INTERNATIONAL ADMISSION RESOURCES
Answering your questions about all things CA!
These admissions resources are meant to guide you through the international student process an help you explore more about Cheshire Academy. We hope this helps you while you navigate the admission process, and as always, if you have an questions, feel free to reach out!
Cheshire Academy Admission Office
Cheshire Academy provides an in-depth support system for parents, consultants, and students from overseas.
Cheshire Academy is home to students from more than 20 countries, many of whom chose Cheshire Academy because of its reputation as one of the best private schools in the USA. Students from around the world have attended the Academy since 1850, making the New England boarding school one of the first to enroll international students.
Cheshire Academy offers a unique support system for international students that includes ESL and individualized academic assistance through the Roxbury Academic Support Program, and the option to participate in the IB Programme and earn an International Baccalaureate Diploma.
With guidance from academic advisors and the International Student Office, families from abroad have an in-depth support system that works to communicate with consultants, parents, and students, providing a true student-centered learning and living experience.
Once you are accepted and enrolled at Cheshire Academy, the International Office will issue an I-20 so that you can obtain your student Visa in time for travel to the United States. You may contact the International Student Life office with any questions.
Cheshire Academy has a limited financial aid budget and we are not able to guarantee that financial aid will be available to late applicants or students who begin at Cheshire Academy paying the full tuition. Thus, it is best for a family to apply for financial aid by the financial aid application deadline rather than waiting until the applicant has been accepted for admission or already enrolled in the school.
Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) Guide
Most of Cheshire Academy’s international students, who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the United States, will be issued an F-1 (non-immigrant) student visa. If you are a citizen of Canada or Bermuda, you do not need a visa, but you will need to obtain a Form I-20. If you or your family has another type of visa, or if you are transferring from another U.S. school, please contact the International Student Coordinator for further information.
Cheshire Academy is approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), administrated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, to issue the Form I-20 which is the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. Please note that you must apply to, be admitted to, and agree to enroll at Cheshire Academy (including the submission of your enrollment agreement and appropriate deposit paid) before we may issue the Form I-20. After CA issues the Form I-20, you should schedule the “Initial Entry Visa Interview” with your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Please check with your U.S. Embassy or Consulate to determine their policies and procedures. You can check the U.S. Department of State website and select your city, then click the link for visa information. Wait times for student visa appointments at embassies and consulates worldwide can be found at www.Travel.State.Gov.
Visa interviews generally require the following documentation:
- Your Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status
- Your acceptance letter from Cheshire Academy
SEVIS I-901 receipt
Passport which must be valid for 6 months after entry into the US - Transcripts or diplomas from current or previous institutions
- Program of study description
- Accommodation information
- Evidence of funds to cover tuition and living expenses for one academic year
Once you receive your F-1 visa, it might be time to pack your bags for Cheshire Academy! Keep in mind that you can enter the U.S. no more than 30 days before your program start date. Upon arrival at a United States Port of Entry you must present:
- Your form I-20, with signatures
- F-1Visa
- Passport
- I-94 Card
Your Form I-94 will be updated each time you arrive to or depart the U.S. and can be obtained by visiting the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
Informational Fact Sheets
Want to learn about our programs, academics, and more? Explore our in-depth flyers to see how you’ll benefit from a Cheshire Academy education.
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Admission Blog
Explore our blog and read more about navigating the private school admission process.
What is the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Programme – and Should I Choose it Over AP?
Read More »
International Student Fee Structure
Questions? Please inquire with our Admission Office or International Student Life Office for more details and for qualification requirements.
Standard
$10,000
All international students with an F-1 visa must pay the standard international student fee and will automatically be opted in for the benefits therein.
In certain approved cases, such as for dual citizens or Green Card holders, a student may have a need for the full support we offer to our international students. Qualification is determined by Cheshire Academy’s Office of International Student Life.
Benefits:
- SEVIS/F-1 Visa and I-20 Support
- ELL classes (also known as ESL)
- Dedicated International Student Office
- Peer Counselor Program for new students
- Monthly Programming
- Transportation to nearby airport/train station/shuttles for major school breaks
- Thanksgiving and Spring Break on-campus program
- TOEFL registration and transportation assistance
Reduced
$5,000
In certain approved cases, such as for Lawful Permanent Residents, dual citizens, or Green Card holders, a student may have a need for some of the support we offer to our international students. Students with the reduced fee package have all the benefits of our international program, with the exception of SEVIS/F-1 Visa and I-20 Support.
Qualification is determined by Cheshire Academy’s Office of International Student Life.
Benefits:
- ELL classes (also known as ESL)
- Dedicated International Student Office
- Peer Counselor Program for new students
- Monthly Programming
- Transportation to nearby airport/train station/shuttles for major school breaks
- Thanksgiving and Spring Break on-campus program
- TOEFL registration and transportation assistance
None
$0
If Lawful Permanent Residents, dual citizens, or Green Card holders do not indicate they would like either Standard or Reduced international student services, it is assumed that they will not pay a fee and will not be part of our international student program.
Frequently Asked Questions
All students (day and boarding) must be in attendance for our mandatory community weekends.
Cheshire Academy Fun Facts
Did you know we have over 30+ countries represented?
Cheshire Academy is proud to be an international community. International students represent 36 countries including Bermuda, South Korea, France, Germany, Spain, China, Czech Republic, Vietnam, Taiwan, Japan, India, Brazil, Ghana, Mexico, Canada, Belgium, United Kingdom, Jamaica, Bahamas, Georgia, Ukraine, Singapore, Nigeria, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Israel, Hong Kong, and Turkey.
Did you know?
Cheshire Academy is the oldest boarding school in the State of Connecticut and the eleventh-oldest boarding school in the United States.
Cheshire Academy was founded in 1794!
Notable Alumni
Cheshire Academy prides itself on supporting our students become strong global citizens. Throughout our time, we have had many notable alumni pass through our halls.
A purr-fect mascot!
Cheshire Academy’s mascot is a Cat and he is sure to make an appearance at big events, games, and sometimes just walking down the hallway. You never know when you might catch him!
Have Questions?
203-439-7250
admission@cheshireacademy.org
