Exeter vs. Andover: Which Elite Boarding School is the Right Fit for Your Child?

For generations, the names Exeter and Andover have been synonymous with the pinnacle of American secondary education. As two of the most prestigious and selective boarding schools in the world, Phillips Exeter Academy (Exeter) and Phillips Academy Andover (Andover) represent a choice between two shades of academic excellence. For parents guiding their child through this momentous decision, the question isn't simply "which is better?" but rather, "which is the better fit?"

At EduAvenues, we have guided numerous students through the intricate admissions processes of these elite institutions. This post will provide an expert, nuanced comparison to help you understand the key differences in philosophy, culture, and student experience in the great Exeter vs Andover debate.

Academic Philosophy: The Harkness Method vs. Academic Breadth

The most significant distinction between the two schools lies in their pedagogical approach.

Exeter's Harkness Method: Exeter is world-renowned for its Harkness method, a unique student-led learning philosophy. In every class, students and a teacher sit around a large, oval "Harkness table" to discuss the material. This isn't a lecture; it's a collaborative inquiry. The teacher acts as a facilitator, guiding the conversation rather than dictating it. This method cultivates exceptional critical thinking, public speaking, and active listening skills.

• Best fit for: Students who are self-motivated, intellectually curious, and unafraid to voice their opinions and challenge assumptions. It thrives on participation.

Andover's Flexible Curriculum: While Andover also utilizes discussion-based learning, it does not adhere to a single, unifying method like Harkness. Instead, it offers an unparalleled breadth of academic choices with over 300 courses and the flexibility to design a curriculum tailored to a student’s interests. From advanced robotics to classical Greek, the depth and variety are immense.

• Best fit for: Students who wish to explore a wide array of subjects, potentially at a very high level, and appreciate a more traditional but still rigorous classroom structure that includes lectures, labs, and collaborative projects.

Campus Culture and Student Life

While both schools foster diverse, high-achieving communities, their campus cultures have distinct feels.

Exeter: "Non Sibi" and Independence: Exeter’s motto, "Non Sibi" ("Not for oneself"), emphasizes service and community contribution. The culture grants students a significant degree of independence and trust. This freedom prepares them for the rigors of college life but requires a high level of personal responsibility and maturity. The atmosphere can feel more intellectual and introspective.

Andover: "Non Sibi" and a Broader Scope: Andover shares the "Non Sibi" motto, reflecting a similar commitment to knowledge for the good of others. However, with a larger student body (around 1,150 students to Exeter's 1,090), the social and extracurricular scene at Andover is often described as broader and more dynamic. Its "need-blind" admission policy—the first of its kind—also contributes to a deeply-rooted commitment to socio-economic diversity.

The Exeter vs Andover Rivalry: Athletics and Tradition

No comparison is complete without mentioning the oldest and most storied high school rivalry in the nation. The annual Andover-Exeter football game, a tradition dating back to 1878, is a major cultural event for both schools. While both institutions have formidable athletic programs across dozens of sports, this rivalry fosters a unique sense of school spirit and identity that defines much of the student experience.

College Matriculation and Outcomes

Both Exeter and Andover are unparalleled feeders to Ivy League and other top-tier universities. The matriculation lists for both schools are nearly indistinguishable at a glance, filled with acceptances to Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Stanford, and MIT.

The difference isn't in the quality of the destination, but in the preparation for it.

• Exeter graduates are often noted by college admissions officers for their exceptional ability to lead and contribute to seminar-style discussions from day one.

• Andover graduates are praised for their broad academic foundations and their ability to navigate a large university environment, having already experienced a campus with extensive resources and opportunities.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Family

The Exeter vs Andover decision is not about choosing the "better" school, but the right school for your child's personality, learning style, and aspirations.

• Choose Exeter for the independent, vocal, and deeply curious student who thrives on discussion and is ready for significant personal autonomy.

• Choose Andover for the student who seeks academic breadth, a larger and more varied social environment, and a curriculum that can be precisely tailored to their passions.

The best way to truly understand the difference is to visit both campuses. Engaging with the students and faculty will provide the invaluable, first-hand insight needed to make this critical decision.