Study in Italy
Peer Mentorship System
Program Overview
Embark on a transformative academic journey with the U.S. F-1 High School Study Abroad Program, offering unparalleled pathways to American higher education. This program empowers students to enroll in U.S. secondary schools on an F-1 visa, culminating in a U.S. high school diploma and the distinct advantage of applying to U.S. universities as domestic applicants. Unlike restrictive exchange programs, F-1 provides a comprehensive academic continuum, allowing uninterrupted enrollment for 2-4 years, complete with structured transcripts and a robust course system. Many participants also benefit from TOEFL waivers. Students can select from private institutions, renowned for their academic rigor, small class sizes, and dedicated college counseling, or public schools, celebrated for their cost-effectiveness, authentic local environments, and government-regulated oversight. Regardless of the chosen path, students cultivate essential independent living skills within an English-speaking milieu, navigating critical developmental years with robust support.
Core Features
Peer Mentorship System
Each international student is thoughtfully paired with a local American Peer Mentor. Some institutions implement a rotating two-mentor system, offering students exposure to a broader spectrum of courses and peers.
Year-Round Enrollment
Students are accepted throughout the regular academic semester. Summer programs commence annually in late July.
Interest-Based Pairing
Mentor pairing is based on the student's interests, strengths, and preferred subjects, facilitating linguistic development and social integration through shared passions.
Supportive Learning Environment
Students within San Diego's public schools are known for their welcoming and helpful demeanor, fostering deep connections between participants and their Peer Mentors.
Authentic Academic Environment
Students attend daily classes alongside their Peer Mentors, following individualized schedules, thereby achieving genuine linguistic immersion.
Program Advantages
- Over nearly two decades, we have guided 180-230 students annually, achieving a 58% admission rate to U.S. Top 50 undergraduate programs and a 4.75/5.0 parent satisfaction rating.
- Access to 150+ private high schools and 80+ public school districts across 32 states, supported by three U.S. offices in New York, Los Angeles, and Boston.
- A six-stage personalized service model, transitioning seamlessly from Education Consultant to Academic Counselor, ensuring comprehensive guidance.
- Families receive a 'Private vs. Public Comparison Evaluation Report,' guaranteeing unbiased recommendations without pressure for higher-cost choices.
- Quarterly identity compliance reviews, a 24-hour emergency hotline, and immediate alerts for academic performance below 3.0 GPA ensure student well-being and progress.
- Seamless transfer evaluations between public and private schools, with available school lists provided within 72 hours, accommodating evolving academic goals.
Application Guide
Age Requirement
Ages 14-17
Education Requirement
Currently enrolled in junior high school in China (exchange) / Junior high school graduate (long-term)
English Requirement
Italian A2 (exchange, 300 class hours) / B1 (long-term, 500 class hours)
Other Requirements
Portfolio required for art track
Core Documents
Application Process
Application Deadline
Must be initiated 8-10 months in advance
Safety Guarantee
- Coordinators stationed in Milan/Rome/Florence, with 2-hour emergency response
- Host families certified with police criminal record checks and home visit assessments
- Schengen Area medical direct-pay card for direct billing at all hospitals
- Additional insurance coverage for art students' equipment (art supplies, musical instruments, and other valuables)
- Pre-departure domestic language preparatory course (6-8 months) in Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou
FAQ
Regarding English proficiency, can I participate if my English is not yet fluent?
Certainly. This program is meticulously tailored for all proficiency levels, providing dedicated linguistic support. The School Immersion Program itself offers an unparalleled pathway to English mastery, with immersive learning in an all-English environment, facilitating progress far beyond conventional classroom settings.
Will my child experience isolation during the program?
A multi-layered support network ensures a seamless social transition. Students benefit from a Peer Mentor, a Curated Host Family, school classmates, extracurricular activity partners, and 24/7 emergency support from the program team. The vast majority of participants cultivate enduring international friendships.
How are host families selected, and will they provide a nurturing environment?
Our network comprises over 500 meticulously vetted Curated Host Families. Each family undergoes rigorous background checks, comprehensive home safety inspections, and specialized reception training. They possess extensive experience in hosting international students. Families in San Diego are renowned for their warmth and support, with most students developing profound bonds with their hosts.
Is it possible to select specific courses?
Indeed. Schedules are individually curated, enabling students to select courses aligned with their interests, aptitudes, and English proficiency. Available electives encompass robotics, programming, photography, modern dance, and various foreign language classes.
Can connections be maintained after the program concludes?
Absolutely. Many alumni sustain contact with their Peer Mentors and Curated Host Families for years, fostering lifelong friendships. Here, you are not merely a visitor; you become an integral member of an extended family.
Similar Program Recommendations
Want to know more?
Scan QR code to add WeChat Work and get a personalized study abroad plan
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00-18:00
Quick inquiry
Fill in your information and our consultant will plan for you free of charge.
Program Information
- Program Category
- Middle School Programs
- Program Type
- Exchange Program
- Program Duration
- 1 academic year (exchange) / 3-5 years (long-term)
- Fee Range
- ¥80,000-250,000/year