Studying in the USA: Essential Guide for Singapore Students Applying to American High Schools

Studying in the USA: Essential Guide for Singapore Students Applying to American High Schools

Singapore, known for its exceptional education quality, attracts numerous international students seeking K12 education. Currently, around 62,000 international students are enrolled in various international schools in Singapore. Many families choose Singapore not only for its high-quality education and work opportunities but also as a transitional stage before sending their children to study in the U.S. or Europe.

Among various study abroad options, American high schools are a top choice for many parents due to their extensive educational resources, diverse campus cultures, and strong college guidance systems. Parents hope that attending an American high school will provide a solid foundation for future university applications and career development. As your child approaches high school, have you prepared adequately for their admission process?

This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the application process, required documents, and key considerations for Singaporean students applying to American high schools, helping your child successfully transition to a new academic journey.

Types of American High Schools

In the U.S., high schools are categorized into public and private institutions. Public high schools, which make up 85% of American high schools, are funded by the government and are available primarily to local students and a few international exchange students. Private high schools, accounting for 15%, operate independently of government funding, relying on charitable donations and tuition fees. These schools admit both local and international students.

Private High School Types:

• Boarding vs. Day Schools: Boarding schools provide accommodation, while day schools do not.
• Gender-Specific: Includes all-boys, all-girls, and co-educational schools.
• Religious Affiliation: Ranges from non-religious to schools affiliated with religions like Christianity or Catholicism.

American High School System

The American high school system spans four years (grades 9-12), equivalent to the Chinese junior and senior high school years. Students can apply for admission in 9th grade, which is the optimal time for entry. Applications for 10th-11th grades are available at some schools, but by 12th grade, most schools no longer accept new students.

Standardized Test Requirements

International students are generally required to provide standardized test scores such as TOEFL, TOEFL Junior, or SSAT. Top boarding schools may have higher language proficiency requirements and might also require SSAT or ISEE scores to assess students’ overall capabilities and academic potential.

Application Requirements for U.S. Private High Schools

1. Academic Records: Provide transcripts for the last 2-3 years with average grades typically above 80%, and 90% for top schools.
2. Recommendation Letters: Submit at least three recommendations from teachers and/or principals.
3. Interview: Participate in interviews, which may be conducted in person or via video.

Costs of Studying Abroad

Studying at a U.S. private high school can be expensive. Boarding schools typically cost between $70,000 and $85,000 annually, while day schools range from $40,000 to $60,000 per year. Additional costs include accommodation, meals, medical insurance, and textbooks.

Benefits of Attending an American High School

1. Holistic Development: U.S. high schools focus on comprehensive student development, offering a wide range of electives and extracurricular activities.
2. Enhanced College Application: Attending an American high school can improve the competitiveness of university applications, particularly for Ivy League schools.
3. Language Immersion: Early education in the U.S. helps students adapt to an English-speaking environment, enhancing their language skills.

Application Tips

• Plan Early: Understand the U.S. high school education system and create a strategic application plan.
• Improve Academic and English Skills: Enhance standardized test scores and participate in extracurricular activities.
• Choose Schools Wisely: Select schools that fit your child’s profile and avoid the temptation to apply to only prestigious institutions.

Thorough preparation and early planning can significantly increase the chances of successful applications to American high schools. For further assistance with the application process, contact Mighty Edupath for expert guidance.

Recommended Schools:

• Bishop Blanchet High School: bishopblanchet.org
• La Reina High School & Middle School (Girl School): lareina.com
• St. Bernard’s Academy: saintbernards.us
• York School: york.org
• Bellarmine Preparatory School: bellarmineprep.org
• Archbishop Murphy High School: am-hs.org
• The Northwest School: northwestschool.org

American high schools offer a wealth of educational resources and diverse opportunities. If you’re interested in applying to American high schools, contact Mighty Edupath for more information and support!