U.S. K-12 Education System

School Selection Strategy

1. Define Educational Goals
   Choose the right type of school (public, private, charter, or international) based on your child’s interests and future plans.

2. Academic Excellence
   Focus on school graduation rates, standardized test scores, and advanced courses (e.g., AP, IB).

3. Extracurricular Activities
   Opt for schools offering a variety of activities to foster holistic development.

4. Location
   Consider transportation convenience and proximity to home.

5. Faculty Strength
   Review teacher qualifications, teaching experience, and class size.

6. School Culture
   Assess the school’s values, inclusivity, and campus atmosphere.

7. Facilities and Resources
   Evaluate academic, sports, and laboratory facilities.

8. Costs and Scholarships
   Understand tuition fees and available scholarships.

9. School Reputation
   Check school rankings and community feedback for overall quality.

Cost Overview

1. Tuition
   Public Schools (International Students): $10,000-$20,000 (high school only, maximum one year).
   Private Schools: $20,000-$60,000.

2. Housing Fees
   Boarding Schools: $10,000-$20,000.
   Non-Boarding Schools: $8,000-$25,000 (homestay or rental).

3. Insurance Fees
   $500-$2,000 per year.

4. Extracurricular Activities and Book Fees
   $500-$2,000.

5. Visa and Legal Student Status Fees
   $100-$500.

6. Other Costs
   Transportation, meals, and other expenses: $2,000-$5,000.

7. Total Estimated Costs
   Typically range from $25,000 to $70,000 annually.

Application Guidelines

• Start Early
  Begin preparations at least one year in advance to ensure sufficient time to meet various requirements.

• Academic Performance and Language Proficiency
  Present strong grades and standardized test scores, such as SSAT or TOEFL.

• Selecting the Right School
  Choose schools based on interests, budget, and individual admission requirements.

• Application Materials
  Prepare transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statements, and other necessary documents.

• Interviews and School Visits
  Understand school culture, prepare for interviews, and visit schools whenever possible.

• Visa and Housing
  Secure an F-1 visa and finalize housing arrangements.

• Insurance and Financial Proof
  Purchase health insurance and provide adequate financial documentation.

Elite Schools Selection in Orange County

• Sage Hill School: A private high school with academic excellence that focuses on innovation and leadership and fosters the all-round development of students.

• St. Margaret's Episcopal School: A private Christian school offering K-12 education with an emphasis on academic and spiritual growth.

• TVT Community Day School: A private school with a Jewish background that focuses on academic achievement and moral education.

• Fairmont Preparatory Academy: A private high school offering a rigorous academic and college preparatory curriculum with an emphasis on STEM and extracurricular activities.

• Crean Lutheran High School: A private Christian high school that focuses on academics, athletics, and character development.