Boarding Schools that Give Full Scholarships

Boarding schools can be a great option for students who want to get a top-notch education in a supportive and challenging environment. However, the cost of boarding school can be a barrier for many families.

Fortunately, there are a number of boarding schools that offer full scholarships to students who meet certain criteria. These scholarships can cover everything from tuition and fees to room and board, making boarding school a more affordable option for families.

In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best boarding schools that give full scholarships. We will also discuss the criteria that students need to meet to be eligible for these scholarships, and how to apply.

Contents

What are boarding schools?

Boarding schools are residential schools where students live on campus and attend classes on-site. Boarding schools typically offer college preparatory programs, and they are known for their rigorous academic standards and small class sizes.

Boarding schools can be a great option for students who want to get a top-notch education in a supportive and challenging environment. Boarding schools provide students with access to the best teachers and resources, and they are challenged to reach their full potential.

Boarding schools vary in terms of their mission, curriculum, and values. Some may focus on academic excellence, while others prioritize character development, leadership skills, or specialized programs in areas like the arts or sports. Boarding schools can be co-educational (accepting both male and female students) or single-sex, and they cater to various age groups, from elementary to high school.

What are the benefits of attending a boarding school?

There are many benefits to attending a boarding school. Here are a few of the most common benefits:

  • Top-notch education: Boarding schools are known for their rigorous academic programs and their commitment to excellence. Students at boarding schools have access to the best teachers and resources, and they are challenged to reach their full potential.
  • Supportive and challenging environment: Boarding schools provide students with a supportive and challenging environment. Students live on campus and are surrounded by peers who are also dedicated to academic excellence. This environment can help students to thrive and to achieve their goals.
  • Well-rounded education: Boarding schools offer students a well-rounded education. In addition to academics, boarding schools also offer students opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities, sports, and service projects. This helps students to develop their interests and talents.
  • Diversity: Boarding schools attract students from all over the world. This gives students the opportunity to learn about different cultures and perspectives.
  • Independence: Boarding schools teach students to be independent and to take care of themselves. This is a valuable skill that will benefit students in college and beyond.

What are the benefits of receiving a full scholarship to a boarding school?

Receiving a full scholarship to a boarding school can be life-changing. It can give students the opportunity to get a top-notch education without having to worry about the financial burden.

In addition to the benefits listed above, receiving a full scholarship to a boarding school can also provide students with the following benefits:

  • Financial security: A full scholarship can cover the cost of tuition, room and board, and other expenses. This can give students peace of mind and allow them to focus on their studies.
  • Increased opportunities: A full scholarship can open up new opportunities for students. For example, students may be able to participate in travel programs or internships that they would not otherwise be able to afford.
  • Network: A full scholarship can give students the opportunity to network with other high-achieving students. These connections can be valuable in college and beyond.

If you are interested in attending a boarding school with a full scholarship, there are a number of things you can do. Start by researching different schools and their scholarship programs. Once you have found a few schools that you are interested in, reach out to the schools and inquire about their application process.

Many boarding schools require students to submit a completed application, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and test scores. Some schools may also require students to interview with the admissions committee.

The application process for boarding schools can be competitive, but it is important to remember that there are a number of scholarships available to deserving students. If you are passionate about getting a top-notch education, don’t be afraid to apply for a full scholarship to a boarding school.

Types of Full Scholarships Available at Boarding Schools

Boarding schools, renowned for their commitment to excellence in education, offer a variety of full scholarships to deserving students, ensuring that financial constraints do not limit access to their exceptional programs. These scholarships can broadly be categorized into four main types:

  1. Merit-Based Scholarships

    Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements, leadership qualities, or exceptional talents in various areas. Here are some common types of merit-based scholarships at boarding schools:

    • Academic Scholarships: These scholarships are granted to students who have a strong academic record, typically based on their GPA, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation. Recipients are often expected to maintain a high level of academic performance to retain their scholarships.
    • Leadership Scholarships: Boarding schools recognize the importance of leadership skills and may award scholarships to students who have demonstrated leadership abilities through extracurricular activities, community service, or other initiatives.
    • Talent-Based Scholarships: Some schools offer scholarships to students with exceptional talents in areas such as music, performing arts, or STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). These scholarships help nurture and showcase students’ unique abilities.
  2. Need-Based Scholarships

