International & Boarding Students
Pilgrim School is the only boarding school in the city of Los Angeles. We welcome international students for all grades, toddler through grade 12. Students from around the world provide invaluable benefits to our entire community. For toddler-7th grade, the child must be living with their parents. For grades 8-12, the child may stay in our dormitory or live with their parents. We do not allow for homestays or children living with relatives other than parents.
Boarding at Pilgrim
The Pilgrim School boarding program aims to provide a safe, happy, productive, structured, enriching, and stimulating atmosphere for our boarding students. Relationships are based on warmth, mutual respect, and genuine concern. We aim to support our boarders as they adjust to and manage an independent living, encourage academic progress and personal growth and promote a positive home atmosphere. Boarding students become part of a large family. Our “dorm parents” treat students as if they were their own: with love, concern, kindness, consistency, fairness, and the little extra parenting which helps youth grow into adulthood. International students need extra attention as they are in a new culture, away from home, and adjusting to a new environment. Bilingual teachers and counselors will assist students with their adjustment to the Pilgrim community.
Life in the Dorm
Our boarding facility is located adjacent to the school. It is available to qualified students from all over the world. There are two floors to the dormitory, and dorm parents live on each floor. Student rooms are fully equipped with beds, desks, storage, closet space, wireless computer connection, and air conditioning. An ample common space, recreational and study areas, and a dining room and kitchen are available. Breakfast and dinner are served at the residence, while lunch on weekdays is provided at school.
Living in Los Angeles
Being a boarding student in Los Angeles offers an enriching and diverse experience. Los Angeles, with its vibrant culture, provides a plethora of benefits for students. From the multicultural environment and top-notch educational institutions to the abundance of career opportunities and stunning natural landscapes, living in California allows boarding students to immerse themselves in a world class city, expand their horizons, and foster personal and professional growth.
Academics at Pilgrim
Pilgrim School offers a world-renowned mastery-based college preparatory education. We are proud to have a 100% college acceptance rate with students attending top colleges in the United States and across the globe.
Below are links to some helpful resources to learn more about our course offerings, college planning, matriculation and curriculum.
Curriculum and Courses
College Planning
School Profile
FAQs
Who lives with the students?
Boarding students become part of a large family. Our “dorm parents” treat students as if they were their own: with love, concern, kindness, consistency, fairness, and the little extra parenting which helps youth grow into adulthood. International students need extra attention as they are in a new culture, away from home, and adjusting to a new environment.
What are the social activities?
During weekends in Los Angeles, boarding students have a wide range of activities to choose from. They can explore the city's iconic landmarks such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Universal Studios, or the Griffith Observatory. They can also indulge in shopping at trendy boutiques on Rodeo Drive or take a stroll along the beautiful beaches of Santa Monica. For those interested in art and culture, visiting world-class museums like the Getty Center or the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is a great option. Additionally, students can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby mountains or participating in water sports along the coast. With its diverse entertainment options and natural beauty, Los Angeles offers boarding students an exciting and fulfilling weekend experience.
Can students leave the dorm?
Students are allowed to leave the dorm, as long as they follow the rules set out by their dorm parents, including returning back home by their curfew.
Is the dorm closed during holidays?
Yes, the dorm is closed during holidays.
Can students board short term?
No, we are not able to accommodate short-term boarding. We require a minimum commitment of one school year.
Is there a 5-day boarding option?
Yes. We'd be happy to discuss your unique circumstance.
Does the school provide insurance?
Yes. We take care of arranging each student's medical insurance.
What does the application process consist of?
A virtual interview and short screening which includes a verbal, language and writing test.
Do we offer an I-2?
Yes, we do, after contracts and deposits have been submitted.
Steps to Apply
Application fee of $350
English Language Proficiency ExamCurrent TOEFL scores (minimum of 70 for high school). For more information on TOEFL exam dates and locations, visit http://www.ets.org/toefl. Our school code is 4163.
Duolingo English Exam (minimum of 100 for high school).
Once we receive your application, we will schedule an interview on Zoom.
- 1 English Teacher Recommendation Form
- 1 Math Teacher Recommendation Form
- 1 Administrator Recommendation Form
- Transcripts should be translated and notarized
After an application is reviewed Pilgrim School schedules a Skype interview with selected students. Once a student is admitted, Pilgrim School issues an I-20 along with the official acceptance letter.