2020 Best Boarding Schools in the New York City AreaAbout this List

Hackley School

• Private School
• Tarrytown, NY
• K-12
• 54 reviews

Sophomore: As a sophomore currently in Hackley, I can only highly recommend the school. The academic program is one of the most rigorous out there even if it isn't noticeable in the school. Various AP classes and advanced electives are the common practice beginning sophomore year and beyond and some freshmen may even take some as well.

The English Department is considered the bane of most students' existence and goes into such analytical depth that it rivals any AP English course out there.

Transitioning from a public school to this could be difficult, especially if it's into the Upper School. The rigorous curriculum will challenge you, and lower grades than usual will appear. Our strongest science and math students who take on AP Physics C and Multivariable Calculus in senior year are subject to the two most difficult classes in the school, classes that can give test grades as low as 40 on a regular basis. It's worth it though, the experience is unforgettable.
Read 54 Reviews

• A+

• 834 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Masters School

• Private School
• Dobbs Ferry, NY
• 5-12
• 98 reviews

Parent: As a current parent and a parent of an alumna, I am grateful for our experience. My very different children have myriad interests. Whether academic, athletic, performing/visual arts, or technology, Masters has satiated their needs and passions. My daughter was celebrated, appreciated and supported for who she is as a student, vocalist, athlete, community member and a person. Her ability to develop close relationships with faculty ultimately drove her decision to attend a college that offered the same dynamic. She says she misses the dining hall at Masters! Apparently, fish sticks at college are not the same as salmon and striped bass in high school. She often spoke of her "Masters Identity,” which allowed for risk taking, challenge, success and failure. It created opportunities for her to discover what she is truly passionate about while being her authentic self. She was sent into the world as a culturally and academically competent, kind human being. What more could I ask for?
Read 98 Reviews

• A+

• 667 Students
• 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Stony Brook School

• Private School
• Stony Brook, NY
• 7-12
• 53 reviews

Middle School Student: This is my first year at SBS, but i already love it here. All of those bad reviewed are bogus.
1- The food is GREAT!
2- The faculty is amazing!
3- There is nothing to hate about the wonderful, diverse community at The Stony Brook School.
Come join us and have the best school years ever. You will be prepared for college, and may even get into Ivy League schools! I know a graduate who is going to Stanford from SBS. You are always successful after going to this amazing school. You don’t have to be Christian, I’m not, it’s a great thing to have cultural appropriation, and to learn about other religions. :)
Read 53 Reviews

• A+

• 401 Students
• 9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Léman Manhattan Preparatory School

• Private School
• New York, NY
• PK, K-12
• 62 reviews

Works Here: I feel lucky to have found Léman for myself and my daughter after the closing of our beloved k-8 school. Not only is Léman an international school but it strives to grow in inclusivity and diversity, which is important to me as a mom and educator. Besides extremely dedicated teachers and an academic rigorous (but fun) curriculum, my daughter LOVES the rooftop playground for recess, swim class and swim team, the arts, Léman Main Stage productions, athletics and the music program. In a very short amount of time they turned my daughter into a confident reader, writer, scientist, swimmer and performer in theatre and band! Must also say...the food is amazing!
Read 62 Reviews

• A+

• 880 Students
• 9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Yeshiva University High School for Boys

• Private School
• New York, NY
• 9-12
• 14 reviews

Junior: The features I've enjoyed most are the extracurricular freedoms, the variety of faculty backgrounds, and the large student body.
If interested in joining a club, most do not require a commitment. If one wants to create a club, 10-15 members, and a faculty advisor is all that is needed (I'd know, as I started the Book Club), making the extracurricular process very efficient.
Our faculty is comprised of Ivy-league graduates, a teacher who worked on the first research initiatives for cellular communication, and a few paramedics. The variety of faculty is conducive to an environment in which all student's diverse interests can be fostered.
The large student body means that even if you have unusual interests—say you're 80's pop culture stuck in a teen's body (like me)— you're sure to find one other student who will finish "Whoah, we're half..".
My least favorite feature of my school is that despite our large size (which ensures some diversity) there is still some insularism.
Read 14 Reviews

• A+

• 280 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Pioneer Academy

• Private School
• Wayne, NJ
• PK, K-12
• 56 reviews

Parent: LOVE IT! I moved to NJ because of this school, students receive excellent scholarships to colleges on average over $100,000 per student. # 1 SAT Performance among private and public schools. My 9th grader is taking an AP US History with a former Harvard U. professor. Students feel valued, and teachers are dedicated. Teachers stay after school to help students advance. Students love attending the school, and there is a direct correlation to their academic success. Healthy competition and high sense of pride and achievement are clearly evident in the hallways. The school's English teacher, Harvard grad takes time after school to take students: ice skating in Manhattan (35 min away), rock climbing to build teamwork, Ivy Schools college trips. It instills confidence & leadership. Every minute of the class time is productive.
Read 56 Reviews

• A+

• 325 Students
• 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Knox School

