Saint James School, founded in 1842, is a coeducational Episcopal boarding school in central Maryland on a beautiful 800-acre campus.
Conveniently located 60 miles from Washington, DC, and Baltimore, it provides an idyllic learning environment and easy access to urban resources. Boasting a student body representing 20 states and 30 countries, three-quarters of whom are boarders, Saint James prides itself on providing a personalized, inclusive, and diverse learning environment.
Our community encourages a multicultural understanding that nurtures global citizens.
Saint James School is renowned for its strong tradition of academic excellence.
Complemented by a competitive athletics program and a comprehensive arts curriculum, the school strives to develop its students holistically - academically, athletically, artistically, socially, and morally.
By promoting balanced growth, Saint James ensures its students are well-rounded and ready to navigate life's challenges beyond the school gates.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Grades: 8-12
- Enrollment: 240 students
- Yearly Tuition (Boarding Students): $58,000
- Yearly Tuition (Day Students): $36,000
- Average class size: 11 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 31 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Upcoming Events
Top Rankings
Saint James School ranks among the top 20 boarding schools (out of 280 schools) for:
Category
Attribute
Affordability
School Overview
School Focus
College Preparatory
College Preparatory
Grades Offered
8-12
8-12
School Type
Co-ed
Co-ed
Year Founded
1842
1906
Campus Size
800 acres
125 acres
Student Body
Enrollment
240 students
315 students
% Students of Color
60%
26%
% International Students
28%
20%
% Students Boarding
75%
70%
Offers Post-Grad Year
No
No
Academics and Faculty
Saturday Classes
No
No
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Blazer required for all students; tie or bow tie is required for boys
Blazer required for all students; tie or bow tie is required for boys
Casual
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
7:1
# of AP / Advanced Courses Offered
17
18
ESL Courses Offered
No
Yes
% Faculty with Advanced Degree
75%
71%
Summer Program Offered
No
Yes
Tuition Cost
Endowment Size
$37 million
$28 million
Yearly Tuition
(Boarding Students)
(Boarding Students)
$58,000
$66,250
Yearly Tuition
(Day Students)
(Day Students)
$36,000
$35,600
% Students on Financial Aid
60%
40%
Avg. Financial Aid Grant
$25,000
$25,000
Merit Scholarships Offered
No
No
Acceptance Rate
Application Deadline
Jan. 31 / rolling
Jan. 15
Director of Admissions
Kelly Espy
AP / Advanced Courses
# of AP / Advanced Courses Offered
17
18
Courses
AP Biology, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Chemistry, AP Computers Science A, AP English Language and Composition, AP English Literature and Composition, AP European History, AP French Language, AP Latin - Vergil, AP Music Theory, AP Physics C, AP Spanish Language, AP Statistics, AP Studio Art, AP United Stated History, AP World History
Sports
# Interscholastic Sports Offered
14
16
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total Extracurricular Organizations
18
23
Extracurriculars
Club or Organization:
Admission Tour Guides, Big Brothers & Big Sisters, Chapel Vestry, Community Garden Club, DEI Committee, FAB Lab Maker Club, Investment Club, Model United Nations, QED Math Club, Robotics Club, Speech and Debate Team, Student Activities, Student Newspaper, Yearbook
Arts and Music Programs:
Boys' A Cappella, Chamber Orchestra, Choir, Girls' A Cappella
Admission Tour Guides, Big Brothers & Big Sisters, Chapel Vestry, Community Garden Club, DEI Committee, FAB Lab Maker Club, Investment Club, Model United Nations, QED Math Club, Robotics Club, Speech and Debate Team, Student Activities, Student Newspaper, Yearbook
Arts and Music Programs:
Boys' A Cappella, Chamber Orchestra, Choir, Girls' A Cappella
College Matriculation
Year:
10 Most Popular College Choices (# Enrolled)
School Notes
- Saint James School truly offers a well-rounded and preparation-oriented educational experience. Our campus environment is conducive to developing students who are exploratory in nature and deep thinkers. The school achieves this balance by focusing on scholarly work while encouraging students to pursue other interests passionately.
- Class sizes are impressively small, typically comprising only 10-12 students, which ensures an engaging and interactive learning environment where students have the opportunity to master their subjects truly. A selection of 17 AP and post-AP courses allows the keen learner to delve deeper into topics of interest. This broad curriculum ensures that students are provided with comprehensive academic experiences.
- What sets Saint James apart is the school's exceptional support for their students. The dedicated teaching staff, advisors, and mentors instill confidence in students, enabling them to develop vital skills and habits to succeed in college and beyond. The nurturing and supportive atmosphere of being a close-knit community shines through at Saint James.
- Situated on a beautiful 800-acre campus, the school is conveniently located 60 miles from Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. It is a home away from home for the 240 students, 75 percent of whom choose to board on campus. Living at Saint James provides a second family composed of friends, teachers, mentors, and coaches who are as invested in your happiness as they are in your academic performance.
- One of the school's standout features is its emphasis on experiential growth. Students have access to different sports, numerous clubs, and service opportunities. The fine arts program is also commendable, offering drama, dance, music, and visual art.
- As an Episcopal school, Saint James introduces students to the liturgical traditions of Anglican Christianity. Yet the focus is on fostering common values of humanity, integrity, and compassion. The school's culture of inclusivity allows students to worship alongside people of many faiths, exposing them to various cultures and beliefs. Saint James champions open dialogue, valuing and encouraging differing perspectives, which cultivates students' skills in civil discourse.
- A visit to Saint James School is highly recommended. One needs to experience this school's unique atmosphere firsthand to appreciate its comprehensive education genuinely. It is a place where you can find everything you've been looking for in a school under one roof. It is more than just a school; it is a community, a home, and a launchpad for future success.
- Saint James School accreditations: Accredited jointly by the Association of Independent Maryland Schools and Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools and approved by the Maryland State Board of Education
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Admiral James L. Holloway, III '39 - Former Chair, Joint Chiefs of Staff
- Alfred T. Mahan - 19th century naval strategist, author of The Influence of Sea Power Upon History, 1660–1783
- John Metchie, III '18 - Played football at the University of Alabama and drafted into the NFL by the Houston Texans
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Saint James School cost?
Saint James School's tuition is approximately $58,000 for boarding students and $36,000 for day students.
Who are famous alumni from Saint James School?
Saint James School famous alumni include: Admiral James L. Holloway, III '39, Alfred T. Mahan and John Metchie, III '18.
What sports does Saint James School offer?
Saint James School offers 14 interscholastic sports: Ballet, Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Dance, Field Hockey, Football, Golf, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Volleyball and Wrestling.
What is Saint James School's ranking?
Saint James School ranks among the top 20 boarding schools for High percentage of students on financial aid.
When is the application deadline for Saint James School?
The application deadline for Saint James School is Jan. 31 / rolling (applications are due on Jan. 31 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
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People that viewed Saint James School also viewed these schools: West Nottingham Academy, Mercersburg Academy, The Hill School, St. Andrew's School, DE and Phillips Academy Andover.
The nearest boarding school to Saint James School is Mercersburg Academy (19.1 miles away)
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