Top 2 Boarding Schools In Nebraska And Fees (2025)

Choosing the right boarding school is one of the most important decisions for families who want to give their children a strong academic and personal foundation. Nebraska, though not as well-known for boarding schools as states like Massachusetts or New York, offers some excellent options that combine academic excellence, faith-based values, and well-structured student life.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top boarding schools in Nebraska, their fees, academic programs, and what makes each of them stand out. We’ll also look at financial aid, scholarships, and practical tips for parents considering this investment.

Top Boarding Schools in Nebraska

1. Mount Michael Benedictine School

Location: Elkhorn, Nebraska (near Omaha)
Type: Roman Catholic, all-boys, college-prep, grades 9–12

Mount Michael Benedictine School is Nebraska’s most recognized college preparatory boarding school. Founded by the Benedictine monks, it combines rigorous academics with strong spiritual formation and character development.

Academic Strengths

• Offers 26 AP and advanced courses.
• Student-teacher ratio of 7:1, with average class sizes of 13 students.
• Focused on preparing young men for competitive colleges and universities.

Boarding Life

• Dormitory facilities with structured routines.
• Strong emphasis on faith, leadership, and brotherhood.
• Balanced extracurricular activities including athletics, debate, drama, and service opportunities.

Fees at Mount Michael

• Boarding Students (Domestic, 7-day): approx. $26,215 per year.
• 5-Day Boarding Option: around $24,565 per year (students return home on weekends).
• International Boarding Students: between $44,000 – $59,000 per year, depending on the boarding plan.
• Day Students: significantly lower, but without room and board.

Financial Aid: Around 50% of students receive financial assistance, with average grants of about $6,500.

2. Nebraska Christian Schools (NCS)

Location: Central City, Nebraska
Type: Private Christian school, grades PK–12

Nebraska Christian Schools (NCS) provides both day school and boarding school options, making it a popular choice for families seeking a Christian education with a strong emphasis on faith and academics.

Academic Strengths

• Offers a broad curriculum from kindergarten through high school.
• Emphasis on Christian worldview, character, and leadership.
• College preparatory focus with extracurricular opportunities.

Boarding Life

• Residential facilities for both domestic and international students.
• Community-driven environment with activities that build faith and teamwork.
• Supervised dorm life with structured study and worship times.

Fees at NCS

• Boarding + Tuition: approx. $32,000 per year for upper grades.
• Additional costs may include uniforms, technology fees, extracurriculars, and travel expenses.

Financial Aid: Available for qualified families through scholarships and grants.

Why Consider a Boarding School in Nebraska?

Boarding schools provide more than just a classroom education. They offer a 24/7 learning environment, where students grow academically, socially, and personally. Some of the key benefits include:

• Academic excellence – small class sizes, individualized attention, and strong college prep programs.
• Personal growth – students learn independence, time management, and responsibility.
• Extracurricular opportunities – from athletics and arts to leadership and service projects.
• Community and cultural exposure – especially for international students who want to experience American education in a safe environment.

While Nebraska may not have many boarding schools compared to other states, the few available options are deeply rooted in strong traditions and quality education.

What to Look For When Choosing a Boarding School

Before diving into Nebraska’s boarding schools, here are some important factors parents should consider:

1. Academics – Does the school offer AP or college prep courses?
2. Student-teacher ratio – Smaller classes allow for personalized learning.
3. Facilities – Dorms, dining halls, labs, athletic and art facilities.
4. Boarding options – 5-day, 7-day, or international student programs.
5. Cost – Tuition, room and board, and additional fees.
6. Financial aid – Scholarships and grants can make tuition more affordable.
7. Values and culture – Religious affiliation, student community, and overall environment.

Cost Breakdown of Boarding Schools in Nebraska

When evaluating fees, families should consider not just tuition but also other expenses. Here’s a quick overview:

Expense	What It Covers	Estimated Cost
Tuition	Classes, teachers, academic programs	Included in base fees
Room & Board	Dorm lodging, meals, supervision	$10,000–$15,000
Activity Fees	Sports, arts, clubs, events	$500–$1,500
Books & Supplies	Textbooks, technology, lab fees	$500–$1,000
Travel	Trips home, flights for international students	Varies

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Both Mount Michael and Nebraska Christian Schools offer financial assistance. Aid can be:

• Need-based aid – for families who qualify based on income.
• Merit scholarships – awarded for academics, athletics, or leadership.
• International aid – in some cases, special grants for overseas students.

Parents are encouraged to apply early, as financial aid budgets are limited.

Comparing Nebraska Boarding Schools

When comparing Mount Michael and Nebraska Christian Schools, here are key points to keep in mind:

• Mount Michael is ideal for families looking for a boys-only, Catholic, college-prep environment.
• Nebraska Christian Schools suits families seeking a co-educational Christian school with strong faith integration.
• Fees differ: Mount Michael ranges from $26,000–$59,000, while Nebraska Christian is around $32,000.
• Both schools provide financial aid, small class sizes, and a close-knit community.

Related

• Top 3 Boarding Schools In Nashville And Fees (2025)
• Top 6 Boarding Schools In Montana And Fees (2025)

Conclusion

While Nebraska does not have a wide selection of boarding schools, the options available—Mount Michael Benedictine School and Nebraska Christian Schools—provide excellent opportunities for students seeking rigorous academics, structured boarding life, and values-based education.

Parents should carefully weigh tuition costs, boarding options, academic programs, and financial aid before making a decision. With fees ranging from $25,000 to $35,000+ per year for domestic students (and higher for international students), these schools represent a significant investment in a child’s future.

For families looking for a safe, values-driven environment with excellent college preparation, Nebraska boarding schools are a strong option worth considering.