Top 6 Boarding Schools In Montana And Fees (2025)

Montana, often called “Big Sky Country,” is known for its breathtaking mountains, vast open plains, and an authentic American frontier spirit. Beyond its natural beauty, Montana also offers families a variety of boarding school options. These schools range from Christian preparatory institutions to therapeutic programs that focus on emotional and behavioral development.

In this blogpost, we’ll explore the top boarding schools in Montana along with their tuition fees, boarding costs, and what makes each of them stand out. Whether you’re a parent considering a faith-based education, a therapeutic program for your teenager, or simply seeking a high-quality boarding option in a beautiful natural setting, this guide will give you the insights you need.

Top Boarding Schools In Montana And Fees

1. Mount Ellis Academy – Bozeman, Montana

Mount Ellis Academy is one of the most well-known Christian boarding schools in Montana. Located near Bozeman, this private Seventh-day Adventist academy serves students in grades 9–12. It offers a blend of strong academics, Christian values, and outdoor opportunities, making it an excellent choice for families who want faith-based learning combined with Montana’s adventurous lifestyle.

The school has a small student body, which allows for personalized instruction and close relationships between staff and students. Academic offerings include college prep courses, electives in arts and sciences, and spiritual programs. Sports and outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and camping are integral to the student experience.

Fees:
According to the most recent data, the annual boarding cost (tuition + room and board) is about $16,980 per year for the highest grade. This makes it significantly more affordable compared to elite East Coast boarding schools, which can cost over $60,000 annually.

Parents appreciate Mount Ellis Academy for its supportive environment, strong moral foundation, and affordability. The school also offers scholarships and work programs to help reduce tuition burdens.

2. Mountain State Boys Academy – Montana

Mountain State Boys Academy is a Christian boarding school for boys that specializes in both academic education and behavioral development. It caters to families seeking a structured environment where young men can grow spiritually, academically, and personally. The academy integrates Bible study with rigorous schooling and outdoor programs.

This school is designed not only for academics but also for character building. Students participate in daily routines that encourage discipline, responsibility, and leadership. Outdoor adventures such as camping, hiking, and service projects are used as teaching tools. The faculty emphasize mentorship and role modeling, ensuring that students receive guidance in every aspect of their lives.

Fees:
The fee structure is slightly different from traditional boarding schools. The academy charges approximately $3,000 per month for room and board. In addition, there is a one-time enrollment fee of about $4,250 and an academic fee of around $400. Families should also expect incidental costs.

For parents who want a balance of Christian teaching, academic structure, and behavioral support for their sons, Mountain State Boys Academy is a strong choice.

3. Lustre Christian High School – Lustre, Montana

Lustre Christian High School is another Christian boarding school that provides a family-like atmosphere and strong sense of community. Located in the small town of Lustre, this school serves grades 9–12 and is ideal for families who want their children to grow up in a nurturing, rural environment while receiving a quality Christian education.

Academically, Lustre Christian High School offers a college-preparatory curriculum with small class sizes that ensure individual attention. Students also engage in extracurricular activities such as basketball, volleyball, track, and music. Faith development is integrated into daily life through chapel services, Bible study, and community service.

Fees:
The boarding + tuition cost is about $14,400 per year, making it one of the most affordable boarding schools in Montana. Day students pay roughly $7,800 annually. This affordability, combined with its faith-based mission, makes Lustre Christian High School a great option for families who want both quality education and spiritual grounding without overwhelming financial burdens.

The school emphasizes strong character values, community living, and preparing students for college and beyond.

4. Montana School for the Deaf & Blind (MSDB) – Great Falls, Montana

MSDB is a unique state-operated boarding school that serves students who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or visually impaired. Located in Great Falls, it provides both day and boarding programs for children across Montana who need specialized educational support.

The school is highly regarded for its individualized learning approach, using tailored curriculums and technologies that help students thrive. Beyond academics, MSDB provides students with life skills training, mobility instruction, and social development opportunities. The dormitory experience allows children from rural parts of Montana to access specialized education they wouldn’t otherwise receive.