• Private School
• St. James, NY
• 6-12
• 18 reviews

Parent: My child is entering her third year. Best choice we could have made. She is challenged every day to try something new. She has learned about leadership by being able to be on student council and participate in other activities that aren’t offered at other schools and we looked in to a lot. The administration is very dedicated and cares about every student like they were their own. They go out of their way to make families and students feel valued and respected. Seeing every kid in the senior class graduate and go onto places like Cornell, NYU, Stony Brook and more is amazing. I am confident my child will be prepared for college after graduating from Knox.
Read 18 Reviews

• A+

• 142 Students
• 5:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Thornton-Donovan School

• Private School
• New Rochelle, NY
• K-12
• 16 reviews

Alum: Thornton-Donovan is small, quirky school with interesting people of all different ethnic backgrounds and nationalities. The school puts an emphasis an international education and focuses its classes on a different area of the world each year, and has at least major trip to one or more countries in that area. The academics and environment is great, and the teachers are all interesting and laidback. Some may give a lot of work, but it will significantly help with college readiness.
Read 16 Reviews

• A+

• 170 Students
• 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

EF Academy International Boarding Schools

• Private School
• Thornwood, NY
• 9-12
• 77 reviews

Middle School Student: The school is really good and I had very good experiences at EF Academy. There are over 40 clubs and activities on campus, including Model United Nations, Rock Bands, STEM Engineering Club, you can do many things to get involved.
I loved the diversity of the school，and EF Academy was home to many students that all over the world. Everybody is very caring and accepting to everyone! Teachers responsible for communication are patient. They help students a lot get through IB and university counselors are great.
Read 77 Reviews

• A+

• 585 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Green Meadow Waldorf School

• Private School
• Chestnut Ridge, NY
• PK, K-12
• 16 reviews

Parent: My children both graduated from Green Meadow and have gone into the college world with amazing self confidence, self direction and self awareness while being able to open their hearts to the needs of those around them and the larger world beyond, to find where they are needed and belong. I am filled with gratitude!
Read 16 Reviews

• A

• 340 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Harvey School

• Private School
• Katonah, NY
• 6-12
• 46 reviews

Parent: Harvey provides an extraordinary educational balance. Rigorous curriculum of broad subjects and balanced learning environments that cultivate incredible opportunities. If you are a serious student who craves balance and college readiness, Harvey is your home.
Read 46 Reviews

• A

• 370 Students
• 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Red Bank Catholic High School

• Private School
• Red Bank, NJ
• 9-12
• 114 reviews

Senior: The Faculty, Coaches, Students make you feel like one big Family. In this atmosphere, it helps you to learn better because you are more comfortable. The school has structured the academics so that you are able to be involved in Clubs, Sports, and activities. I will really miss everything about my fellow students, teammates, Coaches, and teachers. The only thing I would improve is the parking by the school.
Read 114 Reviews

• A

• 915 Students
• 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Bridgeport International Academy

• Private School
• Bridgeport, CT
• 9-12
• 28 reviews

Niche User: The faculty at Bridgeport International Academy (BIA) are exceptional. Four teachers also are Professors at the University of Bridgeport (UB) and the relationship between UB and BIA makes the school exceptional. For example, juniors and seniors can take college classes and the BIA Chemistry class just had their laboratory work at UB. Exciting!
Read 28 Reviews

• A

• 60 Students
• 4:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

St. John's Preparatory School

• Private School
• Astoria, NY
• 9-12
• 160 reviews

Alum: I loved my 4 years at SJP! I wish I could go back. They’re a really strict school, and I actually thought they wouldn’t be because of all the stories you hear outside of school.
Honestly they don’t tolerate bullying, it’s dealt with ASAP. They definitely don’t tolerate fighting or drugs, just ask any student who was kicked out because of it.
The teachers are pretty tough, but you know they care about you to succeed. You have the best experience at SJP by being involved. Students are nice, you’ll make friends pretty quick. The secretaries are extremely nice, always there for us, they’re very motherly and make you feel safe.
Fr. Liju is the chaplain, he’s the best. He is funny, sincere He doesn’t judge you no matter what you tell him. He always says “Keep smiling and have a wonderful day”
4 years goes by quick. You don’t get the same love in college as we did at St John’s. If I had to do it over again, I’d choose them again!
Read 160 Reviews

• A

• 660 Students
• 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Purnell School

• Private School
• Pottersville, NJ
• 9-12
• 24 reviews

Junior: When I first came to Purnell as a Sophmore, I was scared out of my mind! It was my first time being at a boarding school, and quite frankly I didn't want to be there. The first few weeks I was reserved and quiet until my classmates and peers started to invite me to hang out with them. Sooner than later I started getting more involved with my friends and the school. I even ran for a student council officer position and ending up getting my desired position! Purnell has taught me to come out of my comfort zone because even if I fail I have a whole school of people I'm happy to call my family. They are dedicated to helping you with your individual needs and want to see you succeed. Purnell is an amazing experience I'm still embarking on and I'm sad to the end so near. I would not have it any other way!
Read 24 Reviews

