Top 10 Boarding Schools In Rochester And Fees (2025)

Rochester, New York, is known for its rich history, innovation, and strong emphasis on education. The city has some of the most respected boarding schools in upstate New York, offering excellent academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, and nurturing environments that prepare students for success in college and beyond.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional college-prep academy, a faith-based institution, or a school with strong STEM or arts programs, Rochester offers a range of choices to meet every student’s needs. In this article, we’ll explore the top boarding schools in Rochester, highlighting their programs, facilities, tuition fees, and what makes each one unique.

Top Boarding Schools In Rochester And Fees

1. The Harley School

Location: 1981 Clover Street, Rochester, NY 14618
Grades: Nursery – 12
Tuition (Boarding): Approximately $52,000 – $58,000 per year

The Harley School is one of the most prestigious independent schools in Rochester, known for its innovative and student-centered approach to education. Founded in 1917, it emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and social responsibility. The school’s curriculum balances rigorous academics with the arts, athletics, and community service.

Harley’s boarding program attracts students from all over the world who seek a warm and inclusive learning community. Facilities include state-of-the-art science labs, a greenhouse, a makerspace, and art studios. The school also offers unique programs like the Hospice Program, where upper-school students volunteer with terminally ill patients—fostering empathy and leadership.

Students benefit from small class sizes and individualized instruction that promotes academic excellence and character development. Graduates consistently gain admission to top-tier universities, including Ivy League schools and liberal arts colleges.

2. Allendale Columbia School

Location: 519 Allens Creek Road, Rochester, NY 14618
Grades: Pre-K – 12
Tuition (Boarding): Around $50,000 – $55,000 per year

Founded in 1890, Allendale Columbia School (ACS) is a leading independent day and boarding school known for its global learning environment and STEAM programs. The school offers a vibrant and inclusive campus that encourages intellectual curiosity and social growth.

Allendale Columbia is especially recognized for its emphasis on entrepreneurship and design thinking. Students engage in project-based learning and real-world problem-solving. Its partnership with global institutions allows students to collaborate on international projects and gain valuable cultural experiences.

The boarding facilities at ACS provide a comfortable and safe home away from home, with dedicated residential staff supporting students’ academic and personal growth. The campus features modern classrooms, laboratories, art spaces, athletic fields, and a student innovation center.

Graduates of Allendale Columbia consistently secure placements in top U.S. and international universities, making it a top choice for families seeking a comprehensive college-prep education in Rochester.

3. McQuaid Jesuit

Location: 1800 S. Clinton Avenue, Rochester, NY 14618
Grades: 6 – 12 (Boys only)
Tuition (Day): Around $19,000 per year
Boarding (via Homestay Program): Estimated $45,000 – $50,000 annually (including accommodation and meals)

McQuaid Jesuit is an all-boys Catholic school rooted in the Jesuit tradition of forming “men for others.” While primarily a day school, McQuaid offers a homestay-style boarding program for international students, providing them with the structure and community support of a traditional boarding school experience.

The school’s academic excellence is built around strong values—intellectual growth, spiritual reflection, and service to others. Students enjoy a balanced curriculum that includes advanced courses in science, mathematics, literature, and theology, along with an active extracurricular life featuring robotics, sports, debate, and performing arts.

McQuaid Jesuit’s dedicated faculty and mentoring approach help students develop leadership skills, moral integrity, and a lifelong love of learning. The school’s graduates often go on to top universities like Georgetown, Notre Dame, and Cornell.

4. Northstar Christian Academy

Location: 332 Spencerport Road, Rochester, NY 14606
Grades: K – 12
Tuition (Boarding): Approximately $30,000 – $38,000 per year

Northstar Christian Academy combines faith-based education with strong academics and character development. As a ministry of First Bible Baptist Church, it provides a Christ-centered learning environment focused on nurturing both intellectual and spiritual growth.

The boarding program offers international and domestic students a structured, family-like atmosphere. The curriculum includes college-preparatory coursework in mathematics, science, English, social studies, and Bible studies. Students also participate in sports, choir, drama, and community outreach projects.

What sets Northstar apart is its emphasis on individualized attention and moral values. Small class sizes allow teachers to provide personal mentorship and ensure academic excellence. The school’s graduates are well-prepared for college, career, and Christian leadership.

5. The Aquinas Institute of Rochester

Location: 1127 Dewey Avenue, Rochester, NY 14613
Grades: 6 – 12
Tuition (Day): About $15,000 per year
Boarding (International Program): Estimated $40,000 – $45,000 per year

The Aquinas Institute, founded in 1902, is one of Rochester’s most historic Catholic schools. Known for its strong academics, athletics, and spiritual life, it offers a well-rounded education rooted in the Dominican tradition.

The institute provides an international student boarding program, which includes homestay arrangements, cultural immersion activities, and academic support. The school’s campus features advanced learning facilities, athletic complexes, and fine arts spaces that help students explore a range of interests.

Aquinas places strong emphasis on leadership, service, and community engagement. Its graduates consistently perform well on college entrance exams and go on to leading universities across the country.

6. Rochester School for the Deaf (RSD)

Location: 1545 St. Paul Street, Rochester, NY 14621
Grades: Pre-K – 12
Tuition: Free for New York State residents; out-of-state boarding around $40,000 per year

Founded in 1876, the Rochester School for the Deaf is one of the oldest and most respected institutions for deaf and hard-of-hearing students in the United States. RSD provides a bilingual-bicultural environment where students learn in both American Sign Language (ASL) and English.

