Welcome to The Crenshaw Academy's international student program, where bright minds from around the world converge to create an enriching educational experience in the heart of Orlando, Florida. As a SEVP-approved institution, we take pride in our commitment to supporting international students throughout their academic journey, from the initial visa application process to graduation day, and beyond.

Why Choose The Crenshaw Academy for International Studies?

The decision to study abroad is one of the most significant choices a family can make for their child's education. At The Crenshaw Academy, we understand the magnitude of this decision and have crafted an educational environment that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of our international families. Our institution stands apart as a premier educational destination for several compelling reasons.

1. Exceptional Academic Standards

Our commitment to academic excellence begins with our carefully maintained student-to-teacher ratios. In both middle and high school, we maintain a 15:1 ratio, ensuring that every student receives the individual attention they deserve. This intentional approach to class size allows our teachers to truly understand each student's learning style, challenges, and potential. Our educators can adapt their teaching methods to accommodate different cultural backgrounds and learning approaches, ensuring that international students can thrive in their new academic environment.

The impact of our small class sizes extends beyond mere numbers. Our teachers have the flexibility to spend extra time explaining complex concepts, particularly beneficial for students who may be simultaneously mastering English while learning subject content. This personalized attention has resulted in remarkable academic achievements, with our international students consistently performing at the highest levels across all subject areas.

Our curriculum is specifically designed to challenge and engage international students while providing necessary support structures. Advanced placement opportunities and honors courses are available across all disciplines, allowing talented students to push their academic boundaries. For students in grades 11 and 12, our dual enrollment program with Valencia Community College and the University of Central Florida provides an opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school, giving them a valuable head start on their higher education journey.

2. Comprehensive Support Structure

Understanding that the transition to studying in a new country involves more than just academics, we have developed a robust support system specifically designed for international students. Our dedicated international student office serves as a central hub for assistance with everything from visa processing to cultural adjustment.

Our support services begin even before students arrive in Orlando. From the moment a family expresses interest in The Crenshaw Academy, our international student office provides guidance and support through every step of the application and visa process. This includes detailed documentation checklists, guidance on visa applications, and coordination with appropriate government agencies.

Once students arrive, our support continues with:

1. A dedicated International Student Coordinator who maintains regular communication with students and their families, ensuring a smooth transition and ongoing support throughout the academic year. This coordinator serves as a primary point of contact for any concerns or questions, providing continuity and stability for international families.
2. Cultural adaptation specialists who work one-on-one with new students to help them navigate American academic and social customs. These specialists organize regular workshops and activities that help international students understand and adapt to American classroom culture while maintaining and sharing their own cultural identity.
3. Academic support services staffed by experienced educators who understand the unique challenges faced by international students. These services include specialized English language support, study skills workshops, and subject-specific tutoring tailored to each student's needs.
4. A comprehensive health and wellness program that ensures international students have access to medical care, counseling services, and mental health support. We maintain relationships with healthcare providers who are experienced in working with international students and can provide culturally sensitive care when needed.

3. College Preparatory Excellence

The Crenshaw Academy's college preparatory program has established an impressive track record of success, particularly for our international students. Our graduates have been accepted to many of the world's most prestigious universities, including Stanford University, Princeton University, and Georgetown University. This success is no accident – it's the result of our comprehensive college preparation program that begins the moment a student enters our school.

Our college counseling department has specific expertise in guiding international students through the unique challenges they face in the American college application process. We understand the additional requirements and considerations that international students must navigate, and we provide specialized support throughout the entire journey.

Each international student works with a dedicated college counselor who understands both the American college application process and the specific requirements for international students. These counselors help students develop comprehensive college application strategies, including:

1. Creating a strategic timeline for standardized testing, taking into account English proficiency requirements and any additional tests that may be required for international applicants.
2. Identifying universities that offer strong support systems for international students and have a track record of successful international student integration.
3. Understanding and navigating the complex financial aid and scholarship landscape for international students, including identifying schools that offer substantial aid to international applicants.
4. Crafting compelling personal statements and essays that effectively communicate their unique international perspectives and experiences.
5. Managing the additional documentation requirements that international students face, including visa transfers, financial verifications, and English proficiency demonstrations.
6. Our college preparation program includes specialized SAT and ACT preparation courses tailored to the needs of international students, incorporating additional language support and cultural context where needed. We also offer guidance on subject-specific SAT tests and English proficiency exams such as TOEFL or IELTS.

