Houston, Texas, is a thriving city known for its culture, diversity, and high-quality education system. For parents seeking holistic academic programs, character development, and structured learning, boarding schools in Houston provide an excellent balance of discipline, academics, and extracurricular opportunities. Unlike traditional day schools, boarding schools immerse students in an environment that fosters independence, teamwork, and personal growth.

This guide highlights the top 15 boarding schools in Houston and their fees, offering insights into their programs, facilities, and unique features. Whether you’re looking for a college-preparatory institution, a faith-based environment, or a school with strong arts and athletic programs, Houston has many excellent options.

Top 15 Boarding Schools In Houston And Fees

1. The Village School

Estimated Fees: $25,000 – $35,000 per year

The Village School, part of the Nord Anglia Education Group, is one of Houston’s premier private boarding schools. It offers a global curriculum that blends American and international standards, making it a top choice for families seeking a diverse, multicultural environment. Students can pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and specialized STEM pathways.

The school boasts cutting-edge facilities, including science labs, art studios, and athletic centers. Boarding students benefit from a structured yet supportive residential life program that promotes independence, social responsibility, and leadership skills. The Village School is particularly renowned for its strong emphasis on innovation and collaboration, with partnerships that connect students to global learning opportunities.

Its boarding community includes students from over 60 nationalities, offering exposure to different cultures and perspectives. This international outlook prepares graduates to excel in universities worldwide. For families looking for an academically rigorous yet nurturing environment, The Village School stands out as one of Houston’s best.

2. The Kinkaid School

Estimated Fees: $28,000 – $40,000 per year

The Kinkaid School is a prestigious private institution with a long-standing tradition of academic excellence. Though primarily a day school, Kinkaid offers selective boarding opportunities for high-achieving students, especially those involved in rigorous extracurricular programs.

Known for its college-preparatory curriculum, the school integrates challenging academics with vibrant arts and athletics programs. Students can explore visual arts, music, drama, and competitive sports alongside strong core subjects. The emphasis on developing the “whole child” ensures that learners are well-prepared for both higher education and life beyond school.

Boarding facilities at Kinkaid are designed to give students a home-like experience, offering comfortable dormitories, mentorship support, and a safe, structured lifestyle. Parents particularly value the small student-to-teacher ratio, which allows personalized guidance and academic support.

Graduates from Kinkaid consistently gain admission into Ivy League and top-tier universities, a testament to the school’s strong reputation. For families seeking a balance between academics, creativity, and character development, The Kinkaid School remains a top choice in Houston.

3. Awty International School

Estimated Fees: $25,000 – $38,000 per year

Awty International School is the largest international school in the U.S. and Houston’s only accredited International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. It offers an outstanding bilingual education in English and French, making it an ideal option for expatriate families and globally-minded learners.

The school’s boarding program supports students in balancing academic rigor with personal development. The IB curriculum equips learners with critical thinking, research, and leadership skills, while the French Baccalaureate program offers another pathway for global academic recognition.

Awty’s facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms, science labs, art centers, and sports complexes. The school also emphasizes sustainability and environmental awareness, integrating eco-friendly initiatives into its curriculum and campus life.

The boarding community benefits from cultural diversity, with students from more than 50 countries. This unique environment fosters cross-cultural friendships and prepares students for a global future. With a proven track record of graduates accepted into top universities worldwide, Awty International School is a prime option for boarding education in Houston.

4. St. John’s School

Estimated Fees: $30,000 – $42,000 per year

St. John’s School is one of Houston’s most selective and academically rigorous institutions. Established in 1946, it has a reputation for producing graduates who excel in competitive universities worldwide. The boarding program, though limited, caters to students engaged in demanding academic and extracurricular activities.

The school’s curriculum emphasizes critical inquiry, analytical thinking, and leadership. Students have access to extensive Advanced Placement (AP) offerings, strong STEM programs, and a dynamic humanities department. Beyond academics, St. John’s encourages participation in athletics, fine arts, debate, and service learning.

Boarding students benefit from an enriched residential program that nurtures independence, responsibility, and collaboration. The dormitory environment ensures a balance between academic focus and social life. Parents often praise the school’s strong emphasis on values, leadership, and personal responsibility.

Graduates of St. John’s consistently gain admission into Ivy League schools, liberal arts colleges, and top global institutions. For families seeking a highly academic and well-rounded environment, St. John’s is among the best boarding options in Houston.

5. Emery/Weiner School

Estimated Fees: $23,000 – $32,000 per year

The Emery/Weiner School is a private Jewish institution offering middle and high school education with a strong college-preparatory focus. Its boarding program emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and personal responsibility.

The school integrates traditional Jewish values with modern academic practices, providing an inclusive environment for students of diverse backgrounds. The curriculum balances rigorous academics with arts, athletics, and service opportunities. Students engage in STEM innovation, performing arts, and experiential learning programs designed to build creativity and resilience.

Boarding students experience a supportive and close-knit community where mentorship and guidance are prioritized. Dormitory facilities ensure a safe and nurturing atmosphere, encouraging independence while offering staff support.

The school’s emphasis on values such as integrity, community service, and leadership development makes it an attractive option for families seeking a faith-based boarding education in Houston. With a track record of academic success and university placements, Emery/Weiner continues to grow in popularity.

6. Houston Christian High School

Estimated Fees: $22,000 – $30,000 per year

Houston Christian High School provides a strong faith-based education, blending academics with Christian values. Its boarding program is designed to cultivate both academic excellence and spiritual development.