The boarding program is designed to foster independence, confidence, and community living skills. The campus includes modern dormitories, sports facilities, and classrooms equipped with assistive technologies.

Students receive a well-rounded education that emphasizes academic achievement, communication skills, and personal growth. RSD also provides vocational training and transition programs that prepare students for college and employment.

This school is widely recognized for its inclusive philosophy and commitment to empowering deaf students to reach their full potential.

7. Hope Hall School

Location: 1612 Buffalo Road, Rochester, NY 14624
Grades: 3 – 12
Tuition: Approximately $20,000 per year (Day program; boarding arranged via partner networks)

Hope Hall School specializes in educating students with learning differences, such as dyslexia, ADHD, and other processing challenges. Founded in 1994, the school’s mission is to help every child become a confident and independent learner through individualized education.

Although Hope Hall is primarily a day school, it provides boarding opportunities through local host families and affiliated residential programs, giving students from outside Rochester access to its specialized instruction.

The curriculum focuses on literacy, numeracy, and life skills, using multisensory teaching methods. Small class sizes (average 12 students) ensure personalized attention, and the supportive staff work closely with families to track progress.

Hope Hall’s unique learning environment helps students regain confidence, build academic competence, and thrive in college or vocational settings.

8. Norman Howard School

Location: 275 Pinnacle Road, Rochester, NY 14623
Grades: 5 – 12
Tuition (Day): Around $24,000 per year
Boarding (via Partner Residences): Estimated $45,000 – $50,000 annually

The Norman Howard School is another specialized institution that supports students with learning disabilities or special educational needs. It offers a structured and nurturing environment that emphasizes individualized instruction, social-emotional learning, and academic success.

The school’s small class sizes (typically 8–10 students) and research-based teaching methods make it a model for inclusive education. Students participate in traditional academics, arts, athletics, and technology programs.

Boarding arrangements for non-local students are available through supervised partnerships with residential programs, ensuring a complete support system for out-of-town learners. Norman Howard’s graduates often transition successfully to college or technical schools with strong self-advocacy and study skills.

9. Genesee Country Christian School (Day and Homestay Program)

Location: 4120 Long Pond Road, Rochester, NY 14626
Grades: K – 12
Tuition (Day): $12,000 – $15,000 per year
Boarding (Homestay): Estimated $35,000 – $40,000 per year

Genesee Country Christian School provides a Bible-based education that integrates faith, academics, and character development. The school offers a homestay boarding option for international and domestic students who wish to experience family-style living while studying in Rochester.

The curriculum includes rigorous core subjects, Bible studies, arts, and sports programs. Students enjoy small class sizes and personal mentoring that foster leadership, discipline, and moral values.

The school’s goal is to prepare students for college and life with a foundation rooted in faith, knowledge, and service.

10. Bishop Kearney High School

Location: 125 Kings Highway South, Rochester, NY 14617
Grades: 6 – 12
Tuition (Boarding): $48,000 – $52,000 per year

Bishop Kearney High School (BKHS) is one of Rochester’s most dynamic Catholic college-preparatory boarding schools. Founded in 1962, it’s sponsored by the Congregation of Christian Brothers and the School Sisters of Notre Dame.

BKHS offers both day and full residential programs. Its international boarding program attracts students from over 20 countries, creating a diverse and enriching environment. The school features modern dormitories, a professional athletic complex, and a world-class Selects Hockey Academy, which partners with professional sports organizations.

The curriculum emphasizes academic rigor, leadership, and service. Students can take advanced courses in STEM, humanities, and fine arts, as well as participate in a wide range of extracurriculars.

Bishop Kearney graduates consistently gain admission to prestigious universities such as Boston College, Syracuse University, and the University of Rochester.

Average Boarding School Fees in Rochester

Boarding school fees in Rochester generally range between $35,000 and $55,000 per year, depending on the school’s facilities, programs, and boarding options. Faith-based and special-education schools may have slightly lower tuition rates, while elite college-prep schools tend to be on the higher end.

Most schools offer financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans, making quality education accessible to families of varying income levels.

Why Choose a Boarding School in Rochester?

Rochester is a vibrant city that values education, innovation, and culture. Boarding schools here offer several advantages:

Academic Excellence: Many schools provide rigorous college-prep programs and advanced placement courses.
Safe and Supportive Environment: Rochester’s suburban charm ensures a calm and secure setting for focused learning.
Cultural Exposure: International students benefit from multicultural experiences and access to nearby universities.
Extracurricular Opportunities: From robotics to performing arts, students have ample ways to explore their talents.
Personal Growth: Boarding life teaches independence, time management, and social skills.

Choosing a Rochester boarding school is an investment in both academic achievement and personal development.

Conclusion

Rochester stands out as a city of educational excellence, offering families a diverse range of boarding schools to fit every student’s needs—whether academic, spiritual, or developmental. From the innovative programs at The Harley School and Allendale Columbia to the faith-based nurturing at Northstar Christian and Bishop Kearney, each institution provides a unique blend of learning, character building, and community life.

If you’re seeking a place where your child can thrive academically and personally, these top boarding schools in Rochester offer the perfect blend of opportunity, care, and preparation for a successful future