When it comes to U.S. boarding schools, well-known names like Andover and Exeter often dominate the conversation. But did you know there are entire networks of top schools that offer just as many, if not more, opportunities for academic, athletic, and personal growth? This article explores the top U.S. boarding school alliances that families shouldn’t overlook.
Ten Schools Admission Organization (TSAO)
TSAO is a powerful group of some of the most prestigious U.S. boarding schools. These schools collaborate on joint admissions events and share best practices in academics and student life. The TSAO member schools are:
- Choate Rosemary Hall
- Deerfield Academy
- The Hotchkiss School
- The Lawrenceville School
- Loomis Chaffee School
- Phillips Academy Andover
- Phillips Exeter Academy
- St. Paul’s School
- The Taft School
- The Hill School
What makes TSAO unique among boarding school alliances is its holistic student-centered approach that goes beyond academics. TSAO schools prioritize access, diversity, community, and personal growth.
TSAO member schools work together to foster diverse and inclusive communities, providing more than $100 million in financial aid annually to make elite education accessible to students from all backgrounds. Their Diversity Round Table, made up of admissions officers, leads initiatives to recruit and support underrepresented students.
TSAO also emphasizes the importance of 24/7 learning, where personal growth continues outside the classroom. Students benefit from daily informal experiences, like late-night conversations in the dorm or one-on-one breakthroughs with faculty, that shape lasting connections and self-discovery.
Each student is paired with a faculty advisor who guides them through academic, social, and extracurricular responsibilities and helps them build independence, time management, and confidence. These experiences prepare students for competitive college admissions and lifelong leadership and purpose.
Independent School League (ISL)
The ISL, based in the Greater Boston area, is focused on athletics, with schools competing in a wide range of sports. It’s one of the oldest athletic leagues in the U.S. and has rivalries lasting longer than a century. Member schools include:
- Belmont Hill School
- Brooks School
- Groton School
- Milton Academy
- St. Mark’s School
- Rivers School
What sets ISL apart from other school alliances is its athletic tradition and emphasis on character development through sports. Founded in the early 1940s, ISL is one of the oldest independent school athletic leagues in the U.S. and features rivalries dating back over a century.
Athletics are central to the student experience at ISL schools, but never at the expense of academics. ISL emphasizes the “student-athlete” philosophy, ensuring that students are scholars first and athletes second. The league also maintains a “no post-graduate” policy—meaning only current high school students can compete—reinforcing its focus on education, character development, and fair play among peers.
Unlike other large alliances, ISL schools are geographically close, enabling frequent athletic and academic interactions. This proximity fosters inter-school collaboration, shared events, and a strong sense of community supporting both academic achievement and personal growth.
ISL schools are also known for nurturing well-rounded individuals through a wide range of extracurriculars—from arts and leadership programs to global learning opportunities—while maintaining an intimate, relationship-driven learning environment.
Founders League
The Founders League is in Connecticut and nearby areas and is part of the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC). Member schools include:
- Avon Old Farms School
- The Hotchkiss School
- Kent School
- Loomis Chaffee School
What makes the Founders League special is its combination of a strong regional identity with an elite athletic tradition, especially in sports like rowing, squash, and lacrosse. Many Founders League schools consistently compete at the national level, drawing students who are as committed to athletic excellence as they are to academics.
Founders League institutions also offer advanced coursework, global learning opportunities, and college counseling. Their tight-knit environment fosters deep mentorship and personalized academic guidance. Its emphasis on personal growth makes the Founders League an excellent fit for students looking for a highly structured yet supportive environment that prepares them for college and life beyond.
Eight Schools Association (ESA)
Serving the northeastern U.S., the ESA is known for its collaborative work on student development and educational practices. Member schools include:
- Choate Rosemary Hall
- Deerfield Academy
- The Hotchkiss School
- Phillips Academy Andover
- St. Paul’s School
The heads of each ESA school regularly collaborate on issues such as curriculum advancement, faculty development, and mental health support, positioning the association as a thought leader in progressive boarding school education.
Another hallmark of the ESA is its dedication to shared programming and research. Member schools often co-host professional development events for educators, collaborate on summer programs, and share data on student results. This cross-campus engagement enriches the student experience and helps ESA schools stay at the forefront of educational excellence.
Junior Boarding Schools Association (JBSA)
The JBSA focuses on younger students in grades 4 through 9 and helps them build a strong academic and social foundation. Member schools include:
- Cardigan Mountain School
- Fay School
- Fessenden School
What makes JBSA different from other alliances is its age-specific focus. These schools understand the distinct development needs of pre-teen and early adolescent students and offer tailored programs to help students transition smoothly from elementary to high school. JBSA schools provide the structure of boarding life with the personalized mentorship that younger students need during these transformative years. Students gain early exposure to the boarding school environment, learning how to manage their time, advocate for themselves, and live in a supportive community, all before entering high school.
JBSA member schools also emphasize close faculty-student relationships and small class sizes, ensuring each child receives individualized attention. Outside the classroom, students can access diverse extracurricular activities to foster personal growth, including athletics, visual and performing arts, and outdoor education.
Many families choose JBSA schools as a stepping stone to prestigious secondary schools. The preparation students receive often gives them a competitive edge in the admissions process for top-tier high schools.
Mid-Atlantic Boarding School Group (MABS)
The MABS network includes schools in the mid-Atlantic region, including:
- Blair Academy
- Episcopal High School
- Mercersburg Academy
MABS schools are often located on expansive, historic campuses, providing students access to state-of-the-art facilities, scenic outdoor spaces, and a strong sense of tradition. Many member schools have deep-rooted connections within their local communities and encourage students to engage locally through service learning, internships, and mentorship programs.
One defining feature of MABS schools is their emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and community living. With small student populations and low student-to-faculty ratios, MABS schools foster close-knit environments where every student is known and supported. Dorm life, weekend activities, and advisory systems promote strong interpersonal connections, leadership skills, and emotional maturity.
Additionally, MABS schools are known for their adaptability, blending traditional values with creative learning and teaching methods. Through global education initiatives, hands-on research opportunities, and interdisciplinary coursework, students are encouraged to explore their interests and actively participate in their learning journey.
These alliances offer high-quality education while fostering collaboration between schools to enhance students’ experience. Whether you’re interested in a prestigious boarding school or a strong athletic program, these networks offer a variety of options for student growth.
If you’re exploring study abroad opportunities or need guidance on finding the right school, Ivy Talent can help. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping families make the best educational choices. Contact us today for personalized advice and support for your child’s academic journey.
Author: Vy Mai
Date: April 21st, 2025