2024 Best Boarding High Schools in America

• Milton, MA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  144 reviews

Senior: Milton Academy students leverage their top-tier academics to achieve their goals. Whether that be in academics, athletics, the arts, or in social justice, everything these students do is done at the highest caliber. We love to learn and bond through knowledge! I would describe its community as full of social nerds. Milton has provided me with endless opportunities and has expanded my network immensely. Thank you for a wonderful three years so far, Milton. While I’ll be moving onto a new chapter in the next couple years, I know I will always have Milton’s support.... Read 144 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,020

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.2 out of 5  231 reviews

Parent: My daughter attends the Village School PreK-4, and I can't express enough gratitude for the amazing support she has received there. When she first started in PK3, she experienced separation anxiety and cried throughout the entire day for the first month. However, the teachers at the Village School were incredibly understanding and patient. They possess a wealth of experience and knowledge in handling anxious children, employing effective techniques that are both technical and systematic. Their approach was instrumental in calming my daughter's anxiety.I am sincerely grateful to all the experienced teachers and staff at the Village School for their exceptional dedication. I wholeheartedly recommend this school, and I have decided to keep my daughter there for the remainder of her school years. It's a five-star recommendation from me!... Read 231 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,559

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Belmont, MA•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.79 out of 5  29 reviews

Sophomore: There are several reasons why my high school is so dear to my heart and I really adore it. I have had the opportunity to explore several facets of academic life as a rising sophomore, which has made my journey extremely exciting and gratifying. First off, my high school offers a tremendous variety of extracurricular activities. Being a member of the soccer team has given me the opportunity to hone my talents, promote collaboration, and create enduring connections with my teammates. To sum up, I want to say how appreciative I am of my high school and the chances it provides. My high school experience has been really gratifying because of the variety of extracurricular activities, the academics that are in line with my interests, and the supportive environment. As a rising sophomore, I am eager to continue my path because I know that my school will continue to encourage my development, push me, and provide the groundwork for a prosperous future.... Read 29 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 465

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Chatsworth, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.58 out of 5  113 reviews

Parent: No place is perfect, but Sierra Canyon is about as close as you can get to a child utopia! My two kids (who are very different) have been incredibly well served by Sierra- socially, athletically, and academically all while being in a warm and loving environment. You walk into Sierra and it's like you drank happy juice! It is just so inviting and visually diverse. And this feeling is real. Everything they tell you during the tours and through admissions is true- and it's actually better. My kids have thrived at Sierra Canyon.... Read 113 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,173

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Alexandria, VA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  48 reviews

Alum: Episcopal High School boasts an impressive faculty, comprised of knowledgeable and experienced educators who are dedicated to helping students achieve their full potential. The school's extracurricular offerings are diverse and plentiful, with opportunities for students to explore interests in the arts, athletics, community service, and beyond. The campus is well-equipped with modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, performing arts center, and athletic complex. Episcopal High School places a strong emphasis on service, both to the local community and the world at large. The school encourages students to think beyond themselves and engage in meaningful ways with the world around them. With its rigorous curriculum, dedicated faculty, and commitment to service, the school offers a transformative educational experience that prepares students for success in college and beyond.... Read 48 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 463

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Indian Springs, AL•

• Private School•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 4.66 out of 5  83 reviews

Freshman: I'm a new freshman at Springs, and so far, my experience has been outstanding! The curriculum is flexible and tailored to challenge everyone (one of my freshman friends is taking Adv Precalc and AP Stats!) However, the faculty are helpful and supportive. The natural campus is unique, and the buildings blend in with this incredible setting. Cafeteria food is varied -- we have different themes including Pasta Bars, Chinese food, Korean barbecue, etc. The student body is diverse, and everyone is friendly and incredibly talented in their unique way. There are no traditional cliques here, so you'll feel at-home quickly. We have a wide range of extracurricular activities from sports, arts, service to personal interests, which we are given plenty of time and freedom to pursue. However, my only complaint is about the suites rooming 6 people each, fitting 2 students into rooms designed to house one. They are extremely crowded, noisy and contribute to a significant portion of student drama here.... Read 83 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 330

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Claremont, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  90 reviews

Senior: The campus, first of all, is beautiful. The teachers are also amazing. Classes were difficult, but always doable; students are never assigned busywork, and student-teacher communication is great. On the flip side, (probably due to COVID) the student culture seems to have changed for the worse in recent years. Students now seem more disconnected, and tend to say or do unacceptable or just rude things. Also, both the student body and the faculty are not very diverse. This is a problem Webb is definitely working on, and I have seen some progress not only in hiring and acceptance but also in school culture. Webb has held many (student run!) events celebrating different cultures and educating students on barriers their peers may face due to race, ethnicity, gender, etc., like the Asian Affinity's Fashion Show, which I was a part of(It was a LOT of fun). That's why I think Webb is. ultimately, a great school; because the administration listens and changes according to student voices.... Read 90 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 404

