West Nottingham Academy

1079 Firetower Road
Colora, MD 21917
At West Nottingham Academy, we seek to build a generation of resilient and capable leaders who are fueled by an entrepreneurial spirit, carry a deep sense of purpose, embody a desire to drive and inspire change, show empathy and affection for humanity, and are personally committed to addressing the issues we face as a race and as a planet.
Strong, capable students will do well at West Nottingham, but so will those who are struggling with a learning style difference or who have potential but who feel like they don't fit in.
You are perfect for us... round pegs in square holes, we are looking for you! Those who think differently will change the world.
We are not for everyone, but we will be everything for the 160 students who are part of our community.
Our Academic Plan will provide students with a four-year journey founded on the principles of creativity, leadership, and entrepreneurship: WNA provides a highly individualized program.
WNA offers a journey through the curriculum in an introspective, collaborative, hands-on, and action-oriented environment.
Communication, current events, and modern journalism are fundamental across all four years.
The Ignite Program will connect students with working professionals in their field of inquiry with the purpose of building their professional network.
WNA offers a dual diploma opportunity through a partnership with Columbus State University.
Our unique program will positively change your trajectory in the context of a warm, supportive, and nurturing environment.
WNA prides itself on its beautiful dormitories, delicious and healthy options in the dining hall, competitive athletics teams, and a truly diverse community.
WNA students come from the local community, the US, and from more than 20 different countries.
Our 100-acre campus is secluded and rural, yet only a short drive to and from Philadelphia, Baltimore, New York City, and Washington D.C.

Quick Stats (2024)

  • Grades: (Boarding) 9-12, PG
  • Enrollment: 120 students
  • Yearly Tuition (Boarding Students): $64,075
  • Yearly Tuition (Day Students): $17,949
  • Acceptance rate: 50%
  • Average class size: 10 students
  • Application Deadline: Feb. 1 / Jul. 15 / rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

West Nottingham Academy ranks among the top 20 boarding schools (out of 285 schools) for:

School Overview

Definition of Terms | 2023 School Data
West Nottingham Academy
Boarding School Avg.
School Focus
College Preparatory
College Preparatory
Grades Offered (Boarding)
9-12, PG
9-12
School Type
Co-ed
Co-ed
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Supports Learning Differences (LD)
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
All
n/a
Religious Affiliation
Non-denominational
Year Founded
1744
1906
Campus Size
100 acres
126 acres

Student Body

Enrollment
120 students
319 students
% Students of Color
40%
25%
% International Students
50%
20%
% Students Boarding
85%
70%
Average SAT Score
1200
(Out of 1600)
* National Avg. »View
Average ACT score
24
(Out of 36)
*National Avg. »View
Offers Post-Grad Year
Yes
No

Academics and Faculty

Saturday Classes
No
No
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Business Casual
Casual
Average Class Size
10 students
12
* National Avg. »18
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
7:1
# of AP / Advanced Courses Offered
130
18
ESL Courses Offered
Yes
% Faculty with Advanced Degree
85%
71%
Summer Program Offered
Yes

Tuition Cost

Endowment Size
$5 million
$27 million
Yearly Tuition
(Boarding Students)
$64,075
$65,000
Yearly Tuition
(Day Students)
$17,949
$35,600
Tuition international students
$73,140
$57,300
Yearly Tuition
(5 Day Boarding)
$51,200
$47,500
% Students on Financial Aid
50%
40%
Merit Scholarships Offered
No

Acceptance Rate

Application Deadline
Feb. 1 / Jul. 15 / rolling
Jan. 15
Acceptance Rate
50%
60%
Director of Admissions
Maureen Cannon
Akiko Brownstein

AP / Advanced Courses

# of AP / Advanced Courses Offered
130
18
Courses
Aspiring Artist Program, B/C Calculus, Biology, Chemistry, European History, French, Independent Study, Physics, Spanish, Statistics, Studio Art, United States History, Will offer prep in any AP based on student interest

