceptional, featuring award-winning bands, choirs, and theater productions.

Boarding students live with host families or in district-approved residences, enjoying a cultural exchange experience along with their education.

Estimated Fees: $8,000 – $14,000 annually (public school tuition and housing combined).

7. Hoover High School (Des Moines Public Schools International Program)

Hoover High School is part of the Des Moines Public Schools International Program, which allows students from around the world to enroll with homestay or boarding accommodations. It stands out as one of the most inclusive and diverse options for international students in Iowa.

The academic curriculum emphasizes global readiness, offering AP classes, career academies, and strong STEM programs. Hoover is particularly noted for its support of English language learners, making it a good fit for international students adjusting to American education.

Extracurricular opportunities include athletics, music ensembles, drama clubs, and leadership organizations. The school community is welcoming and fosters inclusivity, helping international boarding students thrive.

Boarding arrangements are made through host families and supervised housing, ensuring students receive the cultural immersion and support they need.

Estimated Fees: $7,500 – $13,000 annually.

8. Lincoln High School (Des Moines Public Schools International Program)

Lincoln High School is another standout within the Des Moines Public Schools International Program. Known for its strong academic programs and cultural diversity, the school is an excellent choice for international students looking for boarding opportunities.

The curriculum includes honors and AP courses, with a focus on preparing students for college and beyond. Lincoln High School also emphasizes arts education, offering theater, band, choir, and visual arts programs that regularly receive statewide recognition.

Athletics programs are robust, with opportunities in football, track, wrestling, and volleyball. Students are also encouraged to join clubs and community service projects.

For boarding students, Lincoln High School organizes host family placements and supervised housing options. This ensures that international students have the support and cultural exposure necessary to succeed both academically and socially.

Estimated Fees: $7,500 – $13,000 annually.

9. Roosevelt High School (Des Moines Public Schools International Program)

Roosevelt High School has a reputation for academic excellence, diverse programs, and a vibrant student community. As part of the Des Moines International Program, it provides boarding opportunities for international students through homestay and residential housing arrangements.

The school offers a wide selection of AP and honors classes, as well as career academies that prepare students for specific industries. Its International Baccalaureate (IB) program is one of the best in the region, offering a global perspective in education.

Roosevelt is also known for its rich arts tradition, with award-winning music ensembles, theater productions, and visual arts showcases. Its athletics teams are competitive at the state level, offering students well-rounded extracurricular opportunities.

Boarding students are integrated into the local community through host families and supervised housing, which helps them adapt smoothly to life in Des Moines.

Estimated Fees: $7,500 – $13,500 annually.

10. East High School (Des Moines Public Schools International Program)

East High School, one of the oldest and largest schools in Des Moines, also participates in the International Program that accommodates boarding students through homestay arrangements. With its long history and strong community ties, East offers a unique blend of tradition and modern academics.

The curriculum includes AP courses, dual-credit opportunities, and a variety of career-focused academies. East High has a particularly strong program in technology and business, making it ideal for students interested in practical career pathways.

Extracurricular activities include athletics, music, arts, and numerous student clubs. The school’s historic campus offers a sense of heritage, while its diverse student population prepares learners for life in a multicultural society.

Boarding students benefit from structured homestay arrangements, mentorship programs, and cultural exchange opportunities.

Estimated Fees: $7,000 – $12,500 annually.

Conclusion

Des Moines offers a wide selection of boarding school options, ranging from private Christian academies to public schools with international programs. Whether you’re seeking a faith-based education, strong STEM curriculum, or international cultural immersion, the city has something for every family’s preference and budget.

When selecting a school, it’s important to consider not only the fees but also the academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, and the kind of environment you want for your child. With the schools listed above, you’ll find that boarding schools in Des Moines provide both quality education and a supportive community, ensuring that students are well-prepared for college and beyond

Top 10 Boarding Schools In Des Moines And Fees (2026)