Milton Hershey School offers a top-notch education, state-of-the-art facilities, advanced technology and a wide array of activities to children in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade from families of low income.
This cost-free, private, coeducational school in Hershey, PA is funded by a trust established by Milton and Catherine Hershey.
The school provides a positive, structured home life year-round and an excellent education, focusing on the whole child.
Our vision centers on high-quality academics, college preparation, career readiness and providing children with the skills necessary to be successful in all aspects of life.
Quick Facts (2026)
- Grades: PK-12
- Enrollment: 2,189 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Milton Hershey School ranks among the top 20 boarding schools (out of 307 schools) for:
Category
Attribute
Community Size
Boarding Focus
School Overview
School Focus
College Preparatory
College Preparatory
Grades Offered
PK-12
9-12
School Type
Co-ed
Co-ed
Year Founded
1909
1909
Campus Size
7000 acres
125 acres
Colors
Brown, Gold
School Calendar
Student Body
Enrollment
2189 students
300 students
% Students Boarding
100%
70%
Offers Post-Grad Year
No
No
Academics and Faculty
Saturday Classes
No
No
Student-Teacher Ratio
9:1
7:1
# of AP / Advanced Courses Offered
10
17
ESL Courses Offered
No
Yes
Tuition Cost
Yearly Tuition
(Boarding Students)
(Boarding Students)
n/a
$59,900
Yearly Tuition
(Day Students)
(Day Students)
n/a
$33,500
Merit Scholarships Offered
No
No
Admissions
SSAT Required
Yes
Yes
Application URL
School Notes
- In 1909, Milton Hershey School began as a dream and vision by the famous chocolate maker Milton S. Hershey and his wife, Catherine.
- Today, MHS thrives as a cost-free, private, coeducational home and school for more than 2,000 students from families of lower income. Students receive an excellent pre-K through 12th-grade education, nurturing home life year-round, college and career readiness support, and comprehensive health and wellness care, including medical and dental care, food, and clothing.
- Under the leadership of President Pete Gurt `85, MHS continues the work and proud legacy of our founders. Our employees lead by example, serving our students while enjoying careers worth every minute - and we are always searching for committed and qualified people to join our MHS community. We continue to grow and serve more children in need with a clear focus to continually enhance and expand upon the programs, resources, and services we offer so students can be their greatest selves.
- Milton Hershey School accreditations: Pennsylvania Association of Independent Schools (PAIS), Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA)
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Over 11,000 graduates including prominent figures in various sectors. -
- School Motto: Children at Milton Hershey School are nurtured to lead fulfilling and productive lives.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are famous alumni from Milton Hershey School?
Milton Hershey School famous alumni include: Over 11,000 graduates including prominent figures in various sectors..
What is Milton Hershey School's ranking?
Milton Hershey School ranks among the top 20 boarding schools for Large student body (number of students) and High percentage of boarding students.
When is the application deadline for Milton Hershey School?
The application deadline for Milton Hershey School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
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The nearest boarding school to Milton Hershey School is Oldfields School (49.3 miles away)
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