Riverside Preparatory Academy: Tuition Costs and Comprehensive Overview
Riverside Preparatory Academy, situated an hour north of Atlanta at 2001 Riverside Drive, Gainesville, GA 30501, has been a leading college preparatory school for young men in grades 6-12 since 1907. Its mission centers on providing a supportive yet challenging academic atmosphere that cultivates scholarly competence, intellectual curiosity, spiritual and physical well-being, and leadership skills, fostering the character needed for success in college and life.
Key Facts
- Grades: 6-12
- Enrollment: Approximately 290 students
- Yearly Tuition (Boarding Students): $53,300
- Yearly Tuition (Day Students): $17,950
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Average Class Size: 12 students
- Application Deadline: Rolling
Academic Excellence and Rankings
Riverside Preparatory Academy consistently achieves high rankings, placing among the top 10 schools with 200-400 students out of 97 schools. The Academy distinguishes itself through its college-preparatory focus and non-denominational affiliation.
A comparison with boarding school averages reveals:
| Riverside Preparatory Academy | Boarding School Avg. | |
|---|---|---|
| Campus Size | 206 acres | 125 acres |
| Enrollment | 290 students | 315 students |
| Average SAT Score | 1323 | N/A |
| Average ACT Score | 20 | N/A |
| Yearly Tuition (Boarding) | $53,300 | $68,420 |
| Yearly Tuition (Day) | $17,950 | $37,600 |
| Tuition International Students | $61,650 | $59,000 |
| Endowment Size | $40 million | $30 million |
| Average Class Size | 12 students | N/A |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 12:1 | 7:1 |
| # of AP/Advanced Courses | 15 | 18 |
Tuition and Fees: A Closer Look
The cost of attending Riverside Preparatory Academy is a significant consideration for families. As of the latest update, the yearly tuition for boarding students is $53,300, while day students pay $17,950 annually. For international students, the tuition is $61,650.
Additional Fees for 2025-2026 (as reference for other academies)
While this data refers to another academy (RCA), it is an example of the kind of additional fees that may apply:
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- New Student Application Fee: $120 (K-12)
- New Student Enrollment Fee: $250 (K-12)
- Returning Student Re-Enrollment Fee: $350 (K-12)
It is important to note that application and enrollment fees are typically non-refundable.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Riverside Preparatory Academy recognizes the investment families make in a private education and offers financial aid to eligible students. The average financial aid grant is $15,000. However, merit-based scholarships are not offered.
External Scholarship Example: Education Freedom Scholarship (EFS)
Tennessee's Education Freedom Scholarships (EFS) serve as an example of external scholarships. These scholarships allow residents with children entitled to attend public school in grades K-12 to use state funds for education expenses, including tuition and fees at registered private schools. These scholarships can be worth $7,295.
Unique Programs and Opportunities
Riverside Preparatory Academy provides a range of unique programs designed to enhance students' development:
- JROTC Honor Unit: Riverside's Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) has been recognized as a JROTC Honor Unit with Distinction for over 80 years. This allows Riverside to recommend up to 5 cadets annually to the federal service academies. The academy's military structure instills self-discipline, honor, and leadership qualities in its cadets. Cadets are responsible for many aspects of day-to-day life including discipline, dorm conduct, military drills and inspections all focused on leadership development.
- Dual Enrollment: Qualified senior cadets can participate in a "Dual Enrollment" program, taking online college courses while simultaneously attending classes at Riverside.
- Driver's Education and Flight Program: The Academy offers a Georgia Driver's Education course and a Flight Program for students interested in obtaining their pilot's license.
- Summer School: A 4-week summer school program is available each year.
- Transportation: Shuttle arrangements can be made for cadets needing transportation to and from Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.
Accreditation
Riverside Preparatory Academy holds accreditations from the following organizations:
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- SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools)
- SAIS (Southern Association of Independent Schools)
- NAIS (National Association of Independent Schools)
- SABSS (Southern Association of Boarding Schools)
Notable Alumni
Riverside Preparatory Academy boasts a distinguished list of alumni who have excelled in various fields:
- John Bassett: Bassett Furniture
- Ira Middleberg (1966): Attorney, Middleberg, Riddle & Gianna - New Orleans
- Luis Proenza (1962): President, University of Akron
- Governor Felix Gonzales Canto: State of Quintana Roo, Mexico
- Tommy Prothro (1938): Former coach with the LA Rams and San Diego Chargers
- ADM. David McDonald (1924): Chief of Naval Operations (1963-1967)
- Judge E.J. Salcines: Retired Judge, Florida Appellate Court
- Mike Neveaux: Retired Chief Pilot, Los Angeles Police Dept.
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