Best Boarding Schools in Illinois | 2024

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Most prestigious boarding schools in the US are located in Illinois. Deciding from the best of them, nevertheless, is necessary. View our list of the Top Boarding Schools in Illinois for Boys and Girls for 2024.

In Illinois, boarding schools provide a wider range of extracurricular activities than day schools. Additionally, they encourage kids to engage in more social activities and support kids in developing better and more independent decision-making skills.

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Additionally, boarding schools in Illinois have made it easier for kids to transition from elementary school to college and beyond. They continue to assist pupils in learning how to handle their affairs and those of others.

Enroll your child in one of the best boarding schools to get a fuller grasp of contemporary boarding schools and the relative worth of the boarding school experience.

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This article will give you details on the best boarding schools in Illinois. So sit tight and read!!

Are there Boarding Schools in Illinois?

In Illinois, there are a few boarding schools. But what’s most intriguing is how distinctive these boarding institutions are.

There are roughly 10 boarding schools in Illinois if you are looking for the top boarding schools for your child.

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They are:

  • Lake Forest Academy
  • Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart
  • Brehm Preparatory School
  • Saint Bede Academy
  • Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
  • Amerigo Chicago North Shore Carmel Catholic High School
  • Chicago Hope Academy
  • Mooseheart Child City & School
  • Gateway Legacy Christian Academy

See More Boarding School: Best Boarding Schools In Oregon

How Much Do Boarding Schools in Illinois Cost?

According to the Boarding School Review, the average annual tuition for boarding schools in the US is $56,875.

However, additional expenses are related to a child’s education, such as feeding, books, and other expenses.

Always check with the school to see if they have financial aid programs or payment plans if you truly want to send your child to a boarding school but have little money to spend.

Check Also: Best Boarding Schools in Florida

Are there Cheap Boarding Schools in Illinois?

The costs of sending a child to boarding school often come as a shock to the families who are considering it.

They always inquire whether there are any free or inexpensive boarding schools because of this. While it isn’t entirely free, plenty of scholarships are available.

In reality, there aren’t many free or inexpensive boarding schools in the United States. The cheap ones generally face stiff competition to be accepted.

An example is Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, which is tuition-free.

You Should Check Out: Best Boarding Schools in Ohio

What are the Best Boarding Schools in Illinois?

One of the most crucial choices parents can make is the school their child will attend. You may be wondering, what Illinois boarding schools are the best for your child to attend?

We have ranked the best boarding schools in Illinois and provided a list below.

Don’t Fail to Read: Best Boarding Schools in Washington State

1. Brehm Preparatory School

  • Nature of School: Coed
  • Enrollment Rate: 91%
  • Student to Teacher Ratio: 6:1

For children with learning difficulties in grades 6 through 12, Brehm Preparatory School is a co-educational, not-for-profit 501 college preparatory day and residential school.

It can be found in Illinois’ Carbondale. As students settle in, Brehm Preparatory School’s exceptional residential community rapidly turns into their “home away from home.”

Furthermore, Brehm Preparatory School’s close-knit community, where faculty and students become one big family, is one of its key features. Establishing mutual accountability between members. 

Every student is different and must find his or her path to academic, social, and emotional success is also acknowledged.

Students learn to be courteous to others in the dorms and form responsible behaviors. Additionally, take good care of your private and public spaces, and protect the environment.

Also, the only junior and senior high school in the Midwest of the United States that is accredited is Brehm School. 

They are specifically set up to support students with learning difficulties and attention deficit disorder in terms of their academic, social, and emotional requirements.

Brehm School is pleased to have received accreditation for serving students with disabilities from ISACS, NCA, and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE).

Additionally, these tenets still serve as the cornerstone of Brehm, one of Illinois’ top private boarding schools.

Also, with their generous financial aid program, we can state that this school’s tuition is reasonable, given the attendance expense. 

However, the cost of tuition for the 2024 academic year is $77,500 for boarders and $46,500 for day students, respectively.

More specifically, 23% of Brehm Preparatory School students receive financial help.

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See Also: Best Boarding Schools in Georgia

2. Lake Forest Academy

  • Nature of School: Coed
  • Enrollment Rate: 40%
  • Student to Teacher Ratio: 7:1

The Lake Forest Academy primarily serves students in grades 9 through 12 and is a coed day and residential school. 

