BALBOA INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION
BALBOA SCHOOL
At Balboa School, we embrace the differences, gifts, and talents of students from around the world. We want to encourage and stimulate the various lights that shine so brightly in each of our young people today.
Balboa School is located in Escondido, which is in San Diego’s North County region, only 30 miles northeast of downtown San Diego, California. The city has a population of over 143,000, while San Diego County has a population over three million and is one of the fastest growing communities in the United States. The city of Escondido is diverse with a population that is 60% Caucasian, 2.5% African-American, 1% Native American, 6% Asian and 30% other races. San Diego County has over seven famous public and private universities, including the University of California at San Diego, which is the tenth highest rated state school in the United States. Known as the “Sports City,” many professional sports teams make San Diego their home. In addition San Diego County is known for its, comfortable climate with plenty of sunshine and over 70 miles of coastline as well as a vibrant art, music and food scene. San Diego County is known for being an embodiment of America as it is a melting pot representing various ethnicities, cultures and is full of diversity. WASC accreditation only applies to the campus in San Diego.
NEW STUDENTS (NON-TRANSFER)
The documents listed below are required:
1. Application for International Admission
2. $300.00 non-refundable application fee (add $20.00 for wiring fee - wiring instructions)
3. Copies of transcripts from 9th grade to current level (English translation)
4. A 1-page personal statement answering the following questions:
a. Why do you want to study in the United States?
b. Why do you want to study at Balboa School?
c. What academic goal do you have?
5. English assessment (unfortunately, we do not accept SLEP)
The Admissions Department will review all application, transcripts, personal statements and English assessment. A letter will follow with Balboa's decision.
TO RECEIVE A FORM I-20
The documents listed below are required:
1. Copy of valid passport (for at least 6 months prior to entry)
2. Financial records (evidence of funds available for the intended time of study for school costs plus living expenses). See estimated annual costs for international students.
3. Affidavit of support form
Do not purchase your airline ticket until you have received your F-1 visa. Be sure to keep all original documents that you submitted to Balboa School for your visa interview. Once you have received your form I-20, read it carefully to verify that all information is correct. If it is not, contact the DSO (Designated School Official) at Balboa School. After you have read and understand the instructions on page 3, sign page 1. By signing it you are promising to follow the terms and conditions.
At times more information may be requested.
AFTER YOU RECEIVE YOUR F-1 VISA
It is very important that you notify the Balboa School' DSO. You will now be required to submit the following:
1. Immunization record (see California school immunization requirements)
2. Balboa School contract signed and returned
3. Tuition
4. Guardianship form (only if you are not working with a US agent)
5. Homestay information form
6. Proof of medical insurance
To apply please visit the contact section of the website or email clundgren@balboaschool.com
MAJORS PROGRAMS
Our unique Majors Program offers students the opportunity to maximize their potential and explore prospective careers. Comprehensive learning and language supports enable students to break down cultural and social barriers, creating a special family-type bond that is difficult to find elsewhere. Our small learning environment embraces students who may learn differently while also challenging those who are gifted high achievers.
UNIQUE EXPERIENCE
Balboa School is a special place that will grab your heart and inspire your mind. We hope that you will join us in this journey to become part of a wonderful global learning community.
The mission of Balboa School is to inspire students who desire intellectual stimulation, academic achievement, and create avenues of expression in order to contribute as meaningful members of a diverse global community.
BALBOA ADVANTAGES
The federal government of the United States has certified Balboa School to accept students from foreign countries, and its diploma is recognized internationally. Credits obtained at Balboa School may be transferred to other schools. Balboa receives its accreditation from one of the six national accreditation bureaus, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), with the ability to supply accreditation for elementary schools, high schools, and college preparatory programs. Additionally, Balboa’s curriculum has received recognition by the University of California A-G system. Many of Balboa’s graduates are able to receive academic scholarships from University of California schools, by passing the context program.