    Need-based scholarships are designed to provide financial assistance to students and families who demonstrate a significant need for support. These scholarships take into account the family’s financial circumstances, including income, assets, and expenses. Here’s how they work:

    • Financial Aid Packages: Boarding schools use a detailed financial aid application process to assess a family’s ability to pay tuition and related expenses. Scholarships are then awarded to bridge the gap between what the family can afford and the total cost of attending the school.
    • Variable Awards: The amount of need-based scholarships can vary widely, depending on the family’s financial situation. Some families may receive a full scholarship, while others may receive a partial scholarship.
  3. Athletic Scholarships

    Athletic scholarships are awarded to students who excel in sports and contribute to a school’s athletic program. These scholarships are often highly competitive and can cover tuition, room, and board. Key points about athletic scholarships include:

  4. Arts Scholarships

    Arts scholarships are awarded to students who show exceptional talent and dedication in areas such as music, dance, theater, visual arts, or creative writing. These scholarships help foster artistic growth and encourage students to pursue their passions. Key features of arts scholarships include:

    • Portfolio or Audition: Applicants for arts scholarships often need to submit a portfolio or participate in an audition or performance to showcase their skills and abilities.
    • Artistic Opportunities: Recipients of arts scholarships may have access to specialized training, workshops, and performance or exhibition opportunities.
    • Integration with Academic Curriculum: Boarding schools with strong arts programs often integrate artistic pursuits into the overall academic experience, allowing students to excel both in the arts and their academic studies.

How to Find a Boarding School that Offers Full Scholarships

Finding a boarding school that offers full scholarships can be a transformative opportunity for students and their families. These scholarships not only provide access to a top-tier education but also alleviate the financial burden associated with boarding schools. Here are several avenues to explore when searching for boarding schools that offer full scholarships:

  1. Online Resources:

    The internet is a valuable tool for researching and identifying boarding schools that offer full scholarships.

There are a number of online resources that can help you find boarding schools that offer full scholarships. Some of these resources include:

  • The Boarding School Review
  • The National Association of Independent Schools
  • The Association of Boarding Schools
  • The Council for Advancement and Support of Education

These websites provide information on a variety of boarding schools, including their scholarship programs.

Here are steps to guide your online search:

    • Scholarship Databases: Websites like Peterson’s, Scholarship.com, and Fastweb provide comprehensive databases of scholarships, including those offered by boarding schools. Use their search filters to find scholarships that match your criteria.
    • Boarding School Websites: Visit the official websites of boarding schools you are interested in. Many schools list their scholarship programs, eligibility criteria, and application procedures online. Explore their admissions or financial aid sections for detailed information.
    • Educational Forums and Communities: Participate in online forums and communities related to boarding schools and scholarships. These platforms often feature discussions and recommendations from parents, students, and experts.
    • Social Media: Follow boarding schools and educational organizations on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. They may post updates about scholarship opportunities and application deadlines.
    • Online Scholarship Search Engines: Use specialized scholarship search engines that focus specifically on private school scholarships. These tools can help you find opportunities that align with your interests and needs.
  1. College Counselors:High school college counselors are excellent resources for identifying boarding schools that offer full scholarships.

College counselors can also help you find boarding schools that offer full scholarships. College counselors have a wealth of knowledge about different boarding schools and their scholarship programs. They can help you narrow down your choices and find schools that are a good fit for your academic needs, extracurricular interests, and financial situation.

