Quick Facts (2026)
- Grades: 8-12, PG
- Enrollment: 95 students
- Yearly Tuition (Boarding Students): $51,500
- Acceptance rate: 70%
- Average class size: 9 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 15 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
The Orme School
Established in 1929, Arizona's premier co-ed boarding school is nestled in a breathtaking 26,000-acre working cattle ranch. Experience an authentic Western atmosphere, small class sizes, and a vibrant global community.
We prioritize character development, intellectual curiosity, and academic success.
Join us for athletics, horsemanship, arts, rigorous academics (including AP courses), outdoor adventure, and more!
Quick Facts (2026)
- Grades: 8-12, PG
- Enrollment: 95 students
- Yearly Tuition (Boarding Students): $51,500
- Acceptance rate: 70%
- Average class size: 9 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 15 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
The Orme School ranks among the top 20 boarding schools (out of 307 schools) for:
Category
Attribute
Student Attention
School Overview
School Focus
College Preparatory
College Preparatory
School Type
Co-ed
Co-ed
Learning Difference Programs
We provide support for mild to moderate learning differences. We review educational assessments during the admissions process to ensure we can meet each individual's needs.
n/a
Year Founded
1929
1909
Campus Size
300 acres
125 acres
School Calendar
School Motto
Excellence. Tradition. Character.
Student Body
Enrollment
95 students
300 students
% Students of Color
37%
25%
% International Students
40%
20%
% Students Boarding
100%
70%
Offers Post-Grad Year
Yes
No
Academic Profile
Saturday Classes
No
No
Student-Teacher Ratio
4:1
7:1
# of AP / Advanced Courses Offered
16
17
% Faculty with Advanced Degree
71%
70%
Summer Program Details
# of AP / Advanced Courses Offered
16
17
Courses
AP Art HistoryAP Calculus AB
AP Calculus BCAP Chemistry
AP Computer Science A AP English Language and Composition
AP Englishness Literature and Composition AP Environmental Science
AP European HistoryAP Physics
AP SpanishAP Spanish Language
AP Spanish Literature AP Statistics
AP United States Government AP US History
Tuition & Financial Aid
Endowment Size
$2 million
$25 million
Yearly Tuition
(Boarding Students)
(Boarding Students)
$51,500
(Orme School tuition includes boarding, textbooks, additional evening academic support by faculty, and most after-school activities and sports. Tuition also covers Orme’s specialty signature programs, such as Orme Games and Fine Arts Festival.)
(Orme School tuition includes boarding, textbooks, additional evening academic support by faculty, and most after-school activities and sports. Tuition also covers Orme’s specialty signature programs, such as Orme Games and Fine Arts Festival.)
$59,900
Tuition international students
$51,500
$53,975
Summer Program Cost
$1,500
% Students on Financial Aid
65%
40%
Avg. Financial Aid Grant
$24,000
(Financial aid is need-based)
(Financial aid is need-based)
$25,000
Admissions
Application Deadline
Jan. 15 / rolling
Jan. 15
Acceptance Rate
70%
58%
Director of Admissions
Jara Ruiz Anchia
Application URL
Sports
# Interscholastic Sports Offered
14
16
School Mascot
Warriors
Extracurriculars
Total Extracurricular Organizations
14
23
Extracurriculars
Club or Organization:
Arts and Music Programs:
Recreational Athletic Programs:
College Matriculation
School Notes
- Established in 1929, The Orme School is a beacon of educational excellence for grades 8-12 and postgraduates. Our co-educational boarding school is nestled within a vast 26,000-acre working cattle ranch and features a picturesque 300-acre campus in Northern Arizona. Located at an elevation of 4,000 feet, we enjoy a temperate climate and are surrounded by iconic destinations like Phoenix, Sedona, Prescott, Flagstaff, and the Grand Canyon.
- At Orme, we pride ourselves on our immersive 100% boarding model, fostering collaboration, community, and enduring friendships. We are dedicated to nurturing a diverse global community and actively promoting the development of sound character, intellectual curiosity, and scholastic growth. Our mission is to equip students with essential skills and values, preparing them for a successful journey through college and life.
- Our Mission and Philosophy: We strive to develop sound character, scholastic growth, and intellectual curiosity, enabling students to succeed at the college of their choice and in life. From experiential academics to sports, arts, sustainability, and horsemanship programs, there's something for every student to explore at Orme. No prior proficiency is required - just a genuine desire to learn and grow.
- Academic Rigor with Personalized Attention: At Orme, we challenge our students academically while providing personalized attention and support. We offer a range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses for students seeking advanced academic challenges. At the same time, we recognize and celebrate our students' diverse learning styles and needs. We offer comprehensive support services for students with mild to moderate learning differences, ensuring that every student has the resources and accommodations they need to succeed academically.
- Holistic Education: We understand that education goes beyond the classroom. That's why we offer a holistic approach that encompasses academics, athletics, arts, outdoor education, sustainability, and community service. Our goal is to nurture well-rounded individuals prepared to make meaningful contributions to the world while also finding what is fulfilling for themselves.
- Small Class Sizes and Supportive Community: With small class sizes and a close-knit community, students at Orme receive individualized support and encouragement. Our campus environment is warm, inclusive, and supportive, fostering meaningful connections between students and faculty. With students from across the globe, Orme offers an international experience where students learn from one another and celebrate cultural diversity. Our supportive community fosters friendships and connections that last a lifetime.
