The Governor's Academy

Byfield, Massachusetts · Day and boarding · Co-ed · Grades 9–12

The Governor's Academy is a co-educational grades 9–12 boarding and day school in Byfield, on Massachusetts' North Shore, founded in 1763 through the bequest of Governor William Dummer. About 64% of students board. The school reports a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio, average classes of 12 and more than 115 courses, on a campus of over 450 acres. International students made up 16% of the student body in 2025-26, from 19 countries; there is no ESL program, so enrolled students are expected to be proficient in English. New students are not admitted to grade 12 or a PG year, and all applicants submit SSAT or ISEE scores, with non-native English speakers also submitting TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo results. The boarding application deadline is January 31.

• Founded in 1763; the school describes itself as the oldest boarding school in New England
• 64% boarding, 36% day students
• 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio and average class size of 12
• 115+ academic courses
• Average TOEFL of newly enrolled international students: 106 (school figure)