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International Students

Since 1911, international students have been a vital part of the fabric at Gunston. We offer a rigorous, personalized, and nurturing high school experience designed to prepare global scholars for admission to top United States colleges and universities.

Why Choose Gunston?

Here is what sets the Gunston experience apart:

  • Full English Immersion: Living and learning in a 100% English-intensive environment accelerates language mastery.
  • Global Heritage: We have proudly welcomed students from Germany, Spain, Poland, Brazil, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, China, and beyond.
  • Affordable Excellence: Our local community housing model makes Gunston a safer, more integrated, and more cost-effective option than traditional boarding schools.
  • Proven Outcomes: One hundred percent of our international graduates gain admission to competitive U.S. colleges and universities.

“We had no prior experience with our children studying abroad. After this time, we're sure that Gunston was the best choice. The entire experience has contributed positively to our children's education, values, and future. We will always recommend Gunston.”
- Georgina & Xavi P’23’27, Parents from Spain

Click here to view a list of college acceptances over the last five years and read a few stories about where our students are headed next!

International Students at Gunston

Director of Admissions & Financial Aid

David Henry
dhenry@gunston.org 
410-758-0620 ext 1104

The Host Family Experience:
An Authentic Window into American Life

Our international students do not live in isolated dorms. Instead, they live locally with welcoming host families—many of whom are Gunston teachers or current parents.

  • A True Family Bond: Host families provide a safe, secure home environment, daily meals, and daily transportation to and from campus.
  • Cultural & Language Growth: By participating in daily American home life, students expand their English proficiency rapidly outside the classroom.

Academic Support & Resources:
Built for International Student Success

We surround our international scholars with daily, built-in academic guardrails to ensure they thrive in a rigorous American curriculum.

Specialized English Training

  • English Literature Class: A dedicated course that introduces complete works of literature and provides thorough instruction in the Gunston writing process, preparing students to transition seamlessly into standard English classes.
  • The Gunston Writing Center: Staffed daily by an English instructor. Students receive 1:1 or small-group help to refine and develop their analytical writing skills.

Built-In Daily Support

  • Daily Homework Period: Time is structured directly into the school day so students can complete assignments, conduct research, or meet with faculty.
  • Daily Tutorial Period: A built-in afternoon support period where all classroom teachers are available for early intervention, test prep, or extra help.

Testing & Graduation

  • TOEFL & SAT Preparation: On-site guidance and weekend testing availability throughout the school year, fully coordinated by our Global Programs and College Guidance offices.
  • Diploma Pathways: International students can earn a fully accredited Gunston diploma by meeting standard graduation requirements. Prior accredited high school credits are eligible for transfer.

Campus Life & Athletics:
Integration Through Teamwork

International students are required to participate in two seasons of team sports each year. We believe athletics is the single fastest and most effective way to build deep friendships, learn American culture, and integrate into campus life. Note: Fall athletes must attend our required pre-season training camps prior to the start of the school year.

Tuition & Fees

Our international tuition is comprehensive and includes the academic program, housing, school lunches, auxiliary fees, and applicable agency fees.

Ready to Apply?

If you are applying directly to Gunston, or are working with an agency that does not have an exclusive form, you can access our digital application here.

Emma | Spain

Bertin | Germany

Annie | Inner Mongolia

Luis | Spain

Admissions & Partner Agencies

Most of our international scholars apply to Gunston through one of our trusted global recruitment partners.

  • Cambridge Network: Prepares students for life abroad before arrival and provides ongoing support throughout the year. (Students from China, Vietnam, or South Korea should use this specific form to begin).
  • International Experience USA (iE): Connects students from 52 countries to foster global citizenship.
  • McGrath: Provides end-to-end customized team support for students and parents throughout the process.
  • AWEX Education: Specialist-led programs focused on long-term student satisfaction and future success.
  • Global College USA: Focused on maximizing world-class educational and future athletic scholarship opportunities.