Best Illinois Boarding Schools (2026)

For the 2026 school year, there are 3 college-prep and junior boarding schools serving 745 students located throughout Illinois.
Saint Bede Academy

Top Illinois Boarding Schools (2026)

Carbondale IL, IL
Gr: 6-12, PG
Student-teacher ratio: 6:1
Avg. class size: 6 students
Acceptance rate: 100%
Tuition listed
900 South Brehm Lane
Carbondale IL, IL 62901
(618) 457-0371
Lake Forest Academy Photo - Lake Forest Academy's 435 students are from 15 states and 35 countries. LFA is commited to diversity and inclusion; our student body includes 25% international students, 34% domestic students of color, and 33% of students receive financial aid.
Gr: 9-12, PG | 452 students
Student-teacher ratio: 6:1
Avg. class size: 12 students
Acceptance rate: 34%
Tuition listed
1500 West Kennedy Road
Lake Forest, IL 60045
(847) 615-3267
(2)
Saint Bede Academy Photo - With an average student population of 300, our small class sizes offer students one-on-one interaction with their instructors.
Gr: 9-12 | 293 students
Student-teacher ratio: 12:1
Avg. class size: 18 students
Acceptance rate: 80%
Tuition listed
Catholic
24 W US Highway 6
Peru, IL 61354
(815) 250-0285

Frequently Asked Questions

How many boarding schools are located in Illinois?
There are 3 college-preparatory boarding schools located in Illinois.
What is the average tuition cost of boarding school in Illinois?
The average Illinois boarding school tuition cost is $61,582 per year.
What is the oldest boarding school in Illinois?
Lake Forest Academy, founded in 1857, is the oldest boarding school in Illinois.
What boarding school in Illinois has the lowest acceptance rates?
Lake Forest Academy has the lowest boarding school acceptance rate (34%) in Illinois.
What boarding school in Illinois has the highest average SAT scores?
Lake Forest Academy has the highest average SAT scores (1430) in Illinois.

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Learn how to prepare if a boarding school closes or merges, including transfer planning, financial considerations, and protecting your child's education.

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Quick Facts (2026)

  • # Boarding Schools: 3
  • # Students Served: 745
  • Average Tuition: $61,582
  • Average Acceptance Rate: 71%
  • Average Class Size: 12 students
  • % Students Boarding: 44%
  • % International Students: 13%
  • % Students of Color: 26%
  • % Students on Financial Aid: 24%
  • % Faculty w/Advanced Degree: 73%

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