4. Cultural Integration and Community

At The Crenshaw Academy, we believe that true education extends beyond the classroom walls. We have cultivated a welcoming, diverse community that celebrates international perspectives and creates opportunities for cultural exchange. This commitment to cultural integration enriches the educational experience for all our students, both international and domestic.  Our cultural integration program includes regular events and activities that showcase and celebrate our international community:

Understanding the Student Visa Process

Navigating the international student visa process can seem daunting, but at The Crenshaw Academy, we've refined our support system to make this journey as smooth as possible. Our experienced international student office has guided hundreds of students through this process successfully, and we're here to support your family every step of the way.

1. The F-1 Visa: Your Gateway to American Education

The F-1 visa is more than just a document – it's your pathway to experiencing the American educational system at its finest. This non-immigrant visa allows international students to pursue their academic dreams in the United States, and at The Crenshaw Academy, we've developed a comprehensive understanding of the requirements and nuances of this vital credential.

Our expertise in F-1 visa processing includes:

• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of visa regulations and requirements through regular communication with SEVP officials and ongoing professional development for our international student office staff.
• Providing detailed guidance on the visa application process, including document preparation, fee payment procedures, and interview preparation.
• Offering mock visa interview sessions to help students feel confident and prepared for their embassy appointments. These sessions cover common questions, appropriate responses, and important cultural considerations.
• Supporting students throughout their stay to ensure continued visa compliance, including monitoring academic progress, maintaining required documentation, and providing timely reminders for any necessary renewals or updates.

2. The I-20 Form: Foundation of Your Student Visa Journey

The I-20 form serves as the cornerstone of your international student status. This "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status" is a critical document that The Crenshaw Academy issues to accepted international students. We take great care in preparing these documents, ensuring that every detail is accurate and complete.

Admission Process Timeline

Our admission process is designed to be thorough yet efficient, typically taking 8-12 weeks from initial application to final visa approval. Here's a detailed breakdown of each phase:

Phase 1: Initial Application (2-3 weeks)

The initial application phase sets the foundation for your journey at The Crenshaw Academy. During this period, you will:

• Submit all required documentation through our secure online portal, including academic records, English proficiency scores, and personal statements.
• Complete preliminary assessments in English and mathematics to help us understand your academic level and needs.
• Participate in a virtual interview with our admissions team, where you'll have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about our programs.

Phase 2: Application Review (1-2 weeks)

Our admissions committee carefully reviews each application, considering:

Academic achievements and potential English language proficiency Personal character and extracurricular involvement Fit with The Crenshaw Academy community

Phase 3: Acceptance and I-20 Processing (2-3 weeks)

Upon acceptance, we begin the crucial I-20 processing phase:

Verify all required documents and financial certifications Prepare and issue the I-20 form Arrange secure shipping of documents Provide detailed instructions for next steps

Phase 4: Visa Application (3-4 weeks)

During this phase, students will:

Pay the SEVIS fee Complete the DS-160 visa application form Schedule and attend a visa interview at their local U.S. embassy or consulate Receive their F-1 visa

Student Life and Support Services

1. Academic Support

Our comprehensive academic support system includes specialized ESL instruction tailored to each student's proficiency level Individual tutoring in core subjects Study skills workshops Academic monitoring and progress reports Regular parent-teacher communication

2. Cultural Integration Support

We help students adjust to life in the United States through our new student orientation program Cultural adjustment workshops Peer mentoring system International student club Regular cultural celebration events

3. Personal Support Services

Our support extends beyond academics to include dedicated guidance counselors Mental health resources Healthcare coordination Banking and financial guidance Transportation assistance

Contact Our International Student Office

Ready to begin your journey at The Crenshaw Academy? Our dedicated international student office is here to help:

Phone: 407-757-2241 

Address: P.O. Box 1159, Windermere, FL 34786

Take the first step toward your American education journey by scheduling a tour .

The Crenshaw Academy is committed to providing exceptional educational opportunities for international students. We invite you to join our diverse, supportive community where global perspectives meet academic excellence in the heart of Orlando, Florida.

The Crenshaw Academy is authorized under federal law to enroll non-immigrant students and is committed to maintaining compliance with all SEVP regulations.