MHS Fast Facts
Why We’re Here
Because a family’s income should not determine a child’s outcome, Milton Hershey School offers a cost-free education to students of need. Founded over 110 years ago by Milton and Catherine Hershey, MHS continues to change lives. Our fast facts provide an overview of our school both yesterday and today.
Welcome to MHS
Milton Hershey School is one of the country’s best independent schools. It offers life-changing opportunities and experiences that other schools simply cannot. Everything is provided at no cost to students, thanks to the generosity of Milton and Catherine Hershey.
Get a snapshot of what MHS is all about. Then, go deeper.

Explore Enrollment at MHS
Take a deeper look at the enrollment process knowing we’re here to help at every step along the way.

MHS Thought Leaders
MHS hires industry leaders to best serve our students so they can break the cycle of poverty.

Who Qualifies
Milton Hershey School is not and has never been a reform school. We accept students of financial need who meet admission criteria and complete our thorough admission process satisfactorily.
- The highest qualifying income for a family of four in 2019-20 was $52,400.
- The average family income for students enrolled in 2018-19 was $21,930. This is 15 percent below the federal poverty guideline of $25,750 for a family of four.
Be Your Greatest Self
At MHS, each student is encouraged to be their greatest self. MHS classrooms have no walls, and students learn by doing, through programs that give them an early start on college and their careers.

Where Our Students Are From
We enroll students from across the United States.
- 2,000+ students, pre-K through 12th grade.
- 50 percent of MHS students have a sibling at the school.
- There is an equal number of boys and girls.
- On average, our student demographic breakout is:
- 24% – Dauphin, Lancaster, and Lebanon Counties
- 49% – Other PA Counties
- 27% – States other than PA

Home Life
All students are cared for in a loving, family-like environment. Education in the Judeo-Christian faith, the heritage of the school’s founders, is part of the MHS program and includes daily devotions and Sunday Chapel services.
- 180+ student homes, each with eight to 12 students, led by 450+ houseparents.
- Seniors live together in 10 Transitional Living apartment-style buildings to prepare them for independent living after graduation. Professional TL staff provide oversight.

Included at No Cost to Families
- Tuition and housing (with 24/7 security)
- Healthy meals and snacks
- School and casual clothing
- School supplies and computers
- Medical and dental care (including glasses and medications)
- Counseling services
- Tutoring and personal academic assistance
- All field trips, activities, and equipment (sports and instruments)

Institutional Growth 2020 and Beyond
MHS is committed to expanding its mission. Our goal is to provide more children with this life-changing opportunity. We strive to grow enrollment to 2,300 students.
During the 2019-20 school year, enrollment reached 2,189 students. This is the largest group of enrolled students in school history.
Review Our Strategic Plan