KIPA offers a 9 th – 12 th grade private high school F-1 visa program for international students seeking to study in the US. We can accommodate students whose goals range from wanting a one year US educational experience to a four-year diploma with acceptance at a good US college or university. We provide full range of support services that will maximize your student’s academic experience and all-important success.
KIPA partners with Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic, well known for their dedication to superior academic quality, small class sizes and enriched curriculums.
Academics
KIPA partners with Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic (CWNC) high school, located just north of Pittsburgh in Cranberry Township, well known for their dedication to superior academic quality, small class sizes and enriched curriculums.
CWNC is a $71 million-dollar state of the art high school, which opened in 2014. This 173,00 square feet two story facility sits on a 71-acre campus and is the first LEED Silver certified school in Pennsylvania.
Among its many impressive features are 21st century laboratories and equipment. CWNC uses a STEM focused curriculum which incorporates heavily the arts and focuses rigorously on college preparation. They offer a wide selection of courses including Honors and AP courses, college in high school credits, as well as special interest courses like Robotics, Medical Perspectives, Intro to Engineering, and Broadcasting and Mass Media to name only a few. In 2017, they boasted a 100% graduation and college acceptance rate. 94% of their seniors attend a 4-year college with 85% of these students attending a top 150 ranked college or university.
CWNC boast an 11:1 student to teacher ratio, allowing every student personalized help from their teachers. They have a current enrollment of 496 students (2017-18).
International students can receive daily homework help during their study hall period.
A wide range of extra-curricular activities are available. CWNC has a strong “no-cut” policy, enabling universal participation in clubs such as debate, drama, campus ministry, National Honor Society, and Leadership Team. The policy applies to the sports teams as well, including basketball, cheerleading, crew, football, forensics, golf, soccer, softball, swimming, volleyball and wrestling.
International students who meet graduation requirements will be awarded a high school diploma.
Accreditation CWNCHS is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the National Catholic Education Association.
Homestay
At Keystone International Preparatory Academy, we believe that learning about other cultures, languages, and customs is the best way to dispel prejudices and embrace global citizenship.
We understand the importance of providing a safe and secure environment, that’s why our students live with warm and caring host families in the community (each family has had background checks run to ensure their suitability). This provides for personal growth and social development as well as the opportunity to learn about American culture and improve English language skills.
Our host families attempt to provide a taste of America, a taste of the world, and a taste of home in their food preparation so a variety of cuisine choices are presented. The menu allows your child to broaden their cultural awareness.
Students are provided with the following:
- A private or shared bedroom (two students maximum per room)
- Desk and access to Wi-Fi (until 11PM)
- Three balanced meals offered each day (one provided by the school)
- Transportation to and from school
- Assistance with shopping, doctor visits, emergency care, etc.
- Trained ESL support tutors and SAT/TOEFL preparation (Extra fees will apply)
Example of a typical after-school schedule includes:
3:30 – 5:00 pm Student personal time
5:00 – 6:00 pm Dinner
6:00 – 9:30 pm Homework and support services
9:30 – 11:00 pm Student personal time or additional study time
11:00 pm Lights out, Wi-Fi off, phones turned-in
We believe in an environment that nurtures the health and well-being of the body, mind and spirit. There is an appropriate time and place for everything, therefore, tech gadgets like laptops and phones are closely controlled so restorative rest can prepare your child for their next academic day.
Support Services
ESL tutoring is required the first year and thereafter, or until your child tests out with a 76 TOEFL score or higher.
Not only do students have access to trained ESL tutors and SAT or TOEFL preparation, but music lessons, martial arts, and many other personal enrichment options can be provided. We are happy to discuss your child’s needs and special interests with you.
Extra fees will apply.
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