Grades 6-12; Boarding 8-12

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English as a Second Language

There are many reasons for the success of international students at The Pennington School, but a few in particular stand out: we have a long tradition of respect for all cultures and religions; each student's unique potential is realized at Pennington; and a student's course of study is customized to his or her abilities and interests.

The English as a Second Language (ESL) program provides the academic support English language learners might need. In addition, a comprehensive academic program is offered in the Upper School that includes Advanced Placement and honors courses in all academic departments, which affords a smooth transition from the course of study begun in home countries.

Pennington's international students have continued their academic careers at some of America's finest colleges and universities, including University of Chicago, Cornell, Brown, Rhode Island School of Design, Boston University, Columbia, Johns Hopkins, Carnegie Mellon, and Northwestern. After college, they have gone on to achieve success in science, the arts, engineering, architecture, business, and the humanities.

Pennington supports students with courses designed to bring them from study in an American middle and upper school to success in an American college. New students are placed in classes according to their skills and needs as determined by the Dean of Academic Affairs.

The School assists international and multilingual students in a variety of ways. These include:

  • Issuance of the I-20 upon enrollment for obtaining a student (F-1) visa
  • Orientation for new students and their parents before the opening of school in September
  • Personal email accounts and access to fax services
  • Data drops in each dormitory room for internet access
  • On-campus banking services
  • ESL support as required
  • International Club trips and social activities for American and international students
  • Availability of foreign language newspapers and multilingual internet access 
  • Weekend activity program with on-campus and off-campus activities
  • Cultural adjustment support
  • Assistance with transportation to area airports
Admission for international students

Pennington enrolls international students in grades 6 through 12 who have strong academic ability, who are interested in the challenge of studying abroad, and who will endeavor to become part of all aspects of the School community.

Admission is based on teacher recommendations, an official record of present and previous academic work, TOEFL score, and interview. Applicants to The Pennington School should have TOEFL scores of 75 or higher in order to be considered as competitive candidates in the admission process.

To apply for admission to The Pennington School, please click here.