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Washington, DC•

• Private School•

• 4-12

• •
  Rating 4.58 out of 5  50 reviews

Freshman: As a freshman at STA, having started in 4th grade, I have always been incredibly proud of the school that I go to, and been exceedingly excited and happy to go to school every day. The reasons for this are many, but in my eyes, the clear primary reason for the love of the school that is shared between nearly all of the students here is the powerful sense of community and brotherhood that is interwoven into every aspect of the school from the very first day. In the weekly assemblies, the daily lunches that promote interaction between students in different grades, and the chapels, which give all members of the school a chance to rest and come together, the sense that every person in the school has the back of everyone else is clear. All of that leaves little time to discuss the excellent athletics and academics, which, while posing a challenge to every student, are never too difficult, and the coaches and teachers truly love the school and strive to ensure that every student succeeds.... Read 50 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 592

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Mercersburg, PA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.52 out of 5  246 reviews

Senior: My experience at Mercersburg has transformed me academically, personally, and spiritually. The faculty here are so devoted to us as students in all aspects of life here such as the dorm, in academics, and in our extracurricular endeavors. All of my teachers inspire me and challenge me to think and grow as a student. The academics are rigorous, yet all students are provided with many resources for help and support. It is really easy to get involved here and be an active participant in our community. There are so many clubs and activities where student initiative is highly encouraged. I love Mercersburg because of the people. Faculty and students alike have sparked growth in me through their generally very positive energy and lofty ideals.... Read 246 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 446

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Eden Prairie, MN•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  74 reviews

Parent: Our children received a world-class education at ISM. They were extremely well-prepared for college and both received merit-based Regent Scholarships (full-ride tuition) for all four years of their university expreriences thanks to the International School of Minnesota. The math program is second to none in the Twin City area, with most students successfully completing all AP math courses offered by the College Board by their junior year and then taking at least one more year of college level math before graduating. Teachers at ISM are passionate about the subjects they teach. The school is passionate about students' success in academics, in citizenship, and in extra-curriculars. One of the greatest aspects of the school is the annual all-school musical where students from first to twelfth grade work together to create extraordinary, memorable performances! Our children learned to accept and celebrate diversity from the earliest age at ISM and are avid world travelers & citizens.... Read 74 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 310

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Austin, TX•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  95 reviews

Junior: Great outdoor campus with lots of space for activities or studying. Friendly social environment encourages teamwork and bonding and nurtures a healthy, competitive academic environment centered around discovery and discussion. Rotating class schedule based on what combination of classes you take encourage independence. Diverse staff and students, class selections, clubs and activities, events, and food selection. Course work can quickly become very difficult and overwhelming but teachers encourage communication and conferencing and will often make accommodations to best support the student. School heavily emphasizes the importance of healthy balances and diversified interests with a broad selection mandatory sports selections, art curriculums, and community service opportunities.... Read 95 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 707

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Anaheim, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.58 out of 5  109 reviews

Parent: For generations, Fairmont Academy has been a cornerstone of our family and for good reason. Investing in this institution is an investment with long-term benefits - offering the chance to gain more than just knowledge but also confidence, discipline and poise. Education plays such a key role in success that making sure we give our children the best start possible was paramount; thankfully at Fairmont they are guaranteed quality teaching from experts who know their stuff!... Read 109 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 456

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Lititz, PA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.57 out of 5  118 reviews

Senior: I have attended Linden Hall now for five years and have only great things to say about my experience. Though it is a small school, Linden Hall allows for a lower student to teacher ratio, giving the students more confidence when asking questions, allowing them to be more engaged, and providing them with more opportunities for one-on-one time with the teachers. The teachers are truly invested in the students education as well as their growth as learners, and they will do everything that they can to ensure the student feels comfortable with the material, even if that means staying late after school. Additionally, there are countless clubs and organizations that are offered to Linden Hall students in which participation is required in order to meet and surround yourself with new people and ideas, foster creative thinking, and more! Linden Hall is a safe haven where you will have the support from your teachers and other students to express yourself and show the world who you are!... Read 118 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 110

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Honolulu, HI•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.59 out of 5  561 reviews

Alum: I am a graduate of Iolani School and loved my time there! The school's state of the art facilities and well-trained faculty provide students with an abudance of opportunities to be an active participant in the school and island community. During my time at Iolani, I was involved in student government, athletics, and our schools annual 'Iolani Fair, a fundraising event specific for student activities and travel. Of the many things I appreciate at 'Iolani, I love the home-like, hearthy atmosophere of the campus, faculty, and student body. The small teacher to student ratio provides opportunties for students to develop actual relationships with teachers so much so that teachers then become mentors to us students. Being a well-established private school with a large alumni network, 'Iolani has provided a lot of opportunities to meet, learn from, and interact with a substantial amount of previous students and others who are currently excelling in their line of work.... Read 561 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,214

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Delray Beach, FL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.44 out of 5  577 reviews

Junior: I have had an incredible experience at American Heritage! There are so many ways to get involved and there is an inclusive, welcoming community. I have been able to grow academically, athletically, and socially at American Heritage! I believe that attending American Heritage has helped prepare me for the next steps of my life!... Read 577 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,797

