Founded in 1893, Walnut Hill School for the Arts is an independent, coeducational, boarding and day secondary school for the arts, for grades 9-12 (ages 13-18).
In conjunction with intensive arts training in dance, music, theater, visual art, and writing, film, and media art, the School offers a comprehensive and rigorous academic curriculum in all college-preparatory subjects, and is recognized as the premier school for the arts in the United States.
Walnut Hill is the only school with a joint program with a major, world-class conservatory: New England Conservatory.
The mission of Walnut Hill School for the Arts is to educate talented, accomplished and intellectually engaged young artists from all over the world.
The School does so in a diverse, humane and ethical community.
Walnut Hill graduates matriculate to the world's top conservatories, art schools, universities, and colleges and are performing on Broadway, television, and movies, and work with symphonies and dance companies around the world.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked MA School
- Grades: 9-12
- Enrollment: 277 students
- Yearly Tuition: $64,460
- Acceptance rate: 47%
- Application Deadline: Jan. 15 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Walnut Hill School For The Arts ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Massachusetts for:
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 9-12
Offers Post-Graduate Year
Yes
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Year Founded
1893
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
277 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
39%
State avg.: 29%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
46 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
84%
List of Courses Offered
Advanced Courses
Accelerated Chemistry, Advanced Calculus, Advanced English, Biology 2, French 6, Physics 2, Spanish 6
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Jan. 15 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$64,460
Tuition Notes
Day Student tuition 2019–20: $48,680
% on Financial Aid
38%
Acceptance Rate
47%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Susanne Carpenter
Endowment Size
$16 million
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
6 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Arts and Music Programs:
Dance, Film & Media Arts Major, Music, Theater major, Visual Art Major, Writing
Dance, Film & Media Arts Major, Music, Theater major, Visual Art Major, Writing
School Notes
- Walnut Hill School for the Arts is an independent boarding and day high school offering a transformational educational experience purposefully designed for student artists in grades 9-12, and a postgraduate year. We offer unparalleled training in dance; music; theater; visual art; and writing, film & media arts, complemented by a robust and innovative academic curriculum.
- Every aspect of our program promotes our students' growth as bold artists, curious learners, and mindful citizens. Students from across the country and around the globe come together to form a dynamic community on our scenic campus located just west of Boston in Natick, Massachusetts.
- Guided by master teachers and supported by peers from a variety of artistic backgrounds, Walnut Hill students graduate prepared to succeed in college and beyond.Learn more at www.walnuthillarts.org or follow us @WalnutHillArts.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Walnut Hill School For The Arts cost?
Walnut Hill School For The Arts's tuition is approximately $64,460 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Walnut Hill School For The Arts?
The acceptance rate of Walnut Hill School For The Arts is 47%, which is lower than the national average of 69%.
What sports does Walnut Hill School For The Arts offer?
Walnut Hill School For The Arts offers 2 interscholastic sports: Ballet and Dance.
What is Walnut Hill School For The Arts's ranking?
Walnut Hill School For The Arts ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Massachusetts for: Largest student body and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for Walnut Hill School For The Arts?
The application deadline for Walnut Hill School For The Arts is Jan. 15 / rolling (applications are due on Jan. 15 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
School Reviews
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