Here’s how they can assist in your search:

    • Expert Guidance: College counselors have experience and knowledge of various boarding school programs and scholarship opportunities. They can help you explore schools that match your academic and personal goals.
    • Assistance with Applications: Counselors can guide you through the scholarship application process, helping you prepare strong applications and essays.
    • Recommendations: Counselors may have connections with boarding schools and can provide recommendations based on your academic profile and aspirations.
    • Financial Aid Information: College counselors are well-versed in financial aid options and can help you navigate the complexities of need-based scholarships.
  1. Word-of-Mouth:Talk to your friends, family, and teachers to see if they know of any boarding schools that offer full scholarships. They may know of schools that are not listed on online resources or that have less competitive scholarship programs. Word-of-mouth recommendations from current or former students, parents, and educators can be a valuable resource in finding boarding schools that offer full scholarships:
    • Connect with Current Students: Reach out to current students or alumni of boarding schools you’re interested in through social media or alumni networks. They can provide insights into their school’s scholarship programs and application processes.
    • Talk to Educators: Speak with teachers, principals, or educators in your community who may have knowledge of scholarship opportunities at boarding schools. They might be aware of past scholarship recipients or have connections within the boarding school network.
    • Parent Networks: Engage with other parents who may have researched or successfully secured full scholarships for their children. They can offer advice and share their experiences.
    • Attend School Fairs and Events: Attend boarding school fairs, open houses, or informational events. These gatherings provide opportunities to network with school representatives and learn about scholarship offerings.

In your quest to find a boarding school that offers full scholarships, it’s essential to remain proactive, conduct thorough research, seek guidance from experts, and leverage the power of personal connections. Keep in mind that scholarship opportunities vary from school to school, so consider your academic strengths, interests, and financial situation when exploring potential boarding schools.

Tips for Applying to Full Scholarships at Boarding Schools

Applying for full scholarships at boarding schools is a competitive and rigorous process. These scholarships can be life-changing opportunities, so it’s crucial to approach the application process strategically and with dedication. Here are some essential tips to enhance your chances of securing a full scholarship:

1. Start Early:

The application process for boarding schools can be competitive, so it’s important to start early. This will give you time to research different schools and their scholarship programs, gather your application materials, and prepare for your interviews.

    • Plan Ahead: Begin your scholarship search and application process well in advance. Scholarships often have specific deadlines, so give yourself ample time to gather materials, write essays, and complete any required standardized tests.
    • Research Schools: Identify boarding schools that align with your academic interests, extracurricular passions, and values. Research their scholarship offerings, eligibility criteria, and application requirements.

2. Get Good Grades:

Your grades are one of the most important factors that boarding schools consider when awarding scholarships. Make sure to get good grades in all of your classes, and focus on challenging yourself academically.

    • Academic Excellence: Maintain a strong academic record throughout your current school years. Good grades are often a fundamental criterion for many scholarship programs.
    • Standardized Tests: Prepare for standardized tests such as the SSAT (Secondary School Admission Test) or the ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) if they are required. A high test score can significantly bolster your application.

3. Participate in Extracurricular Activities:

Extracurricular activities show boarding schools that you are well-rounded and that you have a passion for something outside of academics. Get involved in activities that you are passionate about and that demonstrate your leadership skills.

    • Diversify Your Interests: Engage in a variety of extracurricular activities, both within and outside of school. Scholarship committees look for well-rounded individuals who demonstrate leadership, dedication, and a passion for learning.
    • Leadership Roles: Seek leadership roles in clubs, sports teams, or community service organizations. Demonstrating leadership skills can set you apart from other applicants.

4. Write Strong Essays:

Your essays are your chance to tell your story and to explain why you are a good fit for the boarding school and the scholarship you are applying for. Make sure to write strong essays that highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal goals.

    • Tell Your Story: Personal essays are a critical component of scholarship applications. Use this opportunity to share your unique story, experiences, and aspirations. Be authentic and passionate in your writing.
    • Address the Prompt: Ensure your essays directly address the essay prompts or questions provided. Organize your thoughts, and revise your essays for clarity, coherence, and grammar.
    • Highlight Achievements: Discuss your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and how you plan to contribute to the boarding school community. Show that you’ve researched the school and can articulate why you’re an excellent fit.

5. Interview Well:

    • Prepare Thoroughly: If the scholarship application process includes an interview, prepare diligently. Practice common interview questions, and have thoughtful responses ready.
    • Show Enthusiasm: During the interview, convey your genuine enthusiasm for attending the boarding school. Highlight your strengths, interests, and what you hope to gain from the experience.
    • Ask Questions: Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers about the school, its programs, and its community. This demonstrates your interest and engagement.

