The Northwest School seeks motivated students from around the world. International students comprise nearly 16% of our population, which consists of 472 students, grades 6 through 12. We host students from Asia, Europe, the Middle East, South America, Mexico, Canada and Africa. Accordingly, The Northwest School is authorized under Federal law to issue the I-20 document which supports a foreign student’s F-1 visa application.
We offer a well-regarded International College Preparatory ESL (English as a Second Language) course of study for non-native English speakers. ESL students increase their English proficiency while immersed in a content-based curriculum that allows them to earn academic credits toward graduation. International students (with or without ESL support) receive the same diploma as our domestic students.
The following table lists minimum suggested scores for both ESL and non-ESL international students seeking admission into our college preparatory program.
Admission to The Northwest School is competitive, but not limited to one measure. A committee comprised of faculty and administrators considers the following sources of information: the application, academic records, teacher evaluations, personal recommendation, test score (IELTS or TOEFL), school visit/interview, and a student’s talents, character and leadership qualities. The Admission Committee will consider multiple factors and determine the most suitable program for the applicant.
Upon admission to the school, ESL students are expected to complete their introductory grade (ESL 9 or ESL 10) and follow the expected trajectory into the 11th ESL-Transitional grade and 12th grade. We also offer a testing process through which qualified students may apply to transfer to the non-ESL course of study.
The online application for the 2012–2013 school year is now available now for you to begin your application for second round review! Please click the link below to begin the application process.