Stateside International: What It Is, Who It's For, and How It Works

Many students around the world dream of studying in the United States because it offers high-quality education, strong English learning opportunities, and exciting cultural experiences. However, the process of applying to schools, getting visas, and finding safe accommodations can be confusing and stressful for families. That’s where Stateside International steps in—it’s a trusted program that helps international students smoothly transition into American middle and high schools by guiding them through every step, from application and school matching to living with carefully screened host families and receiving ongoing support. With personalized services, 24/7 care, and a growing network of partner schools and host families, Stateside International continues to be one of the top programs for international education in 2025. This article will explain everything you need to know about Stateside International, who can benefit from it, and how the program works in a clear and simple way.

What is Stateside International?

Stateside International is a U.S.-based organization designed to make international education in America simple, structured, and safe. The organization partners with over 300 public, private, and boarding schools across the country and provides full-service support for students aged 12 to 18. From selecting the right school to finding a warm host family, Stateside handles every step. Students also receive help with academic tutoring, visa applications, and airport pickup. The program includes pre-departure orientation, a dedicated student app for daily guidance, and regular check-ins from trained local coordinators. According to the Institute of International Education (IIE), more than 948,000 international students came to the U.S. during the 2023–2024 academic year. Stateside International plays an important role in shaping that experience with a focus on student safety, academic success, and cultural learning.

Who Is It For?

Stateside International is ideal for international students between 12 and 18 years old who are ready to study in a U.S. middle or high school. It’s especially useful for families looking for a reliable and well-supported path to American education. This includes:

• Students aiming to improve their English
• Teens preparing for future university studies
• Families looking for a supervised, secure homestay experience
• Young people interested in experiencing U.S. culture first-hand

The program is open to students from many countries and backgrounds. In 2024, over 1,200 students from more than 20 countries joined, including Brazil, China, Vietnam, South Korea, Germany, and France. Students often continue to college in the U.S. after completing their high school program, making Stateside a strong first step in a longer academic journey.

How the Program Works

Stateside International offers a simple, guided application process that gives both students and parents peace of mind. The journey begins with an online application, followed by submission of school transcripts and a recommendation letter. Students then take a basic English assessment and complete a short interview. Once accepted, they are matched with a school based on their goals, interests, and academic level. The host family matching process includes interviews, background checks, and home inspections to ensure safety and comfort. Visa support and travel guidance are also included. Upon arrival, students receive welcome packages, attend virtual orientation, and gain access to 24/7 student support. Monthly reports keep parents informed, while mid-year evaluations track progress and offer personalized recommendations. By combining planning, care, and structure, the program ensures a smooth and successful U.S. study experience.

What Services Are Included?

Stateside International offers more than just school placement. It provides a complete experience that covers academics, housing, safety, social life, and emotional well-being. Services include:

• School matching in over 300 accredited schools across the U.S.
• Placement with caring and vetted host families
• Visa application guidance and document preparation
• Pre-arrival training and webinars
• Airport pickup and arrival support
• Local coordinator visits and monthly progress updates
• Tutoring and academic help as needed
• Access to sports, arts, and extracurricular activities
• Emergency support available 24/7
• Personalized student dashboard and mobile app

More than 80% of students in 2024 came to the program through referrals, highlighting its strong reputation among families and schools worldwide.

Why Choose Stateside International Over Other Programs?

While there are many student exchange and international placement services, Stateside International stands out for its hands-on approach, transparency, and family involvement. What sets it apart:

• A large and diverse school network
• High standards for host families
• Personalized placement matching
• Professional support staff and coordinators in every region
• A strong digital support system including a mobile app and student portal
• Live cultural events, peer networking opportunities, and academic workshops

With a satisfaction rating of 4.8 out of 5 and a 94% host family renewal rate in 2024, the program continues to deliver strong results in student happiness, academic progress, and parent trust.

How to Apply

Applying to Stateside International is easy and straightforward. The program takes care of the entire process, making it hassle-free for students and parents alike.

