Best boarding schools in USA 2024
- Education information
- Approach of Top Boarding Schools in America
- Admission Requirements for TOP Boarding Schools in the USA
- Boarding Schools in USA Fees and Financial Considerations
- Required Documents for Application
- The Three Key Stages of Education in the USA
- The Unique Features of Boarding Schools in the USA
- Literature and references
This content was developed with active participation of Shitij Kapur.
In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:
- https://www.studyusa.com/en/a/58/understanding-the-american-education-system
- https://digitalmarketingdeal.com/blog/top-boarding-schools-in-the-us/.
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In 2019 an average SAT score made up 1180USABoston, MassachusettsCurrently watching: 7from 51000.00 $ / yearApply with documents
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According to information for 2019, an average SAT score made up 1320USABoston, MassachusettsCurrently watching: 10from 68000.00 $ / yearApply with documents
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from 59900.00 $ / yearApply with documents
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According to information for 2019, an average SAT score made up 1240USAMinneapolis, MinnesotaCurrently watching: 10from 57500.00 $ / yearApply with documents
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from 48000.00 $ / yearApply with documents
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According to information for 2019, an average SAT score made up 1200USASan Diego, CaliforniaCurrently watching: 8from 76400.00 $ / yearApply with documents
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from 56800.00 $ / yearApply with documents
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USASan Francisco, CaliforniaCurrently watching: 6from 74200.00 $ / yearApply with documents
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from 68605.00 $ / yearApply with documents
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from 45750.00 $ / yearApply with documents
Alternative destinations
Education information
While choosing a private school abroad, parents often consider TOP boarding schools in America. Firstly, they provide prestigious and high-quality education. Secondly, studying there increases chances to successfully enter university in America from the world’s TOP-100 list.
The cost of studying programs at top boarding schools in America is high. At the same time, it is fully explained by high academic standards, as well as requirements for students. The average US boarding schools show high results: graduates often enter the Ivy League universities. According to the statistics, 90% of yesterday's students become students of selected universities.
SMAPSE services are free of charge. SMAPSE can also help get discounts, scholarships or grants for studies. With our professional assistance you will give your child an opportunity to study at best boarding schools and colleges in the United States of America.
You can at any time address to the samples of entrance tests for admission to private boarding schools in America, which you can complete in our office without visiting the school.
Approach of Top Boarding Schools in America
One of the defining features of the best boarding schools in America is their holistic approach to education. These schools aim not just for academic excellence, but also for the overall intellectual development of the students. This allows students to excel in sports, arts, and other extracurricular activities. A strong focus is also placed on personal development, making students more independent, goal-oriented, and socially skilled.
Graduates of best boarding schools in the USA have a competitive edge when it comes to university admissions. They typically excel in interviews and entrance tests, setting them up for success in higher education.
Types of Schools and Boarding Options
Boarding schools in the USA offer various options, including co-educational settings, as well as single-sex schools for boys and only for girls. U.S. schools generally fall into three categories: public schools, which are free and attended by up to 90% of American students, private schools (including both day and boarding options), and homeschooling.
For personalized assistance, consider consulting experts like those at SMAPSE, who can provide a curated list of schools that match your child's needs and ambitions.
Admission Requirements for TOP Boarding Schools in the USA
Most best boarding schools in the USA admit students starting from the age of 12. These students usually reside on campus until they reach the age of 14, after which they may opt for a host family arrangement. However, due to the well-developed campus infrastructure, many prefer to stay in on-campus residences.
When choosing a school, SMAPSE recommends looking for those with extensive on-campus facilities such as recreation areas and sports complexes. The top boarding schools in the USA often resemble small towns, complete with robust sports and entertainment infrastructure, including theaters and creative studios.
Sports are a significant focus, and students have ample opportunities to engage in various athletic activities and represent their schools at state and even national levels.