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Fairfield, IA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.71 out of 5  95 reviews

Parent: My son was able to start in their Children’s House, with the Toddler class just after his 2nd birthday. I was nervous to send him off to school so early, but he absolutely loved it there! His vocabulary when he started was no more than a handful of words and within a couple of months he not only knew the names of every other student in his class, but he knew the names of teachers that were not even his own, and would say hello to them if we passed them in the grocery store, or just out and about in town! He learned so much in just the 5 months he spent there during the 2nd half of the 2022/2023 school year. He blew me away every day when I picked him up. He had always learned some new task, or phrase, and it has been wonderful seeing him nurtured and encouraged to become the person he is meant to be. His teachers were so kind and thoughtful and I never once had to worry that they didn’t love him like their own. I can’t say enough about how lucky I feel to have found MSAE.... Read 95 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 156

• Student-teacher ratio 3:1

• Kent, CT•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.29 out of 5  115 reviews

Parent: Kent is an exceptional all-around school. Definitely ascending in reputation - has the right kind of mix between challenging academics, sports and extra curriculars. Kent has an impressive advisor program that helps guide students through their boarding school journey. Arguably, it has the prettiest setting among all the East Coast schools with a river that runs along the campus and a wonderful town that is literally a 5-min walk for students. Having the town of Kent so near definitely allows students more freedom and sets the school apart from many other boarding schools that are more secluded with no easy access to the real world. So glad that we chose Kent over the other great schools!... Read 115 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 520

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Danville, CA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  86 reviews

Parent: We have been a part of Athenian for over 12 years! 3 kids starting in the Middle school and matriculating to the upper school. Our experience leaves us raving fans of the school. Something special happens in the middle school. It’s such an amazing dynamic of teachers working together crossing curriculums giving the students this amazing educational experience. As they move to the upper school, obviously they get older, but the programs are perfectly situated to the transition from high school to college and to life beyond. I can’t say enough about what our kids have experienced. I am 100% certain that they would not have gotten this anywhere else.... Read 86 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 537

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Suffield, CT•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.74 out of 5  246 reviews

Senior: I've loved my time here at Suffield Academy! Of course there's been life's ups and deeds but Suffield' s students and faculty is so supportive. Campus is beautiful nd well maintained, inside and out. Classes are difficult, yet manageable. Teachers offer extra help and are always quick to respond!... Read 246 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 410

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• North Bethesda, MD•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  70 reviews

Parent: The best all-boy high school! My son grew so much from the rigorous studies, incredible teachers, and awesome sports. Prep does an amazing job of turning these young boys into competent men who are ready for college and the world. These high school graduates are not just academically prepared for college but are thoughtful, kind young men. My husband and I found lifelong friends within this beautiful, welcoming community. Truly impressed with the education our son received and the incredible community he'll be a part of forever.... Read 70 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 506

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Woodberry Forest, VA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.63 out of 5  49 reviews

Parent: Our son is thriving in may ways. Academically, physically in sports, mentally and socially. We know that is it the environment that Woodberry has created that aids in him being and working towards his best. We also know that it won't stop there, the staff at Woodberry will continue to push, love and encourage him until he gives the last of himself that he didn't even know he had. We are grateful for this school and community!... Read 49 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 392

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Farmington, CT•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.36 out of 5  124 reviews

Freshman: Really like the school’s atmosphere! It is such a warm and inclusive community. Nice people, close connections here. The academics is challenging but definitely not overwhelming. There are a lot of really fun traditions waiting for Newgs to explore which makes the school days super fun.... Read 124 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 335

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Tarrytown, NY•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  78 reviews

Alum: I began attending Hackley in the sixth grade and remained there through the end of my high school career. With such great academic resources at your disposal, it's hard to not garner great college readiness. That being said, near-college level stress on children definitely creates a stress-inducing atmosphere. While this may be perceived as preparing kids for the real world, providing few mental health resources and being in the predominantly white, affluent bubble of Hackley does anything but that. Very grateful for the great opportunities the school afforded me both in and out of the classroom, particularly through travel, which was covered by my hefty financial aid. I would make sure families considering Hackley (particularly families of color or little financial means) know that the adjustment may take a toll on your student.... Read 78 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 855

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Tacoma, WA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.39 out of 5  114 reviews

Sophomore: Annie Wright has people whom I want to surround myself with; people who are passionate about learning. Not enough words describe how much I love the Annie Wright community. The teachers, staff, and faculty care, which drives the students to care as well. Annie Wright has so many programs in both the arts and athletics. They provide so much support for individuals who need extra academic support. All of this is to build a strong community and prepare us for the many years ahead. I couldn't ask for anything better and I am so fortunate to attend such a life-changing school.... Read 114 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 815

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Hauula, HI•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  10 reviews

Parent: My family and I joined APIS this fall and have been overwhelmed by the strong sense of community here. K-12 students from all around the world are working together and enjoying one another on this beautiful and well-resourced campus. The passionate, dedicated, and hands-on faculty and vibrant student body make APIS a very special place!... Read 10 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 150

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1