The Milton Hershey School is entirely funded by the Milton Hershey School Trust, so there is no cost for students to attend.
To be eligible for admission, students must come from low-income families, defined as those earning less than 200% of the federal poverty level.
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The school has a dedicated team of regional admissions recruiters who support prospective students throughout the enrollment process based on their location.
In addition to financial need, applicants must be between the ages of 4-15 and demonstrate the ability to learn effectively at the school without significant behavioral issues.
The school uses a comprehensive assessment process to evaluate each applicant's academic potential, personal strengths, and family circumstances to determine eligibility.
Once enrolled, students receive a full scholarship covering tuition, room and board, meals, clothing, healthcare, and all other expenses for their entire time at the school.
The Milton Hershey School Trust, which funds the school, has an endowment valued at over $15 billion, making it one of the wealthiest educational institutions in the world.
The school's admissions team works closely with social workers, counselors, and other community organizations to identify and recruit qualified low-income students from across the United States.
Siblings of current Milton Hershey School students are given priority consideration during the admissions process, provided they also meet the financial and academic eligibility criteria.
The school's expansive campus in Hershey, Pennsylvania includes modern housing, state-of-the-art educational facilities, athletic fields, and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
Milton Hershey, the founder of the Hershey chocolate company, established the school in 1909 with the goal of providing a high-quality education and nurturing environment for underprivileged children.
The Milton Hershey School has an exceptionally high graduation rate, with over 90% of students completing their high school education at the school.
The school's admissions process is highly competitive, with thousands of applications received each year for a limited number of available spots.
In addition to the financial requirements, applicants must also demonstrate strong character traits, such as resilience, determination, and a willingness to embrace the school's community-focused culture.
The Milton Hershey School provides comprehensive support services, including counseling, mentoring, and college and career preparation, to ensure the long-term success of its students.
The school's commitment to serving low-income students has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including being named one of the top boarding schools in the United States.
The Milton Hershey School's endowment is managed by a team of expert investment professionals, ensuring the long-term financial stability and sustainability of the institution.
The school's curriculum is designed to provide a well-rounded education, with a focus on STEM subjects, as well as the arts, humanities, and character development.
The Milton Hershey School's campus includes state-of-the-art facilities, such as a high-tech learning center, a world-class sports and recreation complex, and a state-of-the-art health center.
The school's admissions policies are regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that they continue to meet the needs of low-income students and their families.