6. Seek Letters of Recommendation:

    • Choose Wisely: Select teachers, mentors, or community leaders who know you well and can speak to your character, achievements, and potential.
    • Provide Guidance: Share information with your recommenders about your scholarship application and why you’re applying. Offer them insights into your goals and experiences.

 

7. Proofread and Review:

    • Attention to Detail: Thoroughly proofread your application materials, including essays, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Careless errors can detract from your application.
    • Get Feedback: Seek feedback from teachers, counselors, or trusted adults who can provide constructive input on your application components.
  • Demonstrate Financial Need (if applicable):
    • Complete Financial Forms: If the scholarship is need-based, ensure that you submit all required financial documents accurately and on time. Be transparent about your financial situation.
  • Follow Instructions:
    • Adhere to Guidelines: Read and follow all application instructions and requirements meticulously. Failure to do so can result in your application being disqualified.
  • Stay Positive and Persistent:
    • Stay Resilient: The scholarship application process can be challenging and competitive. Keep a positive attitude, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks or rejections.
    • Apply to Multiple Scholarships: Broaden your options by applying to multiple scholarships at different boarding schools. This increases your chances of securing financial aid.

Remember that the competition for full scholarships at boarding schools can be fierce, but with careful preparation, dedication, and a compelling application, you can increase your chances of achieving your educational goals and realizing your potential in a supportive and enriching environment.

Boarding Schools that offer full scholarships

1. Boarding Schools that offer full scholarships in United States

Overview and history:

There are a number of boarding schools in the United States that offer full scholarships to qualified students. These scholarships can be based on merit, need, or both. Some of the most prestigious boarding schools in the country offer full scholarships to a select number of students each year.

Location:

Boarding schools that offer full scholarships are located all over the United States. Some of the most popular boarding schools with full scholarship programs are located in the Northeast, but there are also a number of excellent boarding schools with full scholarship programs in the South, Midwest, and West.

Programs and duration:

Boarding schools offer a variety of academic programs, including college preparatory programs, international baccalaureate programs, and specialized programs in fields such as science, math, and the arts. Boarding schools typically last four years, but some schools offer shorter or longer programs.

Scholarship amount for each school:

The amount of the scholarship varies from school to school. Some schools offer full scholarships that cover the cost of tuition, room and board, and other expenses. Other schools offer partial scholarships that cover a portion of the cost of attendance.

Here is a list of some boarding schools in the United States that offer full scholarships:

School Location Programs and duration Scholarship amount
Phillips Academy Andover Andover, Massachusetts College preparatory Full scholarships available
Exeter Academy Exeter, New Hampshire College preparatory Full scholarships available
Lawrenceville School Lawrenceville, New Jersey College preparatory Full scholarships available
Choate Rosemary Hall Wallingford, Connecticut College preparatory Full scholarships available
Deerfield Academy Deerfield, Massachusetts College preparatory Full scholarships available
Blair Academy Blairstown, New Jersey College preparatory Full scholarships available
Peddie School Hightstown, New Jersey College preparatory Full scholarships available
Middlesex School Concord, Massachusetts College preparatory Full scholarships available
Milton Academy Milton, Massachusetts College preparatory Full scholarships available
Taft School Watertown, Connecticut College preparatory Full scholarships available
Northfield Mount Hermon Northfield, Massachusetts College preparatory Full scholarships available
The Hill School Pottstown, Pennsylvania College preparatory Full scholarships available

These are just a few of the many boarding schools in the United States that offer full scholarships. To learn more about boarding schools with full scholarship programs, visit the websites of the schools you are interested in and contact the admissions office.

