International students at Fairmont

At Fairmont Schools, international students step into a world of possibility - where curiosity sparks growth and confidence drives achievement. For nearly 20 years, we've welcomed learners from around the globe to our Southern California campuses and beyond, offering a K – 12 program that consistently challenges students to work at least one year ahead of their grade level.

Whether you choose to study on campus or access Fairmont’s renowned curriculum from your home country, you’ll build bilingual and biliterate skills, connect with a vibrant community, and graduate ready for top US colleges and universities.

Download our international students brochure

Submit your online application

Once the documents are ready, please complete your child’s international student application online. Please upload all required files and carefully review your child’s personal details, academic history, and your family’s contact information. Our International Admissions team will review your child’s application and follow up with you on the next steps.

Schedule your Zoom interview

After you submit your child’s application, all international applicants are required to complete a Zoom interview. This conversation helps us understand your child’s oral English skills and personal readiness for the program. Our team will email you a selection of dates and times; please confirm the appointment promptly and ensure they have a quiet setting and a stable internet connection for the call.

Confirm your place & visa

If the interview outcome is positive, you will receive an offer letter outlining key deadlines and fees. To secure your child’s place, you’ll need to submit the USD 4,300 enrolment deposit, housing selections (if applicable), signed terms and conditions, and any required homestay or boarding deposits. Once we receive the deposit and registration fee, we will issue your child’s I-20, allowing you to schedule the student visa interview.

Visa confirmation

Once your child’s visa is approved, please share their flight details with us and settle any remaining balance shown on your invoice. As soon as we’ve received the visa confirmation and all required payments, we’ll finalise your child’s housing and share full details with you around 30 days before arrival, so you can plan with confidence.

Welcome to Fairmont!

On the first day, our Admissions Team warmly welcomes each new student to their Fairmont campus, helps them find their classroom, and introduces them to their buddy. Joining the Fairmont community marks the beginning of a meaningful journey - one where your child can lead, connect, and grow with confidence.

Tailored support

Every international student at Fairmont receives more than just a warm welcome - they gain the support they need to thrive. Whether your child is just beginning their journey or preparing for high school, they’ll be guided by expert teachers who know when to step in and when to step back, encouraging students to grow and reach their full potential.

Pathway to college success

International students who graduate from our award-winning Fairmont Preparatory Academy are well-prepared for success at the nation’s most prestigious institutions. Many go on to pursue higher education at top 100 colleges and universities across the United States.

Best Homestay Program

International students fully immerse themselves in American culture while creating unforgettable memories with carefully screened, welcoming host families. They experience life in the US firsthand and discover a home-away-from-home with Fairmont’s caring host families.

1490

average SAT of top 10% of graduates

96%

admission rate to Top 100 US colleges

3.72

average wighted GPA

Your learning journey at Fairmont

At Fairmont, the learning journey takes students from elementary through high school in a nurturing, academically advanced environment, where they receive personalized support, tackle real‑world challenges, and develop the confidence and skills to succeed at top universities and beyond.

Elementary (Kindergarten – Grade 5)

Children in our K–5 Elementary Program receive the support they need as English language learners to succeed in the school’s advanced mainstream classes, where they typically study at least one year above grade level. They benefit from dedicated teachers who nurture not only their academic growth but also their social-emotional wellbeing.

As they navigate a new culture, unfamiliar customs, and a foreign language, students thrive in a warm, supportive, and enriching environment.

Middle School (Grade 6 – 8)

Middle School students engage in academic challenges and receive strong support while participating in social activities, leadership opportunities, and music, art, and athletics. They navigate through real-world problems in the classroom that inspire critical and creative thinking, collaboration, and English language development through rich, authentic instruction.

Outside the classroom, students explore a variety of extracurriculars, including athletics, debate, and student government, opening doors to America’s premier high schools and beyond.

High School  (Grade 9 – 12)

High School students become confident leaders and lifelong learners, ready to conquer the challenges of the future. They engage in a personalized college prep experience, exploring cutting-edge programs in Advanced Science and Engineering, Business, and Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security. These unique offerings are complemented by arts, athletics, school spirit, clubs, community service, pep rallies, dances, leadership opportunities, and much more.

Students receive the support and guidance of our exceptional educators, who ensure they have the resources needed to pursue their passions and overcome challenges. Through “adapted classes” designed for international students, they blend rigorous academic coursework with language support in English, Science, and History, preparing them for success in future collegiate courses.

US college destionations

Students gain access to the most prestigious universities in the United States, often exceeding college admission requirements and national admissions rates at elite universities.

