San Jose, California, isn’t just known as the heart of Silicon Valley—it’s also home to some of the most prestigious boarding schools in Northern California. These institutions blend rigorous academics, innovation, and character development to prepare students for success in college and beyond.

In this article, we’ll explore the top boarding schools in San Jose and their fees, highlighting their programs, culture, and what makes each unique.

Top Boarding Schools In San Jose And Fees

1. Bellarmine College Preparatory

Location: 960 West Hedding Street, San Jose, CA
Type: All-boys Catholic college-preparatory school
Grades: 9–12
Annual Tuition (Boarding): Approximately $68,000

Bellarmine College Preparatory is one of San Jose’s oldest and most prestigious boarding schools, founded in 1851 by the Jesuits. It has a long tradition of academic excellence, service, and leadership development. The school focuses on forming “men for and with others,” nurturing students to be intellectually competent, compassionate, and committed to justice.

The academic curriculum at Bellarmine is challenging, with a strong emphasis on STEM subjects, humanities, and theology. Students can engage in advanced placement (AP) courses, robotics programs, and global exchange opportunities. Beyond academics, Bellarmine offers over 80 extracurricular clubs and sports, ranging from debate and drama to lacrosse and basketball.

Boarding life at Bellarmine provides a supportive community that emphasizes brotherhood and personal growth. The school also integrates community service into the learning experience, encouraging students to contribute to local and global initiatives. Its graduates often matriculate to top universities, including Stanford, UC Berkeley, and Georgetown.

2. The Harker School

Location: 500 Saratoga Avenue, San Jose, CA
Type: Co-educational, college preparatory
Grades: K–12 (Boarding available for grades 9–12)
Annual Tuition (Boarding): Around $74,000–$80,000

The Harker School is renowned for its academic rigor, innovation-driven learning, and exceptional facilities. It consistently ranks among the top private schools in California. Known for producing high-achieving graduates, Harker has built a reputation for its commitment to excellence in STEM, arts, and entrepreneurship.

The boarding program offers students an immersive educational environment where technology and creativity thrive. Harker’s modern boarding facilities feature collaborative learning spaces, fitness centers, and tech labs designed to foster both academic and personal development. Students are encouraged to explore robotics, engineering, performing arts, and computer science.

One of Harker’s major advantages is its faculty—highly qualified educators, many of whom hold advanced degrees. The school also prioritizes college counseling, ensuring students receive personalized guidance for admissions to elite universities such as MIT, Princeton, and UCLA.

Extracurricular life is vibrant, with clubs in music, debate, science, and global issues. Harker fosters independence, leadership, and innovation, making it a top choice for families in the tech-driven Bay Area.

3. BASIS Independent Silicon Valley

Location: 1290 Parkmoor Avenue, San Jose, CA
Type: Co-educational, college preparatory
Grades: 5–12 (boarding available for upper grades)
Annual Tuition (Boarding): Around $55,000–$60,000

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley is part of the globally acclaimed BASIS network known for its advanced curriculum and world-class faculty. This school emphasizes a strong foundation in critical thinking, research, and problem-solving. The academic environment is highly competitive, tailored to students aiming for top universities worldwide.

The BASIS curriculum goes beyond state and national standards. It integrates AP-level coursework starting early in high school, allowing students to master advanced subjects by senior year. Boarding students benefit from an intellectually stimulating environment where teachers encourage curiosity and discipline.

BASIS also offers a wide range of extracurricular programs, from robotics and debate teams to performing arts and sports. The residential program promotes cultural diversity, as students come from various countries, creating a global learning community.

Graduates consistently score among the highest in the nation on standardized tests and frequently gain admission to Ivy League schools and other top universities. For families seeking a research-focused, academically intense experience, BASIS Independent Silicon Valley is a top-tier choice.

4. Archbishop Mitty High School

Location: 5000 Mitty Way, San Jose, CA
Type: Co-educational Catholic school
Grades: 9–12
Annual Tuition (Boarding): Around $50,000–$60,000 (including room and board with local host family program)

Archbishop Mitty High School is a distinguished Catholic institution offering both strong academics and a deep sense of faith-based education. While primarily a day school, it partners with local boarding programs to accommodate international and out-of-state students, creating a semi-boarding experience that’s both nurturing and academically enriching.

The school’s curriculum encourages academic excellence, creativity, and ethical leadership. Students can pursue AP courses, honors classes, and specialized electives in digital media, literature, and science. Archbishop Mitty is particularly noted for its fine arts department, producing award-winning theatre performances and music ensembles.

The school’s athletic program is also nationally recognized, with teams excelling in basketball, volleyball, and soccer. Students are encouraged to develop leadership skills through community service and faith-centered projects.

