Girard College

girard college is an independent boarding school serving grades 1-12 in philadelphia, pa. girard is unique in the world of independent educational institutions. if offered admission, all girard students receive a full scholarship to attend the school, living on its campus five days a week, benefiting from a college prep curriculum and a supportive residential program. students come from low-income families and have one or no parents. in 1831, philanthropist stephen girard left his vast fortune to the city of philadelphia to establish a school. opening in 1848, girard college has been a shining example of excellent urban education and has honored stephen girard's words: "my deeds must be my life; when i am dead, my actions must speak for me."​ today, girard college educates approximately 315 students, preparing them for college and for life.