96%

of students applying to a Top 100 College received an offer of admissions

United States

Albany College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences
Albany University
American University
Arizona State University
Art Center College of Design
Auburn University
Aurora University
Baylor University
Binghamton University
Boston College
Boston University
Brandeis University
Brigham Young University
Bryant University
California Institute of Technology
California Lutheran University
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
California State Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo
California State University, Bakersfield
California State University, Fullerton
California State University, Long Beach
California State University, Los Angeles
California State University, Northridge
California State University, San Bernardino
California State University, San Marcos
Case Western Reserve University
Chapman University
City St. George's, University of London
Clark University
Clarkson University
Cleveland State University
Colby College
Colgate University
Colorado College
Colorado State University
Columbia College Chicago
Columbia University
Concordia University, Irvine
Cornell University
Cypress College
Dartmouth College
De Paul University
Digi Pen Institute of Technology
Drexel University
Duke University
Elmira College
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Emerson College
Emmanuel College
Emory University
Fordham University
George Washington University
Georgetown University
Georgia Institute of Technology
Gonzaga University
Grand Canyon University
Hampden-Sydney College
Harrisburg University of Science & Technology
Harvard University
Harvey Mudd College
Hofstra University
Hope International University
Hult International Business School
Illinois Institute of Technology
Imperial College London
Indiana University-Bloomington
Ithaca College
Johns Hopkins University
Johnson & Wales University
Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Lehigh University
Linfield University
Loyola Marymount University
Loyola University Chicago
Manhattanville University
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Science
Metropolitan State College of Denver
Michigan State University
Missouri Southern State University
New York Institute of Technology
New York University
New York University, Shanghai
Northeastern University
Northeastern University, Oakland
Northwestern University
Occidental College
Ohio State University
Ohio University
Pace University
Pennsylvania State University, Abington
Pennsylvania State University, University Park
Pepperdine University
Pitzer College
Pratt Institute
Purdue University
Quinnipiac University
Reed College
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Rhode Island School of Design
Rice University
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rollins College
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Rutgers University
Saddleback Community College
Saint Louis University
Samford University
San Diego State University
San Francisco State University
Santa Clara University
Savannah College of Art & Design
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Scripps College
Soka University of America
Southern California Institute of Architecture
St. George's University of London
Stanford University
Stony Brook University
SUNY College of Environmental Science & Forestry
Syracuse University
Temple University
The New School
Trinity College
Tufts University
Union College
United States Military Academy at West Point
University at Albany
University at Buffalo
University of Alaska, Fairbanks
University of Arizona
University of British Columbia
University of California, Berkeley
University of California, Davis
University of California, Irvine
University of California, Los Angeles
University of California, Merced
University of California, Riverside
University of California, San Diego
University of California, Santa Barbara
University of California, Santa Cruz
University of Chicago
University of Cincinnati
University College London
University of Colorado, Boulder
University of Connecticut
University of Dayton
University of Denver
University of Georgia
University of Hong Kong
University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
University of La Verne
University of Massachusetts, Amherst
University of Massachusetts, Lowell
University of Michigan
University of Minnesota: Twin Cities
University of Mississippi
University of Missouri, Kansas City
University of Mount Union
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
University of Northern Colorado
University of Notre Dame
University of Pittsburgh
University of Portland
University of Puget Sound
University of Richmond
University of Rochester
University of San Diego
University of San Francisco
University of Southern California
University of St. Andrews
University of the Incarnate Word
University of the Pacific
University of Toronto
University of Utah
University of Virginia
University of Washington
Vanguard University
Villanova University
Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University
Wartburg College
Washington College
Washington State University
Washington University in St. Louis
Wesleyan University
Whittier College
Yale University

As an international student, this program helped me better grasp the basics of English

As an international student, this program helped me better grasp the basics of English and supported my English language studies. It also served as extra time for me, allowing me to use that time to study other subjects.

Yu-Liang

International student

The international program helped me become more confident, improve my English, and adapt to a new environment.

I met supportive teachers and classmates who made my transition much easier. This year, I joined the robotics team also, my teammates and I always talk a lot. And I'm really thankful for these programs the school gave me.

Xinyi

International student

The writing course helped me transition smoothly into an English-learning environment when I first arrived.

It strengthened my academic writing skills, built my confidence, and prepared me to succeed in my classes.

Yichen

International student

As a second language speaker, I always have questions about my subjects and assignments when I just came to school.

The international program helped me adapt to the environment better and quicker, I became more confident in research, academic writing, and independent learning.

Shiqi

International student

The international program has greatly benefited me, not only academically, but also in my understanding of American culture.

The program gives me opportunities and the lessons that I can grow from. As an international student, I have experienced a lot of disadvantages, but luckily, the international program provides me with advice and extra support.

Nhi Khang

International student

It provided strong academic support and a welcoming community that made me feel confident and prepared.

Our international program helped me quickly adjust to American high school life and culture, improve my English skills, and grow both academically and personally.

Kaixiang

International student

The international program benefited me by strengthening my language skills and helping me adjust to a new learning environment.

