Attending a boarding school abroad can be a life-changing experience for students. If you’re looking for information on the top boarding schools worldwide, you can check out our article that features the best international boarding schools of 2025.
Why families choose a Boarding school?
Choosing a boarding school is a significant decision for families, driven by a variety of compelling reasons that promise not just an education but a nurturing environment for holistic development. The allure of boarding schools often lies in their ability to provide a unique blend of rigorous academics and extracurricular opportunities unmatched by many day schools.
Academic Excellence
One of the primary motivations for families opting for boarding schools is the promise of superior academic instruction. These institutions typically boast small class sizes which ensure personalized attention for each student, a factor crucial in fostering an environment where children can thrive and excel. Moreover, boarding schools are known for their highly qualified faculty who are often experts in their respective fields, bringing passion and depth to the classroom.
Character and Personal Development
Boarding schools go beyond academics; they are equally focused on building character and self-sufficiency. Living away from home, students learn to manage their time, finances, and responsibilities earlier than many of their peers. This independence is instrumental in developing maturity and preparedness for the complexities of adult life. Additionally, these schools often uphold honor codes or similar ethical guidelines, which instill values such as integrity, respect, and diligence.
Unique Cultural and Social Exposure
Students at boarding schools interact with peers from diverse backgrounds, promoting a deep understanding and appreciation of different cultures and perspectives. This exposure is crucial in today’s globalized world, equipping students with the empathy, cultural sensitivity, and communication skills needed to lead in diverse environments.
Extensive Extracurricular Programs
Another significant aspect of boarding schools is their extensive range of extracurricular activities. From sports to arts, and advanced STEM programs, these schools offer well-rounded opportunities that are often not available in public schooling systems. Participation in these activities helps in nurturing leadership qualities and teamwork, while also enabling students to explore and develop their personal interests in depth.
Preparation for Future Success
Boarding schools are renowned for their robust college preparation programs. With comprehensive counseling services and a network of alumni and faculty, students receive invaluable guidance on their path to university and beyond. The rigorous academic environment and the emphasis on personal development ensure that students are well-prepared not only for higher education but also for professional success.
In conclusion, the decision to attend a boarding school is influenced by a combination of factors that contribute to a well-rounded and enriched educational experience. Families choose these institutions not only for the academic rigor but also for the invaluable life lessons and growth they foster in young individuals.
How much do Boarding Schools cost?
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $20,000 | $50,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $1,665 | $4,165 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $500 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $2,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $22,200 | $54,500 |
Top rated Boarding Schools in the World
Discover top Boarding Schools . Use the filters to find the right fit and contact schools directly from their profiles.
Reddam House Berkshire 
-
England - Berkshire
- Co-Education
- 0 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 14,767 - 23,680 gbp
- Curriculum:British Curriculum
- Foundation:2015
- Community: 740 students • 49 nationalities
- Examinations:A Level, IGCSE
- Language:English
- Embraces arts: drama, music, dance.
- Encourages entrepreneurial spirit.
- Tailored learning with small classes.
Annual tuition fees at Reddam House Berkshire range from 14,767 gbp to 23,680 gbp, depending on the student's grade level and program.
St. Stephen’s School Rome
-
Lazio - Rome
- Co-Education
- 13 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 28,960 - 49,413 eur
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1964
- Community: 308 students • 57 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma
- Language:English
- Embrace global citizenship in Rome
- Boarding fosters independence
- IB curriculum with humanities focus
Annual tuition fees at St. Stephen’s School Rome range from 28,960 eur to 49,413 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Day Program Tuition: EUR 28,960.00 | Locally sourced lunch: EUR 1,590.00 | New students Capital Assessment Fee: EUR 1,500.00 | Returning students Capital Assessment Fee: EUR 500 | Spring Trip...Boarding Tuition: EUR 20,453.00 | Total Boarding Tuition: EUR 49,413.00 | New students Capital Assessment Fee: EUR 1,500.00 | Returning students Capital Assessment Fee: EUR 500 | Spring Trip Deposit:...
