The best boarding school for a truly global education
Your pathway to a limitless future
At EF Academy, students from more than 60 countries come together to pursue a truly global education. Designed specifically for international students, our schools offer personalized academic pathways, world-class faculty, and campuses in ideal locations just outside leading global cities. Here, students gain the confidence, skills, and perspectives to succeed—not only in high school, but at top universities and in their future careers. Over the past decade, EF Academy has welcomed more international students than any other U.S. high school, making us the destination for ambitious students worldwide.
The best boarding school for a truly global education
Unrivaled diversity
Students from 60+ countries form a vibrant international community.
Prime locations
Campuses near worldclass cities for unmatched opportunities.
Personalized learning
Tailored academic pathways guided by expert faculty.
Our formula to support your success
Meet our Advisory Council
Unmatched global diversity
#1 in bringing international students to the U.S.
For over a decade, we’ve welcomed more international students than any other U.S. high school. Our deep expertise ensures a seamless transition—helping you move confidently from your home country into our academic community and new life here.
A student body that reflects the world
Few other schools can match the “mini-UN” vibe of an EF Academy campus. Virtually every class, activity, and event becomes “global studies”. You’re constantly expanding your worldview while sharing your own culture and traditions.
A support system designed for you
From visa support to personalized university counseling, every part of EF Academy is specifically designed to help international students like you thrive.
“Living and going to class with a multitude of different nationalities gives you different perspectives on how other cultures view the world. At EF Academy, this has allowed me to view the world with a completely different lens that I take with me in all of my future endeavors.”
AUSTIN
Class of 2023
United States
“My favorite thing about studying at EF Academy is that we see the whole world just by being in this community and meeting all these wonderful people from different backgrounds and countries.”
OLIVIA
Class of 2024
Norway
“My favorite part of our school is that we all come from different countries, we have different cultures, and that makes us openminded. And that’s a very good thing that a lot of people don’t have access to.”
JIMENA
Class of 2024
Spain
EF Academy Pasadena Graduation 2025
EF Academy New York Girls' varsity soccer team
EF Academy Oxford Summer reunion
Prime locations
PASADENA
NEW YORK
Our New York campus combines a secure, suburban setting with proximity to the cultural and professional resources of New York City. Located in Thornwood and surrounded by 97 acres of wooded grounds, the campus provides an environment conducive to study and reflection. Seasonal changes—from green lawns to snow-covered trails—enhance the campus experience, while easy access to the city offers unparalleled opportunities for cultural engagement and learning beyond the classroom.
Our modern California campus is designed for immersive learning. With cuttingedge academic spaces and full-service residences, you’ll thrive in a vibrant environment. Located in Pasadena—a safe, sunny community just 30 minutes from downtown Los Angeles—you’ll enjoy sandy beaches, snowcapped mountains, and year-round outdoor adventures. Learnings is paired with real-world applications at renowned institutions such as NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab, the Getty Museum, and Griffith Observatory.
Study in serene surroundings and explore world-class culture—EF Academy New York campus is only 45 minutes from the city.
EF Academy Oxford: A rigorous, immersive pre-university experience in one of the world’s most iconic cities of learning—just 15 minutes from Oxford’s historic city center.
EF Academy Pasadena campus puts you at the center of creativity, commerce, and collaboration—with access to LA’s universities, museums, and global industries.
OXFORD
Our campus embraces the awe-inspiring atmosphere of England’s oldest university city. Dating back to the 12th century, the University of Oxford has produced a host of notable alumni, including Oscar Wilde, Stephen Hawking, and Malala Yousafzai.
Safe, residential campuses
Each EF Academy campus is located in a secure, suburban neighborhood—offering a calm, supportive environment for students to focus and learn.
Global cities at your doorstep
Just beyond our campuses, the worldrenowned cities of New York, Oxford, and Los Angeles serve as living classrooms, offering students access to culture, innovation, and opportunity.
Hands-on learning
Our teachers design real-world experiences that draw from the rich resources of our campuses and the surrounding communities.
