Beyond Haverford
Since 1884, The Haverford School has prepared boys not only for college, but for lives of purpose.
Through rigorous academics, meaningful relationships with faculty, leadership opportunities, and a community grounded in character and compassion, Haverford students develop the skills and habits needed to thrive long after graduation.
A Haverford education is measured not only by where graduates enroll, but by how they engage with the world—as innovators, leaders, caregivers, entrepreneurs, educators, and community builders.
While academic excellence remains a hallmark of a Haverford education, our approach extends far beyond preparing students for college. Through close faculty mentorship, meaningful leadership opportunities, a rich tradition of athletics and the arts, and a community grounded in respect and integrity, boys develop the confidence, resilience, and curiosity to thrive in college and throughout their lives.
Every day, students are challenged to pursue excellence. Guided by expert educators who know each boy well, they learn to think critically, communicate effectively, collaborate with empathy, and lead with purpose. The result is an education that prepares graduates not only for their next destination, but for a lifetime of meaningful contribution—as engaged citizens, compassionate leaders, and lifelong learners.
We challenge our students to rise above in every way—to meet the highest standards of effort, achievement, and conduct. Our extraordinary educators inspire them to fully embrace their potential to lead, serve, and create positive change.
Haverford boys become great men.
What distinguishes the college counseling process at The Haverford School?
The college search process at Haverford is grounded in self-discovery. Our College Counseling team works closely with students and families to help each boy understand his strengths, interests, goals, and aspirations while identifying colleges where he can continue to grow.
Students receive individualized guidance throughout Upper School, beginning with early conversations about academic interests and personal goals and continuing through the application process. Counselors help students navigate the changing landscape of college admissions, develop authentic applications, and make thoughtful decisions about their future.
Haverford's college outcomes reflect this student-centered approach. For the Classes of 2022–2026, 100% of graduates were admitted to four-year institutions, 92% were admitted to one of their top three college choices, 59% were admitted to their top-choice college, and 53% ultimately enrolled at their first-choice institution. Additionally, 26% of students were admitted to a Top 25 National University or Top 25 National Liberal Arts College, compared with a national average of 9%.
The goal is not simply college acceptance—it is helping each student find the environment where he will thrive.
Wondering where Haverford students attend college and university? Visit our matriculation page!
Where do Haverford graduates continue and contribute?
Graduation marks the beginning of a lifelong connection to Haverford. More than 5,000 alumni live and work around the world, creating a network of mentorship, professional connections, and friendship that extends across generations.
Countless internships and careers begin with Haverford connections. From medicine and technology to business, education, public service, and the arts, Fords continue to carry Haverford's values into their communities. Haverford graduates can be found leading, innovating, and mentoring in nearly every field imaginable.
Our youngest college graduates already appear across professional fields. Haverford graduates from the classes of 2012 to 2021 currently contribute to the following fields:
- 23% are in Business and Management
- 22% work in Financial and Banking fields
- 11% contribute to Engineering and Technology
- 11% are in Law, Government and Military fields
- 10% lead Medicine and Healthcare
- 9% are in Education and Nonprofit professions
- 8% contribute to Sales, Advertising, and Marketing
- 6% lead Arts, Entertainment, Media, and Sports
What do alumni say about their Haverford experience?
Alumni consistently describe their Haverford experience as transformative—not only because of academic preparation, but because of the relationships, challenges, and values that shaped who they became.
Haverford is a place where students are known and supported.
Haverford teaches students how to think, listen, and engage with others.
Haverford builds confidence through challenge and perseverance.
Haverford encourages students to explore their interests and discover their strengths.
Haverford creates lifelong friendships and a lasting sense of belonging.
Haverford alumni are forever Fords.
Haverford didn't just teach me academic subjects; it taught me how to learn. The discipline and work ethic I developed at Haverford has been a foundation for much of what I've done since.Ian Swain '06,
The 1916 Company Vice President of Enterprise Technology, OSW Digital Founder and Consultant, and advisory board Member for Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development (HERD)
That was something I experienced throughout my entire tenure at Haverford. All the teachers are so passionate about the subjects they teach that it’s easy to find them interesting. You can get really involved in a subject because they take the time to talk to you and answer questions. I always enjoyed talking with the faculty because they were so well-rounded and experts in their space. These teachers had boots-on-the-ground, real-world experience in their fields and they were sharing what they were doing. We would have these incredible conversations and classroom lessons because of what they could bring to the table.Cory Siegfried '08,
RISR Chief Client Officer
Haverford teachers are unique in that they're willing to go as deep on a subject with you as you would like. Josh Collins '13,
Rosemark Lead Product Manager
The Haverford School community has given me so much support throughout the years, I feel honored to be able to give backChris Morgan '13,
BIG4L Logistics FOunder and Owner
The opportunity to attend Haverford changed the trajectory of my life. For that reason, I want to give back to the community in any way I can—and perhaps help pave the way for others. Greg Murray '03,
Tifin Give Chief Revenue Officer
Ms. O'Brien helped mentor me and set me up for success. She taught me how to work to my strengths, deal with ambiguity, and have confidence in my ability to understand and succeed at any task.Nicholas Dodds '07,
New South Wealth Management Director of Investment Operations
Want to learn more?
Want to learn more about Haverford School alumni making their mark? Check out our blog!
Want to learn more about our college counseling team? Check out their bios here!
Interested in applying to Haverford? See our admissions information here!