Deerfield Academy: Admissions, Tuition, and Key Highlights
Deerfield Academy is a distinguished coeducational boarding and day school located in Deerfield, Massachusetts. Established in 1797, Deerfield Academy is renowned for its rigorous academics, strong community ties, and a tradition of leadership and excellence.
Academic Excellence
Deerfield Academy offers over 170 courses, including Advanced Placement (AP) classes, advanced research opportunities, and interdisciplinary programs in STEM, humanities, and the arts.
Signature programs at Deerfield Academy include the Center for Service and Global Citizenship, which emphasizes leadership, global awareness, and sustainability.
With an average class size of 12 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, Deerfield Academy provides personalized instruction and a collaborative learning environment.
School Reputation
Deerfield Academy is consistently ranked among the top boarding schools in the U.S., known for its commitment to both academic and character development.
Its alumni network includes influential figures such as U.S. Secretary of State Edward Stettinius Jr. and writer Tracy Kidder.
With a substantial endowment, Deerfield Academy provides extensive resources, including state-of-the-art facilities and a world-class faculty.
College Placement and Alumni Success
College Placement
Deerfield Academy graduates have a strong track record of matriculating to prestigious colleges and universities. In the Class of 2020, students were accepted to institutions such as:
- Harvard University
- Yale University
- Princeton University
- Stanford University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- University of Chicago
- Columbia University
- Dartmouth College
- Brown University
- University of Pennsylvania
These results showcase Deerfield Academy's excellence in preparing students for higher education.
Notable Alumni
Deerfield Academy has nurtured numerous accomplished alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields:
-
King Abdullah II of Jordan: Serving as the king since 1999, he is a respected figure in Middle Eastern and global politics. His time at Deerfield inspired him to pursue significant education reforms in Jordan, including the opening of King’s Academy.
-
Matthew Fox: An actor known for his roles in television series such as "Lost" and "Party of Five."
-
John Ashbery: A Pulitzer Prize-winning poet recognized for his contributions to contemporary literature.
These examples highlight Deerfield Academy's ability to cultivate leadership, creativity, and academic excellence among its students.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Students at Deerfield Academy can participate in over 70 clubs and organizations, ranging from debate and robotics to theater and outdoor exploration.
Deerfield Academy offers 21 varsity sports teams, with standout programs in lacrosse, rowing, and hockey, supported by exceptional athletic facilities.
The school's arts program includes music, dance, and visual arts, providing opportunities for performances, exhibitions, and competitions.
Student Life and Campus Culture
Diversity: Deerfield Academy welcomes students from across the U.S. and over 40 countries, fostering an inclusive and globally minded community.
Traditions: The school is steeped in tradition, with long-standing events like Deerfield Day and sit-down meals that promote community bonding.
Community: Boarding and day students live in a close-knit and supportive environment, with strong peer and faculty mentorship.
Location and Safety
The 330-acre campus in the historic village of Deerfield, Massachusetts, combines scenic beauty with modern amenities.
Deerfield Academy provides a safe and serene environment, ideal for academic and personal growth, while offering easy access to Boston and New York.
Admissions Requirements
Selectivity: Deerfield Academy's acceptance rate is approximately 17%, reflecting its competitive admissions process.
Testing: Applicants typically score in the 85th percentile or higher on the SSAT. International students must also submit TOEFL scores.
Holistic Review: Admissions decisions consider academic performance, essays, leadership potential, extracurricular involvement, and letters of recommendation.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Annual Tuition: Boarding tuition is approximately 52,000.
Financial Aid: Deerfield Academy meets 100% of demonstrated financial need, with roughly 40% of students receiving financial assistance. The school's robust financial aid program ensures accessibility to students from diverse economic backgrounds.