Top 10 Boarding Schools In South Carolina And Fees (2025)

South Carolina, known for its charming southern hospitality and rich educational traditions, is home to some of the best boarding schools in the United States. These institutions combine academic excellence with strong moral values, preparing students for higher education and lifelong success.

In this post, we’ll explore the top boarding schools in South Carolina, their distinctive features, tuition fees, and what makes each one unique.

Top Boarding Schools In South Carolina And Fees

1. Christ School – Arden, South Carolina

Christ School is one of the oldest and most respected all-boys boarding schools near the South Carolina border. Although technically located in Arden, it serves many South Carolina families due to its proximity. Founded in 1900, Christ School emphasizes academic excellence, character development, and spiritual growth.

Students thrive in a rigorous college preparatory curriculum that integrates critical thinking and creativity. The school also offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and honors programs designed to challenge high-achieving students. Sports play an integral part of student life, with programs in basketball, soccer, football, and lacrosse.

Boarders enjoy a structured yet nurturing environment where personal discipline and teamwork are highly valued. The small class sizes and personalized attention make it easy for each student to excel both academically and socially.

Annual Tuition Fee: Approximately $58,000 (boarding) and $32,000 (day students).

2. Camden Military Academy – Camden, SC

Camden Military Academy is a leading all-boys military boarding school that focuses on leadership, discipline, and academic excellence. The school provides a structured environment where students learn the importance of responsibility, respect, and teamwork.

Founded in 1950, Camden Military Academy has built a strong reputation for molding boys into well-rounded young men ready for college and life beyond. The curriculum combines standard academic courses with military-style leadership training. Students are encouraged to take initiative and develop self-confidence through sports, clubs, and leadership positions within the corps of cadets.

Camden also offers tutoring and small-class learning environments to ensure that each student meets their academic potential. Its alumni network is extensive, with many graduates pursuing careers in the military, law, engineering, and business.

Annual Tuition Fee: About $30,000 (boarding) and $18,000 (day students).

3. Ashley Hall – Charleston, SC

Ashley Hall is a prestigious all-girls college preparatory school located in Charleston. Since its founding in 1909, it has focused on empowering young women through rigorous academics and leadership development.

The curriculum at Ashley Hall encourages critical thinking, creativity, and intellectual curiosity. The school provides strong programs in STEM, humanities, and the arts. Students participate in leadership seminars, public speaking, and community service to develop confidence and empathy.

Boarding students live in a safe and supportive environment that fosters independence while maintaining a close-knit community atmosphere. The school’s location in Charleston provides access to historical, cultural, and artistic experiences that enhance classroom learning.

Annual Tuition Fee: Approximately $65,000 (boarding) and $35,000 (day students).

4. Ben Lippen School – Columbia, SC

Ben Lippen School is a coeducational Christian boarding school in Columbia that offers a Christ-centered approach to education. The school is known for academic rigor combined with faith-based values and leadership training.

Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized mentoring, and a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses. The school offers strong programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as fine arts and athletics.

Ben Lippen’s diverse community includes both local and international students, fostering global awareness and cultural appreciation. The spiritual aspect of daily life includes chapel services, Bible study, and mission trips, which build character and compassion.

Annual Tuition Fee: Around $48,000 (boarding) and $18,000 (day students).

5. St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School – Sewanee (near SC)

While technically located in nearby Tennessee, St. Andrew’s-Sewanee serves many South Carolina families due to its outstanding academic reputation. It’s a coeducational Episcopal boarding school known for personalized learning and a strong focus on the arts, sciences, and outdoor education.

The school encourages students to take intellectual risks and develop independent thinking skills. With small classes and individualized attention, teachers ensure that every student achieves academic excellence while exploring their passions.

Outdoor learning plays a central role, as the school’s 550-acre campus allows for environmental science studies, hiking, and experiential education. Students are also encouraged to engage in community service and leadership opportunities.

Annual Tuition Fee: About $55,000 (boarding) and $28,000 (day students).

6. South Carolina Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics (SCGSSM) – Hartsville, SC

The South Carolina Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics is a state-funded public residential high school that focuses on advanced STEM education. It’s one of the most prestigious public boarding schools in the country, offering tuition-free education to accepted South Carolina residents.

The school attracts some of the brightest minds in the state. Students engage in college-level coursework, cutting-edge research, and internships with leading universities and companies. SCGSSM emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and leadership, preparing students for careers in engineering, medicine, and technology.

