Choosing a School

This article has been updated to reflect 2026 data and recent developments.

The staff wrote this article on Boarding Schools in the USA.

Arts programs are an especially appealing aspect of selecting a U.S. boarding school. You may be narrowing your search to U.S. programs because contemporary and traditional art forms flourish in this country, and many of our boarding schools excel in arts instruction and practice.

To be sure, arts programs vary widely. Some programs specialize in visual art (drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, and computer graphics), theatre (acting and theatre design), dance (ballet, jazz, or modern), creative writing, music (vocal or instrumental), or filmmaking. Other schools offer relatively little instruction in the arts and specialize more in outdoor activities, military training, etc.

In 2026, these choices include both traditional boarding schools with strong arts offerings and specialized pre-professional schools. Boarding School Review lists four U.S. pre-professional arts boarding schools for the 2026-27 school year.

When choosing a boarding school in the U.S.A., it is important to match your interests and goals, which may change over time, with the school's strengths.

Research each school's offerings to see if the arts are part of your interests and passions. Spend time reading the school's literature and visiting its website. Be sure to look for the qualifications of the teachers, who may themselves be artists, and the range and level of available courses. Examine the facilities available, the theater, studios, and practice rooms. If possible, visit the school

This article has been updated to reflect 2026 data and recent developments.

When searching for the perfect boarding school, visiting campuses is a crucial step. It allows parents and students to get a firsthand experience of the school's atmosphere, facilities, and community.

Do you like large schools or small schools?

• Are you most comfortable in a city, a small town, or the countryside?
• Are you interested in attending a school that has a religious or military orientation?
• Would you like to attend a school that is only for boys or girls?

These are some of the questions to ask before you begin your search for the U.S. boarding school that's right for you and your child. You can also use Find Boarding Schools to compare schools based on the characteristics that matter to your family.

Single-Sex Schools

• Single-sex schools, those for boys only or girls only, are some of the oldest boarding schools in the U.S.A.
• As a student at one of these schools, you will have the chance to study in a less socially distracting atmosphere.
• For girls, single-sex schools can often provide a greater opportunity to pursue leadership roles in both academic and extracurricular life.

Families considering this option can learn more about Girls’ vs. Boys’ Boarding Schools: Key Differences.

Military Schools

Military secondary schools have the same advantages as other boarding schools.

• However, they also instill the values and importance of teamwork, dedication, and discipline.
• Uniforms and drilling are often required.

Florida Preparatory