The Most Sought-After Schools on the East Coast of 2020

Over the past eight years, Test Innovators has helped more than 135,000 students prepare for the SSAT and ISEE—admissions tests required by many of the most competitive independent schools in the country. Every year we review our data from thousands of test takers to determine the most popular schools.

Below are some of the most sought-after East Coast schools of 2020, based on the number of students who stated their intention to apply this year. Each of these schools resides in its own unique location and offers students special opportunities to explore and engage with their surrounding communities—learn more about these areas below.

Keep in mind that there are many wonderful schools not included on this list that may be perfect for you.

Phillips Exeter Academy

Phillips Exeter Academy is located in Exeter, New Hampshire. Exeter features a variety of beautiful natural destinations to enjoy, including parks, forest, and rivers. Exeter also has a rich historical landscape. Its American Independence Museum is home to one of the original versions of the Declaration of Independence. The town’s annual community events, including the Independence Museum Festival and the Beer and Chili Festival, also draw a lot of attention. (Exeter)

Phillips Academy Andover

Phillips Academy Andover is located in northeastern Massachusetts, in the quaint town of Andover. Andover is one of the oldest towns in the U.S. It was originally settled in 1636, and in 1646, it was officially incorporated as the town of Andover. Andover lies just over 20 miles from Boston, providing easy access to all the resources the city provides. The nearby Harold Parker State Forest, home to 3,000 acres of green space, is a popular place for community members to hike and camp. (Andover)

Trinity School

Trinity School is located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, one of many iconic neighborhoods in New York City. The Upper West Side is known for many things, including its architecture, rich culture and history, and delicious eateries. Some of the architectural and historical landmarks in the area include the Eldorado and San Remo apartment buildings from the 1930s, the American Museum of Natural History, and the New-York Historical Society. Close by are two of the city’s most well-known delis, Zabar’s and Barney Greengrass. (NYCGo)

Choate Rosemary Hall

Choate Rosemary Hall is located in Wallingford, Connecticut. Like many towns in New England, Wallingford has a long history. The town’s famous George Washington Trail is the route that George Washington took when he made his way through Wallingford in 1775 and again in 1789. In addition to a rich history, Wallingford also has its very own symphony orchestra, which resides on Choate’s campus, at the Paul Mellon Arts Center and performs year-round. (Wallingford, Wallingford)

Noble and Greenough School

Noble and Greenough School is in Dedham, Massachusetts. Although Dedham is located in an urban area, it has many natural and historical landmarks, such as the Mother Brook, the first man-made canal in North America, created in 1639. The community enjoys many annual events, such as the James Joyce Ramble, Dedham Day, and Dedham Square Circle Fall Party. (Dedham)