Admission to these prestigious institutions is highly competitive, with up to 10 applicants vying for each spot. Typical application requirements include:
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A fully completed application form
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School reports from the last 2-3 years
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Teacher recommendations translated into English
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An interview, which can be conducted in person or via Skype
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Entrance examinations, typically in Math and English
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Some schools also require the SAT, SLEP, or TOEFL tests for language proficiency
Boarding Schools in USA Fees and Financial Considerations
The cost of attending a top boarding school in the USA varies based on its prestige, ratings, grade level, and location. According to SMAPSE data, the annual fees, including accommodation, meals, and tuition, range from $35,000 to $90,000 USD.
Required Documents for Application
To apply for secondary education at private boarding schools in the USA, you'll typically need the following:
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School reports for the last 2-3 academic years
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A copy of the student’s passport or ID
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Letters of recommendation from teachers and school administrators
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Language proficiency certificates like TOEFL or SAT
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Optional motivation letter
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School registration forms
Additional Pathways to U.S. Secondary Education
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Exchange Programs: These programs offer the chance to study for up to a year in the USA and are usually highly competitive.
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Paid Exchange Programs: Similar to the above, but financed privately, costing between $4,000 to $8,000 USD per academic year.
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Direct Admission through Educational Agents: If confident in your child's academic and financial standing, you can opt for direct admission, usually recommended at least six months to a year in advance.
For free assistance in school selection and application processes, consider reaching out to SMAPSE, official representatives of most U.S. private boarding schools.
The Three Key Stages of Education in the USA
The educational system in the United States comprises three main stages, spanning a total of 12 years:
Elementary School: Laying the Foundation
In elementary school, children acquire basic knowledge in core subjects. Typically, one teacher instructs students in most subjects except for specialized classes like art, music, and physical education. Students undergo initial testing to determine their academic levels and are grouped accordingly into various tiers (Tier A for the most gifted, for example).
Public vs. Private: Parents have the option to enroll their children in either public or private schools. Public schooling is free but is restricted to specific districts based on residence. To switch schools, parents would either have to move or opt for a private institution.
Middle School: Diversifying the Curriculum
Here, the concept of educational credits comes into play. The list of mandatory subjects shrinks, but students have more elective choices. They also start studying foreign languages intensively. At the end of each year, they undergo exams evaluated through a credit system.
High School: Preparing for University
High school is the final stage, focusing on specialization and preparing students for university life. Students earn credits in various subjects, vital for scholarships and college admissions. The curriculum includes a few compulsory subjects such as math and English, but the rest depend on the chosen specialization.
What are the most important questions parents ask when choosing a school in the US?
- The main thing to consider is how the chosen school suits your child, his habits, ambitions, interests. In principle, the criteria that are taken into account in the rankings will become good determinants: class size, names of universities that graduates choose, composition of the student community, location, etc.
Leman Manhattan Preparatory School, as one of the first independent schools in Lower Manhattan, has a remarkable "district" history and reputation, but has a global perspective. Located between New York City's most important cultural attractions, plus the IB International Program - the gold standard for college and university preparation worldwide - provide excellent preparation for our graduates. These are confident leaders, real purposeful citizens of the world.
The Unique Features of Boarding Schools in the USA
American boarding schools offer a democratic atmosphere, with a higher degree of student freedom compared to traditional Swiss boarding schools or UK day schools. Unlike the uniform curriculum in many countries, boarding schools in the USA allow for individualized learning plans. Students aren't confined to a fixed set of classmates; they interact with different peers in different subjects, fostering greater tolerance and communication skills.
Cost and Fees Boarding Schools in USA
The fee structure varies across schools, but credits earned can significantly aid in obtaining scholarships, sometimes even offering a 100% tuition waiver.
The Academic Year and Assessment System in Top Boarding Schools in the USA
The academic year is divided into semesters. The U.S. employs a 100-point grading scale and also uses a system of letter grades (A+ being the highest, F the lowest). Credits are vital for progressing to the next academic level and also play a significant role in scholarships and financial aid.
Safety in the Best Boarding Schools in the USA
Strict rules govern student behavior in many private American boarding schools. These rules cover everything from attendance to dress code, and violations could result in expulsion. Student safety is a top priority, monitored through various security measures, including video surveillance.
Regulations in Top Boarding Schools in the USA
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Restricted corridor movement during classes.
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Strict attendance monitoring.
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Designated eating areas.
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Prohibition of weapons, drugs, and intolerance.
