Attending a boarding school in the U.S. can be a transformative experience for students. Families seeking top boarding schools in the USA can find a variety of prestigious schools, each with its own unique qualities. America has many boarding schools, each being unique in terms of geography, curriculum, student life, and values, which draws students from all over the world.
Top Boarding Schools United States 2026
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THINK Global School
New York City, New York •Co-Education •- from 16
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: to 94,050 USD
Foundation: 2010Nationalities: 18 different nationalitiesNr of students: 18 studentsExaminations: American DiplomaTHINK Global School is the world’s first traveling high school. Attendees between the ages of 15-18 gain an education by living in four different countries each year –ten countries total– learning firsthand from their multicultural experiences. During their time in-country, students gain the expertise necessary to bring about change in our increasingly global world.The Changemaker Curriculum replaces traditional classes with hands-on, project-based learning. Instead of sitting in math or science classes, students work on real-world projects that combine multiple subjects at once. For example, they might study marine biology while scuba diving in Australia, or explore ancient philosophy while tracing Odysseus's journey through Greece. Each eight-week term focuses on solving actual problems in their host country by working with local experts, conducting research, and presenting solutions to real audiences. Students also design personal projects based on their interests, from creating documentaries to conducting scientific studies. Through these modules, students gain: • Mastery of essential skills across all academic disciplines • Autonomy over their l...Annual tuition fees at THINK Global School range from USD to USD 94,050, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: We believe an exceptional education should be accessible to outstanding students from all backgrounds. That's why TGS uses a sliding-scale tuition model tailored to each family's unique financial situ...Boarding tuition: THINK Global School offers sliding-scale tuition based on each family’s ability to pay. The maximum tuition is $94,050. -
Harrow International School New York
New York, New York City •Co-Education •- from 11
- to 19 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 40,000 to 75,000 EUR
Foundation: 1572Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: IB Diploma - MYPCombining 450 years of outstanding pedagogy at Harrow School, one of the UK’s most prestigious independent schools, with the vibrancy of New York and a stunning waterfront campus spread over more than 100 acres, Harrow New York offers a premium day and boarding school education for girls and boys in Grades 6-12.Combining the absolute best of British, American, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme curricula, Harrow International School New York offers an academically rigorous education with a genuine focus on character development through leadership and service. Every student, irrespective of the journey they take through the School, will leave ready to contribute positively to society, thrive in a competitive job market and to live out the values of Courage, Honor, Fellowship and Humility. Our curriculum has been developed with a focus on both the future of education and the future of the world of work. Our approach has been built on the collective wisdom of those who are shaping tomorrow, equipping students for the rapidly changing world they will enter. Harrow International Sch...Annual tuition fees at Harrow International School New York range from EUR 40,000 to EUR 75,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Day School: $61,700Tuition is inclusive of meals, textbooks and standard co-curriculars. Additional fees may apply.Boarding tuition: 5-Day Boarding: $70,250 | 7-Day Boarding: $75,000 Tuition is inclusive of meals, textbooks and standard co-curriculars. Additional fees may apply. -
Fairfax Christian School
Sterling, Virginia •Co-Education •- from 5
- to 19 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 30,000 to 47,800 USD
Foundation: 1961Nationalities: 30 different nationalitiesNr of students: 30 studentsThe Fairfax Christian School is the first K–12 school to receive the Presidential E–Award from the U.Traditional US University Prepartory Curriculum, AP and Dual Enrollment ProgramsAnnual tuition fees at Fairfax Christian School range from USD 30,000 to USD 47,800, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Delphian School
Sheridan, Yamhill County •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 19 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - OtherLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 37,778 to 81,090 EUR
Foundation: 1976Nationalities: 17 different nationalitiesNr of students: 17 studentsExaminations: American Diploma - AP - PSAT - SATAt Delphian School, we prepare students for life by helping them master their academics and gain the skills and abilities they need to go anywhere.Each student’s academic program is personalized for their strengths, weaknesses, and interests. Their personalized program includes all the steps needed to achieve the graduation requirements, including multiple projects to help them connect their studies to the world around them. Our teachers, called supervisors, are extensively trained in L. Ron Hubbard’s educational philosophy and Study Technology. Academic supervisors serve as expert guides, there to emphasize purpose, interest, and comprehension as well as assist, support, and encourage student success. They ensure students are learning at their optimum pace on their program. When students begin at Delphian, they work with their assigned academic supervisor to create a customized “program” - a list of courses they will study on their ...Annual tuition fees at Delphian School range from EUR 37,778 to EUR 81,090, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Delphian acknowledges that choosing an independent school education is a significant financial commitment for every family—a choice made by families who place a high value on their child’s education.A...Boarding tuition: Delphian acknowledges that choosing an independent school education is a significant financial commitment for every family—a choice made by families who place a high value on their child’s education.A... -