2. Boarding schools that offer full scholarships in Canada

Here is a list of some boarding schools in Canada that offer full scholarships:

School Location Programs and duration Scholarship amount
Ashbury College Rockcliffe Park, Ontario College preparatory Full scholarships available
Branksome Hall Toronto, Ontario College preparatory Full scholarships available
Brentwood College Mill Bay, British Columbia College preparatory Full scholarships available
Columbia International College Hamilton, Ontario College preparatory Full scholarships available
Crofton House School Vancouver, British Columbia College preparatory Full scholarships available
Lakefield College School Lakefield, Ontario College preparatory Full scholarships available
Lester B. Pearson College United World College Victoria, British Columbia College preparatory Full scholarships available
Pickering College Newmarket, Ontario College preparatory Full scholarships available
Ridley College St. Catharines, Ontario College preparatory Full scholarships available
Robert Land Academy Ancaster, Ontario College preparatory Full scholarships available
St. Andrew’s College Aurora, Ontario College preparatory Full scholarships available
St. George’s School Montreal, Quebec College preparatory Full scholarships available

These are just a few of the many boarding schools in Canada that offer full scholarships. To learn more about boarding schools with full scholarship programs, visit the websites of the schools you are interested in and contact the admissions office.

3. Boarding schools that offer full scholarships in United Kingdom

Here is a list of some boarding schools in the United Kingdom that offer full scholarships:

School Location Programs and duration Scholarship amount
Chetham’s School of Music Manchester Music Full scholarships available
Christ’s Hospital Horsham, West Sussex College preparatory Full scholarships available
Gordonstoun School Elgin, Moray, Scotland College preparatory Full scholarships available
King’s College School Wimbledon, London College preparatory Full scholarships available
The Perse School Cambridge College preparatory Full scholarships available
Royal Grammar School Guildford, Surrey College preparatory Full scholarships available
St. Bees School St Bees, Cumbria College preparatory Full scholarships available
Sutton Valence School Maidstone, Kent College preparatory Full scholarships available
Uppingham School Uppingham, Rutland College preparatory Full scholarships available
Wellesley House School Broadstairs, Kent College preparatory Full scholarships available
Westminster School London College preparatory Full scholarships available
Winchester College Winchester, Hampshire College preparatory Full scholarships available

These are just a few of the many boarding schools in the United Kingdom that offer full scholarships. To learn more about boarding schools with full scholarship programs, visit the websites of the schools you are interested in and contact the admissions office.

4. Boarding schools that offer full scholarships in Australia

Here is a list of some boarding schools in Australia that offer full scholarships:

School Location Programs and duration Scholarship amount
Anglican Church Grammar School (Churchie) Brisbane, Queensland College preparatory Full scholarships available
Brisbane Grammar School Brisbane, Queensland College preparatory Full scholarships available
Ipswich Grammar School Ipswich, Queensland College preparatory Full scholarships available
Marist College Ashgrove Ashgrove, Queensland College preparatory Full scholarships available
St Brendan’s College Yeppoon, Queensland College preparatory Full scholarships available
St Joseph’s Nudgee College Nudgee, Queensland College preparatory Full scholarships available
Toowoomba Grammar School Toowoomba, Queensland College preparatory Full scholarships available
Blackheath & Thornburgh College Pennant Hills, New South Wales College preparatory Full scholarships available
The King’s School Parramatta, New South Wales College preparatory Full scholarships available
St Paul’s College, Walla Walla Walla Walla, New South Wales College preparatory Full scholarships available
Pymble Ladies’ College Pymble, New South Wales College preparatory Full scholarships available
St Catherine’s School Sydney Waverley, New South Wales College preparatory Full scholarships available
St Scholastica’s College Glebe, New South Wales College preparatory Full scholarships available
St Vincent’s College, Potts Point Potts Point, New South Wales College preparatory Full scholarships available
Wesley College Glen Waverley, Victoria College preparatory Full scholarships available
Melbourne Grammar School South Yarra, Victoria College preparatory Full scholarships available
Geelong Grammar School Geelong, Victoria College preparatory Full scholarships available
Scotch College Hawthorn, Victoria College preparatory Full scholarships available
Presbyterian Ladies’ College Burwood, Victoria College preparatory Full scholarships available
St Peter’s College Adelaide, South Australia College preparatory Full scholarships available
Christ Church Grammar School Claremont, Western Australia College preparatory Full scholarships available
Hale School Wembley Downs, Western Australia College preparatory Full scholarships available
Perth College Mount Claremont, Western Australia College preparatory Full scholarships available

These are just a few of the many boarding schools in Australia that offer full scholarships. To learn more about boarding schools with full scholarship programs, visit the websites of the schools you are interested in and contact the admissions office.