Prime School International
-
Lisbon - Cascais
- Co-Education
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 9,900 - 33,900 eur
- Curriculum:British Curriculum
- Foundation:2006
- Community: 450 students • 40 nationalities
- Examinations:A Level, IGCSE
- Language:English
- Trilingual curriculum for global citizens
- Personalized learning via tech tools
- Emphasis on entrepreneurship skills
Annual tuition fees at Prime School International range from 9,900 eur to 33,900 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
AMADEUS International School Vienna
-
Austria - Vienna
- Co-Education
- 3 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 13,200 - 52,000 eur
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum, IB Diploma Programme
- Foundation:2012
- Community: 310 students • 50 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma
- Language:English
- Unrivaled Music & Arts Academy
- Boarding in Historic Vienna
- Dual Diploma: IB & Austrian Matura
Annual tuition fees at AMADEUS International School Vienna range from 13,200 eur to 52,000 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Leysin American School in Switzerland
-
Vaud - Leysin
- Co-Education
- 12 to 19 years old
- School type:Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 120,000 chf
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1960
- Community: 300 students • 60 nationalities
- Examinations:American Diploma, IB Diploma
- Language:English
- Mountain campus fuels outdoor learning
- Cultural immersion via 60+ nationalities
- Personal growth through service trips
Annual tuition fees at Leysin American School in Switzerland start at 120,000 chf.
Branksome Hall Asia
-
Jeju Island - Seogwipo City
- Co-Education
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 20,188,000 - 24,714,000 krw
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum
- Foundation:2012
- Community: 1210 students • 20 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma
- Language:English
- World-class IB program in Jeju
- Empowering girls for global leadership
- Unrivalled boarding life experience
Annual tuition fees at Branksome Hall Asia range from 20,188,000 krw to 24,714,000 krw, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Tuition is paid both in KRW and USD. Lunch and optional fees not included in tuition.Includes meals, trips and optional activities.
King’s College, The British School of Madrid (Soto de Viñuelas)
-
Spain - Madrid
- Co-Education
- 1 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 5,180 - 30,985 eur
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1969
- Community: 1580 students • 48 nationalities
- Examinations:A Level, IB Diploma, IGCSE
- Language:English
- Top-notch British curriculum in Spain
- Innovative science & tech resources
- Cultivating global citizens since 1969
Annual tuition fees at King’s College, The British School of Madrid (Soto de Viñuelas) range from 5,180 eur to 30,985 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
RGS Surrey Hills
-
Dorking - Mickleham
- Co-Education
- 11 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 27,162 - 76,753 eur
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1959
- Community: 32 students
- Examinations:A Level, IB Diploma, IELTS, IGCSE
- Language:English
- Inclusive, holistic boarding culture
- Unique ‘Diamond Model’ education
- Global citizenship emphasis
Annual tuition fees at RGS Surrey Hills range from 27,162 eur to 76,753 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Please do head to our website to see the breakdown of fees.Please do head to our website to see the breakdown of fees.
Préfleuri International Alpine School
-
Vaud - Villars
- Co-Education
- 3 to 13 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 12,500 - 17,850 chf
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, French Curriculum
- Foundation:1948
- Community: 15 nationalities
- Language:English, French
- Bilingual learning in a Swiss Alpine setting
- Integrated skiing and outdoor education
- Nurturing creativity through arts programs
Annual tuition fees at Préfleuri International Alpine School range from 12,500 chf to 17,850 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Day School : From 12'500 to 17'850 chfBoarding School: From 60'000 to 70'000 chf
SVIS – Sainte Victoire International School
-
Aix-en-Provence - Fuveau
- Co-Education
- 5 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 11,100 - 36,150 eur
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum
- Foundation:2011
- Community: 150 students • 40 nationalities
- Language:Bilingual, English, French
- Innovative bilingual immersion learning
- Holistic development through sports & arts
- Emphasis on cultural exchange & diversity
Annual tuition fees at SVIS – Sainte Victoire International School range from 11,100 eur to 36,150 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
H-FARM International School
-
Veneto - Vicenza
- Co-Education
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 9,500 - 21,000 eur
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum
- Community: 650 students • 25 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma
- Language:English
- Innovation-focused learning approach
- Stunning 51-acre tech-inspired campus
- Bilingual immersion from day one
Annual tuition fees at H-FARM International School range from 9,500 eur to 21,000 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Costs for Day students range from 8.000€ (nursery) to 18.000€ (IB Diploma Programme).Costs for Boarding students range from 15.000€ to 21.000€ (in addition to the Tuition fees).
Delphian School
-
Yamhill County - Sheridan
- Co-Education
- 2 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 37,778 - 81,090 eur
- Curriculum:American Curriculum, Other
- Foundation:1976
- Community: 220 students • 17 nationalities
- Examinations:American Diploma, AP, PSAT, SAT
- Language:English
- Self-paced, mastery-based learning.
- Hands-on internship opportunities.
- Active student-led community service.
Annual tuition fees at Delphian School range from 37,778 eur to 81,090 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
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 diverse...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 diverse...
