In the vast constellation of educational institutions, The Hotchkiss School shines as a brilliant star. Since its founding in 1891, this Connecticut-based preparatory school has maintained its mission to cultivate lifelong learners, responsible citizens, and individuals of integrity. Hotchkiss distinguishes itself not only through academic excellence but also through its diverse student body and inclusive campus culture.

Diversity and Inclusion

Nestled on 827 acres of picturesque New England landscape, Hotchkiss's campus provides an idyllic setting for intellectual exploration and personal growth. The school draws students from 37 U.S. states and 33 countries, creating a vibrant tapestry of backgrounds and perspectives. With 39% students of color, this diversity reflects broad differences in family backgrounds, languages, and cultures, fostering cross-cultural understanding among students.

The school demonstrates its commitment to educational equity through substantial financial aid—distributing over $7.6 million annually to support approximately 37% of its student body. This investment ensures that qualified students can access Hotchkiss's transformative education regardless of economic circumstances.

Academic Distinction

Hotchkiss offers an impressive curriculum of 248 courses spanning core subjects and electives, allowing students to tailor their education to individual interests and aspirations. Whether pursuing STEM disciplines, humanities, or creative arts, students find abundant opportunities to excel.

Despite its size, Hotchkiss maintains an intimate learning environment with an average class size of 12 students. This low student-to-teacher ratio enables personalized attention and fosters meaningful academic relationships. Faculty members serve as both instructors and mentors, guiding students through intellectual challenges while encouraging independent thinking.

State-of-the-art facilities enhance the learning experience, including a traditional-meets-contemporary library housing over 97,500 volumes, two visual arts centers, performance theaters, comprehensive athletic complexes, and dedicated music spaces.

Athletics and Wellness

Hotchkiss's athletic program offers 19 interscholastic sports, from traditional team sports like soccer and basketball to individual pursuits such as golf and wrestling. The school complements competitive athletics with outdoor leadership programs featuring kayaking, rock climbing, cycling, and yoga—developing both physical fitness and mental resilience.

Faculty Excellence

With an exceptional 1:5 faculty-to-student ratio, Hotchkiss provides unparalleled access to teacher mentorship. Educators emphasize critical thinking and creativity, designing curricula that extend beyond textbooks to real-world applications. This approach cultivates both leadership skills and collaborative spirit.

Community Values

Hotchkiss operates as a tight-knit community built on mutual respect and shared intellectual curiosity. The school instills social responsibility through service initiatives, preparing students to become engaged global citizens. Beyond academic achievement, Hotchkiss nurtures the emotional intelligence and ethical foundation necessary for meaningful leadership.

Vision for the Future

Hotchkiss continues evolving its educational model, integrating emerging technologies while maintaining its humanistic core. Partnerships with universities and research institutions provide students with advanced learning opportunities, equipping them to navigate an increasingly complex world.

Through its commitment to holistic education, The Hotchkiss School develops graduates who combine intellectual prowess with character strength—future leaders poised to make significant contributions to society. In an era of rapid change, Hotchkiss remains steadfast in its mission to educate the whole person, preparing students not just for college, but for lives of purpose and impact.