Highly personalized approach
Tailored attention from our expert teachers
Our 1:8 staff-to-student ratio and small class sizes (average 13 students) mean you're never just a face in the crowd. Over 90% of our faculty hold advanced degrees and bring professional experience to the classroom to help you reach your full potential.
One-to-one university counseling
With thousands of options, finding the right university can be overwhelming. Our one-to-one guidance helps you choose courses, activities, and craft applications that showcase your strengths—so you get into the program that best fits your goals.
Your learning will go beyond textbooks
The lessons that stay with you are the ones you experience firsthand. In this close-knit setting, you’ll learn through projects, field studies, and real-world challenges—all with support that’s always tailored to you.
personalize every step of
“The teachers here are helpful and supportive and get to know you and your goals so they can tailor your classes accordingly. Students receive individual help and support, and teachers are always there to answer your questions.”
ANNA Class of 2022
Thailand
“My university advisor Kristen Carter is helping me explore my interests, skills, and values to create a personalized academic plan that aligns with my future goals. By knowing my personal and academic goals, she’s helping me research the best university that fits my needs.”
JAVIER Class of 2024 Spain
“When I was hesitating between two universities, I shared my questions with my counselor, who then scheduled meetings with the admissions offices at both universities. Those meetings helped me make my decision confidently with no regrets.”
Wang-Hung (Jimmy) Tsai Class of 2024
We
high school to fit each student’s unique strengths and ambitions
Our students receive one-to-one university counseling— and 92% are accepted into their first- or second-choice university.
In the last three years, our students have earned admission to the following universities:
Students’ achievements
EF Academy graduates have an impressive 99% university admissions rate. But more importantly, 92% are offered admission to their first- or second-choice schools. Our immersive approach ensures that students graduate with the skills they need for a successful and happy life.
Test results
In 2024, 192 students graduated from EF Academy, many of whom completed AP courses, the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Programme, or the A-Level Program.
UK
Cardiff University
Durham University
Goldsmiths, University of London •
Hult International Business School
King’s College London
Lancaster University
London School of Economics and Political Science
Newcastle University
Oxford Brookes University
Queen Mary University of London
Queen’s University
Royal Holloway, University of London •
SOAS University of London
University College London
University in London
University of Aberdeen
University of Bath
University of Birmingham
University of Brighton
University of Bristol
University of Cambridge
University of Edinburgh
University of Essex
University of Exeter
University of Glasgow
University of Leeds
University of Leicester
University of Liverpool
University of Manchester
University of Nottingham
University of Oxford
University of Sheffield
University of Southampton
University of St Andrews
University of Sussex
University of the Arts, London
University of the West of England
Bristol
University of Warwick
University of West London
University of Westminster
USA
American University
Arizona State University
Baylor University
Bentley University
Berklee College of Music
Boston Architectural College
Boston College • Boston University
Brandeis University
Bucknell University
• California Institute of the Arts
California State University
Carleton College • Chapman University
City University of New York
City University of New York
Los Angeles
City College
Hunter College
Clark University
Clemson University
Colgate University •
Colorado School of Mines
Colorado State University
Cornell University
Depauw University
Drexel University
Elon University
Emerson College
Emory University
Fashion Institute of Technology
Florida Institute of Technology
Florida International University
Fordham University
Franklin & Marshall College
George Washington University
Hawaii Pacific University
Howard University Illinois Institute of Technology
Indiana University - Bloomington
Iowa State University
James Madison University
Kenyon College • Lehigh University
Long Island University
Loyola Marymount University
Loyola University Chicago
Macalester College •
Manhattan University
Maryland Institute College of Art
Marymount Manhattan College
Massachusetts College of Art and Design
Michigan State University •
Michigan Technological University
Missouri State University
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Musicians Institute – Los Angeles
New York Institute of Technology
New York University
North Carolina State University
Northeastern University
Occidental College
Ohio State University •
Ohio University
Oregon State University
Otis College of Art and Design
Pace University
Parsons School of Design – The New School • Pennsylvania State University
Portland State University
Pratt Institute
Purdue University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Rhode Island School of Design • Rhodes College • Rochester Institute of Technology
Rutgers University
New Brunswick • San Diego State University
San Francisco Conservatory of Music
San Francisco State University
Sarah Lawrence College
Savannah College of Art and Design • School of the Art Institute of Chicago
School of Visual Arts
Seattle University
Simmons University
Spelman College
St. John’s University
State University of New York
University
State University of New York
Binghamton
Buffalo State
Anahuac University of Puebla
ArtEz University of the Arts Australian National University
Bocconi University
CatĂłlica University - Lisbon CEU San Pablo University
Constructor University
Copenhagen Business School
New York
Steeped in U.S. history and culture
Our tranquil campus in a welcoming suburban community is a little over an hour from New York City. First-rate academic and residential facilities are surrounded by woodlands and ponds teeming with wildlife. Experiential learning opportunities abound with frequent class trips to New York’s historical sights, museums, art galleries, and universities.