BBIS Berlin Brandenburg International School
-
Berlin - Kleinmachnow
- Co-Education
- 3 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 14,500 - 23,650 eur
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1990
- Community: 900 students • 75 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma
- Language:English
- Immersive bilingual program in Berlin
- Top-notch IB Diploma acceptance rates
- Strategic focus on experiential learning
Annual tuition fees at BBIS Berlin Brandenburg International School range from 14,500 eur to 23,650 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Annual Boarding Fees 2024-2025 Grade 9 - 12 24,400 Euro
Ranum Efterskole College
-
North Denmark Region - Ranum
- Co-Education
- 14 to 17 years old
- School type:Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 187,320 dkk
- Curriculum:British Curriculum
- Foundation:2004
- Community: 500 students • 25 nationalities
- Examinations:IGCSE
- Language:English
- Unrivalled Global Perspective Courses
- Tailored Education with 15+ Lines
- Wide Range of Extracurricular Activities
Annual tuition fees at Ranum Efterskole College start at 187,320 dkk.
The yearly tuition fee ranges from 187.320 DKK for international students
Fairfax Christian School
-
Virginia - Sterling
- Co-Education
- 5 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 30,000 - 47,800 usd
- Curriculum:American Curriculum
- Foundation:1961
- Community: 339 students • 30 nationalities
- Language:English
- Unmatched 60-year educational legacy
- Bilingual fluency from K-12
- 100% college-acceptance record
Annual tuition fees at Fairfax Christian School range from 30,000 usd to 47,800 usd, depending on the student's grade level and program.
THINK Global School
-
New York - New York City
- Co-Education
- 16 to 18 years old
- School type:Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 94,050 usd
- Curriculum:American Curriculum
- Foundation:2010
- Community: 30 students • 18 nationalities
- Examinations:American Diploma
- Language:English
- Real-world learning in global classrooms
- Multi-cultural immersion fosters growth
- Project-based curriculum inspires innovation
The annual tuition fee at THINK Global School is 94,050 usd.
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 situation, considering...THINK Global School offers sliding-scale tuition based on each family’s ability to pay. The maximum tuition is $94,050.
Yago School Málaga
-
Andalusia - Málaga
- Co-Education
- 3 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 12,000 - 42,000 eur
- Curriculum:IB Curriculum, Spanish Curriculum
- Foundation:2023
- Community: 17 students
- Examinations:Cambridge, DELF, EvAU, IB Diploma, MYP
- Language:English, Spanish
- Bilingual learning with native teachers
- Emphasis on ethics and values
- Innovative sports and arts programs
Annual tuition fees at Yago School Málaga range from 12,000 eur to 42,000 eur, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Enrolment fee, counselling and SEN, university and career counselling, school material, dining service, digital subscription, tuition, digital deviceEnrolment fee, deposit, activity fund, annual tuition, acommodation, all meals, school supplies, digital device insurance, 3 cultural experience trips in spain, counselling and sen, guardianship, university and career counselling, aiport...
Institut Montana Zugerberg
-
Switzerland - Zug
- Co-Education
- 6 to 19 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 32,900 - 72,800 chf
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum, Swiss Curriculum
- Foundation:1926
- Community: 377 students • 55 nationalities
- Language:Bilingual, English, German
- Bilingual Diplomas: English & German
- Idyllic Swiss Mountain Environment
- Personalised Learning via 4:1 Ratio
Annual tuition fees at Institut Montana Zugerberg range from 32,900 chf to 72,800 chf, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Day school - Years 1-12:CHF 32,900 - 36,800 (annual)Boarding school - Years 5-12: Our boarding school begins at the age of 10 - CHF 70,400 - 72,800 (fee per year) Flexi-boarding: On request Note: Your child can stay...
Regents International School Pattaya
-
Bang Lamung District - Pattaya
- Co-Education
- 2 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 133,200 - 680,675 thb
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:1994
- Community: 1000 students • 53 nationalities
- Language:English
- Global Campus extends learning beyond
- Personalized learning with STEAM approach
- Unmatched access to Juilliard programmes
Annual tuition fees at Regents International School Pattaya range from 133,200 thb to 680,675 thb, depending on the student's grade level and program.
St. Joseph’s Institution International
-
South-eastern Asia - Singapore
- Co-Education
- 4 to 18 years old
- School type:Day & Boarding School
- Yearly fee: 37,000 - 46,000 sgd
- Curriculum:British Curriculum, IB Curriculum
- Foundation:2007
- Community: 2044 students • 48 nationalities
- Examinations:IB Diploma, IGCSE
- Language:English
- Holistic Lasallian education approach
- Diverse, inclusive global community
- Focus on service-based learning
Annual tuition fees at St. Joseph’s Institution International range from 37,000 sgd to 46,000 sgd, depending on the student's grade level and program.
