International
Admissions
Come from anywhere. Find a home here.
Start by getting to know TJ.
Choosing a school from another country can mean making an important decision before you have had the chance to experience it in person. You may be wondering what it is like to live at a boarding school, how classes work, or what everyday life in St. Louis will be like.
We meet with every international applicant by Zoom, and we want to get to know your parents too. There is plenty to talk about when you are considering a school far from home, from classes and boarding to college preparation and everyday life in St. Louis
Either way, the goal is the same: to help you picture yourself at TJ and to give us the chance to learn more about you.
| Schedule a Shadow Day | Take a Virtual Tour | Request Information |
Important Admission Dates
GRADE 9 STUDENTS
December 11, 2026
February 5, 2027
February 26, 2027 | ALL OTHER GRADES
January 12, 2027
March 12, 2027
April 2, 2027 |
Applications received after the priority deadline are considered on a rolling basis when space remains.
International families should begin early when possible. After enrollment, additional time is needed for the I-20, student visa, and travel arrangements.
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What happens after you apply?
Once your application is complete, our Admissions Committee takes time to review the whole picture and consider whether TJ is the right fit for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
International Admissions FAQs |
| What English proficiency does TJ require? |
International students need enough English to participate successfully in TJ's reading, writing, and discussion-based classes. For students entering ninth grade or above, a TOEFL score of about 80 or higher is a useful guideline, but it is not an automatic cutoff. We consider each student individually through testing, school records, writing, recommendations, and the admission interview. Students who would benefit from additional support may begin with English language courses designed to help them adjust to the expectations of TJ's academic program. |
| Can international students apply to any grade? |
Thomas Jefferson School serves students in grades 7–12. Openings vary by grade each year, so families considering a particular entry point are encouraged to contact Admissions about current availability. |
| Do international students live on campus? |
Most international students attend TJ as seven-day boarding students. Boarding students live on campus throughout the week and weekend, with residential staff nearby and a full schedule of meals, activities, and community life. |
| Does Thomas Jefferson School issue I-20 forms? |
Yes. Thomas Jefferson School enrolls international students in F-1 status and issues the Form I-20 after an admitted student has completed the required enrollment and financial steps. Our team will explain the documents we need from your family and help you understand the next steps in the student visa process. |
| How does TJ prepare international students for university? |
College preparation develops throughout a student's years at TJ. Students build the academic independence expected at university while receiving individual guidance from the Director of College Counseling. International students also receive help understanding university options and application processes that may differ from those in their home countries. |
| Can my family visit TJ before I apply? |
Yes. International families are welcome to visit campus whenever travel makes that possible. If you cannot come to St. Louis before applying, we can meet by Zoom and help you explore TJ virtually. |
Statement of Non-Discrimination
There shall be no discrimination by the School in the selection of its governing Board, in the employment of personnel, in the admission of students, or in the administration of the School’s programming because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, marital, veteran, or handicapped status in violation of existing state or federal law or regulations.
