ADMISSIONS
International Students
Willows Academy offers a unique experience to immerse students from all over the world in a rigorous academic program and vibrant social environment. Our mission is to educate the whole person and help our students become strong, confident and competent women that will make a difference in the world. We invite students from other countries to partake in this one-of-a-kind experience and better prepare themselves for college and beyond. We understand the challenges of living abroad, so we have designed a program that will support our international students in every way.
Program Highlights
Academic Program
We pride ourselves on our strong, all honors, liberal arts curriculum, challenging our students to reach their full potential. At the middle school level (Grades 6-8), the focus is on developing the skills and knowledge to succeed at the honors level in high school. In high school, students take honors and advanced level classes to not only prepare for college, but also to excel there.
Family Life
Willows families host our international students, and take them in as one of their own. We want all of our international students to feel ‘at home’ and enjoy their experience to the fullest. To achieve that, we interview the student and family before their arrival so we can place them with the best match.
Social Environment
Willows boasts a spirited and dynamic environment. Students are encouraged to partake in many different activities during the school year such as drama, art, music, clubs, and more. We believe it is crucial, not only for a well-rounded and enjoyable experience, but also to strengthen the students’ conversational English.
Field Trips
Throughout the year we explore the wonderful city of Chicago and surroundings. Wander the museums, take in the beautiful historic neighborhoods, check out the skyscrapers and more! We aim to create a rich and diverse cultural experience that they will never forget.
Program Options
Our different programs offer the students the opportunity to attend Willows and stay with Willows host families for varying lengths of time during the Fall or Spring Semesters. No matter the program, the students will attend all core classes, as well as different electives depending on the grade level in which they are placed. In all three programs, students will have days set aside for excursions around the Chicagoland area.
Full Year
Students enroll in a full school year at Willows.
Semester for Credit
The program lasts three months and students choose from our Fall or Spring semester options to fit their schedules.
FAQ's
Tuition/Fees: 2025-26 School Year are:
- High School Tuition $21,000 (Semester $10,500, Quarter $5,250)
- Middle School Tuition $16,000 (Semester $8,000, Quarter $4,000)
- Comprehensive Fee $1,850 (Semester $1,000, Quarter $600)
- Field Trip Fee $1,500 (Semester $1,000, Quarter $500)
- Homestay Fee $14,000 (Semester $7,000, Quarter $3,000)
Host family and student pairing is a dynamic and involved process between all parties involved! We try to keep all avenues of communication open. Some of our host families and host students form lifelong friendships with their international students!
Next Steps
Inquire
Contact us today by filling out an inquiry form, and our international program coordinator will reach out with more information.
Apply
Willows is accepting applications for the 2025-26 school year.