Desmond AbahLake Forest, Illinois, located along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, is well-known for its history, culture, and educational excellence. The city is home to some of the most prestigious boarding schools in the Midwest. Families who are looking for quality education combined with strong extracurricular opportunities often turn to Lake Forest because of its tradition of academic excellence, safe community, and access to both nature and the city of Chicago.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 2 boarding schools in Lake Forest, IL and their tuition fees, providing a detailed look at what makes these schools stand out. If you’re a parent searching for the best boarding school experience for your child, this guide will help you understand what each institution offers.
Top Boarding Schools In Lake Forest Il And Fees
1. Lake Forest Academy
Overview
Lake Forest Academy (often called LFA) is one of the most prestigious private boarding schools in Illinois. Established in 1857, this coeducational college preparatory school has earned a reputation for excellence in academics, athletics, arts, and leadership development. Its sprawling 150-acre campus offers a blend of traditional architecture and modern facilities, making it an inspiring environment for young learners.
LFA has an enrollment of around 430 students from more than 40 countries, creating a truly global community. The student-to-faculty ratio is approximately 8:1, allowing for personalized attention, small class sizes, and strong mentorship. The curriculum is rigorous, with Advanced Placement (AP) courses, honors programs, and a commitment to preparing students for competitive universities across the U.S. and internationally.
Academics and Programs
Lake Forest Academy emphasizes a balance between intellectual curiosity and personal growth. Students can engage in sciences, mathematics, humanities, world languages, and arts. The school also offers specialized leadership programs and independent study opportunities. Its fine arts department is particularly strong, with music, drama, and visual arts programs that nurture creativity.
LFA is also renowned for its athletics, with varsity teams in basketball, soccer, ice hockey, swimming, and more. The school encourages students to participate in extracurriculars such as debate, robotics, Model UN, and community service initiatives, ensuring a well-rounded experience.
Boarding Life
Boarding students live in beautifully maintained dormitories that emphasize community, safety, and inclusivity. Dorm parents and staff provide supervision, while weekend programs offer students a chance to enjoy cultural trips, sporting events, and recreational activities.
Tuition and Fees
- Boarding Tuition: Around $68,950 per year (including room and board).
- Day Student Tuition: Approximately $47,500 per year.
Financial aid is available, with nearly 30% of students receiving some form of assistance. Scholarships and grants are offered to make education accessible for families with demonstrated need.
Why Choose Lake Forest Academy?
LFA’s strong international presence, rigorous academics, and diverse extracurricular opportunities make it an excellent choice for families looking for a boarding school that nurtures leadership, intellectual growth, and cultural understanding.
2. Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart
Overview
Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart is another highly respected boarding and day school in Lake Forest, IL. Founded in 1858, this all-girls Catholic institution is part of the international Sacred Heart network of schools. The academy emphasizes holistic education, combining rigorous academics with values-based teaching rooted in faith, service, and leadership.
Woodlands serves around 200 students, ensuring an intimate and supportive learning environment. Its global community includes students from multiple countries, making it a culturally rich place for young women to learn and grow.
Academics and Programs
The academic program at Woodlands is college preparatory, with a wide range of honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and ethical decision-making. Students are encouraged to pursue passions in STEM, humanities, fine arts, and world languages.
What makes Woodlands unique is its international focus. Through the Sacred Heart network, students have opportunities to study abroad or participate in exchange programs with other Sacred Heart schools worldwide. This global exposure prepares graduates for success in an interconnected world.
In addition to academics, Woodlands fosters leadership through community service and social justice initiatives. The school’s arts program includes theater, visual arts, and music, while athletics include soccer, tennis, cross-country, and volleyball.
Boarding Life
As one of the few all-girls Catholic boarding schools in the Midwest, Woodlands provides a safe, nurturing residential life program. Boarding students enjoy strong bonds with their peers and participate in weekend activities, including trips to Chicago, cultural festivals, and recreational events.
Tuition and Fees
- Boarding Tuition: Around $64,500 per year (including room and board).
- Day Student Tuition: Approximately $34,900 per year.
Woodlands also offers need-based financial aid and merit scholarships, ensuring access to families from diverse backgrounds.
Why Choose Woodlands Academy?
Families who value a values-driven, all-girls education with a strong Catholic tradition will find Woodlands an excellent option. The school blends rigorous academics, faith-based values, leadership development, and international opportunities, creating a unique environment where young women thrive.
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Conclusion
Lake Forest, IL, is home to two of the finest boarding schools in the Midwest: Lake Forest Academy and Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart. While LFA offers a coeducational, globally diverse environment with a strong emphasis on leadership and academics, Woodlands Academy provides an all-girls, Catholic-focused education rooted in tradition and global connectivity.
Both schools offer outstanding opportunities in academics, arts, and extracurriculars, preparing students not just for college but for meaningful lives as leaders and global citizens. With tuition fees ranging from $64,500 to $68,950 for boarding, these schools are investments in a child’s future, backed by strong reputations and a proven track record of success.
Whether you prefer the coeducational environment of Lake Forest Academy or the values-driven, all-girls education at Woodlands Academy, Lake Forest offers exceptional options for families seeking the best boarding school experience.