The Hun School of Princeton
Located in the heart of Mercer County, New Jersey, The Hun School of Princeton is a prestigious private, coeducational secondary institution. Serving students from sixth through twelfth grades, the school offers both day and boarding options, blending a rigorous academic environment with a rich tradition of honor and discovery. Guided by its motto, "Quaerite Scientiam Et Honorum" (Seek Knowledge and Honor), the school has established itself as a cornerstone of independent education in the United States.
The institution is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools and maintains membership in the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools. With a selective acceptance rate of approximately 35%, the school fosters a tight-knit community focused on personal and intellectual growth.
Key Facts
- Established: 1914
- Location: Princeton, New Jersey
- Student-Teacher Ratio: 7:1
- Enrollment: 669 students (as of 2019–20)
- Campus Size: 45 acres
- Athletic Conference: Mid-Atlantic Prep League
- School Colors: Red and Black
Academic Structure and Student Life
The Hun School provides a comprehensive educational journey for students in grades 6 through 12. The faculty consists of 95 full-time equivalents (FTEs), ensuring a low student-to-teacher ratio that allows for personalized instruction and mentorship.
Student Publications
Creativity and journalism are encouraged through several student-led publications:
- The Mall: The official newspaper of the Upper School.
- The Edgerstounian: The Upper School yearbook.
- The Hun Review: A literary magazine featuring student writing and artwork.
- Hun Today: A magazine dedicated to alumni, families, and friends.
Campus Facilities and Infrastructure
The campus spans 45 acres and features a mix of historic architecture and modern educational facilities. The school has recently invested heavily in infrastructure to enhance the student experience.
A notable recent addition is the Wilf Family Global Commons, a $9 million, 30,000-square-foot facility that serves as both a dormitory and an educational hub. Additionally, the school is renovating the Alexander K. Buck '49 Building with a $5.5 million investment to upgrade middle school classrooms and video production laboratories.
Notable Campus Buildings
- Edgerstoune: The administration building, constructed in 1903 by William Russell.
- The Chesebro Academic Center: The primary hub for the Upper School.
- The Alexander K. Buck Student Activity Center: The center for Middle School students (grades 6-8).
- The Michael D. Dingman Center for Science and Technology: Dedicated to STEM education.
- The Landis Family Fine Arts Building: A center for artistic expression.
- The Shipley Pavilion: The school's gymnasium.
The campus also includes specialized centers such as the Perry K. Sellon Information Center, the Roberta J. King Outdoor Education Center, and the Finn M.W. Caspersen Rowing Center located at Mercer Lake.
Athletics and Competition
Competing as the Raiders in the Mid-Atlantic Prep League, The Hun School offers over 50 interscholastic sports. The athletic program is designed to build character and physical fitness across all grade levels.
Middle School Sports Offerings
- Fall: Cross-country running, soccer (boys' and girls'), and field hockey (girls').
- Winter: Basketball (boys' and girls').
- Spring: Tennis (boys' and girls'), lacrosse (boys'), baseball (boys'), and softball (girls').
Notable Alumni
The school's legacy is reflected in its diverse alumni, who have achieved success in politics, sports, arts, and business. Notable graduates include:
- Thomas Watson Jr.: Former CEO of IBM and U.S. Ambassador to the Soviet Union.
- Camille Schrier: Miss America 2020.
- Leopoldo López: Venezuelan opposition politician.
- Mike Ford and Steve Garrison: Professional baseball players for the New York Yankees.
- Susan Hendricks: CNN Headline News anchor.
- Myron Rolle: Rhodes Scholar and former NFL player for the Tennessee Titans.
School Overview Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Private, Coeducational, Boarding/Day |
| Grades Served | 6 - 12 |
| Head of School | Bart Bronk |
| 2025-26 Tuition (Upper School) | $80,300 (Resident) / $55,600 (Day) |
| Accreditation | Middle States Association (until Jan 2025) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the student-to-teacher ratio at The Hun School?
The school maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio of 7:1, allowing for significant individual attention and academic support.
What are the tuition costs for the 2025-26 academic year?
For the Upper School, the annual tuition is $80,300 for resident boarding students and $55,600 for day students.
Which athletic conference does the school belong to?
The Hun School competes in the Mid-Atlantic Prep League under the team name Raiders.
What grades are served at The Hun School of Princeton?
The school provides education for students from the sixth grade through the twelfth grade.
What is the acceptance rate for admission?
The reported acceptance rate for the school is 35%.