Choate Rosemary Hall: Alma Mater of JFK, Admissions Requirements, and Tuition
Choate Rosemary Hall is a prestigious coeducational boarding and day school located in Wallingford, Connecticut. Founded in 1890, Choate Rosemary Hall is renowned for its academic innovation, strong emphasis on leadership, and vibrant arts and athletics programs.
Academic Excellence
Choate Rosemary Hall offers a rigorous curriculum with over 300 courses, including signature programs in environmental science, robotics, and the arts.
Advanced coursework includes AP classes, advanced research opportunities, and unique initiatives like the Science Research Program and the Kohler Environmental Center.
With a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, Choate Rosemary Hall ensures small, discussion-based classes and close faculty mentorship.
School Reputation
Choate Rosemary Hall is consistently ranked among the top boarding schools in the U.S., known for academic rigor and innovation.
Notable alumni include President John F. Kennedy, actress Glenn Close, and journalist Tom Brokaw, reflecting the school’s legacy of producing influential leaders.
The school’s commitment to sustainability and its state-of-the-art facilities enhance its reputation as a forward-thinking institution.
College Placement and Alumni Success
College Placement
Choate Rosemary Hall graduates have a strong track record of matriculating to prestigious colleges and universities. In recent years, students have been 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 Choate Rosemary Hall's excellence in preparing students for higher education.
Notable Alumni
Choate Rosemary Hall has nurtured numerous accomplished alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields:
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John F. Kennedy: The 35th President of the United States, known for his leadership during the Cold War and the establishment of the Peace Corps.
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Glenn Close: An acclaimed actress with multiple Academy Award nominations, known for her roles in films such as "Fatal Attraction" and "Dangerous Liaisons."
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Tom Brokaw: A distinguished journalist and former anchor of NBC Nightly News, recognized for his coverage of major historical events.
These examples highlight Choate Rosemary Hall's ability to cultivate leadership, creativity, and academic excellence among its students.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Students at Choate Rosemary Hall can pursue interests in over 120 clubs and organizations, including entrepreneurship, performing arts, and public speaking.
Choate offers 83 interscholastic teams in 23 sports, with exceptional programs in swimming, squash, and rowing, supported by world-class athletic facilities.
The arts program is robust, featuring music, theater, dance, and visual arts, with opportunities for performances, exhibitions, and competitions.
Student Life and Campus Culture
Diversity: Choate Rosemary Hall welcomes students from over 40 countries and a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds, fostering an inclusive and global community.
Values: The school emphasizes leadership, character, and service, aligning with its motto, “Fidelitas et Integritas” (Fidelity and Integrity).
Community: Boarding and day students enjoy a collaborative and supportive atmosphere, with house-style dormitories fostering strong friendships.
Location and Safety
The 458-acre campus is located in Wallingford, Connecticut, offering a blend of historic charm and modern facilities.
Choate Rosemary Hall provides a safe and serene environment, with easy access to New Haven, Boston, and New York City for cultural and academic enrichment.
Admissions Requirements
Selectivity: Choate Rosemary Hall’s acceptance rate is approximately 16%, reflecting its competitive admissions process.
Testing: Successful applicants typically score in the 85th percentile or higher on the SSAT. International students are required to submit TOEFL scores.
Holistic Review: Admissions decisions consider academic performance, leadership potential, extracurricular involvement, essays, recommendation letters, and interviews.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Annual Tuition: Boarding tuition is approximately 53,000.
Financial Aid: Choate Rosemary Hall meets 100% of demonstrated financial need, with roughly 30% of students receiving financial assistance. Merit-based scholarships are also available for outstanding candidates.