Elementary School Fees range from $36,686 - $36,950 SGD || High School Fees range from $37,130 - $39,850 SGDBoarding is available from Grade 9 onwards. SJI International has appointed St Andrew’s Hall, a co-educational residence housing up to 600 students under the management of St Andrew’s Junior College,...Discover Popular Destinations
Parent and Student Reviews
- March, 2025The time spent in the Swiss mountains were some of the most formative years in my childhood. If you want to become who you already are deep down and can’t find it where you are, maybe give this place a visit. As a student or as a teacher – you won’t regret it!
- March, 2025Getting away from home and one’s familiar surroundings for a year or more is a powerful way for teenagers to grow more independent and mature. The Ecole is a great place to learn about oneself and others. I loved the informal atmosphere in classes, where the connection to my teachers motivated me to learn better. I was well prepared for the top-tier college I attended (Vassar).
- March, 2025We visited this school for an open house event in the winter. We cannot say enough good things about the faculty. They were a group of incredibly experienced people from around the world, and also very welcoming. You don’t always see that from top talent. With its location next to New York City, the IB, waterfront, and huge campus, this is going to be one of the best schools in the world.
- January, 2025The school has an extremely impressive campus and professional experienced teachers mostly from the UK. There is an expectation for students to achieve academically but a focus to ensure a balance of indoor and outdoor activates plus classroom time. It is the best school in the area but is expensive.
- October, 2024Our 2 children have been at the school for almost 8 years. The caring, nurturing environment alongside rigorous academics, allowed my daughter to access a top university in UK while my son joined a boarding school in UK.
- We have been parents here at Fairfax Christian for the past three years. We now have a child in each level of the school, lower, middle and high school. The school kept our children safe and in school during the tumultuous time of the pandemic and we will be forever grateful. We have been blessed with teachers who are attentive and care about the character and education of our children. The challenging curriculum, diverse student population and a Christian education will keep our family at Fairfax Christian.
- 4.I know the Krumbach school in Austria where my niece Anne Princess GAKIZA, orphan of father and mother studies. This school takes care of all her needs (school fees, travel and accommodation, health care and insurance, ect. ..) and develop the child’s talents. As legal guardian, I am very delighted to have my niece in Krumbach school and I would recommend this school without a second thought…The orphan has a wonderful time at school with excellent relationships and attention, love and adequate education. In addition to her strong open-mindedness in the scientific field, she is learning several languages which is also a very pleasant tool to start for a long subsequent journey of study and learning!
The school allows also for very organized control of the behavior and needs of students in a more specific and personalized way.
I would like to thank all the staff and educational leaders of the school for the period already spent by my niece at Kumbrach school and the quality/service that was provided.
An exceptional school attentive to the specific needs of children, in a wonderful environment for children to learn and develop their creativity.
The school’s strong points are the maintenance of permanent liaison with parents, the communication of informations which trace the activities carried out by the children as well as the academic results of each term. You know it’s a good school when your child can’t wait to return at the end of the holidays. - February, 2024Our son is in his third year at the school. And we can already form an opinion about everything.
The first thing that sticks in the mind is the location: a castle on a mountain in the middle of the forest with an inexpressible view and always fresh air.
Secondly, the daily routine and hygiene in everything is observed with Austrian pedantry.
Third, the offices, lodging and recreation rooms, library, are modern and comfortable.
Fourth, the new sports ground, bicycles, contribute to the physical development of students.
Fifth, the kitchen, it deserves special praise. Diverse, full, healthy food. Special thanks for the days of cuisines of different nations. Pupils not only familiarize themselves with the dishes of the world, but also actively participate in their preparation.
The sixth is collective, creative work. Joint productions of plays, cognitive visits to museums, theaters, exhibitions, movies, concerts. Annual outings for skiing and skating in winter, hiking in summer and tourist trips to European countries. This is a topic for a separate comment.
And, finally, the seventh is the main thing. Educational process. Bilingualism! Education is a two-way process, teacher – student. The approach to the selection of teachers is serious. Not every teacher is able to be enthusiastic about his subject, complex to teach simply, while maintaining the subordination. It works here.
There are no perfect schools, as well as people. The administration solves force-majeure circumstances, nuances in requirements, difficulties in adaptation of teenagers and young men (at the expense of their moral and physical health) skillfully, keeping the spirit of the school and the priority of education.
We are sincerely grateful to all those who work, bring up, educate our son, showing him respect. - May, 2023Very good school
- May, 2023beautiful school
- May, 2023This is the best school I have seen in Barcelona.
- May, 2023A very nice school
Summary
Families often choose boarding schools for their strong academic programs, character-building environments, and diverse cultural exposure. These institutions support holistic development, preparing students not just academically but also personally for future challenges and successes.