Because it’s tuition-free for state residents, admission is highly competitive, requiring strong academic records, test scores, and recommendations.

Annual Tuition Fee: Free for South Carolina residents (state-funded).

7. Spartanburg Day School – Spartanburg, SC

Spartanburg Day School is a top-rated private coeducational institution that offers boarding for select international students. Known for its challenging academic environment, the school provides personalized instruction that nurtures intellectual curiosity and leadership.

Founded in 1957, Spartanburg Day focuses on developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Students can choose from a variety of AP courses, extracurricular activities, and athletic programs. The school’s welcoming community ensures that students from diverse backgrounds feel supported and included.

The boarding program, though small, offers a home-like atmosphere with structured supervision and strong academic guidance. Its graduates consistently attend top universities such as Duke, Vanderbilt, and Harvard.

Annual Tuition Fee: Around $52,000 (boarding) and $28,000 (day students).

8. Heathwood Hall Episcopal School – Columbia, SC

Heathwood Hall Episcopal School is one of the leading college preparatory institutions in South Carolina. Although primarily a day school, it offers limited boarding options for international students.

The school blends strong academics with Christian values, focusing on intellectual growth, community service, and spiritual development. Students enjoy access to advanced STEM courses, fine arts, and athletic programs that develop teamwork and discipline.

Heathwood Hall’s educational philosophy emphasizes character, communication skills, and leadership. Its campus environment is serene and conducive to learning, providing students with both challenge and support.

Annual Tuition Fee: Approximately $50,000 (boarding) and $22,000 (day students).

9. Oakbrook Preparatory School – Spartanburg, SC

Oakbrook Preparatory School is a faith-based, college preparatory institution with an emphasis on academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service. Though relatively smaller than some others on this list, Oakbrook offers a tight-knit community that fosters close relationships between students and teachers.

Students can engage in honors and AP courses, arts programs, and athletics. The school promotes leadership and integrity through community involvement and extracurricular engagement. Oakbrook also welcomes international students who benefit from cultural immersion and language support programs.

Its nurturing environment makes it an excellent option for families seeking a well-rounded education rooted in Christian values.

Annual Tuition Fee: Around $46,000 (boarding) and $17,000 (day students).

10. Wofford Academy – Spartanburg, SC

Wofford Academy is an independent preparatory school offering a structured yet supportive environment that encourages intellectual curiosity, discipline, and respect. The school combines a rigorous academic program with leadership development and sports participation.

With small class sizes, teachers focus on each student’s learning style, ensuring academic growth and personal confidence. Wofford’s boarding facilities provide a family-like atmosphere where students learn to balance independence with responsibility.

Graduates consistently achieve high college acceptance rates and pursue diverse fields including business, engineering, and liberal arts.

Annual Tuition Fee: Approximately $50,000 (boarding) and $25,000 (day students).

How to Choose the Right Boarding School in South Carolina

When choosing a boarding school, parents should consider factors such as academic focus, campus facilities, extracurricular offerings, location, and cost. South Carolina offers a wide variety of schools — from military academies and religious institutions to elite preparatory programs — allowing families to select the right fit for their child’s personality and ambitions.

Here are some key considerations:

Academic Goals: Look for a school that matches your child’s strengths, whether in STEM, arts, or humanities.
Campus Life: A balanced environment that encourages personal growth outside the classroom is crucial.
Financial Planning: Compare tuition and scholarship opportunities. Some schools offer need-based or merit-based financial aid.
Student Support: Choose schools that provide strong mentoring, emotional guidance, and tutoring resources.

Why South Carolina Boarding Schools Stand Out

Boarding schools in South Carolina blend academic rigor with southern charm and community values. They emphasize not just classroom success but also leadership, resilience, and moral integrity. The state’s mild climate, safe communities, and rich history create a conducive environment for young learners.

Students graduating from these schools often earn placements at top universities nationwide, thanks to their strong academic records and holistic development.

Conclusion

Whether you’re searching for a faith-based environment, a military-style academy, or a coeducational college preparatory school, South Carolina offers exceptional boarding school options. From the discipline of Camden Military Academy to the empowering environment at Ashley Hall, each institution provides unique advantages tailored to different learning styles and aspirations.

Investing in a South Carolina boarding school means investing in an education that builds not just intellect—but character, leadership, and lifelong success.