Sports

Extracurriculars

Total Extracurricular Organizations
9
23
Extracurriculars
Club or Organization:
Environmental Sustainability, Music Club, Phi Sigma Pi, Spartans & Athenians, United Nations Assembly, Yearbook

Arts and Music Programs:
Lambda Alpha, Stage Crew

Recreational Athletic Programs:
Outdoor Adventure - Biking / Climbing

College Matriculation

Year:
10 Most Popular College Choices  (# Enrolled)

School Notes

  • LD types supported: All
  • West Nottingham Academy accreditations: The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS), Small Boarding Schools Associations (SBSA), National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges (MSA-CESS)
  • Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
    • Samuel Finley - Founder of WNA and 5th president of Princeton University
    • Benjamin Rush - Signer of the Declaration of Independence and prominent early physician
    • Richard Stockton - Signer of the Declaration of Independence
    • Ebenezer Hazzard - 1st United States Postmaster General
    • William Shippen & John Morgan - Founders of the University of Pennsylvania Medical School
    • Alexander Martin - Former governor of North Carolina
    • Josh Boone - NCAA Champion (UCONN), Former NBA Player (Nets)
    • Ross Cameron - President of Charms Candy
    • Eric Fischl - World renowned artist and sculptor
    • Taylor Crothers - Professional photographer, famous for working with the Dave Matthews Band and Phish
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does West Nottingham Academy cost?
West Nottingham Academy's tuition is approximately $64,075 for boarding students and $17,949 for day students.
What is the acceptance rate of West Nottingham Academy?
The acceptance rate of West Nottingham Academy is 50%, which is lower than the boarding school average of 60%.
Who are famous alumni from West Nottingham Academy?
West Nottingham Academy famous alumni include: Samuel Finley, Benjamin Rush, Richard Stockton, Ebenezer Hazzard, William Shippen & John Morgan, Alexander Martin, Josh Boone, Ross Cameron, Eric Fischl and Taylor Crothers.
What sports does West Nottingham Academy offer?
West Nottingham Academy offers 11 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Cross Country Running, Dance, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Volleyball and Wrestling.
What is West Nottingham Academy's ranking?
West Nottingham Academy ranks among the top 20 boarding schools for High percentage of international students, High # of AP/advanced courses offered and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for West Nottingham Academy?
The application deadline for West Nottingham Academy is Feb. 1 / Jul. 15 / rolling (applications are due on Feb. 1 / Jul. 15 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).

Alumni Reviews Review School

Review
Description

Class of 1999
5.00
EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY
Small classes helped me out tremendously. All teachers made sure you were involved. No hiding in the back like other schools. An all male freshmen dorm was very big towards gaining independence as a 14. . .

Class of 1999
5.00
McDaniel College (Western Maryland)
West Nottingham was where I went to school and lived while I was growing up. I have returned to work here this past year (2021). My parents worked here and credit this place with making. . .

Class of 2010
5.00
Dickinson College
West Nottingham had a lot of international students-- WNA was in a very white county in Maryland, and I had the opportunity to meet people of all different backgrounds while I was there. Also, the. . .
Show more reviews (7 reviews)
Submit Review for West Nottingham Academy
Earn $20 by submitting your alumni review!

Recent Articles

Is Boarding School Right for Your Child?
Is Boarding School Right for Your Child?
Are you wondering whether boarding school is right for your child? Answer these five questions and you will be better able to determine whether it is.
Considering a Military School?
Considering a Military School?
If you are looking for a college preparatory education with a military emphasis, then take a look at military schools.
Are You a Good Fit for Our Job?
Are You a Good Fit for Our Job?
Here is some practical advice to help applicants stand out and increase their chances of securing an interview in the competitive boarding school job market.

Featured Schools

Quick Stats (2024)

  • Grades: (Boarding) 9-12, PG
  • Enrollment: 120 students
  • Yearly Tuition (Boarding Students): $64,075
  • Yearly Tuition (Day Students): $17,949
  • Acceptance rate: 50%
  • Average class size: 10 students
  • Application Deadline: Feb. 1 / Jul. 15 / rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Request Information

Quick Links