What to Consider when Choosing your Best-Fit Boarding School 

Congratulations! If you’re reading this, you’re probably holding one or more boarding school admissions offers in your hands. That’s an exciting achievement but now comes the big decision: choosing the best fit school for you. Selecting the right U.S. boarding school isn’t just about academics—it’s about finding a place that feels like a second home and where you can thrive.  

To help you navigate this decision, we put together some key factors to consider when evaluating your offers and choosing the best school for you! 

Academic Programs and Specialties

Each boarding school has unique strengths. Some schools focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), while others have strong humanities, arts, or business programs. Think about your interests and future goals! 

• Does the school offer Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses? Is one type more important to you?  
• Are there independent research opportunities or specialized tracks in subjects like robotics, creative writing, or environmental science? 
• What are the class sizes like? A lower student-to-teacher ratio often means more individualized attention. 

Campus and Facilities

Since you’ll likely be living on campus, the environment matters. Most boarding schools offer excellent facilities, but they may emphasize different areas. Some schools have top-tier athletic complexes, while others focus on science labs, music studios, or arts spaces. Additionally, some schools are known for their scenic campuses and historical buildings, creating a unique atmosphere for students. 

• Take a virtual tour or visit if possible! 
• Look at the dormitories, dining options, and study spaces where you’ll spend a lot of time. 
• Consider the surrounding area—do you prefer a quiet, rural setting or a school near a big city? 

Support for International Students

Adapting to a new country and culture can be challenging, so it’s important to choose a school that provides resources for supporting its international students. 

• Does the school have an international student advisor or office, or a program to help with cultural adjustment and legal requirements like the visa application and renewal process? 
• Are there ESL (English as a Second Language) classes or language support if needed? 
• What are the vacation policies? Some schools provide housing for students who can’t travel home during breaks. 

Extracurricular Activities

Boarding school isn’t just about studying! Extracurricular activities help you build friendships and develop important life skills. 

• Check if the school has clubs, sports teams, and arts programs that interest you, and what their requirements are for participation. 
• Are there opportunities for leadership, such as student government or debate teams? 
• If you’re passionate about a specific hobby—whether it’s chess, piano, or coding—make sure the school will support your pursuing it! 

College Counseling

Many students attend boarding schools with the goal of getting into a top university. Strong college counseling can make a huge difference. 

• Does the school have experienced college advisors? 
• What are the school’s university placement rates, and which schools have recent graduates been attending? 
• Are there internship, mentorship, or networking opportunities? 

School Culture and Community

Each school has its own culture, traditions, and student life. Some are known for their competitive atmosphere, while others emphasize collaboration and connection.   

• Talk to current students or alumni to get a sense of the school’s vibe. Ask them what their favorite event or tradition is! 
• Read student reviews and social media posts. 
• Consider the diversity of the student body—will you feel comfortable and included? 

Financial Considerations

Tuition and living expenses at U.S. boarding schools can be high, so it’s important to factor in the full cost. 

• Does the school offer financial aid or scholarships for international students? 
• What’s included in the tuition—meals, books, extracurriculars? 
• Are there additional costs for travel, uniforms, or field trips and is there financial support available for these?  

Alumni Network and Reputation

A school’s reputation and alumni network can open doors for future professional opportunities and potential employment. 

• Look into where past students have gone for university. (The school’s LinkedIn page can be a good place to start, or the alumni relations office.)
• Are there alumni who have succeeded in fields you’re interested in? 
• Does the school have a strong global network that can support you even after graduation? 

Making Your Final Decision 

At the end of the day, choosing a boarding school is about more than just rankings and facilities—it’s about where you feel you’ll thrive, both academically and personally. Take your time, do your research, and trust your instincts. 

If possible, visit the school or attend virtual events to get a better feel for the environment. Talk to admissions officers, students, and even parents of current students. And most importantly, choose a school that aligns with your academic goals, personal growth, and overall happiness. 

Wherever you decide to go, embrace the experience! Studying at a U.S. boarding school is an exciting opportunity to learn, grow, and build lifelong friendships, and Sesameed is here to support you through the entire process. We wish you the best in your decision-making, and don’t forget, you can contact us for guidance anytime!