For generations, Eton College has represented the gold standard of elite education in the United Kingdom. In the United States, that same reputation belongs to Phillips Exeter Academy. Founded in 1781, this prestigious boarding school is known for its rigorous academics, innovative teaching style, and impressive record of preparing students for the world's top universities.
Where Is Phillips Exeter Academy?
Phillips Exeter Academy is located in Exeter, New Hampshire, about an hour north of Boston. Its historic 700-acre campus is home to roughly 1,100 students from across the United States and dozens of countries around the world. Nearly 80% of students live on campus, creating an experience that feels more like a university than a traditional high school.
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Why Is Phillips Exeter Academy So Famous?
Exeter has built its reputation over more than two centuries by combining academic excellence with a unique learning environment.
Some of the school's defining features include:
- Founded in 1781
- One of America's most prestigious boarding schools
- More than 450 academic courses
- Small discussion-based classes
- The world's largest secondary school library
- Exceptional university placement, including Harvard, Yale, Princeton, MIT and Stanford.
The Harkness Method Sets Exeter Apart
The biggest difference between Phillips Exeter Academy and most schools is its famous Harkness learning method.
Instead of listening to long lectures, students sit around an oval table with about 12 classmates and one teacher. Every lesson is driven by discussion, debate and collaborative problem-solving. Teachers guide the conversation rather than dominate it, encouraging students to think critically, communicate confidently and learn from one another.
Today, the Harkness approach has become one of Exeter's defining traditions and a model adopted by schools around the world.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Attending Phillips Exeter Academy comes with a premium price. Annual tuition for boarding students is approximately $71,800, while day students pay around $56,000.
However, the Academy is also recognized for one of the most generous financial aid programs among U.S. private schools. Nearly 48% of students receive financial assistance, and admissions are need-blind, meaning a family's financial situation does not affect admission decisions. Families earning less than $125,000 annually may qualify for tuition-free attendance if they meet the financial aid requirements.
How Competitive Is Admission?
Admission to Phillips Exeter Academy is highly selective.
Applicants are typically required to submit:
- An online application
- Academic transcripts
- Teacher recommendations
- Personal essays
- An admissions interview
- Standardized test scores, depending on the grade level
Beyond grades, the admissions committee looks for curiosity, leadership, strong character and meaningful involvement in extracurricular activities.
Notable Alumni
Over the years, Phillips Exeter Academy has educated many influential figures, including:
- Mark Zuckerberg, co-founder of Facebook
- Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States
- Business leaders, scientists, writers and public officials who have shaped American society.
Why Is It Called "America's Eton"?
Much like Eton College in Britain, Phillips Exeter Academy has earned a reputation for educating future leaders.Its centuries-old history, world-class faculty, Harkness teaching method, outstanding college admissions record and influential alumni network have made Exeter one of the most respected secondary schools in the United States.
For students seeking an elite pre-college education, Phillips Exeter Academy remains one of America's most prestigious and competitive institutions.
