International Program
Give Your Student the Experience of a Lifetime
Studying abroad is one of the most transformative experiences a young person can have, and the community they step into matters!
At Calvary Chapel Schools (CCS), we offer something genuinely rare: a rigorous, college-preparatory American education rooted in a Christian worldview, set in the heart of beautiful Orange County, California, just 40 minutes south of Los Angeles. Our campus sits in one of the safest, sunniest, and most vibrant regions of the United States, where students enjoy year-round outdoor living, rich cultural diversity, and proximity to world-class universities.
Founded in 1973, CCS is dedicated to engaging, equipping, and empowering students to find the path of flourishing in God’s love. Our school community fosters the courageous and holistic pursuit of excellence in faith, character, leadership, intellect, and purpose. Your student won’t simply attend classes; they will be known by name, valued as a community member, and invested in as a whole person.
Why International Families Choose Calvary Chapel Schools
CCS offers international students something distinctive and different. Here, your student will experience:
- A Safe, Christian Community Our faith-centered environment upholds values of integrity, compassion, and respect. Students of all backgrounds are welcomed and genuinely embraced.
- Small Classes & Personal Attention Teachers know every student by name. No one is invisible.
- College-Preparatory Academics Honors, Advanced Placement (AP), and Dual Enrollment courses prepare students for admission to top US and international universities.
- A Full American High School Experience Well- established competitive Athletics, Performing Arts, Student government, Computer Science,clubs, dances, and more! Your student experiences an authentic and memorable American campus life.
- Cutting-Edge STEAM Opportunities Robotics, Technology Integration, Coding, and the International Space Station Program and STEAM Certification set CCS apart.
- Dedicated English Language Support Our Eagle International Academy (EIA) provides a structured, proven pathway for students who need English language development before or alongside mainstream coursework.
- Southern California Location Year-round sunshine, cultural excursions, proximity to Los Angeles, beaches, amusement parks, and a safe, vibrant local environment make Orange County an extraordinary home base for international students.
- SEVIS-Approved & F-1 Visa Certified CCS is fully certified by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to issue the Form I-20 required for your student’s F-1 visa.
Our International Student Programs
We understand the courage it takes to send your teenager thousands of miles from home. That is exactly why we have designed every layer of our International Student Program, from personalized academic support and English language development, to direction for homestay placement, and community life, to make sure your student is never alone and always set up to thrive.
CCS offers two distinct pathways for international students, designed to meet students wherever they are academically and linguistically.
ICCS International Calvary Chapel Student Program
The ICCS program is designed for international students in grades 6–12 who are ready to fully integrate into mainstream CCS classes. Students in this program pursue the full college-preparatory curriculum alongside their domestic peers, engaging in all aspects of campus life from day one.
This program is ideal for students who demonstrate strong English language proficiency through our admissions assessment or qualifying standardized test scores.
Eagle International Academy – Specialized Language Learner Support
Transitioning to a new language and academic culture is one of the greatest challenges international students face. The Eagle International Academy was built specifically to meet that challenge as an integrated, encouraging environment where students build language skills with confidence while remaining part of the broader school community.
For students who need English language support, the Eagle International Academy provides a carefully structured, supportive pathway into the full CCS experience. Rather than isolating students, EIA places them in the school community from the start while providing targeted instruction in a small group setting.
EIA students take English, History, and/or Bible in a dedicated class with specialized instruction, while participating in at least four regular CCHS classes alongside their peers. This immersive model accelerates both language development and social integration.
The EIA is designed as a one-to-two-year experience. At the end of each year, students are assessed using a school-administered test. Students who achieve a proficiency score of 100 or above transition to the standard international student program. Additional tutoring services are available at an extra fee for students who need continued support.
Integrated Academic Supports
- Modified English Language Courses Leveled instruction focused on academic vocabulary, reading comprehension, oral communication, and writing skills, taught in small groups by a dedicated EIA instructor.
- History and/or Bible in a Supported Setting Core content classes are taught with language learners in mind, ensuring students access curriculum content while continuing to develop English.
- Minimum Four Mainstream Classes EIA students are integrated into regular CCS classes for the majority of their school day, building relationships and acclimating to the full school community.
- Vocabulary Enhancement & Presentation Skills Targeted instruction builds the academic and conversational vocabulary students need to succeed in US college-prep coursework.
- Growing Confidence EIA teachers guide and encourage each student’s best efforts, creating a safe space to take language risks, make mistakes, and grow.
Who Needs the EIA?
The EIA is required for students whose English language assessment results indicate that their speaking, reading, or writing proficiency is not yet sufficient for success in mainstream classes. Students who do not submit standardized English test scores (iTEP, TOEFL, ELTiS, DuoLingo, or equivalent) will also be enrolled in the EIA for at least one year. CCS conducts individualized in-house assessments during the admissions interview process to make this determination.
