Frequently Asked Questions for International Students

What is ESL?

ESL is an acronym for English as a Second Language. You may also see the acronym ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages). In America, both terms are interchangeable to describe an English language program.

Why is Fairfax Christian School’s ESL program different?

Unlike most ESL programs, which teach students the minimum English to function, the Fairfax Christian School has a university-prep ESL program that prepares our students with university-level English.

The Fairfax Christian School also has courses in TOEFL-prep, American Culture, American Capitalism and the Advanced Placement (AP) Program where students can take university-level classes for university credit while attending the Fairfax Christian School.

What age students are in the program?

Our intensive, comprehensive ESL program enables middle and high school students (ages 10 – 19) to work at a university level. Because the Fairfax Christian School is a university-prep school, students can begin to take university level classes in 9th grade.

Students in the lower school (ages 4 – 10) take ESL classes until they can function in English at the same level as American peers their own age.

What is the International Student Fee?

Students enrolled in our ESL program, pay a one-time ESL fee. Because ESL classes are small (usually 3-8 students) with individualized attention, the Fairfax Christian School employs extra staff to ensure our ESL students are quickly learning English.

Do I need SLEP or TOEFL testing?

International acceptance is based on academic performance. Students do not need to take a SLEP or TOEFL test to be accepted. Placement tests are done at the Fairfax Christian School once the student has arrived.

If an international student wants to place out of all English as a Second Language (ESL) classes and have the ESL fee waived, proof of a score of 80 on the TOEFL iBT must be submitted with the application.

Who are the ESL teachers?

The Fairfax Christian School ESL teachers all have university degrees and are trained to teach our university-prep ESL program.

Where do I live?

International students may live with family members in the area or live with a home-stay family. The Fairfax Christian School can help facilitate home-stay arrangements. Home-stay families usually charge families directly per month, depending on the needs of the students.