Religious boarding schools incorporate faith-based education. For example, in Catholic boarding schools daily services called Masses are held before or after school. Not all Masses are required for attendance; however, when celebrating or honor a saint, the entire student body may be required to attend Mass. Religion classes are in the curriculum along with math, science, history and English. Depending on the school, courses on world religions are taught to expose students to all faiths.
Classes are significantly smaller in religious boarding schools compared to public schools and some private schools. Boarding schools have to house and make more accommodations for students living on campus. Therefore, many religious boarding schools have an application process and accept only a set number of students annually into each grade.
Academics at religious boarding schools are held to high standards. Since all religious boarding schools have yearly tuition, parents are more demanding in the education of their children. These schools expect teachers to help students achieve their potential. Coursework at religious boarding schools is usually geared toward college preparation, and many schools offer advanced courses for students who achieve at a faster pace. Some boarding schools offer special courses such as Women's History or Advanced Calculus.
Extracurricular activities offered at religious boarding schools include a variety of teams and clubs. After school, students participate and choose among sports, national associations and special-interest groups. Students may have the option of participating in competitive academic leagues and community service groups. Extracurricular activities take second place after academics since most religiously based boarding schools place a greater emphasis on education.