Massachusetts is one of the most prestigious educational hubs in the United States, home to some of the best boarding schools in the world. Known for their academic excellence, historic campuses, and strong university placement rates, these schools attract students both domestically and internationally.

In this guide, we highlight the top 13 boarding schools in Massachusetts along with their tuition fees, academic offerings, and distinctive features. This will help you make an informed decision about which institution might be the best fit for your child.

Top Boarding Schools In Massachusetts And Fees

1. Phillips Academy Andover

Location: Andover, MA
Tuition Fee: Around $66,000 per year (boarding)

Phillips Academy Andover, founded in 1778, is one of the most prestigious boarding schools in the United States and consistently ranks among the best worldwide. Known for its rigorous academics, it offers a wide range of advanced placement courses and independent study options. Andover has a strong tradition of fostering leadership, intellectual curiosity, and global awareness among students.

The school boasts world-class facilities, including a renowned Addison Gallery of American Art and a top-tier library. Athletics and arts are also strong pillars, with over 60 interscholastic teams and extensive visual and performing arts programs. Its diverse student body, representing more than 50 countries, makes for a rich cultural environment. Andover graduates often move on to Ivy League universities and other top-tier institutions.

2. Phillips Exeter Academy

Location: Exeter, NH (near the Massachusetts border, often grouped with MA schools for proximity)
Tuition Fee: Around $65,000 per year (boarding)

Although technically in New Hampshire, Phillips Exeter Academy is often considered alongside Massachusetts schools due to its proximity and similar prestige. Founded in 1781, Exeter is known for pioneering the Harkness teaching method, which promotes discussion-based learning around an oval table. This approach encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and intellectual independence.

The academy has an impressive academic record, with students excelling in mathematics, science, literature, and humanities. Exeter’s extensive library, one of the largest secondary school libraries in the world, further enhances the academic experience.

Exeter also excels in athletics, arts, and community service, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education. Graduates frequently gain admission into elite colleges, making it a prime choice for families seeking the best education in New England.

3. Deerfield Academy

Location: Deerfield, MA
Tuition Fee: Around $65,000 per year (boarding)

Deerfield Academy, established in 1797, is another highly respected boarding school in Massachusetts. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, Deerfield emphasizes intellectual curiosity, ethical leadership, and a strong sense of community.

The school has state-of-the-art facilities, including a science center, performing arts building, and expansive athletic complexes. Students enjoy a wide range of extracurriculars, from varsity sports to music ensembles and debate clubs. Deerfield places a strong focus on mentorship, with dedicated faculty members providing both academic and personal support.

With small class sizes, students receive personalized attention that helps them thrive academically and socially. Deerfield graduates often secure places at top universities, cementing its reputation as one of the best boarding schools in the country.

4. Milton Academy

Location: Milton, MA
Tuition Fee: Around $65,500 per year (boarding)

Milton Academy, founded in 1798, is a coeducational boarding school located just outside Boston. The school prides itself on creating an environment that encourages independent thinking, leadership, and creativity.

The academy offers a rigorous curriculum with advanced placement courses, honors classes, and interdisciplinary studies. Milton has a particularly strong reputation in the arts, offering programs in theater, visual arts, and music. Students also engage in athletics, with over 15 varsity sports teams competing at high levels.

Milton’s proximity to Boston allows students access to the city’s cultural and academic resources, making it an attractive choice for families who want the best of both suburban campus life and urban opportunities. Alumni of Milton include prominent leaders in politics, business, and the arts.

5. Groton School

Location: Groton, MA
Tuition Fee: Around $66,000 per year (boarding)

Groton School is a small but elite boarding school known for its commitment to academic excellence, community service, and leadership development. Founded in 1884, Groton has a student body of just over 300, which ensures an intimate learning environment.

The school’s curriculum is rigorous, offering advanced courses across all disciplines. Groton places a strong emphasis on service, with students encouraged to give back to the community through various outreach programs. The school’s motto, “Cui Servire Est Regnare” (To serve is to rule), highlights its focus on developing socially responsible leaders.

Groton also offers strong athletic and arts programs, ensuring a well-rounded education. Many graduates go on to attend Ivy League universities and other prestigious institutions.

6. Concord Academy

Location: Concord, MA
Tuition Fee: Around $66,500 per year (boarding)

Concord Academy, founded in 1922, is a progressive boarding school known for its inclusive culture and emphasis on creativity. The school fosters an environment where students feel encouraged to explore their passions and think critically about the world around them.

Academically, Concord Academy offers a wide range of advanced courses, particularly strong in humanities, science, and arts. The school has a reputation for its robust visual and performing arts programs, with opportunities in theater, music, and visual arts.

Concord Academy also emphasizes social responsibility and diversity, ensuring that students are prepared to be thoughtful global citizens. With its strong academic reputation and vibrant student community, Concord Academy is a leading choice for families seeking a progressive, forward-thinking boarding school.

7. The Williston Northampton School

Location: Easthampton, MA
Tuition Fee: Around $69,000 per year (boarding)

The Williston Northampton School, established in 1841, is known for its balance of academic rigor, athletics, and arts. The school provides a supportive environment where students are encouraged to take risks and grow both academically and personally.