We strongly encourage all incoming international students who have not previously attended an English-language school to begin in the EIA program.It is among the most effective investments a student can make in their long-term academic success and college readiness.
EIA Admissions Process
- Apply to CCS through the regular admissions process and submit all required documents, including transcripts and any available English proficiency test scores.
- During the admissions interview, CCS will conduct individualized language assessments to determine each applicant’s eligibility and placement level for the EIA.
- Students accepted into the EIA will be notified of their placement and provided with all program details prior to enrollment.
Housing & Homestay
For students who will not be living with a parent or legal guardian, CCS partners with several professional homestay agencies with proven track records of placing international students with caring, engaged families. We encourage families to contact us to explore homestay options and select the arrangement that is best for their student.
If your student has a direct family member living near our campus such as a parent, aunt or uncle, grandparent, or sibling over the age of 25, they may be eligible to reside with that individual. Please notify our International Student Coordinator with the name, address, and contact information of your proposed homestay so we can confirm the arrangement meets our housing standards.
CCS requires a background check, including Livescan, for any individual providing a homestay. All arrangements are reviewed by our team, and we retain the right to reject or request changes to any homestay situation that does not meet our policies and safety standards. Transportation to and from school and activities is provided by the homestay family or legal guardian.
2026–2027 Tuition & Fees
All fees are listed in US dollars (USD). Please read all payment and refund policies carefully.
| Fee Item | Amount (USD) | Notes |
| Application Fee | $200 | Non-refundable |
| Enrollment Fee | $600 | Non-refundable |
| First-Year Student Fee | $3,000 | New international students only |
| International High School Tuition | $34,000 | Full academic year (ICCS program) |
| EIA Eagle International Academy | $39,000 | ICCS Tuition + $5,000 EIA fee |
| Early Admission Deposit (applied to tuition) | $3,500 | Nov 1 – Feb 1 Annually |
Additional Fees (in addition to Tuition)
| Item | Approximate Cost |
| Technology Fee | $150 |
| AP Exam Testing | $110 per exam |
| Lab Course Fee | $35 |
| Dual Enrollment (per class) | $325 |
| Math Digital Platforms | $150 |
| Co-curricular / Athletic Fees | Varies by sport/activity |
| School Supplies | Varies by grade level |
| Uniforms | $200 (varies by quantity) |
| Graduation Fee (12th grade only) | $650 |
| Homestay (10 months) | $21,000 and up |
| Hot Lunch (optional) | $10 per day |
| Tutoring (if needed) | Additional fee |
What Tuition Includes
- ASB Student ID Card
- Cultural excursions and events
- Annual high school yearbook
- Campus amenities (library, gymnasium, chapel, courtyard)
- Textbook rental
- Basic healthcare insurance for 10 months (ISO plan; families may upgrade at additional cost)
Payment Policies
Early Admission: Deposit of $3,500 secures enrollment (Nov 1 – Feb 1 annually). Deposit is applied toward tuition balance and is non-refundable. I-20 processing begins once deposit is received.
After February 1: Full tuition payment is required before the I-20 process begins.
Refunds: Tuition is partially refundable before the first day of school, minus an administrative fee. No refunds are issued after school begins except in the case of US Visa denial. $2,500 of the initial deposit is non-refundable in all cases. Refunds for early withdrawal are calculated per term.
Returning Students – Re-Enrollment: Re-enrollment deposit of $3,500 is due by January 31.. Full tuition balance for the upcoming school year is due by June 1. Late fees apply after June 5,. Submit the re-enrollment packet and $600 re-enrollment fee through the FACTS parent portal.
Frequently asked Questions
CCS accepts new international students in grades 6–11. Seniors (12th grade) may apply only if they attended a US school the previous year, earned a full year of credit with an excellent academic record, and meet all other admissions requirements. Their full transcript and any TOEFL or DuoLingo scores will be reviewed before proceeding.
All classes are taught in English. Students who demonstrate sufficient English proficiency through assessment are admitted directly to the ICCS program. Students who are not yet proficient are enrolled in the Eagle International Academy (EIA) until they reach the required level. If you have no English test scores, EIA enrollment will be required for at least one year.
CCS accepts iTEP, TOEFL, ELTiS, DuoLingo, and other standardized English proficiency tests. We also conduct our own in-house assessments during the admissions interview. Students who score below our acceptance standard will be required to enroll in the EIA program.
The priority deadline to apply for the upcoming school year is Nov 1 of the prior year. After that date, applications are accepted on a rolling basis as long as space remains available. We encourage families to apply as early as possible.
Contact the US Embassy or Consulate in your home country to schedule a visa interview. For complete information, visit travel.state.gov and look under the ‘F’ visa category. CCS will issue your Form I-20 once tuition and required fees are paid, which you will need for your visa appointment.