5. Boarding schools that offer full scholarships in other countries

Here is a list of some boarding schools in other countries that offer full scholarships:

Country School Location Programs and duration Scholarship amount
India The Doon School Dehradun, Uttarakhand College preparatory Full scholarships available
India Mayo College Ajmer, Rajasthan College preparatory Full scholarships available
India Welham Boys’ School Dehradun, Uttarakhand College preparatory Full scholarships available
India Woodstock School Mussoorie, Uttarakhand College preparatory Full scholarships available
India Kodaikanal International School Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu College preparatory Full scholarships available
China Shanghai United World College Shanghai College preparatory Full scholarships available
China China International School Beijing College preparatory Full scholarships available
China UWC Dilijan Dilijan, Armenia College preparatory Full scholarships available
China UWC Changshu China Changshu, Jiangsu College preparatory Full scholarships available
Singapore Raffles Institution Singapore College preparatory Full scholarships available
Singapore Hwa Chong Institution Singapore College preparatory Full scholarships available
Singapore National Junior College Singapore College preparatory Full scholarships available
South Korea Seoul Foreign School Seoul College preparatory Full scholarships available
South Korea Korea International School Seoul College preparatory Full scholarships available
South Korea UWC ISAK Japan Karuizawa, Nagano, Japan College preparatory Full scholarships available
South Korea UWCSEA East Singapore College preparatory Full scholarships available
Japan UWC ISAK Japan Karuizawa, Nagano College preparatory Full scholarships available
Japan UWCSEA East Singapore College preparatory Full scholarships available

These are just a few of the many boarding schools in other countries that offer full scholarships. To learn more about boarding schools with full scholarship programs, visit the websites of the schools you are interested in and contact the admissions office.

Tips for applying to boarding schools with full scholarship programs in other countries:

  • Start early. The application process for boarding schools can be competitive, and it may take longer to apply to schools in other countries due to visa requirements and language barriers. It is important to start early so that you have enough time to research different schools, gather your application materials, and prepare for your interviews.
  • Get good grades. Your grades are one of the most important factors that boarding schools consider when awarding scholarships. Make sure to get good grades in all of your classes, and focus on challenging yourself academically.
  • Participate in extracurricular activities. Extracurricular activities show boarding schools that you are well-rounded and that you have a passion for something outside of academics. Get involved in activities that you are passionate about and that demonstrate your leadership skills.
  • Write strong essays. Your essays are your chance to tell your story and to explain why you are a good fit for the boarding school and the scholarship you are applying for. Make sure to write strong essays that highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal goals.
  • Interview well. If you are invited to interview for a scholarship, be sure to prepare well. Practice answering common interview questions, and dress professionally. Be confident and enthusiastic during your interview.

Getting a full scholarship to a boarding school in another country is a competitive process, but it is possible. By following the tips above, you can increase your chances of getting a full scholarship to the boarding school of your dreams.

I would also like to add that it is important to research the culture and customs of the country you are applying to. This will help you to prepare for the application process and to make a good impression on the admissions committee.

Conclusion

Boarding schools offer a unique and enriching educational experience. They provide students with the opportunity to live and learn in a supportive and challenging environment. Boarding schools also offer a variety of scholarships, including full scholarships, to deserving students.

If you are interested in attending a boarding school with a full scholarship, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success. Start early by researching different schools and their scholarship programs. Get good grades and participate in extracurricular activities that demonstrate your leadership skills. Write strong essays that highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal goals. Finally, be prepared to interview well.

Getting a full scholarship to a boarding school is a competitive process, but it is possible. By following the tips above, you can increase your chances of getting a full scholarship to the boarding school of your dreams.

I would also like to add that attending a boarding school with a full scholarship can be a life-changing experience. It can give you the opportunity to get a top-notch education without having to worry about the financial burden. If you are passionate about getting a good education, don’t be afraid to apply for a full scholarship to a boarding school.