There are now 260 boys and girls enrolled in the school, with an average class size of 12, and it is situated on the North Shore of Lake Forest, Illinois, in the United States.

However, the exceptional residential setting at Lake Forest Academy makes for the ideal environment for children to learn. It consists of 52% day students and 48% residential students.

Almost 200 of Lake Forest Academy’s students live on campus in residence halls with capacities ranging from 10 to 72 students, which is an essential feature of the school. These borders come from throughout Illinois, the United States, and the rest of the world.

For students whose academic performance indicates a need for a more closely supervised environment, LFA also provides a Structured Study Hall.

Because of this, Lake Forest Academy has grown to become one of Illinois’ top private boarding schools while maintaining its core values.

Due to the high percentage of financial aid, it is possible to conclude that studying at Lake is affordable in terms of tuition.

The tuition for the 2024 academic year is $61,500 for boarding students and $45,950 for day students, respectively.

At Lake Forest Academy, 30% of students are given financial aid and scholarships.

Lastly, the Independent School Association of the Central States, the National Association of Independent Schools, and the State of Illinois all accredited Lake Forest Academy, which is the most significant fact.

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Check Also: Best Boarding Schools in California

3. Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart

  • Nature of School: All-girls
  • Enrollment Rate: 98%
  • Student to Teacher Ratio: 6:1

The Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart serves students in grades 9 through 12 and is a private Roman Catholic boarding and day high school. 

There are now 260 boys and girls enrolled in the school, which is situated in Lake Forest, Illinois, to the north of Chicago, with an average class size of 12.

However, the exceptional residential location at Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart offers the ideal atmosphere for students’ educational experiences. Comprising 52% of day students and 48% of boarding students.

Also, the Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart develops driven young women for lives of courage and confidence, which is an important part of the school. 

Consequently, teaching them how to find their purpose, develop their skills and passions, and commit to serving as citizens of the world.

Additionally, their curriculum draws students eager to participate in school life and with a strong drive to succeed academically.

Because of this, Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart has grown to become one of Illinois’ top private boarding schools, and its founding beliefs continue to guide it.

We may say that Woodlands’s tuition is reasonable because a significant percentage of financial aid is available. 

For 5-day boarding, 7-day boarding, and day students, the tuition for the 2024 academic year is $50,600, $59,200, and $29,400.

Most Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart students get financial help and scholarships—30% of them. 

Lastly, the Independent Schools Association of the Central States and the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools fully accredited Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart.

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You Should Check Out: Best Boarding Schools In Utah

4. Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy

  • Nature of School: Public
  • Enrollment Rate: 65%
  • Student to Teacher Ratio: 12:1

For students in grades 10 through 12, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy is a top-rated public magnet high school that offers both day and boarding options.

It can be found in Aurora, Illinois, in the US. The exceptional residential community at Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy quickly turns into the kids’ “home away from home” as they settle in.

However, the development of innovative, moral leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics is a significant accomplishment of the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy. 

In addition to being a public boarding school, IMSA serves as a statewide catalyst for developing STEM teaching and learning.

Additionally, Niche.com has ranked it as the second-best public high school in the nation and the first in Illinois.

Students build their interpersonal and social skills in the dorms along with their academic abilities.

Furthermore, the academic program at IMSA specifically trains students to become daring questioners, problem solvers, and integrative thinkers.

Also, the Illinois General Assembly provides funding for IMSA, one of the top public boarding schools in Illinois today.

We may state that this school’s tuition is reasonable given its generous financial aid program in terms of the cost of attending. 

However, they do this because they think all students should have the chance to join the Academy, regardless of their financial situation.

Lastly, students at Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy receive financial aid in the amount of 23%.

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See Also: Best Boarding Schools in New York

5. Saint Bede Academy

  • Nature of School: Private & Coed
  • Enrollment Rate: 85%
  • Student to Teacher Ratio: 11:1

For students in grades 9 through 12, Saint Bede Academy is a private, coed, Catholic boarding and day school with a Benedictine ethos. 

There are 292 boys and girls enrolled at the school, located in Peru, Illinois, in the United States, with an average class size of 12.

