boarding schools in Pennsylvania are a great choice for both local and expat families as they offer globally recognized curricula, outstanding academics plus a nurturing environment for children. Discover our selection of the best boarding schools in Pennsylvania, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Why choose a boarding school in Pennsylvania?
Choosing the right boarding school for your child can significantly impact their future, and Pennsylvania’s boarding schools are renowned for offering an educational experience that is both enriching and transformative. Known for their rigorous academics, these institutions also emphasize a holistic development approach that nurtures students into well-rounded individuals ready to face the global challenges of tomorrow.
Academic Excellence
Pennsylvania boarding schools boast a tradition of academic excellence, with a curriculum designed to prepare students for success in higher education and beyond. The student-to-teacher ratios are typically low, allowing for personalized attention and tailored instruction that caters to each student’s unique needs and learning styles. Advanced Placement (AP) courses, International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, and specialized STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) offerings are common, providing students with a plethora of opportunities to advance their knowledge and skills in various disciplines.
Rich Extracurricular Programs
Extracurricular activities are pivotal in Pennsylvania boarding schools, promoting not only physical health but also social skills, leadership qualities, and creative expression. Students have the opportunity to engage in a variety of sports, arts, music, and club activities, which fosters a well-balanced lifestyle that is crucial during adolescent years. These programs also encourage teamwork, resilience, and time management—skills essential for personal and professional success.
Global Community and Networking
Attending a boarding school in Pennsylvania offers students a chance to become part of a diverse community. Schools here are melting pots of cultures, bringing together students from different nationalities and backgrounds. This diversity prepares students for global citizenship, making them more adaptable and culturally aware. Furthermore, the alumni networks associated with these schools are often strong, helping graduates gain internships and job placements through various alumni events and mentorship programs.
Supportive Environment and Personal Growth
The residential nature of boarding schools in Pennsylvania facilitates a supportive community where students can engage with their peers and faculty members beyond the classroom. This constant interaction helps in building strong relationships and offers a support system that aids in personal growth and emotional development. Boarding schools also provide structured environments that teach students independence and responsibility, qualities that are invaluable as they move towards adulthood.
In conclusion, Pennsylvania’s boarding schools offer more than just a high-standard education. They provide a nurturing environment that fosters academic, emotional, and social development, preparing students to excel in their future endeavors and lead successful, fulfilling lives. The blend of rigorous academics, rich extracurricular activities, and a supportive, diverse community makes these schools an ideal choice for those seeking comprehensive development for their children.
How much does it cost to attend boarding schools in Pennsylvania?
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $25,000 | $60,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $2,085 | $5,000 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $500 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $2,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $27,200 | $63,500 |
Top boarding schools Pennsylvania 2026
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Lancaster Mennonite School
Lancaster, Pennsylvania •Co-Education •- from 4
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American CurriculumLanguage of instruction: English - SpanishYearly fee: from 9,980 to 25,553
Foundation: 1942Nationalities: 8 different nationalitiesNr of students: 8 studentsExaminations: American Diploma - AP - SATLancaster Mennonite School offers a comprehensive PreK-12 education in a nurturing and diverse environment that is centered in Christ and committed to academic excellence.As a comprehensive, holistic private school, LM helps students of diverse abilities and interests be all they can be. The student body includes students with academic difficulties as well as Merit Scholars; it includes those who want to work with their hands as well as those who aspire to work toward professional careers. We are proud to offer an expansive offering of STEAM classes and opportunities integrated within our curriculum at all grade levels. PreK - Action-based learning stations, free play, guided play, and structured lessons help students develop social-emotional and academic skills, laying the foundation for future school success. Kindergarten - LM’s full-day Kindergarten balances an academically rigorous literacy and math program with built-in time for play-based learning and...Annual tuition fees at Lancaster Mennonite School range from 9,980 to 25,553, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Grades PreK-5th: $ 10,675/ Year USD for 4 or 5 days PreK & Kindergarten; 5 full day the rest 1st-4th Grade (Elementary); Grades 5-8 (Middle School): $ 11,900 /Yr USD; Domestic Grades (High School)...Boarding tuition: Students can choose from two different Residential Programs at the Lancaster Campus for domestic boarding at the Millstream Residence Hall: Four nights + all meals – leave friday night, return Monday ...
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Parent and Student Reviews
- I still remember my first day at LM. I was afraid of the strange environment, I only knew my piano professor — Dr. Pan in the Advanced Music Program. As I gradually got to know the LM community, I started to not feel lonely anymore…because of them, I had a beautiful high school life.
Jingjing’s experiences in LM’s Advanced Music Program left such a strong impact on her that she decided to study Music Education at Millersville University. Not only has she taught elementary students in her hometown of Xinjiang, she currently works as a student teacher at LM’s elementary campus, assisting in music classes. “Creativity is at the heart of music making.” she says. “I enjoy every little moment in our music classroom; I am happy to see my students are improving and growing up healthy and happy. - July, 2023LMH offers so many different options for academic courses and athletics. I recommend LMH to those who are looking for a high quality education and a friendly place at the same time.
- They interact with them as mentors, not rule-enforcers. LM is a school system that encourages parent involvement and we feel we are part of a school family. LM challenges students to be role models to others and agents of change as world citizens. The best part about Lancaster Mennonite is the positive atmosphere. LM is small enough that everyone can be treated as an individual, but large enough to provide students with opportunities offered by bigger schools.
- July, 2023The teachers really cared. You weren’t just this kid that was in the class. They really cared about your future and your relationship with the Lord. That stuck with me with how I teach kids. I’m a Blazer through and through, and getting an award helps to send that message out that I’m doing what I think God put me on the earth to do. If you’re not helping others, I think you’re just wasting time.
- Athletics were also an important part of my time at LMH, and I was part of some very successful teams. The benefits of good coaching and learning how to work as a team definitely extend into my career today. I feel the most important thing I took away from LMH was that the friendships I developed have extended well beyond my time spent there, which I really feel is unique in relation to other high schools… the network of Lancaster business professionals who are LMH alumni is a large group, and these leaders are active in their communities. This network of leaders has been a valuable resource in my life and my career since the day I graduated.
- July, 2023LM HAS BEEN MY HOME SINCE I FIRST CAME HERE TO THE US IN 2012.
The school has given me many opportunities to challenge myself as a leader and helped me to become a better person. I have been highly motivated by many people that I have great fortunes to meet from the faculty to the students. The variety of classes and organizations has also taught me many life lessons that I will treasure forever.
Summary
Choosing a top boarding school in Pennsylvania means investing in a comprehensive education that emphasizes academic excellence, holistic development, and global awareness. With their low student-to-teacher ratios, diverse and rich extracurricular programs, and strong alumni networks, these schools prepare students not just for college, but for a successful and fulfilling life.