Located one hour north of Atlanta, Georgia, Riverside Preparatory Academy has remained one of the nation's premier college preparatory academies for young men in grades 6-12 since 1907.
Our mission is to provide a supportive and challenging educational environment that fosters scholarly competence and intellectual curiosity enhances spiritual and physical fitness and develops leadership skills and the strength of character necessary for success in college and in life.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Grades: 6-12
- Enrollment: 290 students
- Yearly Tuition (Boarding Students): $53,300
- Yearly Tuition (Day Students): $17,950
- Acceptance rate: 85%
- Average class size: 12 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Riverside Preparatory Academy ranks among the top 20 boarding schools (out of 279 schools) for:
Category
Attribute
Affordability
School Overview
Grades Offered
6-12
9-12
Year Founded
1907
1907
Campus Size
206 acres
125 acres
Student Body
Enrollment
290 students
314 students
% Students of Color
25%
26%
% International Students
25%
20%
% Students Boarding
95%
70%
Offers Post-Grad Year
No
No
Academics and Faculty
Saturday Classes
No
No
Student : Teacher Ratio
12:1
7:1
# of AP / Advanced Courses Offered
15
18
% Faculty with Advanced Degree
75%
71%
Tuition Cost
Endowment Size
$40 million
$28 million
Yearly Tuition
(Boarding Students)
(Boarding Students)
$53,300
$66,200
Yearly Tuition
(Day Students)
(Day Students)
$17,950
$35,600
Tuition international students
$61,650
$57,500
% Students on Financial Aid
64%
40%
Avg. Financial Aid Grant
$15,000
$25,000
Merit Scholarships Offered
No
No
Acceptance Rate
AP / Advanced Courses
# of AP / Advanced Courses Offered
15
18
Courses
Biology, Calculus (AB), Chemistry, Computer Science, English Language & Composition, English Literature & Composition, Human Geography, Physics, Physics C, Physics II, Psychology, Statistics, U.S. Government, U.S. History, World History
Sports
# Interscholastic Sports Offered
12
16
Extracurriculars
Total Extracurricular Organizations
11
23
Extracurriculars
Club or Organization:
Academic Bowl, Color Guard, Community Service Club, Drill Team, Esports, JROTC, National Honor Society, O.R. Horton Society, Science National Honor Society, Yearbook
Arts and Music Programs:
Band
Academic Bowl, Color Guard, Community Service Club, Drill Team, Esports, JROTC, National Honor Society, O.R. Horton Society, Science National Honor Society, Yearbook
Arts and Music Programs:
Band
College Matriculation
Year: 2014 - 2015
10 Most Popular College Choices (# Enrolled)
The Citadel
8
University of North Georgia
7
Auburn University
6
Savannah College of Art and Design
4
U.S. Military Academy - West Point
4
University of Arizona
4
Marion Military Institute
3
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University
2
Florida Institute of Technology
2
Georgia Institute of Technology
2
School Notes
- Through the academy's military structure, cadets learn self-discipline, honor, and leadership skills
- Riverside's Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) has been designated as a JROTC Honor Unit with Distinction for over 80 years. This means that Riverside can recommend up to 5 cadets per year to the 5 federal service academies.
- Riverside also offers a "Dual Enrollment" program. For qualified senior cadets, they can enroll and take online college courses while taking classes simultaneously at Riverside.
- Riverside offers a Georgia Driver's Education course for young men who would like to obtain their Driver's License. In addition, we also offer a Flight Program for young men interested in obtaining their pilot's license.
- The Academy offers a 4-week summer school program each year.
- Riverside is located one hour north of Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. The Commandant's office can make shuttle arrangments for our cadets needing transportation to and from the airport.
- Riverside Preparatory Academy accreditations: SACS;SAIS;NAIS;SABS
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- John Bassett - Bassett Furniture
- Ira Middleberg (1966) - Attorney, Middleberg, Riddle & Gianna - New Orleans
- Luis Proenza (1962) - President, University of Akron
- Governor Felix Gonzales Canto - State of Quintana Roo, Mexico
- Tommy Prothro (1938) - former coach with the LA Rams and San Diego Chargers
- ADM. David McDonald (1924) - former U.S. Chief of Naval Operations (1963-1967)
- Judge E.J. Salcines - Retired Judge, Florida Appellate Court
- Mike Neveaux - Retired Chief Pilot, Los Angeles Police Dept. Air Support Division
- Cee Lo Green - Singer and Actor
- Peter Lyons - Retired Lawyer, California; Author
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Riverside Preparatory Academy cost?
