Unveiling The Ultimate: Six Prestigious US Boarding Schools For Future Leaders

The Ten Schools Admission Organization (TSAO) member schools are distinguished learning institutions that offer holistic education in a boarding environment. Academic excellence and character development are core pillars within our school communities where resources and opportunities abound.

TSAO schools offer excellent academic curricula from highly qualified faculty in unparalleled facilities. We are each committed to a global learning environment where diversity is celebrated and community engagement is expected. Through our co-curricular programmes, student activities, and community focus, our schools are incubators for future leaders, offering several avenues for mentorship in an environment that encourages the exploration of ideas and initiatives.

While all TSAO schools offer unique opportunities and emphasise distinct values and programmes, each of us is committed to the transformative power of a boarding school education. Here, students are part of communities that invest deeply in their growth. As a result, we have proud alumni networks working across every field, eager to help the next generation of learners and leaders.

However, size, geographic location, residential life philosophy, and signature programmes may be factors to consider when differentiating between the Ten Schools.  Below are some facts and figures to help distinguish each institution: 

1) Phillips Academy Andover

• 1,150 students (75 percent boarding)
• Within the town of Andover, Massachusetts 
• 40 minutes by train or 30 minutes by car to Boston, MA
• Tang Institute, Peabody Institute of Archaeology, and the Addison Gallery of American Art

Phillips Academy Andover, founded in 1778, is one of the US’s oldest and most prestigious preparatory schools. Nestled in Andover, Massachusetts, it boasts a stunning campus featuring historic buildings and modern facilities. The school offers a rigorous academic curriculum emphasising liberal arts and enabling students to explore diverse subjects and foster critical thinking. Phillips Academy is renowned for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, cultivating a vibrant community where students from various backgrounds come together. Extracurricular activities flourish, with multiple sports, arts, and student clubs encouraging personal growth and leadership skills. Notable alumni, including US presidents and influential figures in various fields, underscore the school’s legacy of excellence. The emphasis on character development and innovative teaching methods prepare students for college and life beyond, making Phillips Academy a remarkable institution dedicated to nurturing future leaders.

2) Choate Rosemary Hall

• 860 students (75 percent boarding)
• Within the town of Wallingford, Connecticut
• 25 minutes to New Haven and Yale University, Two hours to New York City
• Eight signature academic programmes, including the Science Research Program, Advanced Robotics Concentration, Global Engagement Program, and JFK Program in Government and Public Service

Choate Rosemary Hall, founded in 1890, has a rigorous and holistic educational approach, offering an honours-based, liberal arts curriculum alongside innovative programmes in the sciences, arts, and humanities. The school is celebrated for its state-of-the-art campus facilities, including its newest building, Colony Hal—one of three buildings devoted to programming for the Paul Mellon Arts Center. Additional highlights include the LEED Platinum distinguished Kohler Environmental Center; and exceptional science and robotics labs. Choate’s culture fosters a diverse and inclusive community, encouraging students worldwide to build compassion and share perspectives. Extracurricular activities are abundant, with over 80 sports teams, around 100 student organisations,  a robust arts programme and community services, which promote leadership, collaboration, and creativity. The school emphasises character development and social responsibility, preparing students to become thoughtful and engaged citizens. This emphasis is further reinforced through its intentional housing system and advising programmes focusing on students’ experiences in every grade. With a legacy of notable alumni and a commitment to academic excellence, Choate Rosemary Hall continues to be a leader in secondary education.

3) Phillips Exeter Academy 

• 1104 students (81 percent boarding)
• In the town of Exeter, New Hampshire
• 60 minutes by car to Boston, MA
• All classes are taught in collaborative, Harkness-style classes of 10-12 students

Phillips Exeter Academy, founded in 1781, is in New Hampshire. It is one of the most prestigious independent secondary schools in the US. Renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum, the school uses the unique Harkness-style teaching method that encourages dynamic discussion and collaboration among students around oval tables. Phillips Exeter Academy offers a wide array of advanced courses across diverse disciplines. Its beautiful campus features historic architecture alongside modern facilities. The school prides itself on its commitment to diversity and inclusion, fostering a vibrant community where students from various backgrounds thrive. Beyond academics, Phillips Exeter Academy offers extensive extracurricular opportunities, including athletics, arts, and numerous clubs, encouraging students to explore their passions. With a rich history of notable alumni, including US presidents and influential leaders across various industries and disciplines, Phillips Exeter Academy continues to inspire and prepare students for success in higher education and beyond.

