Phillips Exeter Academy is one of the most prestigious boarding schools in the United States, founded in 1781 in Exeter, New Hampshire. The school pioneered the Harkness method, in which classes of 12 students and a teacher sit around an oval table for discussion-based learning. Over 450 courses are offered across multiple departments on a 700-acre campus. Nearly 50% of students receive financial assistance, with USD 29 million in total aid awarded annually. The school practises need-blind admissions, prioritising character and curiosity over ability to pay. The campus includes the world's largest high school library, the Lamont Gallery, and extensive athletic and arts facilities.
Location
Phillips Exeter Academy is on Main Street in Exeter, New Hampshire, about an hour north of Boston. The 700-acre campus is in a charming New England town with easy access to the coast and mountains.
Stages
The school serves students in grades 9 through 12.
Type
Phillips Exeter is an independent co-educational boarding and day school. The majority of students board on campus.
School day structure
All classes use the Harkness method: 12 students and a teacher sit around an oval table for discussion-based learning. This approach develops critical thinking, communication, and collaboration.
Nearly 50% of students receive financial assistance. USD 29 million in total aid is awarded annually. The school practises need-blind admission. Contact admissions for the current tuition schedule.
Boarding Arrangements
The residential experience is central to Exeter. Students live in dormitories on the 700-acre campus with faculty who serve as advisors and mentors.
Governance and Ownership
Phillips Exeter Academy is an independent, non-profit institution founded in 1781.
Curriculum
Over 450 courses are offered across multiple academic departments. The Harkness method is used in every class: 12 students and a teacher sit around an oval table. The school describes Harkness as "more than a way to learn; it's a way of life."
Student Teacher Ratio
Most Harkness classes have 12 students and one teacher, ensuring personalised, discussion-based instruction.
Higher Education Progression
Phillips Exeter is one of the top college preparatory schools in the world. Graduates regularly matriculate to the most selective universities.
History
Phillips Exeter Academy was founded in 1781 and has 245 years of history. It pioneered the Harkness method of teaching, which has influenced education worldwide. The school's commitment to need-blind admission reflects its founding principles of access and excellence.
Community
The Harkness table creates a community of learners where every voice is heard. The residential experience on the 700-acre campus brings students together from across the country and around the world.
Facilities Overview
The 700-acre campus includes the world's largest high school library, the Lamont Gallery, Harkness tables in every classroom, dormitories, dining facilities, and athletic fields.
Sports Facilities
Varsity teams compete across multiple sports including hockey, swimming and diving, and many others. Athletic facilities serve the 700-acre campus.
Academic Facilities
The world's largest high school library is a centrepiece of the campus. The Lamont Gallery supports the arts programme.
Extra Curricular Facilities
Extensive clubs and organisations are available. The robotics programme is notable. Arts programmes span multiple disciplines.
Academic & Intellectual
450+ courses provide extraordinary academic breadth. The Harkness method develops analytical thinking and the ability to articulate ideas.
Arts & Creative
A dedicated arts division and the Lamont Gallery support visual and performing arts education.
Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Varsity sports across multiple disciplines support physical development. The 700-acre campus provides ample space for recreation and wellbeing.
Language Provision
English is the language of instruction. Multiple language courses are available as part of the 450+ course catalogue.
Awards
CASE Gold Medal 2025 — Circle of Excellence Gold Medal from the Council for Advancement and Support of Education.
Accreditations
CASE Circle of Excellence Gold Medal — Awarded by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education in 2025. Founded 1781 — One of the oldest and most prestigious boarding schools in the United States.
Admissions
1. The school practises need-blind admission. 2. Nearly 50% of students receive financial aid. 3. USD 29 million in total aid is awarded annually. 4. Character and curiosity are prioritised over ability to pay.
Scholarships
Need-blind admission with nearly 50% of students receiving financial assistance. USD 29 million in total aid is awarded annually.