Riverside Preparatory Academy's tuition is approximately $53,300 for boarding students and $17,950 for day students.
What is the acceptance rate of Riverside Preparatory Academy?
The acceptance rate of Riverside Preparatory Academy is 85%, which is higher than the boarding school average of 60%.
Who are famous alumni from Riverside Preparatory Academy?
Riverside Preparatory Academy famous alumni include: John Bassett, Ira Middleberg (1966), Luis Proenza (1962), Governor Felix Gonzales Canto, Tommy Prothro (1938), ADM. David McDonald (1924), Judge E.J. Salcines, Mike Neveaux, Cee Lo Green and Peter Lyons.
What sports does Riverside Preparatory Academy offer?
Riverside Preparatory Academy offers 12 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Drill Team, Football, Intramural Sports Only, Lacrosse, Riflery, Soccer, Tennis, Track and Field and Wrestling.
What is Riverside Preparatory Academy's ranking?
Riverside Preparatory Academy ranks among the top 20 boarding schools for High percentage of students on financial aid.
When is the application deadline for Riverside Preparatory Academy?
The application deadline for Riverside Preparatory Academy is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
Riverside Military Academy was one of the best experiences of my life. It taught me the values of hard work and camaraderie. Along with giving me the opportunity to travel across three nation and. . .
The ROTC program helped shape the framework of how Riverside operates, and as a "Military Academy" it of course had to have that component.
This really helped with the direction the education took as well. . .
Riverside Preparatory Academy Alumni #3
Class of 1980
5.0010/24/2017
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Class of 1980
5.0010/24/2017
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Cadets at RMA were responsible for many aspects of day-to-day life including discipline, dorm conduct, military drills and inspections all focused on leadership development. . .
Show more reviews (2 reviews)
Related Schools
Show me:
People that viewed Riverside Preparatory Academy also viewed these schools: Camden Military Academy, Hargrave Military Academy, Fork Union Military Academy, Fishburne Military School and Army and Navy Academy.
The nearest boarding school to Riverside Preparatory Academy is Atlanta International School (35.7 miles away)
School
Location
Miles
Grades
Students
300 students 181.4 miles 520 Hwy. 1 North
Camden, SC 29020
(803) 432-6001
Camden, SC 29020
(803) 432-6001
181.4
7-12, PG
300
195 students 303.1 miles 200 Military Drive
Chatham, VA 24531
(800) 432-2480
Chatham, VA 24531
(800) 432-2480
303.1
7-12, PG
195
300 students 391.1 miles PO Box 278, 4744 James Madison Hwy
Fork Union, VA 23055
(434) 842-4205
Fork Union, VA 23055
(434) 842-4205
391.1
7-12, PG
300
106 students 377.4 miles 225 S. Wayne Avenue
Waynesboro, VA 22980
(540) 946-7706
Waynesboro, VA 22980
(540) 946-7706
377.4
7-12
106
320 students 1918.7 miles 2605 Carlsbad Blvd.
Carlsbad, CA 92008
(888) 762-2338
Carlsbad, CA 92008
(888) 762-2338
1918.7
7-12
320
Recent Articles
5 Reasons to Choose a Boys' School
Uncover the benefits of boys' schools, including tailored teaching methods, reduced social pressures, and opportunities for personal growth. Learn how these institutions foster an environment where boys can excel academically, explore diverse interests, and develop into well-rounded young men without gender stereotypes.
Military Schools Demystified: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents
This in-depth article explores the world of military schools, addressing common misconceptions and highlighting their unique benefits. It provides parents with valuable insights into why they might consider a military school, debunks prevalent myths, and offers a realistic view of life in these institutions. Whether you're just beginning to explore educational options or are seriously considering a military school for your child, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Teaching in a Boarding School: A Comprehensive Guide for Educators
This in-depth article explores the unique aspects of teaching in a boarding school environment. It provides valuable insights for educators considering this career path, covering the multifaceted nature of the job, qualifications required, and practical tips for securing a position. Whether you're a seasoned teacher looking for a change or a new graduate exploring career options, this guide offers a realistic view of life as a boarding school educator.
