Desmond AbahNew Orleans, Louisiana, known for its vibrant culture, jazz music, and historical charm, is also home to some of the finest educational institutions in the southern United States. Parents and guardians who value a holistic education for their children often look toward boarding schools in New Orleans for their academic excellence, strong community life, and focus on discipline and leadership.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top boarding schools in New Orleans and their fees, providing details about each school’s academic offerings, extracurricular activities, facilities, and tuition. Whether you’re seeking a school with a strong college preparatory program or one that emphasizes arts, leadership, or athletics, this list will help you find the right fit.
Top Boarding Schools In New Orleans And Fees
1. The Dunham School
Location: Baton Rouge (near New Orleans)
Type: Private, Co-educational, College Preparatory
Grades: PK–12
Annual Tuition: Around $15,000–$25,000
Although technically located in Baton Rouge, The Dunham School is one of the most respected boarding options accessible from New Orleans. It offers a strong college preparatory curriculum grounded in Christian values and innovation.
The school integrates technology and creativity in its learning environment. With small class sizes and advanced academic programs, students receive personalized attention to achieve academic excellence. The Dunham School is also known for its emphasis on fine arts, athletics, and leadership training.
Boarding students enjoy a balanced lifestyle that includes mentoring programs, sports, drama clubs, and community service. The school’s dormitories are modern, well-furnished, and supervised to ensure safety and comfort.
2. St. Paul’s School
Location: Covington, Louisiana
Type: Private, All-Boys Catholic School
Grades: 8–12
Annual Tuition: About $23,000–$30,000 (including boarding fees)
St. Paul’s School is a renowned all-boys boarding institution near New Orleans with a long tradition of excellence. Operated by the Christian Brothers, it focuses on nurturing leadership, academic excellence, and moral development.
The curriculum is designed to prepare students for university life, emphasizing critical thinking, science, and humanities. St. Paul’s School also provides robust extracurricular programs such as debate, athletics, fine arts, and technology clubs.
Students live in a structured environment that encourages independence while maintaining spiritual growth and discipline. The serene campus and dedicated faculty contribute to a wholesome learning experience.
3. St. Scholastica Academy
Location: Covington, Louisiana
Type: Private, All-Girls Catholic School
Grades: 8–12
Annual Tuition: Around $18,000–$25,000 (boarding inclusive)
As one of the few all-girls Catholic boarding schools near New Orleans, St. Scholastica Academy offers a nurturing yet academically rigorous environment. Founded by the Benedictine Sisters, the school focuses on empowering young women to become leaders in their chosen fields.
Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized mentoring, and advanced placement courses. Extracurricular activities include performing arts, service learning, leadership clubs, and competitive sports.
Boarders live on a beautiful, safe campus with access to modern dormitories, common study areas, and recreational spaces. The academy’s emphasis on moral education and community service shapes responsible and confident graduates.
4. Episcopal School of Acadiana
Location: Cade, Louisiana (Accessible from New Orleans)
Type: Private, Co-educational, Episcopal
Grades: 5–12
Annual Tuition: Approximately $20,000–$28,000 (with boarding)
The Episcopal School of Acadiana (ESA) is one of Louisiana’s most prestigious preparatory schools. Its combination of rigorous academics, cultural enrichment, and spiritual guidance makes it a top choice for families in and around New Orleans.
ESA offers a wide range of Advanced Placement and honors courses, along with strong programs in arts, languages, and technology. The school emphasizes intellectual curiosity, encouraging students to become lifelong learners.
Boarding life at ESA fosters independence and collaboration. Students live in comfortable, well-supervised residences and participate in after-school activities like robotics, creative writing, debate, and outdoor leadership programs.
5. Christ Episcopal School
Location: Covington, Louisiana
Type: Private, Co-educational, Christian
Grades: PK–12
Annual Tuition: Between $17,000 and $27,000
Christ Episcopal School offers a balanced education that integrates faith, academics, and community service. Located less than an hour from New Orleans, the school’s boarding program attracts students seeking a family-like atmosphere combined with top-tier academics.
The curriculum includes college preparatory courses, arts, and sciences, ensuring students receive a broad-based education. The school also promotes spiritual growth through chapel services and volunteer programs.
Boarding students enjoy various extracurricular opportunities, including sports, theater, music, and environmental clubs. The dorms are designed for comfort, safety, and academic support.
6. John Curtis Christian School
Location: River Ridge, Louisiana (Greater New Orleans Area)
Type: Private, Co-educational, Christian
Grades: K–12
Annual Tuition: Around $12,000–$20,000
John Curtis Christian School, one of the most reputable schools near New Orleans, is known for its strong academic and athletic traditions. The school emphasizes a blend of Christian values, academic rigor, and sports excellence.
Students benefit from a curriculum that includes honors and AP courses, as well as leadership development programs. The school’s sports teams are nationally recognized, fostering teamwork and discipline.
The boarding option, available for select students, offers structured living, mentoring, and after-school programs. John Curtis Christian School provides a balanced and supportive environment for holistic development.
