The Hotchkiss School
General Information
About The Hotchkiss School
The Hotchkiss School, established in 1891, is a prestigious private boarding and day school located in Lakeville, Connecticut. Renowned for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to fostering leadership and character, Hotchkiss serves approximately 600 students in grades 9 through 12, including a select number of postgraduates. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes intellectual curiosity, ethical responsibility, and global awareness.
Students at Hotchkiss engage in a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and community service, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience. The school’s picturesque 800-acre campus, situated in the scenic Berkshire Mountains, provides an inspiring setting for learning and personal growth. Hotchkiss is a member of several esteemed educational associations, including the Eight Schools Association and the Founders League, underscoring its standing among top-tier institutions.
Contact Information
- Address: 11 Interlaken Road, Lakeville, CT 06039-2141
- Phone: (860) 435-2591
- Email: Not publicly listed; contact via online form on the school’s official website
School Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1891 |
| Motto | Moniti Meliora Sequamur (Guided by each other, let us seek better paths) |
| Grades Served | 9–12, Postgraduate |
| Enrollment | Approximately 600 students (2024–2025) |
| School Type | Private, Co-educational Boarding and Day School |
| Mascot | Bearcat |
| School Colors | Yale Blue and White |
| Affiliations | Eight Schools Association, Founders League, NEPSAC, TABS, Round Square |
The Hotchkiss School Rankings
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| Best Private High School in the U.S. (2026) | #1 |
| Best Boarding High School in the U.S. (2026) | #1 |
| Best Private High School in Connecticut | #1 |
The Hotchkiss School Academics
The Hotchkiss School Faculties / Departments
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- History and Social Sciences
- Modern and Classical Languages
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Physical Education and Athletics
- Computer Science
- Philosophy and Religious Studies
- Environmental Science
The Hotchkiss School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Core Subjects:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- History and Social Sciences
- Languages:
- Modern Languages (e.g., Spanish, French, Chinese)
- Classical Languages (e.g., Latin, Greek)
- Arts:
- Visual Arts
- Performing Arts (Music, Theatre, Dance)
- Electives:
- Environmental Science
- Philosophy
- Computer Science
- Physical Education and Athletics
- Advanced Programs:
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
- Independent Study Projects
- Global Education Initiatives
Online Learning
The Hotchkiss School offers a limited selection of online learning opportunities, primarily through summer programs and special projects. The school’s primary focus remains on in-person instruction to foster community engagement and hands-on learning experiences.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | 1450 |
| ACT | 32 |
Retention and Graduation Rates
- Graduation Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: Not publicly disclosed
The Hotchkiss School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
- GPA Range: Not publicly disclosed
- SAT Range: 1450
- ACT Range: 32
The Hotchkiss School Acceptance Rate
| Year | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Approximately 16% |
The Hotchkiss School Application Requirements
Admission to The Hotchkiss School is highly competitive. Applicants are required to submit standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), transcripts from previous schools, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Additionally, interviews and campus visits are strongly encouraged to provide a holistic view of each applicant. The school seeks students who demonstrate academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to community involvement.
Application Process
- Submit Application: Complete the online application form available on the school’s official website.
- Provide Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all previous schools attended.
- Standardized Test Scores: Provide SAT or ACT scores.
- Letters of Recommendation: Submit letters from teachers and other mentors.
- Personal Statement: Write a personal essay addressing specific prompts.
- Interview: Participate in an interview, either on-campus or virtually.
- Decision Notification: Await admission decision notification.
The Hotchkiss School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | January 15 |
| Financial Aid Deadline | February 15 |
| Notification of Decisions | March 10 |
| Enrollment Deadline | April 10 |
Essay Prompt
Applicants are required to submit a personal essay responding to a specific prompt provided in the application materials. The essay should reflect the applicant’s personal experiences, values, and aspirations.
The Hotchkiss School Scholarships
The Hotchkiss School offers financial aid based on demonstrated need. The school is committed to making education accessible to talented students regardless of their financial background. Scholarships are awarded as part of the financial aid package and are not merit-based.
The Hotchkiss School Tuition and Fees
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition (Boarding) | $75,790 |
| Tuition (Day) | $64,420 |
| Technology Fee | $850 |
| Health Services Fee | $600 (Boarding) / $400 (Day) |
| Total (Boarding) | $77,240 |
| Total (Day) | $65,670 |
The Hotchkiss School Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
- Gender:
- Female: 50%
- Male: 49%
- Non-Binary: 1%
- Race/Ethnicity:
- White: 40.3%
- Asian: 24.2%
- Multiracial: 20.6%
- African American: 7.7%
- Hispanic: 3.4%
- Native American: 0.3%
- Unknown: 3.4%
- Pacific Islander: 0%
- International Students: Approximately 17%
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
The Hotchkiss School is dedicated to supporting students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The school provides financial aid to ensure that qualified students have access to its programs. Additionally, accommodations and support services are available for students with disabilities to ensure an inclusive educational environment.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 611 |
| International Students | 104 |
School Diversity
The Hotchkiss School prides itself on fostering a diverse and inclusive community. With students representing various racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, the school creates an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and celebrated. This diversity enriches the learning experience, promoting global awareness and mutual respect among students.
Average Earnings
As a high school, The Hotchkiss School does not track alumni earnings. However, graduates have been accepted into prestigious colleges and universities, indicating a strong foundation for future success in higher education and beyond.
The Hotchkiss School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The Hotchkiss School employs a dedicated and experienced faculty committed to providing high-quality education. Teachers are not only educators but also mentors, advisors, and coaches, playing an integral role in students’ academic and personal development.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members at The Hotchkiss School possess advanced degrees in their respective fields and are actively engaged in professional development. Many faculty members have published research, received awards, or contributed to their disciplines in meaningful ways, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom.
The Hotchkiss School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The Hotchkiss School’s campus spans 800 acres and includes 13 residence halls, providing a home for 94% of students. The residence halls foster a close-knit community, with each dormitory serving as a unique living and learning environment. Students participate in various activities and traditions that promote a sense of belonging and school spirit.
Transportation
The Hotchkiss School is located in a rural area, and students typically rely on private transportation to and from campus. The school provides information on transportation options, including schedules and arrangements for travel to and from major cities. Students returning from New York City on a Metro-North train should plan to leave Grand Central Terminal no later than 6 p.m., arriving in Wassaic by 8 p.m. Later trains will not allow for return to the dorm prior to dorm closing.