4) The Hill School

• 527 students (80 percent boarding)
• Located in Pottstown, Pennsylvania
• 60 minutes by car to Philadelphia, PA
• Signature programmes in entrepreneurship, engineering, and strategic world languages

Founded in 1851 and known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, The Hill School offers a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for leading colleges and universities. It promotes a balanced programme integrating arts, athletics, and character development into daily life. Its picturesque campus features historic buildings and modern facilities, providing a nurturing learning and personal growth environment. The Hill School’s commitment to the community is evident in its diverse student body, which fosters a spirit of inclusion and collaboration. The school encourages students to engage in extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and leadership opportunities that promote teamwork and personal development. With a tradition of excellence and a focus on developing well-rounded individuals, The Hill School prepares students with the skills and values needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.

5) St Paul’s School

• 539 Students (100 percent boarding)
• Located in Concord, New Hampshire, the state’s capital city
• 60 minutes by car to Boston, MA
• Signature programmes in Applied Science and Engineering and a Classical Honours

Established in 1856 and renowned for its rigorous academic programme and 2,000-acre campus, St. Paul’s offers a comprehensive curriculum emphasising critical thinking, creativity, and ethical leadership. The school’s campus features exceptional facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, art studios, and athletic venues. Community service and diversity are the cornerstones of St. Paul’s experience. Students from different backgrounds live in an inclusive residential environment where they collaborate, learn and grow together.  The school offers many extracurricular activities, including sports teams, performing arts, and clubs, and it encourages exploration and personal growth. With a legacy of notable alumni and a dedication to developing compassionate leaders, St. Paul’s School prepares students for academic success and meaningful contributions to society.

6) The Taft School

• 585 Students (80 percent boarding)
• Located in the town of Watertown, Connecticut
• 2 hours by car to New York City
• Signature programmes include internships at the Global Leadership Institute and New York Botanical Gardens

The Taft School in Watertown, Connecticut, is a distinguished co-educational boarding school founded in 1890. It offers a diverse and rigorous curriculum that includes university-level honours courses, a global studies and scholarship diploma, and independent tutorial opportunities for students to work one-on-one with faculty. The Taft School fosters critical thinking and creativity inside and outside the classroom. The campus is set on a picturesque 226-acre estate with an 18-hole golf course, historic buildings and modern facilities that provide students with an ideal learning environment.  The school strongly emphasises community service and character development, encouraging students to engage in various projects and leadership opportunities during the academic year. Numerous athletic teams, student clubs, and performing arts programmes promote teamwork and personal growth. The school’s commitment to diversity and inclusion cultivates a welcoming atmosphere for students from various backgrounds and over 40 nations worldwide.  With a legacy of accomplished alumni and a focus on nurturing well-rounded individuals, the Taft School prepares students for success in college and beyond, instilling values and creating friendships that last a lifetime.

These school representatives will visit India for the US Boarding School & Summer Programme Fair by TSAO in Mumbai on November 19 at St. Regis, Lower Parel, Mumbai, and November 21 at the Ambassador, New Delhi. While you must attend the fair, you may also want to explore other member schools like Deerfield Academy, The Hotchkiss Schools, The Lawrenceville School and The Loomis Chaffee School.  As you explore our schools, we hope you learn more about yourself. Families and schools alike aim to find the right fit.  While you will bring your whole, authentic self to the application process, we look forward to getting to supporting your educational journey. The connection you will build with your boarding school community will last a lifetime! You may also want to read  US Boarding Schools: Demystifying the Admissions Process For International Students and The Ten Schools Admissions Organization Travels to India.