Top Boarding Schools In Kansas City And Fees (2025)

When it comes to choosing the best educational path for your child, boarding schools in and around Kansas City offer unique opportunities. These schools provide a structured environment, academic excellence, extracurricular options, and personal growth opportunities that day schools may not always offer.

Kansas City, spanning both Missouri and Kansas, has a few premier boarding schools within reach. While the city itself has limited boarding options, nearby towns and states host schools with diverse offerings, from faith-based education to military academies. Understanding the tuition, boarding fees, and offerings of each school is crucial before making an informed decision. In this post, we explore the top 5 boarding schools in and near Kansas City, their fees, key features, and tips for parents considering boarding education.

Top Boarding Schools In Kansas City And Fees

1. Maur Hill-Mount Academy, Atchison, Kansas

Grades: 9–12
Boarding Fee: US$32,500/year (7-day boarding); international students: US$41,150/year

Overview:
Maur Hill-Mount Academy is a faith-based, college preparatory school located about 1–2 hours from Kansas City. Known for its rigorous academics and holistic approach, it blends spiritual growth with intellectual development. Students engage in a variety of activities, from athletics to arts, all while living in a supportive boarding environment.

Tuition and Fees:
The boarding fee covers room and board. Additional expenses include application fees, enrollment fees, and higher tuition for international students. Maur Hill-Mount Academy also offers payment plans to help families manage costs effectively.

Why Choose Maur Hill-Mount Academy:

Strong academic performance with a college-prep curriculum
Faith-based education fostering moral and spiritual growth
A supportive community for boarding students
Affordable compared to other private boarding schools in the U.S.

2. Missouri Military Academy, Mexico, Missouri

Grades: 7–12 (boys)
Boarding Fee: US$39,950/year for full-year boarding cadets

Overview:
The Missouri Military Academy provides a structured, disciplined military environment designed to instill leadership and responsibility. The academy focuses on academics, physical training, and character development. It is one of the most reputable military boarding schools in the Midwest.

Tuition and Fees:
Boarding fees cover room and board, classroom instruction, and some extracurriculars. Additional costs include uniforms, activity fees, and technology. International students may have higher fees.

Why Choose Missouri Military Academy:

Emphasis on leadership and discipline
Structured environment suitable for boys needing guidance
Excellent physical training and extracurricular programs
Strong track record in college placements

3. Thomas More Prep, Hays, Kansas

Grades: 9–12
Boarding Fee: Approximately US$25,000/year

Overview:
Thomas More Prep is a Catholic preparatory school that focuses on academic excellence, faith, and character development. The school offers a smaller student-to-teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention for each student. It is well-known for its strong community and supportive learning environment.

Tuition and Fees:
Boarding fees include room and board, but additional costs for uniforms and supplies may apply. Compared to other boarding schools in the region, Thomas More Prep is relatively affordable.

Why Choose Thomas More Prep:

Smaller class sizes allow for personalized education
Strong Catholic values and community environment
Reasonable boarding costs for families seeking faith-based education
Academic and extracurricular balance for overall growth

4. St. John’s Military School, Salina, Kansas

Grades: 6–12 (boys)
Boarding Fee: US$34,100–US$40,000/year depending on domestic or international status

Overview:
St. John’s Military School offers a traditional military boarding experience with a strong focus on leadership and character development. The school has a long-standing reputation for discipline, academics, and physical training.

Tuition and Fees:
Boarding fees cover room, board, and classroom instruction. Students may incur additional costs for uniforms, personal items, and extracurricular activities.

Why Choose St. John’s Military School:

Long history of disciplined military education
Emphasis on leadership, accountability, and character building
Comprehensive academic programs
Ideal for students seeking structure and guidance

5. Sunnydale Adventist Academy, Centralia, Missouri

Grades: 9–12
Boarding Fee: US$9,410/year

Overview:
Sunnydale Adventist Academy is a faith-based boarding school affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It offers a nurturing environment focused on academics, spirituality, and community. The school is well-suited for families seeking affordable boarding education with a strong moral framework.

Tuition and Fees:
The boarding fee is one of the most affordable in the region. Additional costs may include uniforms, supplies, and activity fees.

Why Choose Sunnydale Adventist Academy:

Highly affordable option for boarding students
Strong spiritual and moral education
Close-knit school community
Balanced focus on academics, faith, and extracurriculars

Boarding School Fees: What They Include and Exclude

Understanding what fees cover can help families budget effectively.

Included in Most Boarding Fees:

Tuition and classroom instruction
Room and board (dormitory living and meals)
Basic academic supplies (sometimes textbooks included)
Technology and computer access
Some extracurricular activities

Not Included / Additional Costs:

Travel to/from school during holidays
Uniforms and sports clothing
Extra-curricular activities beyond included packages
Health insurance or special medical fees
Personal expenses and optional trips

Comparing Kansas City Area Boarding Schools with National Averages

Boarding school tuition in the U.S. ranges from US$30,000–70,000/year at private schools.
The Kansas City area schools range from US$9,410/year (Sunnydale Adventist Academy) to US$40,000/year (St. John’s Military School).
Choosing the right school depends on budget, values, academic quality, and environment.

Tips for Parents Considering Boarding Schools

Visit the Campus: Evaluate dormitories, classrooms, safety, and overall environment.
Request a Full Cost Breakdown: Understand tuition, room and board, uniforms, activities, and hidden fees.
Check Financial Aid Options: Many schools offer scholarships or payment plans.
Research School Accreditation and College Placement: Ensure academic quality aligns with your goals.
Evaluate School Culture: Military vs. religious vs. traditional boarding—ensure it fits your child.
Consider Travel Logistics: Distance from home can affect visits and travel convenience.

Conclusion

Choosing a boarding school in or near Kansas City requires careful consideration of fees, curriculum, school culture, and student needs. The top five boarding schools listed here offer a range of environments—from faith-based and affordable to disciplined military academies.

Maur Hill-Mount Academy: Faith-based, college-prep, ~$32,500/year
Missouri Military Academy: Military discipline and leadership, ~$39,950/year
Thomas More Prep: Catholic college-prep, ~$25,000/year
St. John’s Military School: Traditional military school, ~$34,100–$40,000/year
Sunnydale Adventist Academy: Affordable faith-based option, ~$9,410/year

By weighing cost, quality, and fit, parents can make informed decisions for their child’s education and personal growth. Boarding schools near Kansas City offer not only academic excellence but also life skills, independence, and community engagement—preparing students for success in college and beyond.