Admissions Criteria
Considerations for Admission
Thank you for considering applying to Milton Hershey School. We value your decision in enhancing your child’s education and future. Each year, Milton Hershey School receives far more applications from individuals who meet the minimum qualifications for admission than the school can accept. Learn more about our admissions criteria.
Equal Opportunity Policy
In accordance with the Milton Hershey School’s Equal Opportunity Policy, the school admits qualified students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, sex, religious creed, disability, or any other status protected under applicable federal or Pennsylvania law, to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.
Additional Considerations in Admissions Decisions
Even if an applicant meets the minimum qualifications, admission is not guaranteed. Milton Hershey School examines a number of factors in making decisions regarding recruitment, selection for interview, and admission. One of the most important factors is need, as measured by a scale for parental availability with the highest score given to children who do not have either biological parent available to care for them.
Milton Hershey School also considers applicants’ interest and motivation, personal character, special talent or skills, leadership abilities (such as resilience, teamwork, persistence) and contribution to the diversity of the student body (see the MHS diversity statement). In addition, the school limits enrollment by grade and sex, based on available housing. Many factors are considered and no one factor is determinative.
Although current students come from many states, in accordance with the school’s Deed of Trust, children from the tri-county area, and children from the rest of Pennsylvania, are given some preference during the admissions process.

When Can You Enroll?
The largest enrollment period is in August, September, and January. The school enrolls fewer children in other months of the year. On average, it is a nine-month process—apply now for 2021-22! Before submitting an application, consider getting to know us better.