Why Exeter?

The Harkness approach to learning — named for a beloved benefactor — was born at Exeter. We use it as a noun and a verb, as in, “let’s Harkness this.” It gives students the power — and the responsibility — to fully engage in discussion, at the table and outside the classroom. Our culture is a Harkness culture, where every voice matters.

Our students come from 42 countries and 46 states and territories, from Australia to Ukraine; from Alabama to Guam. They live and learn together in transformative ways, and the diversity of cultures and backgrounds broaden their perspectives and prepare them for a rich and diverse world.

A family’s ability to pay the tuition is never a consideration during the application process. Cost is not a barrier to any qualified student who dreams of attending Phillips Exeter Academy. Each year, we provide more than $25 million in financial aid to our students, and nearly half of our students receive financial assistance from the Academy.

Our 26 dorms and houses are all-ages, meaning older and younger students live side by side, learning from each other and supporting one another. Students live in one dorm throughout their time at Exeter, and the bonds they form with their dorm-mates are powerful and life-lasting. Every day student is assigned a dorm, as well, fostering connections with friends and classmates.

Find a comfortable seat before you crack open our Courses of Instruction book; it’s 82 pages. Our curriculum is vast and varied, offering something for everyone while also allowing a student to dig into their strongest interests. One might study HIS587: A Global History of Witchcraft and ENG534: A.I. Through a Literary Lens on the same afternoon. Imaginations will be stretched; curiosities will be stoked. And a lifelong love of learning will be the result.