Students engage in a well-rounded curriculum that includes AP courses, STEM programs, arts, and athletics. The school emphasizes leadership training, equipping students with skills to thrive in both higher education and future careers. The community-focused atmosphere ensures that students develop empathy, responsibility, and resilience.

Boarding facilities provide a home-like environment with structured routines, mentorship, and extracurricular opportunities. Students are encouraged to participate in mission trips, service projects, and faith-based initiatives, strengthening both academic and personal growth.

For families seeking a strong Christian foundation combined with academic excellence, Houston Christian High School stands out as a reliable choice for boarding education in Houston.

7. Chinquapin Preparatory School

Estimated Fees: $15,000 – $22,000 per year

Chinquapin Preparatory School is unique among Houston’s boarding schools because of its mission to serve academically promising students from underserved backgrounds. Established in 1969, the school provides a rigorous college-preparatory education at an affordable cost.

The curriculum emphasizes academic excellence, leadership development, and community service. Small class sizes allow for personalized learning, while extracurricular programs focus on athletics, the arts, and character development.

Boarding facilities are modest yet comfortable, designed to give students a safe and structured living environment. The residential program encourages independence and responsibility, preparing students for life beyond high school.

Chinquapin’s alumni success stories reflect the transformative impact of its mission. Graduates often secure scholarships and admissions into top universities across the country. For families seeking an affordable yet high-quality boarding option, Chinquapin is a standout institution.

8. Episcopal High School

Estimated Fees: $27,000 – $36,000 per year

Episcopal High School in Houston offers a faith-based education rooted in Episcopal traditions. The curriculum blends challenging academics with strong programs in arts, athletics, and spiritual life.

Boarding students live in a structured community that emphasizes balance—intellectual, physical, emotional, and spiritual development. The school’s mentoring program helps students cultivate leadership and responsibility.

Episcopal graduates gain acceptance into highly selective universities, making it a strong choice for families seeking both academic rigor and values-based education.

9. Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart

Estimated Fees: $25,000 – $34,000 per year

Duchesne Academy is a Catholic all-girls school that emphasizes both academic excellence and character formation. It offers a well-rounded curriculum with strong AP programs, arts, and athletics.

Boarding life provides a nurturing environment where students develop independence while being guided by mentors. The faith-based community emphasizes service, compassion, and leadership.

Graduates are well-prepared for competitive universities and careers, making Duchesne a top choice for families seeking an all-girls, Catholic boarding option.

10. Strake Jesuit College Preparatory

Estimated Fees: $26,000 – $35,000 per year

Strake Jesuit is a Catholic, all-boys school in Houston that focuses on academic excellence and Jesuit traditions. The school’s rigorous curriculum combines academics with service learning, athletics, and leadership development.

Boarding students live in a community that fosters brotherhood, discipline, and responsibility. The environment prepares them for leadership roles in both academic and professional fields.

With a strong alumni network and high university acceptance rates, Strake Jesuit remains one of Houston’s most respected boarding schools.

11. The John Cooper School

Estimated Fees: $24,000 – $33,000 per year

Located in The Woodlands, near Houston, The John Cooper School offers a progressive, college-preparatory education. Its boarding program supports students in both academics and extracurricular pursuits.

The curriculum includes AP courses, arts, and athletics, with a strong focus on experiential learning and leadership. Boarding life emphasizes independence, time management, and collaboration.

Families seeking a progressive and well-balanced education often choose The John Cooper School for its strong results and supportive environment.

12. St. Agnes Academy

Estimated Fees: $23,000 – $31,000 per year

St. Agnes Academy is a Dominican Catholic school for young women, known for its rigorous academics and faith-centered education.

Boarding students live in a supportive community where they receive mentorship and guidance. The curriculum features AP programs, arts, and service learning, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

With a reputation for academic excellence and spiritual growth, St. Agnes Academy prepares students for success in higher education and beyond.

13. Incarnate Word Academy

Estimated Fees: $20,000 – $28,000 per year

Incarnate Word Academy, established by the Sisters of the Incarnate Word, provides an education rooted in Catholic values. Its boarding program emphasizes academics, character development, and spiritual growth.

Students engage in AP courses, athletics, arts, and service projects. Boarding life fosters independence and responsibility, supported by a close-knit community.

Graduates often pursue higher education at competitive universities, making Incarnate Word a respected choice for families.

14. Cristo Rey Jesuit College Preparatory

Estimated Fees: $18,000 – $25,000 per year

Cristo Rey Jesuit College Preparatory focuses on providing education to students from diverse backgrounds through an innovative work-study model.

The boarding program provides structure, discipline, and community, ensuring that students succeed academically while building life skills.

Cristo Rey graduates are well-prepared for both college and careers, benefiting from the school’s unique blend of academics and real-world experience.

15. St. Pius X High School

Estimated Fees: $21,000 – $29,000 per year

St. Pius X High School is a Catholic college-preparatory institution that emphasizes academic excellence, athletics, and personal growth.

Boarding students live in a structured, values-based community that encourages independence and leadership. With AP programs, athletics, and service learning, students develop holistically.

St. Pius X graduates consistently go on to strong universities, reflecting the school’s commitment to both academic and moral development.

Conclusion

Houston offers a wide variety of boarding schools that cater to different educational philosophies, faith traditions, and family needs. From globally recognized institutions like The Village School and Awty International to values-driven schools like Strake Jesuit and St. Agnes Academy, parents have numerous options to ensure their children receive a high-quality education.

When choosing among the top 15 boarding schools in Houston and their fees, families should consider not just tuition costs but also academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, and the overall mission of the school. With the right choice, students will thrive academically, socially, and personally, preparing them for lifelong success.

Top 15 Boarding Schools In Houston And Fees (2025)