Fees:
As a state school, tuition and boarding are publicly funded for eligible Montana residents. Families typically don’t pay standard tuition fees, though incidental costs (supplies, travel, etc.) may apply. Out-of-state students may face additional charges, but overall MSDB is one of the most cost-accessible boarding options in Montana.

For parents of children with hearing or vision impairments, MSDB offers a supportive, resource-rich environment that few schools in the U.S. can match.

5. Chrysalis School – Eureka, Montana

Chrysalis School is a therapeutic boarding school for girls aged 13–18. Nestled in the scenic northwest Montana wilderness, Chrysalis provides a healing environment for teenage girls struggling with emotional, behavioral, or psychological challenges. The school’s philosophy combines therapy, academics, and adventure to guide students toward personal growth.

Therapeutic programs include individual counseling, group therapy, family involvement, and outdoor adventure therapy such as hiking, equine programs, and camping trips. Academically, Chrysalis offers a college-prep curriculum with individualized attention. The supportive staff help students rebuild confidence and prepare for future success.

Fees:
Exact tuition and boarding fees are not publicly listed. Families must contact the school directly for current rates. However, therapeutic boarding schools generally range from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on services provided.

Chrysalis is an excellent choice for families seeking a therapeutic and holistic environment for their daughters, especially those who thrive in nature-based settings.

6. Montana Academy – Marion, Montana

Montana Academy was a well-known therapeutic boarding school for teens aged 14–19. Located in a rural area near Marion, it combined academics with behavioral and therapeutic interventions. However, it’s important to note that Montana Academy closed in 2021 and transitioned into a residential treatment center.

When it was operational, the academy focused on emotional growth, therapy, and academic development. It attracted families nationwide who were searching for intensive therapeutic support in a residential setting.

Fees:
Precise tuition and boarding costs were not widely available, though therapeutic boarding schools of its type typically charged $60,000+ annually. Since its closure, families looking for similar therapeutic services in Montana now turn to institutions such as Chrysalis School or out-of-state programs.

Boarding School Fees in Montana: How They Compare

Montana’s boarding schools are much more affordable than the national average. While traditional prep schools in New England often cost upwards of $60,000–$70,000 per year, Christian boarding schools in Montana such as Lustre Christian High School ($14,400/year) and Mount Ellis Academy ($16,980/year) offer a more accessible option for families.

Therapeutic boarding schools like Chrysalis or the former Montana Academy are exceptions, as they can rival or exceed national averages due to their specialized services.

Pros and Cons of Boarding Schools in Montana

Pros

Affordable tuition compared to national boarding school costs.
Strong Christian and community values in many schools.
Small student populations, ensuring personal attention.
Access to Montana’s outdoor lifestyle, including hiking, skiing, and camping.

Cons

Fewer boarding school options compared to larger states.
Remote locations can make travel challenging.
Therapeutic schools may come with very high costs.
Some therapeutic programs have mixed reputations—research is essential.

Tips for Parents Choosing a Boarding School in Montana

Evaluate your child’s needs: Decide whether you want a Christian academic school or a therapeutic environment.
Compare fee structures: Look beyond tuition to include enrollment, boarding, and incidental costs.
Visit the campus: Meet staff, explore facilities, and see dorms before making a decision.
Check for accreditation: Ensure the school meets academic and safety standards.
Inquire about financial aid: Many Christian schools offer scholarships or work-study options.
Plan for travel costs: Montana’s remote locations may require additional transportation expenses.

Conclusion

Montana may not have dozens of boarding schools, but the ones it does offer are unique, affordable, and value-driven. From the Christian foundations of Mount Ellis Academy and Lustre Christian High School to the therapeutic support at Chrysalis School, families have strong options depending on their child’s academic, emotional, and spiritual needs.

If you are searching for a school that balances affordability, values, and access to the outdoors, Montana boarding schools stand out as excellent choices. However, therapeutic schools come with higher costs, so families must carefully weigh long-term benefits against financial commitments.

Ultimately, with Montana’s focus on small communities and personal growth, choosing a boarding school here can be a life-changing experience for your child.