7. Archbishop Hannan High School
Location: Covington, Louisiana
Type: Private, Co-educational, Catholic
Grades: 8–12
Annual Tuition: Around $15,000–$22,000
Archbishop Hannan High School blends academic excellence with Catholic values. The school provides an engaging learning atmosphere supported by experienced teachers and a strong sense of community.
Students enjoy a variety of academic options, including honors, AP courses, and dual-enrollment programs. The arts, athletics, and leadership development programs enhance the well-rounded nature of education at Hannan.
For boarding students, the school offers safe dormitories, structured study sessions, and access to extracurricular activities. The environment encourages personal responsibility, collaboration, and faith-based character building.
8. Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA)
Location: Natchitoches, Louisiana
Type: Public, Selective Boarding School
Grades: 10–12
Annual Tuition: Free for Louisiana Residents; $20,000–$25,000 for Out-of-State Students
LSMSA is a state-supported boarding school that offers a challenging curriculum for gifted and talented students. Though it’s located a few hours from New Orleans, many students from the region apply due to its outstanding reputation.
The school provides university-level instruction in mathematics, science, arts, and humanities. LSMSA graduates consistently earn admission to prestigious universities nationwide.
The boarding facilities are modern and supervised by trained staff, fostering an environment of collaboration and creativity. Students engage in research projects, competitions, and leadership initiatives throughout the year.
9. Newman School (Isidore Newman School)
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Type: Private, Co-educational, College Preparatory
Grades: PK–12
Annual Tuition: Around $25,000–$35,000 (boarding option available for select students)
Isidore Newman School is one of the most prestigious academic institutions in New Orleans, known for its commitment to intellectual growth and innovation. Its alumni include notable leaders, professionals, and creatives.
The school offers an advanced college preparatory curriculum that includes AP courses, foreign languages, and STEM education. Extracurricular programs in arts, athletics, and community service complement the rigorous academics.
Though primarily a day school, select students from out-of-state or international backgrounds are offered boarding arrangements through affiliated housing partners, making it a viable choice for families seeking a premier education in New Orleans.
10. Academy of the Sacred Heart
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Type: Private, All-Girls Catholic School
Grades: PK–12
Annual Tuition: Approximately $20,000–$32,000
The Academy of the Sacred Heart, part of the international Sacred Heart Network, is one of the oldest and most respected girls’ schools in New Orleans. It emphasizes faith, academic excellence, and social responsibility.
Students receive a well-rounded education combining humanities, sciences, arts, and spiritual development. The Academy’s leadership programs and service-learning initiatives encourage girls to become compassionate, globally minded leaders.
The boarding program offers a safe, enriching environment with comfortable housing, study areas, and recreational amenities. Students engage in cultural activities and social outreach, enhancing their global perspective and community values.
11. St. Mary’s Dominican High School
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Type: Private, All-Girls Catholic
Grades: 8–12
Annual Tuition: Around $17,000–$24,000
St. Mary’s Dominican High School is known for academic excellence rooted in Catholic values. It focuses on empowering young women through faith, leadership, and education.
The school’s curriculum includes AP and honors courses in science, literature, and mathematics. Students participate in clubs such as robotics, debate, and performing arts.
While primarily a day school, the school has partnered housing options for out-of-town students, creating a semi-boarding structure. Dominican’s disciplined and faith-based approach ensures students are academically and morally grounded.
12. Holy Cross School
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Type: Private, All-Boys Catholic
Grades: PK–12
Annual Tuition: Approximately $18,000–$25,000
Holy Cross School has a long-standing reputation for academic rigor and moral discipline. Founded in 1849, it has educated generations of young men to excel in academics, sports, and community service.
The school offers a wide range of subjects, from advanced mathematics and science to arts and theology. Students enjoy modern labs, athletic facilities, and mentoring programs.
Boarding options are limited but available for select students, providing a structured and supportive environment. Holy Cross School continues to be one of the pillars of Catholic education in New Orleans.
Why Choose a Boarding School in New Orleans?
Boarding schools in and around New Orleans offer more than just academics—they provide an immersive environment for intellectual, emotional, and social growth. Students learn to be independent, disciplined, and self-motivated while engaging with diverse cultures and ideas.
Key benefits include:
- Smaller class sizes and individualized attention
- Holistic development through arts, sports, and leadership programs
- Safe and structured environments for focused learning
- College preparation through advanced curricula and mentoring
Whether you prefer a religious-based school or a secular preparatory academy, New Orleans offers a variety of boarding schools that nurture both intellect and character.
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Conclusion
Choosing the right boarding school in New Orleans can shape your child’s academic journey and personal growth. Schools like St. Paul’s, Sacred Heart, and Isidore Newman provide world-class education combined with strong values and modern facilities.
From faith-based education to STEM-focused learning, each of these schools stands out for its excellence, nurturing environment, and community spirit. Evaluate your priorities—be it academic rigor, spiritual foundation, or extracurricular diversity—and select the school that aligns best with your child’s dreams.
Investing in a boarding school in New Orleans is investing in your child’s future success and leadership potential.