The Taft School
General Information
About The Taft School
The Taft School is a prestigious private, coeducational boarding and day school located in Watertown, Connecticut. Founded in 1890 by Horace Dutton Taft, the school has built a rich tradition of academic excellence, character development, and community service. Known for its rigorous college-preparatory curriculum, The Taft School serves students in grades 9 through 12, as well as post-graduate levels. The school emphasizes the values of integrity, kindness, and hard work, with a mission to educate the whole student—intellectually, morally, and socially. Its faculty members are highly experienced educators who focus on nurturing curiosity and encouraging independent thought. With a beautiful 226-acre campus featuring state-of-the-art academic buildings, athletic facilities, and arts centers, Taft provides an immersive environment where students thrive both inside and outside the classroom. The Taft School is renowned for producing well-rounded graduates who excel in top universities worldwide and emerge as responsible, compassionate leaders in their communities.
Contact Information
Address: 110 Woodbury Road, Watertown, CT 06795, USA
Phone Number: (860) 945-7777
Email Address: admissions@taftschool.org
The Taft School Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1890 |
| Type | Private Coeducational Boarding and Day School |
| Grades | 9–12, Postgraduate |
| Motto | “Not to be served but to serve” |
| Campus Size | 226 acres |
| Average Class Size | 11 students |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 6:1 |
The Taft School Rankings
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| U.S. Private High Schools | Top 25 |
| U.S. Boarding Schools | Top 10 |
| Global Private Schools | Top 50 |
The Taft School Academics
The Taft School Faculties / Departments
- English Department
- Mathematics Department
- Science Department
- History and Social Sciences
- World Languages
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Computer Science and Technology
- Athletics and Physical Education
- Community Service and Leadership Development
The Taft School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses in English, Math, and Sciences
- Honors Programs in History, Literature, and Language
- STEM and Engineering Pathways
- Global Studies and International Relations
- Creative Arts and Performance Programs
- Environmental Science and Sustainability
- Ethics and Leadership Studies
- Independent Research and Senior Capstone Projects
Online Learning
The Taft School’s academic model primarily focuses on in-person instruction but integrates modern technology and hybrid learning tools to enhance flexibility and academic continuity. During periods requiring remote instruction, students engage through virtual classrooms, interactive assignments, and digital resources. Taft’s online platforms ensure academic excellence is maintained, allowing teachers to provide real-time support and personalized feedback. The school’s digital infrastructure also supports blended learning and online enrichment courses, preparing students for the digital academic environments they will encounter in higher education.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | 1380 |
| ACT | 31 |
| AP Exam Pass Rate | 94% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
The Taft School boasts a retention rate exceeding 97%, underscoring its strong community and student satisfaction. Nearly 100% of Taft students graduate on time, with a significant number continuing their education at Ivy League and other top-tier universities. The school’s combination of academic rigor, mentorship, and character education contributes to these exceptional outcomes.
The Taft School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
The Taft School admits highly motivated students with strong academic and extracurricular backgrounds. While formal GPA reporting varies, successful applicants typically have GPAs above 3.7 on a 4.0 scale. Average standardized test scores for accepted students are between 1300–1500 on the SAT and 29–33 on the ACT. Applicants are evaluated holistically, with emphasis on intellectual curiosity, leadership, and community involvement.
The Taft School Acceptance Rate
| Admission Category | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall | 26% |
| Boarding Students | 24% |
| Day Students | 30% |
The Taft School Application Requirements
The Taft School’s admission process is selective, designed to identify students who demonstrate academic ability, personal character, and a genuine interest in community engagement. Applicants must submit an online application, academic transcripts, standardized test scores (if available), teacher recommendations, and a personal essay. An interview—either virtual or in person—is also required to assess the applicant’s fit with the school’s mission and values. International applicants may need to provide TOEFL scores for English proficiency. The admissions team seeks students who embody Taft’s motto: “Not to be served but to serve.”
