Benefits of Residential Education

Click to see infographic.

There are numerous benefits available for all students who attend a boarding school, regardless of whether or not the school offers a specific focus. Smaller class sizes allow for teachers to have more individual interaction with students, which ensures each student is being challenged in ways that help them grow academically. As teachers and staff reside alongside students, they are given the opportunity to learn outside the classroom during teachable moments as they naturally occur.

This allows students a chance for more comprehensive development based on the concrete and realistic application of what is taught in that moment. Participation in extracurricular activities is another commonality boarding schools share. In fact, students who attend a boarding school participate in more sports, arts, and other extracurricular activities than those enrolled in standard public schools.

The safe and secure environment provided to students of boarding schools allows them a measure of controlled freedom that results in the formation of self-reliance. This development is unique to the boarding school experience, and as students manage peer relationships, academic requirements, and personal responsibilities, they are preparing themselves for a smooth transition into adulthood. Eighty percent of students who attended boarding school reported feeling well prepared for both the academic and non-academic aspects of college life.

Boarding School Tuition Costs

Costs can vary based on the school’s region, the programs being offered, and the number of faculty and staff required for supporting the student body. Parents can generally expect to see boarding school yearly tuition fees to fall anywhere in the range of $10,000 to upwards of $35,000, though scholarships and financial aid grants are usually available for those who qualify. Some boarding schools even offer free tuition for all their students provided they meet the income requirements set forth by the school.

St. Paul’s School and Phillips Exeter Academy, both located in New Hampshire, offer free tuition to students from families with an income of less than $80,000 or $75,000, respectively. It is important to keep in mind that lower tuition rates may not offer the most financial benefit as some schools don’t include the room and board or other fees in their tuition costs. Be sure to investigate all costs associated with attending each boarding school considered, and compare them accordingly.