Best performing arts boarding schools in the U.S.: What to look for

From specialized arts programs to exceptional resources, we’ll show you what to look for when choosing a school.

April 21, 2025

If you’re serious about pursuing a career in the arts, a performing arts boarding school can be a great place to hone your skills, make connections, and get a glimpse of your professional future.

These specialized institutions offer more than just an education: They provide a well-rounded environment where creativity, academic excellence, and personal growth intersect. But with several options available, how do you choose the right school for you?

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve created a list of eight things to look for—and highlighted a few schools to consider.

What to look for when selecting a performing arts boarding school

What defines an outstanding educational institution? Here are eight criteria to consider when evaluating potential schools.

1. Arts programs and specializations. The best performing arts schools offer specialized courses in specific disciplines—such as theatre, dance, music, or film—taught by experienced instructors with real-world experience. Beyond day-to-day class instruction, look for programs that also offer master classes with guest artists and frequent opportunities to participate in performances, showcases, tours, and competitions.

2. A balance of arts and academics. Even if you’re completely sure you want to pursue a career in the arts, it’s important not to neglect your academics. The ideal school strikes a perfect balance between rigorous academic coursework and intensive artistic training. Look for institutions that offer Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or honors courses to challenge students intellectually while supporting their artistic pursuits.

3. Facilities and resources. State-of-the-art facilities can dramatically enhance an artist's training. Exceptional schools provide not only professional-grade performance and rehearsal spaces, but also comprehensive resources such as music libraries, film equipment, and costume design and set-building workshops.

4. College and career preparation. Top performing arts boarding schools set their students up for success by ensuring they’re ready for their next chapter. Look for schools that offer comprehensive college counseling, audition and portfolio development coaching, and opportunities to network with college representatives, agents, casting directors, and producers.

5. Reputation and alumni success. A school’s track record speaks volumes. Do some research to learn more about graduates’ careers, the school’s connections to prestigious conservatories and universities, and any industry recognitions the school has received.

6. Residence life and student support. A boarding school is more than just a place to learn: It’s a place to live and grow. The holistic student experience matters, so be sure to consider the quality of residential life, extracurricular activities, mental health and wellness resources, and personal development opportunities.

7. Location. Would you prefer to live close to a major cultural center—or to be immersed in nature? Both types of locations offer advantages: Metropolitan schools provide easy access to industry opportunities, while rural schools offer the peace and serenity to focus deeply on your craft. Ultimately, it’s up to you which setting best fits your needs and goals.

8. Cost. Because of the extensive resources and boarding component, performing arts boarding schools are often more expensive than traditional day schools. Luckily, many schools offer scholarships and financial aid to help students make an exceptional academic and arts education possible.

The top performing arts boarding schools in the United States

Ready to take a look at the top performing arts boarding schools in the United States? Here’s our top choice.

Interlochen Arts Academy (Interlochen, Michigan)

Interlochen Arts Academy was the nation’s first boarding arts high school—and it continues to be the premier destination for gifted young artists. The world-famous institution is renowned for its exceptional balance of academic rigor and artistic training. The school offers unparalleled programs in seven artistic disciplines—music, theatre, visual arts, creative writing, dance, film & new media, and interdisciplinary arts—plus an outstanding academic curriculum that features AP courses and a partnership with Indiana University’s Advance College Project. Its state-of-the-art facilities include the 60,000 square-foot Music Center, the scenic and spacious Dance Center, and the DeRoy Center for Film Studies—the only building in the nation dedicated to the study of filmmaking at the high school level. The Academy boasts an impressive track record of placing graduates in top conservatories like Juilliard, Berklee, and more. The school’s alumni can be found working in every field imaginable—both in the arts and beyond—and have won numerous artistic awards and accolades. Academy students enjoy a vibrant residential life that includes frequent on- and off-campus activities, chances to explore the school’s 1,200-acre wooded campus, and a comprehensive social-emotional learning program, The Interlochen 5. Merit scholarships and financial aid are available.

Other opportunities

While there are only a handful of dedicated fine arts boarding schools in the United States, there are many traditional boarding schools that offer rigorous arts programs—and dozens of exceptional, arts-focused day schools.

If you’re convinced that a boarding school is the best fit for you, check out these institutions with strong arts programs:

Besant Hill School (Ojai, California)
Buxton School (Williamstown, Massachusetts)
The Masters School (Dobbs Ferry, New York)
The Northwest School (Seattle, Washington)
The Putney School (Putney, Vermont)
The Ross School (East Hampton, New York)
Saint Ann’s School (Brooklyn, New York)
Solebury School (New Hope, Pennsylvania)

If you’re willing to entertain a day school, your options will expand significantly. Many states—including Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and South Carolina—have government-funded arts high schools with reduced tuition for in-state residents, so be sure to check out the options available in your area. Other well-known arts high schools include:

Baltimore School for the Arts (Baltimore, Maryland)
Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (Dallas, Texas)
The Chicago Academy for the Arts (Chicago, Illinois)
Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts (New York City)
New World School of the Arts (Miami, Florida)
Orange County School of the Arts (Santa Ana, California)

Conclusion

Selecting the right performing arts boarding school is a deeply personal journey. By carefully evaluating these eight criteria and exploring top institutions, aspiring artists can find an environment that nurtures their talents, challenges their intellect, and prepares them for future success.