A Complete Guide to U.S. Public High Schools for International Students: What You Need to Know

As more families explore study abroad options for their children, one of the most common questions is: “Can international students attend U.S. public high schools?”
The answer is yes!

This article breaks down everything international students and families need to know about U.S. public school enrollment, from eligibility and sports participation to homestay life, teacher support, and campus resources. Whether you’re searching for the best U.S. public school programs for international students or want clarity about F-1 visa regulations, this guide covers it all.

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Can International Students Attend Public High Schools in the U.S.?

Yes. International students can study at U.S. public high schools under the F-1 student visa, but they may only attend for one academic year.

This makes public school programs ideal for:

• Students who want a one-year cultural exchange experience
• Students looking to improve English skills before transferring to a private school
• Students looking to complete Grade 12 in the U.S. and getting into a U.S. university
• Families seeking a more affordable study abroad option with strong academics and extracurriculars

Amerigo partners with selective U.S. public school districts that offer high-quality education, safe communities, and rich student life experiences.

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‍What Is the Difference Between a J-1 and an F-1 Visa for Public School Students?

International students may attend U.S. public schools on either a J-1 cultural exchange visa or an F-1 student visa, but the experiences are different. F-1 students can earn a high school diploma, choose courses based on academic credits, and participate fully in extracurriculars, including sports. J-1 students focus primarily on cultural exchange, often placed in 11th grade regardless of age or past credits, and usually cannot earn a U.S. diploma. F-1 students also have more flexibility with living arrangements, while J-1 students must stay with approved host families.

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Do International Students Need an Entrance Exam to Study in U.S. Public Schools?

Short answer: No.

Most U.S. public schools do not require an entrance exam for international students.

Instead, schools review:

• Academic transcripts
• English proficiency level
• Attendance history
• Teacher feedback or personal statements (if required)

For schools with competitive programs—such as Oxford Academy in AUHSD, one of the highest-ranked public schools in California—domestic students must take an entrance exam. International students are not required to take this exam, but admission is highly selective and limited to a small number of exceptional applicants.

If parents search for “Do international students need exams for U.S. public schools?”, the answer is almost always no.

Can Grade 12 Students Attend U.S. Public High Schools for One Year?

Yes. Grade 12 students can enroll in U.S. public high schools for a single academic year on an F-1 visa. This is ideal for students who want a U.S. high school experience, strengthen their English, or explore American culture before university. While they can take AP and honors classes, they may need to meet specific school prerequisites and follow the one-year limit for public school enrollment.

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Can International Students Play Sports in U.S. Public Schools?

Yes! International students are typically allowed to participate in most sports teams at U.S. public high schools, including:

• Basketball
• Soccer
• Volleyball
• Badminton
• Tennis
• Track & field
• Swimming
• And more

However, eligibility may depend on state athletic association rules. Students usually need to:

• Meet academic requirements
• Provide medical clearance
• Follow attendance and conduct policies

In most cases, students have no difficulty joining sports teams and participating fully.

For families researching “Can international students join sports teams in U.S. high schools?”, the answer is confidently yes.

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What Is the Learning Environment Like in U.S. Public High Schools?

U.S. public schools offer a supportive and flexible learning environment where students choose classes based on personal interests and academic goals.

Common academic advantages:

• Wide selection of STEM, humanities, arts, and AP courses
• Highly qualified, state-certified teachers
• Project-based learning and interactive classrooms
• Access to technology, labs, and school libraries
• After-school tutoring or teacher office hours

For international students, this environment encourages independence, confidence, and strong academic growth.

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Are There Orientation Programs for New International Students?

Yes. U.S Public High Schools—including Amerigo partner school districts—offer structured orientation sessions that cover:

• Campus tours
• Class schedules
• School rules and attendance expectations
• Device setup (Chromebooks, WiFi, student portals)
• Safety procedures
• Clubs, sports, and extracurricular sign-up

These programs help international students feel prepared from the first day of school.

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Do Public Schools Provide Support for English Language Learners (ELL)?

U.S. public high schools do offer ELL / ESL programs, designed to help students improve:

• Listening
• Speaking
• Reading
• Writing

Amerigo students benefit from additional support such as:

• Academic progress monitoring
• Communication with parents
• Teacher feedback
• Tutoring coordination
• Social and emotional support

This makes Amerigo one of the strongest pathways for international students entering public schools.

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What Is Homestay Life Like for Public School Students?

Since public schools cannot provide student housing, international students stay with carefully screened local host families.

A typical homestay experience includes:

• A private bedroom
• Daily meals
• Transportation support
• A safe, family-oriented environment
• Immersion in American culture
• Daily English conversation opportunities

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Are International Students Allowed to Take AP or Honors Classes?

Yes—if they meet the school’s academic prerequisites.
Common AP options at public schools include:

• AP Calculus
• AP Computer Science
• AP Chemistry
• AP Psychology
• AP Economics
• AP English
• AP Biology

Taking AP classes strengthens applications to top U.S. universities.

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Is One Year at U.S Public Schools Enough to Apply to U.S. Universities?

It depends.
Students who attend only one year of public school can apply to U.S. universities, but admissions teams usually prefer at least 2 years of U.S. academic history.

Many students choose:
1 year in public school → transfer to private school → complete high school → apply to university.

Amerigo supports this pathway seamlessly.

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Final Thoughts: Why U.S. Public Schools Are a Great Option for International Students

U.S. public high schools offer:

• Strong academics
• Affordable tuition options
• A wide range of extracurriculars
• Real American cultural immersion
• Supportive teachers and staff
• Access to sports, clubs, and AP classes
• Available for Grade 12 students seeking for U.S. high school diploma and applying to U.S. universities.

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For families searching online for how international students can study in U.S. public schools, this guide provides the clarity they need to make confident decisions.

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