The Association of Independent Schools of New England maintains a strict set of admissions criteria by which members are assessed before being accredited for a ten-year term. The criteria by which schools are assessed includes some 58 AISNE prescribed standards, including that member schools must: not operate for profit; maintain anti-discriminatory admissions policies and display and anti-discrimination statement; have a board of suitable directors; be financially sound and independently audited; and be accredited by NEASC (if they offer high school education).

The body was founded in 1970 making it one of the oldest regional accrediting and membership bodies for independent schools in the United States. Over the years it has grown to include more than 260 member schools and has absorbed other similar membership bodies, including the Independent Schools Association of Northern New England in 2020. AISNE member schools come from all over New England, including Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont.

AISNE schools have access to a wide range of support and resources from the body’s secretariat, including various conferences and training. The Association is particularly strong in assisting its members in developing diversity and inclusiveness policies and programmes. Similarly, AISNE runs a series of leadership workshops for faculty, school officers and bursars and student bodies alike. AISNE also works as a representative body for its members, promoting independent schools in New England and educating parents as to why independent schools present an alternative educational choice.

AISNE membership varies and accreditation is reviewed on a regular basis. The schools listed below have been recent members of the body but please check with AISNE or your preferred school for up to date information regarding accreditation.