International Student Program
The PCS International Student Program is designed to provide the opportunity for students to join a private Christian school environment where they will learn, study, and experience American culture. We welcome applicants from around the world who desire a college-preparatory education in grades 7-12. We are pleased to offer a rigorous academic curriculum taught from a biblical perspective.
We invite a limited number of international students into our nurturing and loving environment where they will undoubtedly come to know about God’s grace, be encouraged in their own faith, and discover a community filled with compassion and service towards others. We strive to work individually with each student to help them reach their full potential as they grow and mature academically, spiritually and socially. Our small class sizes allow for a personalized learning experience!
The Program
PCS is an F-1 approved school. We welcome students who require an I-20 for admission to the United States to further their studies and experience a vibrant community and culture. Students are selected based on their scholastic achievements, leadership qualities, community service, ability to speak, read, and write in English, and a desire for a cross cultural experience in the United States. Since Plumstead Christian School does not offer an ESL program, students who are admitted to PCS must have sufficient proficiency to understand material and communicate with peers and teachers, with limited assistance.
Students will experience courses in mathematics, history, science, literature, writing, bible, technology, art, music, life skills, and more. Honors, advanced placement (AP) and dual enrollment courses are offered to students to challenge and inspire them academically. We desire that students participate in our fine arts and athletic programs. Student involvement is strongly encouraged as this is a great way to experience all that the school offers, and to provide a well-rounded educational journey. Our program is offered on an annual basis (Sept-May) or a semester basis.
Enrollment Process
Complete the following steps to enroll in the International Student Program at PCS:
1. Complete an “International Student” application on our website, including the following:
– $220 non-refundable application fee
– TOEFL (grades 10-12) or TOEFL Jr. (grades 7-9) report
– Transcript from past and current school year
– Recommendations from English and Math Teachers
– Personal Statement (must be written by the applicant)
– Copy of Passport
– Evidence of Financial Responsibility
2. Schedule Video Interview: After the application has been reviewed, including the items listed above, a video interview will be scheduled with our Admissions Committee to assess English proficiency and to “meet” the student.
3. The school will issue a letter stating the official admissions decision.
4. To secure the student’s position in the program, the parents must sign an Enrollment Agreement, provide medical records and the required medical health form, and remit the annual tuition and international student fees. An I-20 will not be issued until the application fee and annual tuition is paid in full.
5. Upon receipt of the Enrollment Agreement and Fees, the school will issue an I-20, which must be presented to the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in order to obtain an F-1 visa.
6. The family is to prepare travel arrangements to arrive to the United States prior to new student orientation (typically by August 20th).
Note: We do not accept new, incoming students as a Senior (12th); the highest acceptance level that students can enter the school is as a Junior (11th).
Housing & Transportation
An integral part of the PCS International Student Program is our homestay arrangements. A priority of our program is a safe and nurturing Christian home for all of our International Students. PCS is committed to providing a caring home environment, and we work to match students with Christian families in our school community who have been through our host family approval process. Transportation to and from school is provided by PCS for regular school hours, and host families are asked to commit to assisting with transportation for after school activities. The cost of the homestay program is in addition to the school’s tuition and fees.
Deadlines
International admission is considered on a rolling basis. Preference is given to students who apply early, but applications will be accepted as long as space remains available. Since the enrollment of an international student involves several steps and procedures, it is generally necessary that all steps of the admissions process be completed by June 15th each year, to accommodate the late August school start date.
Tuition and Fees
Please contact us to learn more about the tuition and fees for international students.
Questions?
We look forward to meeting with you!
Michelle Heaney, International Student Program Coordinator
mheaney@plumsteadchristian.org
215-766-8073