Application Process
- Submit the Taft School online application form
- Upload transcripts from the previous two academic years
- Provide standardized test scores (optional for some applicants)
- Submit two or more teacher recommendations
- Write a personal essay
- Complete the interview process
- Await admissions decision notification
The Taft School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | September 1 |
| Application Deadline | January 15 |
| Financial Aid Deadline | January 15 |
| Decision Notification | March 10 |
| Enrollment Deadline | April 10 |
Essay Prompt
Applicants are often asked to write a reflective essay demonstrating personal growth, leadership, or service experience. A typical prompt may include: “Describe a moment when you made a positive impact on your community. What did you learn about yourself through this experience?”
The Taft School Scholarships
The Taft School offers a variety of merit-based and need-based scholarships to ensure access for students from diverse economic backgrounds. Financial aid awards are determined through careful evaluation of family financial circumstances. In addition, Taft offers special recognition scholarships for leadership, academic distinction, and service to the community, encouraging excellence and inclusivity in education.
The Taft School Tuition and Fees
| Category | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Boarding Students | $71,000 |
| Day Students | $53,500 |
| Application Fee | $75 |
| Health Insurance (Optional) | $2,000 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
The Taft School has a diverse and inclusive student body that reflects a range of backgrounds and cultures. Approximately 52% of students are male and 48% are female. The student population represents over 40 countries and 35 U.S. states, creating a globally enriched campus environment. The school values cultural exchange, encouraging students to learn from one another’s perspectives and experiences while maintaining a strong sense of belonging and mutual respect.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Taft actively promotes accessibility and equity by offering need-based financial aid and comprehensive student support programs. The school provides accommodations and learning resources for students with diagnosed learning differences, ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to excel. Through personalized academic support and inclusive teaching methods, Taft fosters an environment where all students can reach their full potential.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | 605 students |
| Boarding Students | 490 |
| Day Students | 115 |
| International Students | 20% |
| Average Class Size | 11 students |
University Diversity
Diversity is central to The Taft School’s mission. The school strives to cultivate a community that embraces different cultures, ideas, and beliefs. Taft’s curriculum integrates global awareness, ethical leadership, and social responsibility through courses and campus programming. Students engage in dialogues, cultural celebrations, and diversity workshops that promote understanding and empathy. This vibrant cultural environment prepares students for life in an increasingly interconnected world.
Average Earnings
While The Taft School is a preparatory institution, its graduates are frequently admitted to elite universities, leading to successful careers in diverse industries such as law, medicine, business, arts, and technology. Alumni of Taft often hold leadership positions and attribute their success to the school’s emphasis on critical thinking, perseverance, and service-oriented values instilled during their formative years.
The Taft School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The Taft School employs approximately 130 faculty members, most of whom hold advanced degrees in their respective disciplines. Many live on campus, contributing to a strong sense of community and mentorship beyond the classroom. Faculty members are dedicated to personalized instruction and student engagement, maintaining a student-to-teacher ratio of 6:1. Staff and administrators provide robust support services, ensuring that every aspect of student life—from academics to personal well-being—is nurtured.
Faculty Profiles
Taft’s faculty are distinguished not only by their academic credentials but also by their commitment to the holistic development of students. Many are published authors, researchers, and award-winning educators who bring both professional expertise and a passion for teaching. Their approach emphasizes inquiry-based learning, collaboration, and ethical leadership. Faculty members also coach athletic teams, direct performing arts productions, and mentor student organizations, ensuring a dynamic educational experience.
The Taft School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The Taft School campus blends historic architecture with modern facilities, creating an inspiring environment for study and community living. Boarding students reside in comfortable dormitories equipped with common areas, study lounges, and supervision by residential faculty. Each dorm fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and belonging. The campus also features a performing arts center, state-of-the-art athletic fields, a robotics lab, and extensive green spaces. Housing costs are included in boarding tuition, and students enjoy three nutritious meals daily in the dining hall.
Transportation
Located in the scenic town of Watertown, Connecticut, The Taft School campus is easily accessible from major highways and nearby cities such as Hartford and New Haven. The school provides shuttle services to airports and train stations during major breaks. On-campus mobility is safe and convenient, with walking paths connecting dorms, academic buildings, and recreational facilities. Public transportation options and organized carpools are also available for day students commuting from nearby towns.