However, with 11 percent boarding students and 89 percent day students, Saint Bede Academy has a remarkable residential environment that offers the ideal atmosphere for students’ educational experiences.

One significant feature of St. Bede Academy pupils is that they will have a lifelong dedication to learning in addition to being prepared to seek post-secondary education.

Additionally, because of their tri-level academic program, their curriculum is customized to each student’s unique skills and pushes them to succeed. Additionally, it takes great satisfaction to provide a college prep program.

As a result, Saint Bede Academy has become one of Illinois’s top private boarding high schools while maintaining its core values.

Also, we may say that this school’s tuition is reasonable because many students get financial aid.

The tuition for the 2024–2025 academic year is $35,000 for boarding students and $13,324 for day students, respectively.

Most significantly, financial help and scholarships are awarded to 78 percent of Saint Bede Academy students. The North Central Association of Colleges and Schools has granted Saint Bede Academy accreditation, which is crucial.

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Read Also: Best Boarding Schools In Chicago

6. Amerigo Chicago North Shore Carmel Catholic High School

Nature of School: Private & Coed

Enrollment Rate: 95%

Student to Teacher Ratio: 10:1

With all the exciting opportunities of a surrounding large metropolis, Carmel Catholic High School and its international student partner Amerigo Chicago North Shore offer a supportive and demanding study environment.

However, from grades 9 through 12, boarding students attend this institution. There are 1150 students enrolled there, and boarding students pay an annual tuition of $64,650.

Moreover, 25 pupils make up the average class size.

The best 10 boarding schools include Amerigo Chicago North Shore Carmel Catholic High School.

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7. Chicago Hope Academy

  • Nature of School: Private & Coed
  • Enrollment Rate: 90%
  • Student to Teacher Ratio: 11:1

This is a highly regarded private boarding Christian school. Chicago Hope Academy is situated in CHICAGO, IL. With 273 students in grades 9 through 12, it has an 11 to 1 student-to-teacher ratio. 

However, for the highest grade available, tuition is $15,500. Ninety percent of graduates from this institution enroll in a four-year university.

Also, it is a Christian high school that prepares students for college and adult life. Our mission is to develop and challenge each student’s body, mind, and spirit for the glory of God.

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8. Mooseheart Child City & School

  • Nature of School: Private & Coed
  • Enrollment Rate: 90%
  • Student to Teacher Ratio: 4:1

A safe and loving community for kids is what Mooseheart strives to give. Within a disciplined family environment, students can realize their intellectual, social, and spiritual potential. 

However, the school lives by the simple tenet, “Enter to Learn, Leave to Serve.”

By offering a distinctive, tuition-free education on our secure 1000-acre campus, Mooseheart prepares students for life. 

Also, under the guidance of our professionally qualified Family Teachers, who serve as role models and social and independent living skills instructors, students are given a well-rounded education that includes extracurricular activities.

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9. Gateway Legacy Christian Academy

  • Nature of School: Private & Coed
  • Enrollment Rate: 95%
  • Student to Teacher Ratio: 18:1

Gateway Legacy Christian Academy in GLEN CARBON, Illinois, is an exceptional private boarding school. With 230 students in grades PK–12, it has an 18:1 student–teacher ratio. 

However, for the highest grade available, tuition is $37,600. Seventy percent of graduates from this institution enroll in a four-year university.

The school collaborates with each student to create a graduation path while adhering to MO standards. Its comprehension of each student’s goals and aspirations has improved due to the analysis. Then, it designs a program that is particular to each pupil.

Furthermore, throughout their time in the Upper School, its committed college guidance staff works closely with pupils to ensure that each one of them chooses the college or institution that is ideal for them. The trained coaches spark discussions and present chances for individuals to shine.

Also, Soccer, basketball, volleyball, and baseball are all part of its premier sports program. The teams play both high school and club seasons. 

Finally, the GLCA offers a unique arts program that combines college readiness lessons with conservatory-style performing and visual arts training.

We decided to group the best boarding schools in Indiana according to their geographic locations and the reasons they were founded after knowing more about them.

You should note that the boarding schools listed below are among the best in the State.

What are the Boarding Schools in Aurora, Illinois?

