International Student Program - PCA North

International Student Program - PCA North
See yourself studying in the United States at the Prestonwood Christian Academy campus in Prosper, Texas.
Home Away from Home: Christ-Centered Education and Community for Students from Around the World
Since 2017, PCA's International Student Program has been serving students from various countries by offering a rigorous, Christ-centered college preparatory education that prepares them for academic and personal success.
PCA North’s International Student Program believes every student—regardless of nationality or background—is made in God’s image and worthy of love, respect, and growth both spiritually and academically.
At PCA North, we emphasize the importance of a Christ-centered education that fosters not only intellectual development but also character formation.
Grounded in Christian values, PCA North's International Student Program seeks to embrace diversity while providing an environment where students can experience God's love and truth.
Who is Right for This Program?
International Students Who Are Ready to Learn, Grow, and Belong:
Represent a variety of countries
Are academically motivated and successful, with a strong proficiency of the English language
Are Emotionally and socially mature
Desire to be active members of our community through involvement in clubs and activities
Respect world cultures and values, particularly the Christian faith
YOU!
PCA ISP was my home away from home supporting me through my transition and taught me how to be a better student. What I love most were the teachers; they truly care about the students and understand the struggle of being in an overwhelming environment. The teachers spend effort inside and outside the school to ensure the international students have a great academic experience. I am beyond grateful that the Lord provided me with this program when I first arrived in the US, I know the things I have learned from the PCA ISP will benefit me a lifetime.
Samuel, 2022 Graduate
College Guidance Office
University Preparation
STEM Learning
Fine Arts
Senior Capstone
Minimester
Safety
Co-curricular Activities
Experienced and knowledgeable counselors guide families through the college search and application process to enable students to identify their best "fit" colleges.
SAT and the Residual ACT are given each year to better equip students for the university admission exams. In addition, all International Students take a practice English Proficiency exam twice a year to track improvement as well as prepare them for college admission requirements.
An opportunity for innovative learning through original research and hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, and math and can graduate with STEM Honors.
Allows students to achieve at high levels in art, theatre, vocal and instrumental music. PCA students are consistently recognized at state and national competitions and highly recruited by universities.
Based on a literary work, students research and write a literary analysis, a historical analysis, a philosophical analysis, Portrait of a Graduate synthesis, and an oral presentation and defense.
Weeklong service and ministry project where students serve and learn about the world by traveling nation- or world-wide exploring cultures and histories while also building homes, feeding the homeless, assisting in medical clinics, and working with the under-privileged.
Located in the 3rd safest city in the US, PCA has rigorous security features including: badge controlled security gates, visitor monitoring, constant police presence on campus, emergency procedure practice and background checks for all employees and volunteers.
Sports, Science Olympiad, Future Doctors of America, Future Problem Solvers, Math Competition Club, Robotics Club, Student Leadership Institute, Band, Choir, Theatre Productions, Art, French Club, and others.
International Student Program Services
Comprehensive Support to Help Global Students Thrive
Quarterly activities and outings
Counseling for transitional challenges
Faculty and staff mentoring
Designated international staff
I-20 processing and maintenance
Host family support
Step 1: Submit online application and fee
Step 2: Submit required documentation
Step 3: English Proficiency Test
Step 4: Admissions Interviews
Step 5: Admission Decision and Enrollment Contract
I-20 Created
Obtain your F-1 Visa
Submit travel plans
Travel to USA
Click
HERE
to begin the application process.
Completed online application and $100 application fee
Copy of birth certificate
Copy of passport, including any US visas/permanent residency card
Completed Visa and Homestay Needs form
Current year report card (translated clearly into English)
Last year’s official school transcript (translated clearly into English)
Admissions Testing
English Second Language - Duolingo English Test - Score sent directly to PCA from Duolingo (
English First Language – ICEE Test – PCA will send email with link to this at home test
Link to current school’s curriculum guide (grades 10-11) – course descriptions
Immunization Records (translated clearly into English)
Current English teacher recommendation
Current Math teacher recommendation
Statement of assurance from parents to provide health insurance for the student while attending PCA (copy of insurance will be required on first day of school)
Proof of Financial Responsibility
Bank Statement equaling 1 year tuition and fees amount
*OR*
Pay stub equaling 1/3 of 1 year tuition and fees amount
*Click
HERE
to access the ISP checklist.
