Milton Hershey School offers a top-notch education, state-of-the-art facilities, advanced technology and a wide array of activities to children in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade from families of low income.
This cost-free, private, coeducational school in Hershey, PA is funded by a trust established by Milton and Catherine Hershey.
The school provides a positive, structured home life year-round and an excellent education, focusing on the whole child.
Our vision centers on high-quality academics, college preparation, career readiness and providing children with the skills necessary to be successful in all aspects of life.
Quick Stats (2023-24)
- Grades: (Boarding) Pre-K-12
- Enrollment: 2,189 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Milton Hershey School ranks among the top 20 boarding schools (out of 289 schools) for:
Category
Attribute
Community Size
Boarding Focus
School Overview
School Focus
College Preparatory
College Preparatory
Grades Offered (Boarding)
Pre-K-12
9-12
School Type
Co-ed
Co-ed
Year Founded
1909
1906
Campus Size
7000 acres
130 acres
Student Body
Enrollment
2189 students
314 students
% Students Boarding
100%
70%
Offers Post-Grad Year
No
No
Academics and Faculty
Saturday Classes
No
No
Student : Teacher Ratio
9:1
7:1
# of AP / Advanced Courses Offered
10
17
ESL Courses Offered
No
Yes
Tuition Cost
Yearly Tuition
(Boarding Students)
(Boarding Students)
n/a
$63,120
Yearly Tuition
(Day Students)
(Day Students)
n/a
$35,700
Merit Scholarships Offered
No
No
Acceptance Rate
SSAT Required
Yes
Yes
Sports
# Interscholastic Sports Offered
15
16
School Notes
- In 1909, Milton Hershey School began as a dream and vision by the famous chocolate maker Milton S. Hershey and his wife, Catherine.
- Today, MHS thrives as a cost-free, private, coeducational home and school for more than 2,000 students from families of lower income. Students receive an excellent pre-K through 12th-grade education, nurturing home life year-round, college and career readiness support, and comprehensive health and wellness care, including medical and dental care, food, and clothing.
- Under the leadership of President Pete Gurt `85, MHS continues the work and proud legacy of our founders. Our employees lead by example, serving our students while enjoying careers worth every minute - and we are always searching for committed and qualified people to join our MHS community. We continue to grow and serve more children in need with a clear focus to continually enhance and expand upon the programs, resources, and services we offer so students can be their greatest selves.
- Milton Hershey School accreditations: Pennsylvania Association of Independent Schools (PAIS), Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA)
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
What sports does Milton Hershey School offer?
Milton Hershey School offers 15 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cheering, Cross Country, Cross Country Running, Field Hockey, Football, Ice Hockey, Soccer, Swimming, Swimming and Diving, Track, Track and Field, Volleyball and Wrestling.
What is Milton Hershey School's ranking?
Milton Hershey School ranks among the top 20 boarding schools for Large student body (number of students) and High percentage of boarding students.
When is the application deadline for Milton Hershey School?
The application deadline for Milton Hershey School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
Milton Hershey School or MHS (or The Milt to many alumni) is a private boarding school in Central Pennsylvania for socially disadvantaged children. There is no cost to attend MHS. However, during the admission process. . .
Related Schools
Show me:
People that viewed Milton Hershey School also viewed these schools: Valley Forge Military Academy, Lawrenceville School, Massanutten Military Academy, Westtown School and Phillips Exeter Academy.
The nearest boarding school to Milton Hershey School is Linden Hall (19.1 miles away)
School
Location
Miles
Grades
Students
250 students 67.3 miles 1001 Eagle Road
Wayne, PA 19087
(610) 989-1200
Wayne, PA 19087
(610) 989-1200
67.3
7-12
250
815 students 100.3 miles 2500 Main Street, PO Box 6008
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
(609) 895-2030
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
(609) 895-2030
100.3
9-12, PG
815
165 students 138.9 miles 614 South Main Street
Woodstock, VA 22664
(540) 459-2167
Woodstock, VA 22664
(540) 459-2167
138.9
5-12, PG
165
366 students 61.9 miles 975 Westtown Rd
West Chester, PA 19382
(610) 399-7900
West Chester, PA 19382
(610) 399-7900
61.9
9-12
PK-12
PK-12
366
1,080 students 347.9 miles 20 Main Street
Exeter, NH 03833
(603) 777-3437
Exeter, NH 03833
(603) 777-3437
347.9
9-12, PG
1,080
Recent Articles
Navigating the Modern Maze: Emerging Challenges for Boarding Schools
Explore the pressing challenges facing boarding schools, from marketing difficulties and rising insurance costs to facility maintenance and recruitment of competent trustees and teachers. This article delves into these complex issues and proposes innovative strategies to overcome them.
What To Wear at Your Job Interview
Navigating job interviews can be stressful, but knowing what to wear shouldn't be. Our comprehensive guide covers the essential dress code tips for men and women interviewing at boarding schools. Make your first impression count with style and professionalism.
July 23, 2023
Boarding School Pros and Cons: History and Common MisconceptionsWe address common misconceptions about boarding schools, shedding light on the actual experiences versus perceived notions. Ideal for parents contemplating this educational choice for their children, the essay provides a balanced perspective on the topic.