Exceptional campus amenities
Academic facilities include tech-enhanced classrooms as well as fully equipped science labs, art studios, and music rooms. For your well-being, there’s a fitness center, gymnasium, tennis courts, soccer pitch, mountain-biking, and running trails— all on campus.
Mastering critical thinking
All students pursue the U.S. High School Diploma and have the option to complete the IB Diploma or AP courses. Our curriculum blends academic depth with innovative thinking, encouraging students to explore unique academic pathways, think critically, and develop the confidence to excel at top universities and beyond.
Distances to major landmarks Times
“Being surrounded by students from all over the world has made me more open-minded and adaptable. Our classrooms have always felt global. not just because of where we're from, but because of the diverse perspectives we bring into every discussion."
Arisha Bangladesh cornell UniversitY
“Our teachers truly saw us as individuals. They listened, supported, and inspired me to believe in myself. Thanks to their guidance, I became a stronger writer, a more confident speaker, and more willing to take on new challenges. "
Kexin
China cornell UniversitY
LaGuardia
Metropolitan
Museum
Preparation Year (Grade 10)
Courses Academic & English Accelerator Program
One-to-One University Advising
Sports & Clubs*
Varsity Sports: Basketball, Cheerleading, Cross-Country, Running, Soccer, Tennis, Volleyball Fitness and Club Sports: Basketball, Biking, Cross-Training, Hiking, Lifting, Running, Skiing, Soccer, Volleyball, Yoga Clubs: Ambassador Program, Art, Dance, Model UN, National Honor Society, Newspaper and Journalism, Outdoor Leadership, Robotics, Student Council, and more Events & Activities
Events: Academy Rocks Concert, Arts Night, Culture Fair, Drama Productions, Earth Day, Film Festivals, Prom, Sports Extravaganza, Spring Fling
Activities: Karaoke, On-Campus TEDx Talks, Outdoor Dance Parties, Painting by the Pond, S’mores and Bonfires, Student vs. Staff Sports, Training Service Dog Puppies
Excursions: Bear Mountain Hiking, DNA Learning Center, Metropolitan Museum,
and Basketball Games, Ski Trip in Vermont
*May be adjusted based on seasonality and student interest
Overall Niche Grade A+
Sunny, Southern California
Pasadena is a peaceful, palm-fringed residential community. Our campus is ideally located between sandy beaches and snow-capped mountains and just a 30-minute drive from all the attractions of Downtown Los Angeles. It’s easy to make Southern California your classroom as you explore its natural wonders, respected universities, arts and science museums, and world-famous entertainment industry.
Equipped to the highest standard
Our new campus sets the standard for immersive learning, featuring tech-equipped academic facilities and collaboration spaces, cutting-edge science and design labs, and light-filled creative studios, and a black box theater. After class, exceptional on-site recreational facilities include a fitness center, pool, soccer pitch, and gym for your favorite team sports.
“For my essay that got me into NYU, I wrote about an Indian street food called Panipuri. I used that to make a connection between identity, culture, adaptation, and food. I used it to make the connection on how I immigrated to the United States from India.”
Gowri
United States & India new York UniversitY
Distances to major landmarks
Downtown
Universal
LAX
“I took AP computer science. I researched a lot about it because I don't have this type of class in Japan. Taking this AP course was so helpful. I was able to use credits from my exam scores for college. EF Academy's AP classes are so worth it.”