Aurora is a city in the Chicago metropolitan area situated partially in DuPage, Kane, Kendall, and Will counties in the U.S. state of Illinois. It is the second most populous city in Illinois, behind Chicago, and is mostly located in DuPage and Kane counties.

It is also home to some boarding schools. An example is

  • Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy

What are the Elementary Boarding Schools in Illinois?

Though some may accept younger children, elementary boarding schools primarily serve kids in grades 7th through 9th. 

However, this boarding school may offer co-ed, all-boys, or all-girls programs to help younger pupils with important developmental skills.

Also, an elementary boarding school can provide your child with a secure and friendly setting where they can thrive.

Therefore, the elementary boarding schools in Illinois include:

  • Gateway Legacy Christian Academy
  • Lake Forest Academy
  • Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
  • Brehm Preparatory School

Are there Public Boarding Schools in Illinois?

Public boarding schools charge for boarding but offer free education. Academies make up the majority of public boarding schools; free schools and local governments also operate some.

Public boarding schools evaluate a child’s appropriateness for boarding and give preference to those with a specific need to board.

The public boarding schools in Illinois include:

  • Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
  • Illinois School for the Deaf
  • Illinois School for the Visually Impaired

Are there Private Boarding Schools in Illinois?

Private boarding schools allow students to live on campus throughout the academic year. They serve secondary school students yet are similar to colleges in that students live in dorms or residence halls.

The private boarding schools in Illinois include:

  • Lake Forest Academy
  • Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart
  • Chicago Hope Academy
  • Notre Dame de La Salette
  • Brehm Preparatory School
  • Saint Bede Academy

What are the All-Girls Boarding Schools in Illinois?

Girls boarding schools are renowned for their exceptional academics, extracurricular activities, and pastoral care at the highest level. These schools only educate girls.

The all-girls boarding schools in Illinois include:

  • Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart

What are the All-Boys Boarding Schools in Illinois?

There are several very good boys boarding schools in Illinois, and a boys-only environment could be ideal for your son to receive his education. 

Also, boys’ schools offer students a well-rounded education and extracurricular options like sports and the Combined Cadet Force.

The all-boys boarding schools in Illinois include:

  • Notre Dame de La Salette

What are the Military Boarding Schools in Illinois?

Attending prep school is good for students who want to challenge themselves academically or learn more about military culture.

Also, cadets begin training for a prospective military career while keeping their options for college open.

On their websites, you can find out more about the best military schools in Illinois based on their standing, renown, academics, extracurricular offerings, and cost.

The military boarding schools in Illinois include:

  • Phoenix Military Academy
  • Carver Military Academy
  • Air Force Academy High School

Are there Christian Boarding Schools in Illinois?

Christian boarding schools in Illinois aim to teach kids about the world that God created, how our faith is integrated into every subject, and how to find meaning and purpose in life by following God’s Will while also imparting knowledge to them.

The schools include:

  • Chicago Hope Academy
  • Gateway Legacy Christian Academy
  • Mooseheart Child City & School

What are the Therapeutic Boarding Illinois Schools for Troubled Youths?

Teens with emotional, behavioral, and learning difficulties might find academic and emotional recovery at therapeutic boarding schools in Illinois. 

They make excellent settings for at-risk kids to rebuild their confidence and emotional well-being while obtaining academic credits or a high school diploma.

These schools include:

  • Allendale Association
  • Chaddock
  • Kemmerer Village
  • Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School

Conclusion

Make sure you select the best boarding schools for your child while making this decision.

Choosing from the best of them all is required because of this. The Best Boarding Schools in Illinois for 2024 are described in this article. Make the right choice now!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should I Choose Boarding Schools in Illinois for My Child?

Boarding schools in Illinois contribute a lot to grooming your child’s personality.

How Many are Boarding Schools in Illinois?

There are approximately 9 boarding schools in Illinois designed for boys and girls if you’re looking for the top boarding schools there for your child.

Are there any Free Boarding Schools in Illinois?

The Illinois Math & Science Academy is the state’s only free boarding school.

What is the Cost of Boarding Schools in Illinois?

The average annual boarding school tuition in Illinois is $56,875.

References

  • niche.com– Best Boarding High Schools in Illinois
  • kiiky.com-Best Boarding Schools in Illinois
  • wikipedia.org-Category:Public boarding schools in the United States
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