Yes. A basic 10-month health insurance plan through ISO is included in your tuition. Families may upgrade to a more comprehensive policy and pay the difference. There are also options available should a student be unable to complete the program.
No. Working while on an F-1 student visa is a violation of your visa status. CCS does not offer Optional Practical Training (OPT) at the middle or high school level.
CCS partners with professional homestay agencies and can connect families with those resources. CCS does not directly place students. If your student has a qualifying family member (parent, aunt/uncle, grandparent, or sibling over 25) living near campus, that arrangement may be approved after CCS review and a required background check.
No. Transportation to and from school and school activities is the responsibility of the homestay family or legal guardian.
Absolutely. International students are fully eligible to participate in all CCS activities, including Varsity and JV CIF sports teams, performing arts, clubs, ASB, dances, and more. We strongly encourage participation as it is one of the best ways to build friendships and feel at home.
We strongly encourage international students to arrive in the US at least two weeks before the first day of school to allow time to settle in. The first day of school for Fall 2026 is August 19, 2026. Please note that F-1 visa regulations do not permit students to enter the US more than 30 days before the program start date.
CCS maintains a strict attendance policy. All students must be present for final exams as scheduled. Missing a final exam results in serious academic consequences. Any exceptions must be requested in writing to school administration well in advance of any travel plans. CCS retains the right to approve or deny such requests.
Yes. There is a $200 non-refundable application fee.
If a US visa is denied, tuition (minus the non-refundable $2,500 portion of the deposit) may be refunded. Application and enrollment fees are non-refundable under any circumstances. Please contact our office for details on the refund process.
Yes, CCS is a Christ-centered school. All students participate in chapel as part of regular school life. Students of all faith backgrounds study the Christian Bible. Families must be aligned with our values and open to Christian conversations. Our community is one of genuine care, and we do not enroll students who present antagonistic attitude toward Christianity.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
We have made the application process as clear and manageable as possible. Follow these steps to begin your journey to CCS:
STEP 1:
Apply or Renew Your Passport
Ensure your passport is valid and will not expire within six months of your program start date.
STEP 2:
Complete the Interest Form
Fill out our International Student Interest Form (button below) so our team can begin the conversation with you.
STEP 3:
Gather Your Documents
Submit the following to our International Student Coordinator at Victoria.Wilson@calvaryschools.org: (1) Copy of passport, (2) Most current 3-year transcript in English use SpanTran evaluation for translation, (3) Personal introduction letter tell us about yourself and why you want to attend CCS, (4) Principal and teacher recommendation letters in English, (5) iTEP/TOEFL/ELTiS/DuoLingo scores if available, (6) Current bank statement showing sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses, (7) Transfer students: copy of current I-20, (8) Vaccine record use SpanTran for translation.
STEP 4:
Submit Your Online Application
Complete the CCS Online Application through the link on this page. CCS staff will upload your submitted documents to your application file.
STEP 5:
Complete a Live Interview
Participate in a one-on-one interview with our International Student Coordinator, either in person or via Zoom/Skype. This interview also serves as your English language assessment. We will contact you to schedule a time.
STEP 6:
Receive Your Acceptance Decision
CCS will notify you of your acceptance status and outline the next steps, including EIA placement if applicable.
STEP 7:
Pay Enrollment Fees & Deposit
Confirm your enrollment by paying the non-refundable application fee ($200), enrollment fee ($600), and tuition deposit ($3,500 for early admission). I-20 processing begins once required fees are received.
STEP 8:
Receive Your I-20 & Apply for Your Visa
CCS will issue your Form I-20. Use it to schedule your F-1 visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in your home country (visit travel.state.gov for guidance).
STEP 9:
Confirm Housing
Coordinate your homestay arrangement with our team. All arrangements must be reviewed and approved by CCS prior to arrival.
STEP 10:
Arrive & Begin
We recommend arriving at least two weeks before the first day of school. Our team will be ready to welcome you to the CCS family.
A note about SpanTran: CCS uses SpanTran for translation and transcript evaluation services to ensure content consistency. SpanTran is an independent service and is not affiliated with CCS or CCCM. Using their services does not imply CCS endorsement. CCS is not responsible for any errors or issues arising from SpanTran’s services.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Your student’s American high school experience begins with a single conversation. Whether you are just beginning to explore your options or you are ready to apply, we would love to hear from you.
Contact Our International Admissions Team
Mrs. Victoria Wilson
International Student Coordinator
Email: Victoria.Wilson@calvaryschools.org
For appointments: Please email to schedule a phone or video interview
Calvary Chapel Schools
Orange County, California, USA
Established 1973 • Grades 6–12
SEVIS-Approved • F-1 I-20 Issuing Institution
714-662-2210 x 2210
