Boarding School Glossary: A Parent’s Guide to the Language of Boarding Education
For families exploring boarding school options, the vocabulary alone can feel overwhelming. Terms like “Harkness,” “form dean,” “matriculation,” or “postgraduate year” are part of daily life on campus, but they may be unfamiliar to prospective students and parents.
This updated 2026 boarding school glossary clarifies the most common academic, residential, and extracurricular terminology used at independent boarding schools. Whether you are comparing programs, attending an admissions interview, or reviewing a school handbook, understanding this language will help you navigate the process with confidence.
If you are new to the process, you may also find it helpful to review our overview of What Is Boarding School? and How to Choose a Boarding School.
Academic Terms
Advanced Placement, AP
College-level courses developed by the College Board, culminating in standardized exams. Many boarding schools continue to offer AP classes, though some have shifted toward advanced, school-designed curricula that emphasize depth over standardized testing.
International Baccalaureate, IB
A globally recognized curriculum administered by the International Baccalaureate Organization. Some boarding schools offer the IB Diploma Programme, which emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, research, and global awareness.
Harkness Method
A student-centered discussion model in which students sit around an oval table and lead the conversation collaboratively. Originally developed at Phillips Exeter Academy, the method is now widely adopted across independent schools. Teachers act as facilitators rather than lecturers.
Matriculation
The college a student attends after graduating from boarding school. Schools often publish matriculation lists each spring to highlight college placement outcomes.
Postgraduate Year, PG
An optional additional year of high school after graduation. Students pursue a PG year to strengthen academic records, improve athletic recruitment prospects, or gain maturity before college.
STEM and STEAM
STEM refers to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. STEAM adds the arts, reflecting the integrated approach many schools now take. In 2026, boarding schools increasingly emphasize AI literacy, coding, and applied research within STEM curricula.
Residential Life Terms
Dormitory, Dorm
The residence hall where boarding students live. Dormitories are typically organized by grade or gender, although many schools now offer gender-inclusive housing options.
Dorm Parent or House Parent
Faculty members who live in the dorm and supervise students. They provide mentorship, enforce rules, and create a family-like atmosphere.
Proctor or Prefect
Senior students appointed to leadership roles within dorms. Proctors help maintain community standards and serve as peer mentors.
Lights Out
A designated time when students are expected to be in their rooms and quiet. Policies vary by grade level.
Study Hall
A supervised period in the evening when students complete homework. Even as technology has evolved, structured study time remains central to boarding school routines.
Weekend Leave
Permission for a student to leave campus overnight, typically to visit family or attend an event. Leave policies differ by school and student standing.
Admissions and Financial Terms
SSAT
The Secondary School Admission Test, administered by the Enrollment Management Association. Many schools remain test-optional in 2026, but SSAT scores may still strengthen an application.
ISEE
The Independent School Entrance Exam, another standardized admissions test accepted by some boarding schools.
Need-Blind Admission
A policy in which a school evaluates applicants without considering their ability to pay tuition.
Financial Aid
Tuition assistance awarded based on demonstrated financial need. According to the National Association of Independent Schools, approximately 25 percent of students at independent schools receive financial aid, with average awards increasing steadily in recent years.
Families exploring affordability may wish to read How Much Does Boarding School Cost?.
Academic Calendar and Scheduling
Block Schedule
A system in which students take fewer classes at a time for longer periods. For example, students may take three 90-minute classes per term instead of six shorter daily periods.
Trimester or Term
Many boarding schools divide the academic year into three terms rather than two semesters.
Independent Study
A course designed by a student in collaboration with a faculty advisor. Independent studies are increasingly common in 2026, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, environmental science, and entrepreneurship.
Student Life and Extracurricular Terms
Advisory
A small group of students assigned to a faculty advisor who provides academic guidance and personal mentorship throughout the year.
Co-Curricular
Activities that complement academics, including arts, athletics, clubs, and service programs. Boarding schools emphasize co-curricular participation as central to character development.
Varsity, JV, and Club Sports
Varsity: Highest level of interscholastic competition
Junior Varsity, JV: Developmental competitive level
Club: Recreational or interest-based athletics
For more on this topic, see The Benefits of Boarding School Athletics.
Chapel or Assembly
Many boarding schools, including secular institutions, hold regular community gatherings for announcements, speakers, or reflection. While some schools retain religious traditions, many have transitioned toward inclusive, values-based programming.
Discipline and Community Standards
Honor Code
A student-led system emphasizing academic integrity and personal responsibility. Students may pledge not to lie, cheat, or steal.
Deans’ Office
The administrative office responsible for student conduct, attendance, and academic standing.
Probation
A formal warning indicating that a student must improve behavior or academic performance.
Restorative Justice
An approach to discipline focused on dialogue and repairing harm rather than punishment alone. In 2026, more schools are incorporating restorative practices into conduct policies.
College Counseling Terms College Counseling Office
The department guiding students through the college search and application process.
Early Decision, ED
A binding college application option in which a student commits to attending if admitted.
Early Action, EA
A non-binding early application option.
Gap Year
A year taken after high school graduation before starting college. Boarding schools increasingly provide structured gap year counseling.
You may also find our article on Boarding School vs. Day School: Key Differences helpful when evaluating long-term goals.
Emerging Terms in 2026
Boarding schools continue to evolve, and so does their vocabulary.
AI Literacy
Courses and programs designed to teach responsible and effective use of artificial intelligence tools. Schools are developing clear policies around generative AI while integrating it into research and writing instruction.
Global Immersion
Short-term study abroad programs or international service experiences embedded within the school year.
Wellness Curriculum
Structured programming focused on mental health, mindfulness, sleep education, and digital balance.
DEI or Belonging Initiatives
Programs that promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Many schools now refer to this work simply as “belonging” to emphasize community integration.
Quick Reference Table
| Category | Key Terms | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Academics | AP, IB, Harkness, PG | Defines academic rigor and learning style |
| Residential Life | Dorm Parent, Proctor, Study Hall | Shapes daily student experience |
| Admissions | SSAT, Need-Blind, Financial Aid | Impacts access and affordability |
| Student Life | Advisory, Varsity, Co-Curricular | Reflects holistic development |
| Discipline | Honor Code, Probation | Establishes expectations and accountability |
Why Understanding the Boarding School Glossary Matters
Boarding school is not simply a different educational setting; it is a fully immersive community. The terminology reflects traditions that date back centuries as well as innovations shaping education in 2026.
When families understand the boarding school glossary, they can:
Ask more informed questions during tours and interviews
Better interpret school websites and viewbooks
Evaluate cultural fit alongside academic offerings
Support students as they transition into campus life
Most importantly, familiarity with these terms empowers students to feel confident from their first day on campus.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a boarding school is a significant decision. The language schools use may initially seem specialized, but it reflects a comprehensive educational model designed to foster independence, intellectual curiosity, and community engagement.
As boarding schools continue adapting to technological change, global connectivity, and evolving student needs, new terminology will emerge. Yet the core values remain consistent: rigorous academics, structured residential life, mentorship, and preparation for college and beyond.
For families beginning their search, start by learning the language. Once the terminology becomes clear, the broader vision of boarding education becomes much easier to understand.