The curriculum includes honors and advanced placement courses, along with unique electives that encourage creative exploration. Williston’s athletic program is strong, with competitive teams in football, soccer, swimming, and more. Its arts program is equally impressive, offering theater productions, visual arts exhibitions, and music ensembles.

Williston prides itself on fostering a strong sense of community, where students receive mentorship from faculty and form lifelong friendships. The school’s graduates regularly go on to attend top universities across the U.S. and abroad.

8. Cushing Academy

Location: Ashburnham, MA
Tuition Fee: Around $67,000 per year (boarding)

Cushing Academy, founded in 1865, is well-regarded for its emphasis on preparing students for success in college and beyond. The school combines traditional academic rigor with innovative teaching methods to ensure students thrive in all areas.

Cushing offers a wide range of academic courses, including honors and AP classes, along with specialized programs in the arts and athletics. The academy is particularly known for its strong hockey program, attracting athletes from around the world.

The school also places a strong emphasis on global citizenship, with a diverse student body representing many different countries. Cushing’s focus on academics, arts, athletics, and internationalism makes it a top choice for families seeking a well-rounded boarding experience.

9. The Governor’s Academy

Location: Byfield, MA
Tuition Fee: Around $66,500 per year (boarding)

Founded in 1763, The Governor’s Academy is the oldest boarding school in New England. With centuries of academic tradition, the school combines history with modern innovation.

The Governor’s Academy offers a strong college preparatory curriculum, with advanced placement and honors courses available across all subjects. The school also emphasizes experiential learning, providing opportunities for internships, research projects, and global study programs.

Athletics play a central role, with competitive teams in soccer, lacrosse, hockey, and more. The arts are also well-represented, with programs in theater, visual arts, and music.

With its long-standing reputation, The Governor’s Academy has a tradition of producing graduates who excel at elite universities and beyond.

10. Tabor Academy

Location: Marion, MA
Tuition Fee: Around $65,000 per year (boarding)

Tabor Academy, often referred to as the “School by the Sea,” is a unique boarding school located along the Massachusetts coast. Founded in 1876, it is well-known for its maritime programs and strong academic reputation.

Students at Tabor Academy enjoy a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with opportunities to explore marine science, sailing, and other ocean-related studies. The school also offers a full range of AP courses and honors classes.

Athletics and the arts are integral parts of campus life, with strong programs in rowing, sailing, music, and theater. The picturesque waterfront location provides students with a distinctive boarding school experience that blends academics with real-world learning opportunities.

11. Stoneleigh-Burnham School

Location: Greenfield, MA
Tuition Fee: Around $64,000 per year (boarding)

Stoneleigh-Burnham School is an all-girls boarding school that focuses on empowering young women through academics, athletics, and leadership opportunities. Founded in 1869, the school has a rich history of fostering independence and confidence among its students.

Academically, the school offers a rigorous curriculum with honors and AP courses, alongside a strong International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Stoneleigh-Burnham is particularly known for its equestrian program, which attracts students from around the world.

The school emphasizes leadership development and community service, encouraging students to grow into thoughtful and socially responsible individuals. With its unique offerings, Stoneleigh-Burnham provides a nurturing yet challenging environment for young women to thrive.

12. Berkshire School

Location: Sheffield, MA
Tuition Fee: Around $66,500 per year (boarding)

Berkshire School, founded in 1907, is known for its innovative approach to education and stunning location at the foot of the Berkshire mountains. The school emphasizes academic excellence, environmental stewardship, and leadership development.

Students can choose from a wide range of AP courses, honors classes, and unique electives, including advanced programs in sustainability and entrepreneurship. Berkshire’s Mountain Program provides experiential learning opportunities that set it apart from many other schools.

Athletics are strong, with over 30 interscholastic sports, and the arts program is thriving with theater, music, and visual arts opportunities. Berkshire students benefit from a balanced education that combines academics, arts, athletics, and leadership training.

13. Northfield Mount Hermon School (NMH)

Location: Gill, MA
Tuition Fee: Around $68,000 per year (boarding)

Northfield Mount Hermon School, founded in 1879, is a highly regarded boarding school that emphasizes academic rigor, character development, and global citizenship.

The curriculum is challenging, with a wide range of AP courses and unique electives that allow students to explore their passions. NMH is known for its strong arts program, including theater, music, and dance, as well as its competitive athletics teams.

What sets NMH apart is its commitment to social responsibility and global awareness. The school encourages students to engage in community service, environmental initiatives, and international programs. Graduates of NMH often continue their education at top universities in the U.S. and abroad.

Conclusion

Massachusetts is home to some of the most prestigious boarding schools in the United States, offering world-class education, top-tier facilities, and life-changing opportunities. Whether you’re seeking a school with a strong arts program, competitive athletics, or rigorous academics, the boarding schools in Massachusetts provide diverse options to suit different needs.

Choosing the right school involves considering factors such as tuition fees, academic strengths, extracurricular activities, and campus culture. With this list of the top 13 boarding schools in Massachusetts and their fees, you have a detailed overview to help guide your decision-making process

Top 13 Boarding Schools In Massachusetts And Fees (2025)