Saint Mary's School, USA
Raleigh, North Carolina •Girls Only •- from 13
- to 19 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 32,550 to 62,850 USD
Foundation: 1842Nationalities: 20 different nationalitiesNr of students: 20 studentsExaminations: APSaint Mary’s School in Raleigh, North Carolina, is an independent, Episcopal, college-preparatory, boarding and day school dedicated to academic excellence and personal achievement for girls in grades 9-12.Founded in 1842, the historic, residential 23-acre campus is located in the heart of North Carolina’s capital city of Raleigh, offering easy access to all the city has […]
Saint Mary’s School offers high school courses at two levels: honors and Advanced Placement (AP). Placement in courses is determined through the Course Request Process - by teachers and advisors in consultation with students and parents. Each student has different strengths and weaknesses in her learning styles and subject areas. Students are strongly encouraged to select classes that enhance their learning, complement their learning styles, and allow for an overall positive school experience. All courses at Saint Mary’s are designed to meet our mission of preparing students for college and for life.Annual tuition fees at Saint Mary’s School, USA range from USD 32,550 to USD 62,850, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Windermere Preparatory School, A Nord Anglia Education School
Orlando, Florida •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 71,950 to 90,000 USD
Foundation: 2000Nationalities: 60 different nationalitiesNr of students: 60 studentsExaminations: American Diploma - IB DiplomaAt Windermere Preparatory School, students are nurtured intellectually, emotionally and socially to prepare them for the ever-changing challenges of tomorrow. Windermere Prep inspires students to research, develop and debate solutions to society’s biggest challenges, developing global citizens who positively impact the world on the issues they value.• English-Speaking of Other Languages (ESOL) Honors • International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB) • American High School DiplomaAnnual tuition fees at Windermere Preparatory School, A Nord Anglia Education School range from USD 71,950 to USD 90,000, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: Included in the Tuition & Boarding FeeStudent Health Insurance (travel plan)I-20 creation and maintenanceThanksgiving Break and Spring Break ResLife trips (7-day boarders only)*Sponsored ResLife w... -
The Village School, A Nord Anglia Education School
Houston, Texas •Co-Education •- from 2
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 45,700 to 67,750 USD
Foundation: 1966Nationalities: 60 different nationalitiesNr of students: 60 studentsAt The Village School students are empowered to own their learning and define their educational journey. In our stimulating learning environment, students can pursue a variety of tracks, participate in various outstanding co-curricular activities, and explore diverse interests and passions.• English-Speaking of Other Languages (ESOL)• International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB)• American High School DiplomaAnnual tuition fees at The Village School, A Nord Anglia Education School range from USD 45,700 to USD 67,750, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
North Broward Preparatory School, A Nord Anglia Education School
Boca Raton, Florida •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 62,650 to 68,250 USD
Foundation: 1957Nationalities: 24 different nationalitiesNr of students: 24 studentsAN EXTRAORDINARY COMMUNITY OF LEARNERS At North Broward Preparatory School, students are inspired to learn without limits and go beyond any border to make an impact in the world.• English-Speaking of Other Languages (ESOL)• International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB)• American High School DiplomaAnnual tuition fees at North Broward Preparatory School, A Nord Anglia Education School range from USD 62,650 to USD 68,250, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
IMG Academy
Bradenton, Florida •Co-Education •- from 12
- to 19 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 45,200 to 89,900
Foundation: 1978Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: American Diploma - APIMG Academy is the world’s premier boarding school for dedicated and passionate student-athletes. It is renowned for providing a well-rounded education model that fosters the development of student-athletes and equips them with the skills they need to succeed in college and beyond. At IMG Academy, students are offered a wide range of on-campus and online experiences, which provide ample growth opportunities for all student-athletes, irrespective of their interests or skill levels.IMG Academy is a special boarding school that focuses on helping student-athletes excel in both academics and athletics. They offer unique features and support structures to help students achieve their goals. Here are some of the factors that make this school stand out: 1. Comprehensive Curriculum This school offers a wide range of subjects, including English, Math, Science, Social Studies, World Languages, Fine Arts, and Electives. Students get personalized support with core, honors, and AP courses to help them succeed academically. 2. Postgraduate Programs They provide specialized programs for students who want to improve their academic, athletic, and personal profiles before college. The High School Year program is designed to enhance academic and athletic skills, while the University Y...Annual tuition fees at IMG Academy range from 45,200 to 89,900, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: IMG Tuition rates vary depending on the sport played by the student-athlete and the resources available to them. The Student-Athlete Tuition Package provides academic, athletic, and personal developme...Boarding tuition: Here are the tuition rates for different sports and grades for the Boarding 2024-2025 academy year: Baseball: -Post-grad (high school and college): $93,900 -High (10th-12th grade): $93,900 -High (9th ... -
Lexington Christian Academy
Boston, Massachusetts •Co-Education •- from 11
- to 19 years old