• A-

• 55 Students
• 2:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

St. Benedict's Preparatory School

• Private School
• Newark, NJ
• K-12
• 54 reviews

Parent: I admire the leadership and readiness the school teaches these young men for the real world. They are not only focused on academic skills, but life long skills. They treat each student as adults, encourage them to make decisions that will not only affect themselves, but their fellow brothers. Fr. Edwin Leahy is an excellent role model to so many of these young men, in so many ways other than just the Headmaster of the school. He truly motivates each child and treats them as his own. Hard work is an understatement to describe this school. As a parent on the Rowing Team, these last 4 years has been equally strenuous on us as well. Planning and prepping for the regattas to ensure that the kids and coaches are well fed for the day, to ensure that they have everything they need in not so favorable weather. We, as parents are all in as well. It truly takes a village!
Read 54 Reviews

• B+

• 750 Students
• 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Martin Luther School

• Private School
• Maspeth, NY
• 6-12
• 20 reviews

Alum: Lived up to their motto "Small school, smart choice." They brought forth a welcoming and close-knit environment that helped me flourish academically and spiritually.
Read 20 Reviews

• B+

• 203 Students
• 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School

• Private School
• Brooklyn, NY
• 9-12
• 212 reviews

Alum: A proud 1970 graduate, I can attest the excellent quality education offered at Loughlin. High academic excellence, Catholic principles, outstanding athletic programs and appreciation of the arts are offered here. With a wonderful and active alumni, the purple and gold tradition continues. Loughlin was a positive influence in my life. Thousands of proud graduates will agree!
Read 212 Reviews

• B

• 660 Students
• 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Immaculate Conception School

• Private School
• Bronx, NY
• PK, K-8
• 2 reviews

• NG

• 540 Students
• 24:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Eagle Hill School

• Private School
• Greenwich, CT
• K-9
• 3 reviews

Parent: With Dyslexia and CAPD, my son entered 6th grade as a non-reader effecting every level of his academics and significantly impacting his self-esteem. He spent 4 amazing years at EHS progressing to an 8th grade reading level. His self-esteem greatly improved and he gained the freedom that reading gives you. This carried over to Math, Writing, Spelling and Speech and his belief that he could accomplish his goals. EHS utilizes research based programs and tailors a program for each student's needs. They group students into small class groups based on similar learning styles. Students are required to participate in after school activities with EHS teachers coaching and running activities; giving students the opportunity to work on communication and social skills with those who understands their needs. The life changing tools that my son gained at EHS carried over to H.S. and now he is aware of his learning needs and advocates for himself. EHS was life changing and we are forever grateful.
Read 3 Reviews

• NG

• 265 Students
• 4:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Pillars Preparatory Academy

• Private School
• South River, NJ
• PK, K-11
• 5 reviews

Senior: I believe that Pillars provides a very safe and encouraging environment for developing minds. As a student I feel that I would like to be challenged academically, so I can work harder and aim higher. I do feel that the school prepares you for the outside world and college.
Read 5 Reviews

• NG

• 191 Students
• 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Yeshiva Yesode Hatorah

• Private School
• Brooklyn, NY
• K-9

• NG

• 178 Students
• 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

The Winchendon School - Brooklyn

• Private School
• Brooklyn, NY
• 9-12
• 1 review

Parent: After an awful experience at her previous school, Winchendon has offered an oasis of caring and highly personalized attention from an excellent faculty that has allowed our daughter to re-engage in her education. The school's approach to challenge traditional learning structures via progressive practices creates a very dynamic learning experience focused on how to constantly improve the school experience. The emphasis on developing critical thinking via their immersive program has provided opportunities for deep learning and complemented programs with a strong focus on community involvement. The engagement between faculty and parents has been outstanding with a genuine desire to put in place structures for our daughter attain her true potential. While it is a small and growing school, the main campus has a long established and excellent reputation so if you child is looking for a more progressive and personalized educational experience then I would highly recommend visiting the school
Read 1 Review

• NG

• 50 Students
• 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

Matheny School

• Private School
• Peapack, NJ
• PK, 2-12

• NG

• 41 Students
• 4:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

St. Thomas Choir School

• Private School
• New York, NY
• 3-8
• 4 reviews

Parent: Our son is in his second year. This is an extraordinary community focused on academic excellence, character, musicianship, thoughtfullness and self-reliance. It's not just an wonderful school; it's a wonderful life with plenty of opportunity for performance, responsibility, poise, true leadership, travel, and knowing how far focus and commitment can take you. Ski trips, camp, the best music education in the States, a truly welcoming and nurturing community to any boy who likes music and is ready for the opportunity of a lifetime. Highly recommend -- this school is a life changing experience. Enviable small classes, individual attention and an intellectual and artistic start in life. Most boys go on to competitive high schools, including Exeter, Cate, and Groton, with good scholarships. To top it off, there's a five-star chef preparing organic meals daily. Outstanding!
Read 4 Reviews

• NG

• 30 Students
• 2:1 Student-Teacher Ratio