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Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Sports and Physical, Community and Service
Stages Secondary School
Introduction
The Hotchkiss School is a prestigious independent boarding school in Lakeville, Connecticut, founded in 1891. It enrols 627 students in grades 9-12 and a postgraduate year, with 94% residing in 13 residence halls. The student-faculty ratio is 4:1, and over 270 courses are offered across seven departments. 41% of students are US students of colour and 17% are international. 34% receive financial aid, with an average inclusive grant of USD 65,701. The school was recently ranked Top Private School in America by Niche. Fairfield Farm provides sustainable food for dining. Head of School is Craig W. Bradley.
The Hotchkiss School has 627 pupils, typical class sizes of 12, instruction in English.
Location
The Hotchkiss School is in Lakeville, a small town in the northwest corner of Connecticut. The rural New England campus is surrounded by lakes and hills, providing a tranquil setting for learning.
Stages
The school serves students in grades 9 through 12 plus a postgraduate year.
Type
Hotchkiss is an independent co-educational boarding school. 94% of students live on campus in 13 residence halls. A small number of day students also attend.
Pupil Nationality Mix
41% of US students are students of colour. 17% of the student body is international.
Additional learning support
Dedicated academic support services are available for students who need additional help.
Fees
Annual tuition at The Hotchkiss School ranges from USD 68,700 to USD 80,800 for 2026/27.
Day - Tuition: USD 67,450 - Technology Fee: USD 850 - Health Services Fee: USD 400 - Total: USD 68,700
Additional Costs - Books and supplies: ~USD 850/year - Health insurance: USD 4,495 (domestic) or USD 2,895 (international) - Laundry: USD 740-920/year (optional)
Financial Aid - 34% of students receive aid - Average grant: USD 65,701 - 28% of aided students attend tuition-free - Total aid budget: over USD 14.3 million/year
Academics
The Hotchkiss School teaches US Curriculum for students aged 14 to 19.
Curriculum
Over 270 courses are offered across seven departments: Classical and Modern Languages, English, Human Development, Humanities and Social Sciences, Mathematics and Computer Science, Science, and Visual and Performing Arts. The 4:1 student-faculty ratio ensures close mentoring.
Student Teacher Ratio
The student-faculty ratio is 4:1, enabling highly personalised instruction and mentoring.
Higher Education Progression
Hotchkiss graduates regularly matriculate to the most selective colleges and universities. College counselling is a core part of the programme.
Wellbeing
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The Human Development department provides courses focused on personal growth and social-emotional learning. Faculty advisors and counsellors support each student.
Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Academic support services are available for students who need additional help with their studies.
Mental Wellbeing
Health and wellness programmes are provided. Counselling and student wellbeing resources are part of the residential support network.
Admissions
Admissions
1. Contact the admissions office or visit campus. 2. Submit an application. 3. Financial aid applications are considered alongside admissions. 4. 34% of students receive financial aid. 5. Both boarding and day places are available.
Scholarships
34% of students receive financial aid, with an average grant of USD 65,701. 28% of aided students attend tuition-free. The school allocates over USD 14.3 million in financial support each year. All aided students receive a school-issued MacBook.
FAQs
How much is tuition at Hotchkiss?
For 2026-27, boarding total is USD 80,800 and day total is USD 68,700 per year, including tuition, technology, and health services fees.
What percentage of students receive financial aid?
34% receive aid with an average grant of USD 65,701. 28% of aided students attend tuition-free. Total aid exceeds USD 14.3 million annually.
How many students attend Hotchkiss?
627 students in grades 9-12 plus a postgraduate year. 94% board in 13 residence halls.
What is the student-faculty ratio?
4:1, enabling highly personalised instruction and close mentoring relationships.
How many courses are offered?
Over 270 courses across seven academic departments.
What sports are available?
27+ varsity teams including football, soccer, hockey, lacrosse, rowing, sailing, tennis, swimming, squash, golf, and mountain biking.
How diverse is the student body?
41% of US students are students of colour and 17% are international, creating a genuinely diverse community.
What are the dining options?
Fairfield Farm provides sustainable, locally sourced food. The school emphasises organic and antibiotic-free ingredients.
What arts programmes are offered?
Studio art, photography, film, theatre, dance, and music. The Tremaine Art Gallery and an International Piano Competition are highlights.
When was Hotchkiss founded?
The school was founded in 1891 in Lakeville, Connecticut, and has over 130 years of history.
