Boarding Schools for Students to Excel and Thrive
If you’re exploring school options beyond the traditional public, private, or charter school route, boarding schools in or near New York are definitely worth a closer look. These schools offer structured learning environments, built-in academic support, and a strong sense of community, all in one place to help your child blossom. Many also provide top-notch extracurriculars, college prep, and opportunities to foster leadership and confidence. Whether you’re seeking a stronger academic fit, more structure, or additional support and resources, boarding schools can be a solid all-around option for many students and families. After all, the right school can provide the structure and guidance your child needs to thrive now and in the future. Here are some excellent programs to consider.
Bard Academy & Simon’s Rock at Bard College
30 Seminary drive, Barrytown, NY
413-644-4400, admit@simons-rock.edu
Bard Academy and Simon’s Rock at Bard College are designed for students ready to enter college early. Complete ninth and tenth
grade at Bard Academy, then start college early at Simon’s Rock to earn an A.A. degree, then matriculate to Bard College to earn a B.A.
degree. Bard Academy and Simon’s Rock have relocated to a new campus adjacent to Bard College in Barrytown, NY. Bard Academy
and Simon’s Rock offer a curriculum in the liberal arts and sciences, taught by supportive, highly trained faculty who are leading scholars
in their field. Simon’s Rock is committed to the pillars of innovative early college education that have formed the foundation of the
Simon’s Rock experience for over 50 years.
EF Academy
582 Columbus Ave, Thornwood, NY
914-495-6056
At a modern private day and boarding high school in Westchester County, students become part of a dynamic, diverse community representing over 60 nationalities. EF Academy offers the prestigious IB Diploma Program, preparing students for global academic excellence, while each student receives personalized, one-to-one university guidance to craft their unique path to higher education. For added flexibility, the school provides a distinctive 5-day boarding program that combines the benefits of residential life with the comforts of home on weekends. At EF Academy, students are not just educated—they are empowered to thrive in the real world.
Harrow International School New York
500 Montauk Highway
631-869-1572, admissions@harrownewyork.com
Harrow International School New York, situated on its extraordinary 170-acre Long Island waterfront campus between New York City and the Hamptons, offers a prestigious boarding and day school for grades 6–12. Rooted in 450 years of British traditions, the school provides the IB MYP and IB DP, blending rigorous academics with real-world readiness. Flexible options include 5-day boarding with weekend returns, 7-day boarding, or day school. Advanced facilities such as science labs, arts centers, and athletic fields support a holistic approach to development. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, while a strong pastoral care system fosters leadership, confidence, and character. With a global student body and a values-driven community, Harrow New York nurtures well-rounded, future-ready individuals. Learn more at harrownewyork.com.
Ross School’s mission is to change how education meets the future by fostering interdisciplinary, integrated thinking and innovative leadership, engaging fully in the global community, and facilitating lifelong learning. A co-educational boarding school (grades 7–12 and postgraduate) and day school (preschool–12th grade and postgraduate), Ross is located on two beautiful campuses in East Hampton and Bridgehampton, New York, about two hours east of New York City. Serving approximately 320 students and attracting a world-class faculty, the school offers a global, integrated curriculum with engaging courses in science, math, arts, humanities, and wellness, along with opportunities for independent study, competitive athletics, extracurricular activities, and travel. With an emphasis on direct personal experiences, inquiry through primary sources, and hands-on interpretation and analysis of information, Ross School prepares students for success beyond the classroom. The school boasts a strong college placement program, with 100% of applicants receiving acceptances at competitive colleges and universities.
