Desmond AbahMichigan is home to some of the most respected boarding schools in the United States, offering families a blend of strong academics, excellent extracurricular opportunities, and supportive residential life. Whether you’re seeking a school with a focus on the arts, faith-based education, or a more traditional college-prep environment, Michigan has diverse options to meet different student needs.
In this guide, we highlight the top 5 boarding schools in Michigan, their tuition fees, and what makes each one stand out.
Top Boarding Schools In Michigan And Fees
1. Interlochen Arts Academy – Interlochen, Michigan
Overview
Interlochen Arts Academy is considered the premier arts boarding school in Michigan. It offers students specialized training in music, theatre, visual arts, film, dance, creative writing, and interdisciplinary arts. The school combines world-class artistic training with rigorous academics, preparing students for top universities and conservatories.
Boarding Tuition and Fees
- Boarding (Tuition + Room & Board): around $81,200 per year
- Day students (no boarding): about $45,930 per year
Financial Aid
- Over 80% of students receive some form of financial aid or merit scholarship.
- Both need-based and merit-based awards are offered, making the school more accessible for talented students.
Why Choose Interlochen?
- Globally recognized for excellence in the arts
- Strong alumni network and placement in prestigious programs
- State-of-the-art performance and creative facilities
2. The Leelanau School – Glen Arbor, Michigan
Overview
The Leelanau School is a small, co-educational boarding school known for its highly personalized education. It caters especially to students who thrive in small classrooms, benefit from individualized instruction, or need a non-traditional approach to learning. The natural surroundings near Lake Michigan also make it an ideal place for experiential and outdoor education.
Boarding Tuition and Fees
- Boarding tuition: around $72,350 per year
Financial Aid
- Approximately half of the student body receives financial assistance.
- Aid is based on demonstrated financial need.
Why Choose The Leelanau School?
- Extremely small student body and low student-teacher ratio
- Strong emphasis on experiential and outdoor learning
- Supportive environment for students with learning differences
3. Orchard Lake St. Mary’s Preparatory – Orchard Lake, Michigan
Overview
Orchard Lake St. Mary’s is a Catholic college-prep school with a long tradition of academic excellence, leadership training, and moral formation. Historically a boys’ school, it has expanded to include female students as well. Known for its character-building programs, the school offers a well-rounded education alongside a strong boarding program.
Boarding Tuition and Fees
- Day student tuition: about $15,550
- Boarding (7-day): around $33,950
- Boarding (5-day): around $29,750
Additional Fees
- Technology, sports, and activity fees may apply.
Why Choose Orchard Lake St. Mary’s?
- Affordable compared to other private boarding schools
- Strong Catholic tradition with emphasis on values and discipline
- Excellent athletic and extracurricular opportunities
4. Great Lakes Adventist Academy – Cedar Lake, Michigan
Overview
Great Lakes Adventist Academy (GLAA) is a faith-based Seventh-day Adventist school for grades 9-12. It emphasizes academic excellence alongside character development, community service, and spiritual growth. With a focus on a supportive boarding environment, GLAA offers students a structured lifestyle that balances faith, study, and extracurricular activities.
Boarding Tuition and Fees
- Full boarding (tuition + room & board): around $19,750 per year
- Non-boarding option (“Village” students): about $14,750
- Tuition alone: approximately $12,950
Why Choose GLAA?
- Strong religious foundation and supportive community
- Affordable tuition compared to many other boarding schools
- Focus on academics, service, and leadership
5. Michigan Lutheran High School – St. Joseph, Michigan
Overview
Michigan Lutheran High School offers a Christian, college-prep education with a close-knit campus community. The boarding program primarily supports international students, providing a home-away-from-home while maintaining high academic standards and spiritual guidance.
Boarding Tuition and Fees
- International boarding students (includes room & board): around $28,000 per year
Financial Aid
- Both merit-based and need-based assistance are available.
- More than half of the student body benefits from aid.
Why Choose Michigan Lutheran?
- Affordable tuition for boarding students
- Supportive Christian community
- Small class sizes with individualized attention
Comparison Table
| School | Boarding Tuition (approx.) | School Type | Financial Aid Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interlochen Arts Academy | $81,200 | Arts-focused, college prep | Very high (80%+) |
| The Leelanau School | $72,350 | Small, experiential | About 50% of students |
| Orchard Lake St. Mary’s Prep | $33,950 (7-day) | Catholic, college prep | Available |
| Great Lakes Adventist Academy | $19,750 | Religious, service-oriented | Limited aid |
| Michigan Lutheran High School | $28,000 | Christian, international focus | Available (≈58%) |
What to Consider When Choosing a Boarding School
When evaluating boarding schools in Michigan, tuition is just one part of the decision. Families should also look closely at:
- What’s included in tuition – meals, dorms, activities, supervision, technology fees.
- Extra fees – textbooks, uniforms, sports fees, and travel costs can add up.
- Financial aid opportunities – explore both need-based and merit-based scholarships.
- Academic strengths – arts, STEM, college prep, or specialized learning support.
- Campus life – student well-being programs, residential advisors, and weekend activities.
- School values – whether you prefer a secular, faith-based, or arts-focused environment.
Related
- Top 4 Boarding Schools In Miami And Fees (2025)
- Top 2 Boarding Schools In Memphis And Fees (2025)
- Top 13 Boarding Schools In Massachusetts And Fees (2025)
Conclusion
Michigan offers a wide range of boarding school experiences, from world-renowned arts programs to small, personalized environments and affordable faith-based schools. The right choice depends on your child’s passions, learning style, and your family’s budget.
If you’re considering boarding school in Michigan, start by identifying your educational priorities—whether that’s world-class arts training, a strong faith-based education, or small class sizes—and then compare tuition, financial aid, and campus life. With thoughtful planning, you can find a Michigan boarding school that provides the perfect fit.