Taiga Muraoka Japan UniversitY of toronto
Academic programs
U.S. High School Diploma AP Courses
Academic & English Accelerator Program
One-to-One University Advising
EF Academy Pasadena is a candidate school for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and pursuing authorization as an IB World School. IB World Schools share a common philosophy—a commitment to improve the teaching and learning of a diverse and inclusive community of students by delivering challenging, high quality programmes of international education that share a powerful vision.
Sports & Clubs*
Sports: Badminton, Basketball, CrossCountry Running, Soccer, Volleyball Fitness: Cross-Training, Hiking, Lifting, Running, Skiing, Yoga Clubs: Art & Design, Astronomy, Business & Finance, Cooking, Cinematography, Model UN, Music, Outdoor Adventure, Robotics, STEAM, Student Council, Student Newspaper, Theater, Yearbook
Events & Activities*
Events: Arts Night, Culture Fair, Prom, Wellness Fair, Winter Formal Activities: Dorm Lounge Karaoke, Holiday Cookie Decorating, Movie Night in the Pool, S’mores Making Excursions: Big Bear Ski Trip, Disneyland, Hollywood Sign, Old Town California, Santa Monica Pier *May be adjusted based on seasonality and student
Overall Niche Grade A+
EFÂ ACADEMY
Oxford
in All Areas
Centrally located campus
EF Academy Oxford embraces the awe-inspiring atmosphere of England’s oldest university city. You’ll feel immediately at home at our leafy campus on Pullens Lane where historic Cotuit Hall will become your social hub. From campus, enjoy access to the library and sports facilities of Oxford Brookes University as well as regular opportunities to attend lectures at the University of Oxford.
Designed for active learning
The focus is on real-life learning, thanks to tech-equipped classrooms, new science labs, and studios for art and music. In the evenings, students get together at Cotuit Hall to enjoy movie nights or make pizza in the outdoor brick oven.
Personalized learning with impact
Choose the right educational pathway for your future. We offer both the IB Diploma and the A-Level program. Either way, you’ll get the chance to participate in the IB’s Creativity, Activity, and Service program and collaborate in multicultural teams on projects that make a positive difference to the lives of others.
“The teachers at EF Academy were incredible. They would always be open to help after school and answer any questions I had. They were also able to stretch my knowledge beyond the syllabus and make me curious about what I was learning.”
Elizabeth
Denmark
UniversitY of oxford
"I’m a former A-Level student at EF Academy Oxford. My time there was incredibly rewarding— the academic and personal support I received helped me secure an offer from the University of St Andrews, where I'm proud to continue my studies."
Tam Uyen
Vietnam
UniversitY of st andrews
Distances to major landmarks
Oxford City Centre
~2.5 km 10–15 min
University of Oxford ~3 km 15–20 min
Ashmolean Museum ~3.5 km 15–20 min
Oxford Botanic Garden ~2.5 km 10–15 min
Christ Church College ~3.5 km 15–20 min
Oxford Train Station ~5 km 20–25 min
Central London ~90 km 90-120 min
Heathrow Airport ~74 km 60–80 min
Academic programs
A-Level Program
IB Diploma Programme
One-to-one University Advising
Sports & Clubs*
Sports: Badminton, Cycling, Football, Hip Hop, Rock-Climbing, Running, Tennis, Volleyball
Clubs: Ambassador Program, Book, Debate, Drama, Duke of Edinburgh, Economics and Business, Italian Culture, Law, Leadership, Mahjong, Model UN, Music, Polyglot, Self Care, SEAM, Student Council, The Arts, Theater, Volunteering, Yarn
Events & Activities*
Events: Culture Fair, Lunar New Year, Science Fair, Short Story Contest, Student Art Show, Ted-Ed Student Talks
Activities: Hot Chocolate and Taco Nights, Ice Skating, Paintball, Punting
Excursions: Bear Grylls Adventure Park, Begbroke Science Park, Blenheim Palace, Brighton, British Museum, Cambridge, Cadbury’s World, Go Karting, Harry Potter World, London, Natural History and Science Museums, Oxford, Oxford Literary Festival, Theatre Trips
*May be adjusted based on seasonality and student interest
Choosing the right program for you
Each of our campuses offers a range of program options to personalize your own pathway through the school experience — all with the help of a dedicated Advisor and University Counselor.