PCA accepts Duolingo (
www.englishtest.duolingo.com
) TOEFL, TOEFL Jr (6th grade and below).
Once the first 5 items on the checklist have been received, a Zoom video interview will be scheduled. At least one parent should also be available. Interviews last between 45-60 minutes. You don't need to prepare for the interview. Additional interviews may be requested.
Sign and submit enrollment contract and pay tuition. Please submit your receipt of payment to
isp@prestonwoodchristian.org
In the event the student is denied a F-1 visa, all tuition fees (except the application fee and non-refundable $2,500 deposit) will be refunded after PCA is provided with adequate proof of original government denial documentation.
Once payment is complete, apply for the I-20 which allows you to schedule an F-1 Student Visa appointment at your local U.S. Consulate or Embassy. Please schedule the appointment straight away. Click
HERE
to see F-1 visa pathway for more details.
PCA will provide you with an additional letter of support and hints and advice for the interview.
One you have obtained your F-1, you should purchase flights to America that coordinate with the school schedule. Students may not enter the U.S. more than 30 days prior to the school start date and must arrive in time to start on the first day of school. Please let us know your travel plans.
Safe travels! We can't wait to meet you!
"PCA International Program lets our family know about Christian schools for the first time. It helps our children know the worldview of faith and Jesus. It leads our family to establish a good relationship with God. It makes our family happier and better. God Bless. Amen!"
Charles Shanghai
What grades are accepted by the ISP?
Does PCA offer homestay and boarding?
Does PCA require testing for admission?
What countries have been represented in the ISP?
Does PCA have an ESL program?
Is there a school lunch program?
Can I play sports at PCA?
Does PCA offer an ISP at both campuses?
For students who will be living with homestay or extended family, grades 7-12. Any student wishing to attend grades 1-6 must live with their parents in the US. We do not accept students for first year in grade 12; the highest level of acceptance is 11th grade.
PCA only offers homestay, not boarding. A priority of our program is a safe and nurturing home for all our International Students. We work with a local agency to provide a caring, safe homes for our students. All host families undergo a rigorous interview process and a background check. We are committed to providing a caring home environment to help foster cultural adaptation, social and emotional support, and accelerated English acquisition.
Yes, the International Program requires one of the following tests: Grades 5-8 TOEFL Jr or Duolingo; Grades 9-11 Duolingo or TOEFL; native English students ICEE.
Brazil, Cambodia, Cuba, Haiti, Korea, Mexico, Nigeria, China, Vietnam and Zimbabwe
No. We have an English Immersion Program and provide a special academic support class that is required for all first year International Students. This class provides content-based support as well as paper editing, study skills, and school culture education. Students may graduate from this class depending upon grades, English Proficiency test scores and teacher recommendations.
Yes. A mandatory lunch program is provided daily to all students.
Yes. International Students are eligible to play all competitive school sports. Varsity level sports do have some restrictions on first year International Students.
YES! Our International Student Program is offered at both PCA North and PCA Plano.
Tuition and Fees
International students are required to pay both PCA North's tuition and fees as well as the International Program Fees.
PCA North Tuition & Fees
ISP Fees and Explanation
ISP Handbook
Please take a moment to read our 2025-26 ISP Handbook as it shares the values, expectations, and guidelines that shape our school community.
Read the Handbook
English Classroom Immersion Program
PCA North is pleased to offer an English Language Classroom Immersion opportunity for international students lasting up to 8 weeks. Classes start at the beginning of January each year.
Become a Host Family
Hosting a PCA North International Student is an exciting and life-changing experience.
Joy Hwang
ISP Associate and Teacher
jhwang@prestonwoodchristian.org
Amy Smith
ISP Coordinator and Teacher
asmith@prestonwoodchristian.org
Need More Information?
If you would like more information before applying, please submit an inquiry form. We appreciate your interest in our program!
Submit Inquiry Form