School type: Boarding School - International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 31,450 to 69,950 USD
Foundation: 1946Nationalities: 24 different nationalitiesNr of students: 24 studentsExaminations: PSAT - SATLexington Christian Academy is an independent, co-ed, college preparatory, day and boarding school educating students in grades 6-12 in Lexington, MA. Founded in 1946, Lexington Christian Academy provides exceptional academic preparation that nurtures the whole person: heart, mind, body and soul. Since then, LCA has operated with the belief that faith and learning are key and inseparable components of Christian education. A deep quest for truth and knowledge, paired with critical thinking are made complete, not compromised, by a sincere faith. We believe a great education is one that cultivates the whole person– Heart, Mind, Body, and Soul.LCA’s Middle School program is the beginning of a journey to discover who you are and how you learn. Through a classical program integrated with interdisciplinary opportunities across the curriculum, our program teaches 6th-8th graders to ask difficult questions, tackle ambitious academic goals, and develop a Christ-centered confidence in their gifts and abilities.LCA’s Upper School program extends the skills and lessons learned and Middle School, preparing students to succeed in education and life after graduation. College advising and rigorous AP, honors, and prep courses, combined with athletics and arts programs help students find the opportunities that allow them to use and leverage their gifts throughout their future. AECIP is a one-year boarding program specifically designed for 7th...Annual tuition fees at Lexington Christian Academy range from USD 31,450 to USD 69,950, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Grades 6-7: $33,650Grade 8: $35,650Grades 9-12: $38,150Lexington Christian Academy is pleased to offer scholarships to both returning and new students for the 2024-2025 school year. For each scholarsh...Boarding tuition: Boarding Fee: $31,000Laundry Service Fee (required): $1,300International Student Fee: $4,000 -
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 ...
Why families choose a Boarding school in the US?
Choosing a boarding school in the United States is a significant decision for many families, driven by a variety of compelling reasons that promise to enrich a student’s personal and academic life. At the heart of this decision often lies a desire for a distinguished education system renowned for its academic excellence. U.S. boarding schools are celebrated for their rigorous curricula that challenge students to excel and prepare thoroughly for college-level studies.
Academic Excellence and Personalized Attention
One of the foremost reasons families opt for boarding schools is the promise of superior academic instruction combined with small class sizes that ensure personalized attention. Educators at these institutions are often experts in their fields, bringing a passion and depth of knowledge that is both inspiring and engaging. This close-knit classroom environment allows for tailored teaching methods, ensuring that each student’s educational needs are met.
Development of Life Skills
Beyond academics, boarding schools in the U.S. are also chosen for the invaluable life skills they instill in students. Living away from home, students learn independence and self-reliance. They manage their schedules, balance academics with extracurricular activities, and learn the importance of time management and personal responsibility. These skills are crucial as they prepare for the challenges of adult life and higher education.
A Rich Tapestry of Extracurricular Activities
Another attractive feature of these schools is their extensive array of extracurricular activities. From sports to the arts, and from clubs to volunteer opportunities, students have the chance to explore new interests and passions. This not only enhances their educational experience but also aids in the development of a well-rounded character, fostering skills such as teamwork, leadership, and perseverance.
Cultural Diversity
Boarding schools in America also boast a diverse cultural environment that brings students together from across the globe. This diversity promotes an understanding and appreciation of different cultures, preparing students for global citizenship. It’s an enriching experience that broadens perspectives and teaches the value of inclusivity and respect for others.
College Preparation
Lastly, the emphasis on college preparation is a critical factor. American boarding schools provide students with comprehensive support through college counseling sessions, SAT/ACT preparation classes, and assistance with the college application process. This not only positions them competitively for top colleges and universities but also equips them with the confidence to succeed in higher education and beyond.
The decision to enroll in a boarding school in the U.S. is often driven by the pursuit of academic rigor, a nurturing environment for personal development, and a platform for future success. The unique blend of challenging academics, personal growth, and preparation for life’s challenges makes boarding schools in America a preferred choice for families aiming to provide their children with an exceptional education and a robust foundation for the future.
How much does it cost to attend Boarding Schools in United States?
The yearly tuition fees for Boarding Schools in United States generally range from $25,000 to $55,000 per year. This cost can vary based on factors like the curriculum, the quality of campus facilities, the standard of boarding, and the services – with some top-tier schools exceeding $75,000 annually.
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $25,000 | $55,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $2,085 | $4,585 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $500 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $2,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $27,200 | $60,000 |
Summary
Boarding schools in the U.S. attract families with their promise of academic excellence, personalized attention, and a broad array of extracurricular activities. These institutions not only prepare students for college but also teach important life skills and promote cultural diversity, making them ideal for fostering both educational and personal growth.