- Financial Assistance: We understand that the cost of private education can be a concern for many families. That's why we offer financial assistance to help make The Orme School more accessible.
- Beautiful Campus and Outdoor Opportunities: Situated on a sprawling 300-acre campus amidst the stunning landscapes of Arizona, Orme offers abundant outdoor exploration and adventure opportunities. From hiking and horseback riding to gardening and sustainability initiatives, our students have the chance to connect with nature and develop a deep appreciation for the environment.
- College Preparation and Success: Our academic and residential life program prepares students for success in college and beyond. With guidance from our college counseling team, students receive personalized support throughout the college application process, ensuring they find the best-fit institutions to pursue their academic and career goals.
- LD types supported: We provide support for mild to moderate learning differences. We review educational assessments during the admissions process to ensure we can meet each individual's needs.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Ron McLean, mentioned by Jimmy Stewart, Class of 1963 -
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does The Orme School cost?
The Orme School's tuition is approximately $51,500 for boarding students.
What schools are The Orme School often compared to?
The Orme School is often viewed alongside schools like Verde Valley School by visitors of our site.
What is the acceptance rate of The Orme School?
The acceptance rate of The Orme School is 70%, which is higher than the boarding school average of 58%.
Who are famous alumni from The Orme School?
The Orme School famous alumni include: Ron McLean, mentioned by Jimmy Stewart, Class of 1963.
What sports does The Orme School offer?
The Orme School offers 14 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cheering, Cross Country, Cross Country Running, Equestrian, Football, Riding, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field and Volleyball.
Does The Orme School offer a summer program?
Yes, The Orme School offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What is The Orme School's ranking?
The Orme School ranks among the top 20 boarding schools for Low student-teacher ratio.
When is the application deadline for The Orme School?
The application deadline for The Orme School is Jan. 15 / rolling (applications are due on Jan. 15 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
Well to start off the Orme school is so much different then normal boarding school. I have went to about 4 different boarding schools. When I found Orme, I knew it was going to be. . .
Orme is an amazing place to meet students from not only different states but different countries as well. In the short year I have attended Orme I have met so many amazing people staff and. . .
Related Schools
Show me:
Popular comparisons: The Orme School vs. Verde Valley School
People that viewed The Orme School also viewed these schools: Verde Valley School, Fountain Valley School of Colorado, Cate School, Wasatch Academy and The Thacher School.
The nearest boarding school to The Orme School is Verde Valley School (37.6 miles away)
School
Location
Miles
Quick Facts
3511 Verde Valley School Road
Sedona, AZ 86351
(928) 284-2272
Sedona, AZ 86351
(928) 284-2272
37.6 miles
Gr: 9-12 | 114 students Student-teacher ratio: 6:1 Avg. class size: 10 students Acceptance rate: 60% Tuition listed
6155 Fountain Valley School Road
Colorado Springs, CO 80911
(719) 391-5251
Colorado Springs, CO 80911
(719) 391-5251
514 miles
Gr: 9-12 | 220 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Avg. class size: 12 students Acceptance rate: 70% Tuition listed
1960 Cate Mesa Road, P.O. Box 5005
Carpinteria, CA 93013
(805) 684-4127
Carpinteria, CA 93013
(805) 684-4127
412.7 miles
Gr: 9-12 | 311 students Student-teacher ratio: 5:1 Avg. class size: 10 students Acceptance rate: 17% Tuition listed
120 South 100 West
Mt. Pleasant, UT 84647
(435) 462-1400
Mt. Pleasant, UT 84647
(435) 462-1400
358.2 miles
Gr: 8-12, PG | 148 students Student-teacher ratio: 7:1 Avg. class size: 10 students Acceptance rate: 70% Tuition listed
5025 Thacher Road
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 640-3210
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 640-3210
395.8 miles
Gr: 9-12 | 255 students Student-teacher ratio: 6:1 Avg. class size: 11 students Acceptance rate: 16% Tuition listed
Recent Articles
What Happens During School Breaks for Boarding Students Who Stay on Campus
Learn what happens during school breaks for boarding students who remain on campus, including housing, meals, activities, supervision, and support services.
A Day in the Life of a Dorm Parent: Inside Residential Faculty Life
A day in the life of a dorm parent: how residential faculty support, mentor, supervise, and guide students while building community and shaping the boarding school experience.
How Boarding Schools Assign Dorms, Advisors & Schedules
Learn how boarding schools assign dorm rooms, faculty advisors, and class schedules, and what families should expect before move-in day.
Featured Schools
Quick Facts (2026)
- Grades: 8-12, PG
- Enrollment: 95 students
- Yearly Tuition (Boarding Students): $51,500
- Acceptance rate: 70%
- Average class size: 9 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 15 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Most Popular Articles
Quick Links
Find:
- Boarding school directory (282)
- All-girls boarding schools (22)
- All-boys boarding schools (31)
- Military boarding schools (16)
- LD boarding schools (164)
- Junior boarding schools (116)
- Arts boarding schools (4)
- Summer boarding programs (220)
- Dual language immersion programs (19)
- Schools with openings for Fall 2026