Archbishop Mitty High School’s balance of spirituality, academics, and extracurricular opportunities makes it ideal for families who value holistic education in a supportive environment.

5. Pinewood School – Upper Campus

Location: 26800 Fremont Road, Los Altos Hills (near San Jose)
Type: Co-educational, college preparatory
Grades: 7–12
Annual Tuition (Boarding): Approximately $65,000–$70,000

Located just outside San Jose, Pinewood School is a small but elite college-preparatory institution that fosters creativity, academic excellence, and close-knit community values. Its Upper Campus serves middle and high school students, offering limited boarding opportunities through partnered residential arrangements.

The school focuses on individualized attention, with small class sizes and personalized mentorship. Pinewood’s academic offerings include advanced mathematics, literature, world languages, and science courses. The arts program is particularly strong, providing opportunities in theatre, visual arts, and music.

Students are encouraged to develop leadership through clubs, student government, and community outreach. The campus environment promotes both intellectual curiosity and emotional well-being. Pinewood graduates consistently achieve high acceptance rates at competitive universities such as Stanford, UC Berkeley, and Yale.

For families looking for a nurturing, academically rich boarding option near San Jose, Pinewood School stands out for its personalized approach and strong academic outcomes.

6. Presentation High School

Location: 2281 Plummer Avenue, San Jose, CA
Type: All-girls Catholic college preparatory school
Grades: 9–12
Annual Tuition (Boarding): About $55,000–$65,000

Presentation High School is an independent Catholic school dedicated to empowering young women through education, leadership, and faith. Founded in 1962, the school upholds strong traditions of service, academic achievement, and personal growth. While primarily a day school, Presentation offers boarding through international host family programs.

Academically, Presentation offers a robust curriculum with honors and AP courses across disciplines. The school promotes leadership development through student organizations, service clubs, and internships. Its STEM program, leadership initiatives, and arts education ensure students gain a balanced, future-ready education.

The all-girls environment encourages confidence, independence, and critical thinking. Presentation’s graduates are known for their success in top universities and leadership roles in their communities.

Boarding students, supported by carefully selected host families, experience both cultural immersion and a strong sense of belonging, making Presentation High School an ideal choice for girls seeking excellence in academics and character formation.

7. Oakwood School

Location: 105 John Wilson Way, Morgan Hill (about 20 minutes from San Jose)
Type: Co-educational, college preparatory
Grades: K–12 (boarding available for grades 9–12)
Annual Tuition (Boarding): Around $60,000–$68,000

Oakwood School combines academic excellence with community values, offering a serene environment for both day and boarding students. Its location near San Jose provides access to the innovation of Silicon Valley while maintaining a peaceful suburban campus.

The academic curriculum emphasizes inquiry-based learning and interdisciplinary education. Students are challenged to think critically and creatively while engaging in small, discussion-based classes. Oakwood’s programs in robotics, performing arts, and environmental science stand out for their innovation and real-world relevance.

Boarding students enjoy a safe and supportive campus environment with state-of-the-art dormitories, mentorship programs, and weekend excursions. Oakwood’s college counseling team provides personalized support for university admissions, helping students prepare for higher education with confidence.

Oakwood graduates frequently gain admission to top-tier colleges nationwide, making it one of the best boarding school options near San Jose for holistic and well-balanced education.

Why Choose a Boarding School in San Jose?

San Jose boarding schools offer an exceptional mix of innovation, tradition, and cultural diversity. Living in the heart of Silicon Valley gives students unique access to technology-driven learning, internship opportunities, and exposure to global perspectives. Whether you value STEM education, faith-based learning, or personalized mentorship, San Jose has an institution to fit every academic goal.

Parents can rest assured that their children will thrive in an environment that balances academic challenge with emotional and social support.

Tips for Choosing the Right Boarding School in San Jose

Define Your Academic Goals: Choose a school that aligns with your child’s strengths—STEM, arts, leadership, or humanities.
Consider Campus Culture: Look for schools that promote values, diversity, and extracurricular engagement.
Review Fees and Scholarships: Many schools offer need-based or merit scholarships to reduce tuition costs.
Visit the Campus: If possible, schedule a tour or virtual visit to get a sense of the school’s environment.
Evaluate College Placement: Check each school’s track record for college admissions and student success after graduation.

Conclusion

San Jose’s boarding schools represent the perfect blend of academic rigor, innovation, and personal development. Whether it’s the long-standing tradition of Bellarmine College Preparatory, the innovation hub at The Harker School, or the nurturing environment of Oakwood School, each institution prepares students for a bright future filled with opportunity and purpose.

Investing in one of these prestigious schools not only opens academic doors but also builds the foundation for lifelong leadership and success.

Top 7 Boarding Schools In San Jose And Fees (2025)