I learned how to communicate more comfortably in English and also developed better study habits. Overall, it helped me a lot personally and academically.

Yiwen

International student

Learning is like rowing upstream — if you don’t move forward, you will fall back. This is what resonates with me the most.

Peishan

International student

I think Fairmont has been a good experience for me. When I first came here the teachers helped me with my language skills.

Now I feel much more confident because I can speak English better. This is my last year in middle school, I feel I will miss this school when I’m in high school.

Yihong

International student

As an international student, this program helped me better grasp the basics of English

Yu-Liang

International student

The international program helped me become more confident, improve my English, and adapt to a new environment.

Xinyi

International student

The writing course helped me transition smoothly into an English-learning environment when I first arrived.

It strengthened my academic writing skills, built my confidence, and prepared me to succeed in my classes.

Yichen

International student

As a second language speaker, I always have questions about my subjects and assignments when I just came to school.

The international program helped me adapt to the environment better and quicker, I became more confident in research, academic writing, and independent learning.

Shiqi

International student

The international program has greatly benefited me, not only academically, but also in my understanding of American culture.

Nhi Khang

International student

It provided strong academic support and a welcoming community that made me feel confident and prepared.

Our international program helped me quickly adjust to American high school life and culture, improve my English skills, and grow both academically and personally.

Kaixiang

International student

The international program benefited me by strengthening my language skills and helping me adjust to a new learning environment.

I learned how to communicate more comfortably in English and also developed better study habits. Overall, it helped me a lot personally and academically.

Yiwen

International student

Learning is like rowing upstream — if you don’t move forward, you will fall back. This is what resonates with me the most.

Peishan

International student

I think Fairmont has been a good experience for me. When I first came here the teachers helped me with my language skills.

Now I feel much more confident because I can speak English better. This is my last year in middle school, I feel I will miss this school when I’m in high school.

Yihong

International student

International student fees

Investing in a Fairmont education gives your child one of the greatest gifts - a transformative learning experience that nurtures their strengths and potential. Explore our international tuition fees and discover how we provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive community for students from diverse backgrounds.

STUDENT GRADE	ANNUAL TUITION RATES
Junior Kindergarten - 5th Grade	$34,500
6th - 8th Grade	$43,000
9th - 12th Grade (L0 - L3)	$51,750

STUDENT GRADE	Junior Kindergarten - 5th Grade	6th - 8th Grade	9th - 12th Grade (L0 - L3)
ANNUAL TUITION RATES	$34,500	$43,000	$51,750

Discover international students fees

You will need to prepare the following documents:

Student information (student name, parent names, address, and other relevant details)
Academic transcripts from the past 3 years, including original documents and English translations
One teacher recommendation letter
One math teacher recommendation letter
English proficiency test results: mandatory iTEP-SLATE; optional supplementary scores include TOEFL Junior, TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo
A copy of your child’s passport
Any additional supporting documents you wish to include

If your child’s visa is denied, please send the official denial letter to Fairmont International Admissions to request a refund. Our international team - Betty Petersen at (714) 234-2784 is available to support you and answer any questions throughout the process.

Yes. International students are encouraged to join one of Fairmont’s many athletic teams that are available. This is a great opportunity for international students to become part of the Fairmont community and to enrich their American high school experience.

Please visit the International Tuition section for details.

Upon entry, international students will be tested to determine their English language proficiency. Students who are in need of language support will be enrolled in what are called Adapted classes for English, Science, and History. These classes are credit-bearing academic courses that are modified to meet the needs of language learners while still providing them with the academic content needed to better prepare them for collegiate courses in the future.

Fairmont has many exceptional specialty programs in a variety of fields. Your counselor will work with you individually to ensure you are eligible for the program of your choice. Examples of academic programs include Advanced Science and Engineering, Robotics, Speech and Debate, International Business, International Baccalaureate, and Advanced Math, among many others. We also have a host of non-academic specialty programs, such as the Fairmont Athletic Academy and our elite Ice Hockey program.

Age guidelines for K-8, students are placed chronologically. Students are able to repeat up to one academic year if they are applying to high school. However, they cannot be 20 years of age prior to May 1 of their senior year. In order to enter the program, students must be in their junior year of high school or younger. We do not accept students entering their senior year (12th grade).

On average, more than nine out of ten international students are accepted to the nation’s Top 100 universities each year. Please see a small sampling of the premier institutions to which our students are admitted below. For a complete listing of the schools our 2022 graduating class received offers from, click here.

International students are able to take any classes from our course catalog that they are eligible for. Our wonderful counseling department will work with each student to make sure the pre-requisite courses are met and that our international students have a tailored academic plan in place.

International students at Fairmont

How to apply to Fairmont Schools

Why choose Fairmont Schools as an international student?