Of the more than 10,000 public and private high schools in the United States, only a small number are American College Board member schools. Balboa School is among these member schools, and this provides many advantages to Balboa students that wish to attend top-tier U.S. Universities. This includes cutting-edge information and advice for college-entrance exams, providing students with inside information on admissions to top-tier schools, and guaranteeing students a better chance at being accepted into their dream school. American College Board also offers SAT and AP exams.
Balboa provides students with a rich and wide range of topics in the curriculum. All of the classes are small, which students find interesting, one-on-one counseling and a positive learning environment are what make Balboa successful. The positive learning environment created by Balboa encourages students to develop classroom participation as well as social skills. From basic English skills to Shakespeare, writing, business, history, math, science, art, and physical education student assessments are conducted on an individualized basis, including many of Balboa’s elective programs, such as multimedia, computer programming, and robotics which are among students’ favorite classes. Students with outstanding academic performance are also offered Advanced Placement classes, significantly increasing their competitiveness when applying to top-tier American universities.
EXTRACURRICULAR
A variety of activities are available at Balboa School. These include Student Leadership Committee, National Honor Society, and, for those who qualify, sports. Each year, Balboa School plans on increasing the number and variety of afternoon activities and school activities.
TRANSFER STUDENTS
The documents listed below are required:
1. Application for International Admission
2. $300.00 non-refundable application fee (add $20.00 for wiring fee - wiring instructions)
3. Copies of transcripts from 9th grade to current level (English translation)
4. 1 page personal statement answering the following questions:
a. Why do you want to study in the United States?
b. Why do you want to study at Balboa School?
c. What academic goal do you have?
5. Request for Academic Records Form
6. Teacher Recommendation Form
7. Copies of previous form I-20's
8. Transfer Verification Form
The Admissions Department will review your application, transcripts, personal statement and teacher recommendation form. A letter will follow with Balboa's decision.
FORM I-20 TRANSFER
To have your form I-20 transferred, the documents listed below are required:
1. Copy of valid passport
2. Financial records (evidence of funds available for the intended time of study for school costs plus living expenses). See estimated annual costs for international students.
3. Affidavit of support form
To apply please visit the contact section of the website or email clundgren@balboaschool.com
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
On the first day of school all new students must be prepared to submit the following:
1. Copy of form I-20
2. Copy of form I-94
3. F-1 Visa
4. Official transcript
FAQS
WHEN SHOULD I START APPLYING?
You should begin applying no later than 4-5 months before you want to begin classes.
DO YOU ACCEPT STUDENTS ENTERING THE 12TH GRADE?
Yes, we do accept students entering the 12th grade.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO STUDY AT BALBOA SCHOOL?
See Balboa School's estimated annual costs for international students. Each student must prove they have enough funds to study and live in the US for every year you intend to study at Balboa School.
DO YOU PROVIDE HOMESTAY ARRANGEMENTS?
Balboa School does not provide homestay arrangements, but you may request a list of agencies that can assist you.
DO YOU PROVIDE TRANSPORTATION?
Balboa School does not provide transportation, however we are centrally located with easy access to all modes of public transportation.
WHY DO I NEED A GUARDIAN?
Balboa School requires a guardian to assume academic and physical responsibility and to maintain communication between parents, school, and host family. If you are not working with an agent with a U.S. address, you must have a legal guardian. See guardianship form for requirements.
CAN I BUY MEDICAL INSURANCE FROM BALBOA SCHOOL?
Balboa School does not offer medical insurance, but you may request a list of insurances that are available to international students.
WHAT IF I DON'T HAVE ALL THE REQUIRED IMMUNIZATIONS?
Students may not begin school if they do not have all the required immunizations. Therefore, we recommend that you get any missing immunizations before you travel to the United States. See California school immunization requirements.
WHAT IS AN OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT AND WHY DO I NEED TO SUBMIT THAT TO BALBOA SCHOOL?
An official transcript is a signed, stamped and sealed transcript that is either hand delivered or mailed to Balboa directly by the school. Original transcripts are needed for a transcript evaluation. All international transcripts are evaluated.