Boarding School Options

Is boarding school in your child's future?  It is not uncommon for a Foreign Service family to choose boarding school as an educational option for their teenager. The Family Liaison Office's Education and Youth Officer can assist you with boarding school choices and placements.  FLO develops contacts with numerous boarding schools in the United States and Europe and visits a variety of schools --  junior boarding schools, all-boys, all-girls, co-ed, post graduate, special needs schools, and emotional growth programs.  While websites and viewbooks are helpful, it takes an on-campus visit with students, faculty, and administrators to get a true feel for what makes each boarding school unique.

It is vital that the school be the right fit for the student and the student's needs. Fortunately, there is a school for everyone!  The huge range of schooling opportunities that exist for students seeking a private boarding school education is exciting and inspiring. If boarding school is in your child's future, then please contact our office at FLOAskEducation@state.gov.  We can help with everything from developing a list of possible schools to helping see the student through the admission application.

Important Note: The Department of State requests that children of U.S. Foreign Service employees who attend a boarding school outside of the United States register with the American Embassy/Consulate in that country.

Suggested Links for Researching Schools

Admissions Testing

  • The Secondary School Admission Test - Offered by the Educational Testing Service. It consists of two parts: a brief essay, and a multiple-choice aptitude test which measures a student's ability to solve mathematics problems, to use language, and to comprehend what is read. The SSAT is frequently required for admission to boarding and other independent schools.

Department of State Offices

FLO Weblinks for Education Options for Foreign Service Children (K-12)

Information provided by the Family Liaison Office
Contact the Family Liaison Office