1. Online Application: Complete the online form and upload required documents such as school transcripts and a recommendation letter.
2. English Assessment & Interview: A brief English test and video interview to evaluate language skills.
3. School & Host Family Match: The program matches students with schools and families based on their interests, location preferences, and academic goals.
4. Visa & Travel: Stateside assists with the visa application process, including documentation and travel arrangements.
5. Pre-Departure Orientation: Students attend an online orientation to prepare for their time in the U.S.
6. Ongoing Support: Once students arrive, they’re supported by local coordinators who check in regularly.

In 2024, 98% of applicants who met the program’s basic requirements were accepted, and the program continues to expand its offerings.

Safety and Support

Safety is one of the program’s top priorities. All host families undergo background checks, home inspections, and personal interviews. Local coordinators conduct monthly visits, wellness check-ins, and organize group meet-ups. There is also a 24/7 helpline for emergencies. New in 2025, Stateside now offers optional mental health support with virtual counseling sessions and student peer groups. Parents also receive monthly updates and can request direct calls with coordinators. These efforts ensure that students are cared for academically, emotionally, and physically throughout their stay.

What Are the Benefits for Students?

Students in the Stateside program gain valuable life and learning experiences. These include:

• Improved English fluency and comprehension
• Exposure to the U.S. education system and college preparation
• Personal growth, independence, and confidence
• Social connections with American and international peers
• Opportunities to join clubs, sports, arts, and community projects

Survey data from 2024 showed that 89% of students saw major improvements in their English, 92% reported increased confidence, and 65% went on to attend a U.S. college or university.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of joining Stateside International depends on the school type and program length. Fees include tuition, housing, meals, medical insurance, and all support services.

• Public school programs: $18,000–$25,000 per year
• Private school options: $30,000 or more
• Boarding school options: $40,000–$60,000
• Short-term and seasonal programs: $4,000–$8,000

In 2024, the average cost for a full-year public school program was around $22,500. Flexible payment plans and need-based scholarships are available. Stateside also partners with international lenders in countries like Brazil, China, and India.

Are There Any Challenges?

Yes, and the program prepares students to face them. Common challenges include homesickness, cultural adjustments, and academic pressure. Language barriers may cause frustration early on, and paperwork like visas can be time-consuming. However, the Stateside team is trained to handle these issues. Every student receives adjustment support, preparation materials, and guidance on how to handle stress, build routines, and feel at home faster.

Read: Stateside Clothing Brand Guide 2025: What Makes It a Top U.S. Fashion Choice?

Conclusion

Stateside International provides an excellent pathway for international students looking to experience education in the United States. With comprehensive support, personalized matching, and a strong network of host families and schools, students can enjoy a smooth transition into American life while receiving top-notch academic guidance. Whether you're looking to improve your English, experience U.S. culture, or prepare for college, Stateside International is a trusted choice that offers not only educational benefits but a rich, cultural experience. With their exceptional track record, this program continues to stand out as one of the best options for international students seeking an unforgettable study abroad journey.

FAQs

1. What age group is eligible for Stateside International?
Stateside International is designed for students aged 12 to 18 who are looking to study in U.S. middle and high schools.

2. How do I apply to Stateside International?
To apply, simply submit an online application, upload required documents like school transcripts and recommendation letters, complete an English proficiency test, and participate in a video interview.

3. What types of schools does Stateside International partner with?
Stateside International partners with over 300 schools across the U.S., including public, private, and boarding schools. They work to match students with the best school based on their needs and preferences.

4. How are students matched with host families?
Host families are carefully selected based on the student’s needs and personal preferences. Each host family undergoes a thorough background check and interview process to ensure the student’s safety and well-being.

5. What support do students receive during their stay?
Students receive 24/7 support, including monthly check-ins with local coordinators, emergency assistance, academic support, and access to cultural and extracurricular activities.

6. Are there scholarships available?
Yes, Stateside International offers limited scholarships based on need and academic performance. Additionally, some students may qualify for financial aid or payment plans.