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Dress code policies.
Ensuring safety, especially for younger students, is a paramount concern, right down to their commute in the iconic yellow school buses.
For more information, don't hesitate to contact our experts at SMAPSE. We're always here to help answer any of your questions.
What are boarding schools in the United States?
What is the structure of the school year in boarding schools?
How much does it cost to attend boarding schools in the United States?
What opportunities for sports and extracurricular activities do boarding schools provide?
Can international students attend boarding schools?
What are the language requirements for admission to boarding schools for international students?
What documents are required for enrollment?
Are there scholarships or financial aid for students at boarding schools?
What educational programs are available in boarding schools?
How is the safety of students in boarding schools ensured?
General statistics on education in the USA - ratings, specialties, universities
Top 35 best schools in the USA - 2024 Smapse rankings
1 | North Broward Preparatory School |
2 | Phillips Academy Andover |
3 | The Storm King School New York |
4 | Red Bank Catholic High School |
5 | Windermere Preparatory School |
6 | Shattuck St Mary's School |
7 | Cheshire Academy |
8 | Cate School |
9 | Ross School |
10 | Deerfield Academy |
11 | The Village School |
12 | Amerigo Los Angeles – Bishop Montgomery High School |
13 | Webb Schools |
14 | Kent School USA |
15 | The Winchendon School |
16 | Darlington School |
17 | Marian Catholic High School Amerigo Education |
18 | Grier School |
19 | The MacDuffie School |
20 | CATS Academy Boston |
21 | The Cambridge School of Weston |
22 | Milton Academy |
23 | Amerigo Education Napa Valley |
24 | American Hebrew Academy |
25 | Northfield Mount Hermon School |
26 | Mater Dei Catholic High School San Diego Amerigo Education |
27 | American University Preparatory School Los Angeles |
28 | Webb Schools |
29 | Kent School USA |
30 | Groton School |
31 | Maine Central Institute |
32 | The Lawrenceville School |
33 | Grand River Academy Ohio |
34 | Saint John Paul II Academy |
35 | Chicago North Shore |
Top 10 best boarding schools in USA according to The Best Schools portal
1 | Phillips Exeter Academy |
2 | Phillips Academy Andover |
3 | The Putney School |
4 | Church Farm School |
5 | Episcopal High School |
6 | St. Paul's School |
7 | Asheville School |
8 | Shattuck-St. Mary's School |
9 | St. Andrew's School |
10 | The Thacher School |
Top 10 best private high schools in USA according to Best Colleges
1 | The Lawrenceville School |
2 | Phillips Exeter Academy |
3 | Lakeside School |
4 | The Latin School of Chicago |
5 | Albuquerque Academy |
6 | Detroit Country Day School |
7 | Harvard-Westlake School |
8 | The Harker School |
9 | The College Preparatory School |
10 | Polytechnic School |
Advantages and disadvantages of English schools
Advantages | Disadvantages |
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The opportunity to enter the best universities in England, USA, Canada, Switzerland, Europe, the world | Expensive |
High quality of education and academic standards | Strong workload |
Perfect English after graduation | The need to change the social environment; it takes time to adapt |
Useful contacts | The difficulty of choosing the most suitable school for the child, requires a qualified specialist |
Top 14 best schools in Switzerland 2024
1 | College Du Leman |
2 | St. Georges School Montreux |
3 | Institut Monte Rosa |
4 | Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz |
5 | Saint-Charles Collège et Lycée |
6 | Leysin American School |
7 | Hochalpines Institut Ftan AG High Alpine |
8 | Aiglon College Switzerland |
9 | Institut Le Rosey School |
10 | Institut Montana Zugerberg |
11 | Champittet College |
12 | Brillantmont International School |
13 | Surval Montreux |
14 | Ecole Pre Fleuri |
Literature and references
- Private schools — BBC
- Private schools — The Guardian
- Top 50 Best Value Private Schools
- Different types of private schools
- List of boarding schools in the United States — Wiki
- Top Boarding Schools in the Us List 2023
- 50 Most Elite Boarding Schools in the US
- Education in the USA
- American Education System — Study in the USA