High school diploma pathways
U.S. High School Diploma
IB Diploma
AP Courses
IB Preparation Year (Grade 10)
Academic & English Accelerator Program
U.S. High School Diploma
AP Courses
Academic & English Accelerator Program
A-Levels
IB Diploma
U.S. High School Diploma
All graduates from our California and New York schools receive a U.S. High School Diploma. But first, you’ll work with your dedicated University and Academic Counselor to customize your pathway based on your goals. Choose to complete the full IB Diploma Programme or enhance your education with individual IB or AP courses. No matter your decision, you’ll graduate with a transcript of credits necessary for admission to most universities around the world.
Advanced Placement (AP) courses are recognized worldwide for their academic rigor and are often a requirement for admission to top colleges. They introduce high school students to first-year college content in a broad array of subjects. High performance on AP exams can frequently earn students college credits and some universities outside of the U.S. require a particular set of AP courses and exams as part of their admission requirements.
IB Diploma Programme
The International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) curriculum develops critical thinking, active participation, and research and writing skills to prepare you for universities worldwide and a globally interconnected world beyond. You follow six subjects and three core requirements in languages, social studies, science, mathematics, and the arts.
A-Level Program
A-Levels is perfect for students who wish to prepare for university in Great Britain—and the qualifications you earn are also internationally recognized. Choose any combination of three or four subjects that align with your target university and career goals. Co-curricular activities, exam preparation, and university advising sessions help increase your chances of entering your dream university. This program is only offered at EF Academy Oxford.
Academic & English Accelerator Program
FAST TRACK PREPARATION FOR U.S. HIGH SCHOOL
Designed for non-native English speakers entering grades 9-11 at U.S. high schools, this program builds the language fluency, academic skills, and confidence students need to thrive. Through a personalized learning journey with flexible start dates and durations, students strengthen their English across all subjects while developing essential communication and study skills.
Available exclusively at EF Academy's New York and Pasadena campuses, this unique pathway program ensures students transition smoothly into their desired grade level—fully prepared and ready to succeed.
Key features
• Accelerated English Learning: Advance up to two full CEFR levels* in record time (For example: A1→B1 or A2→B2).
• Personalized Learning: Small classes with individual mentorship and expert support.
• Integrated Academics: English development embedded across every subject.
• Continuous Growth: Regular progress tracking and communication with families.
*CEFR stands for the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
Program details For students entering grades 9, 10 and 11
Subject areas
• Intensive English language skills: listening, reading, speaking, writing
• Literature • Humanities
• Mathematics
• Science • Art/Music What’s included?
• Accommodation and meals on campus
• Educational materials
• Excursions and activities
EF Academic & English Accelerator Program
with continuous English language support as needed. AP Courses
IB Preparation Year (Grade 10)
This program is designed for students who are considering the IB Diploma Programme. Alongside their regular coursework, they'll focus on strengthening their academic foundations, deepening subject-specific knowledge, and developing skills such as research, time management, and independent learning. The goal is to equip each student with the tools and confidence they need to thrive in the IB.
Academic
& English Accelerator
Program
Our Academic & English Accelerator Program, combined with ongoing English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, helps students enhance their academic writing, reading, speaking, and critical thinking skills across several subjects. Personalized guidance and multiple start dates and durations ensure every student can gain the fluency and confidence needed to succeed in advanced coursework.
Backed by the world leader in international education
60+ years of experience: As part of EF, we have a long-standing legacy of supporting international students across 100+ countries.
Accreditations and Memberships
EF Academy New York is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.
EF Academy New York and Oxford are IB World Schools, offering the IB Diploma Programme.
EFÂ Academy New York is recognized by the New York State Education Department.
EF Academy New York & EF Academy Oxford are proud to offer the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
EF Academy New York is a Member of the Council of International Schools.
EF Academy New York 582 Columbus Avenue Thornwood New York 10594, USA
T: +1 914 495 6056
EF Academy Pasadena 1505 E Howard St Pasadena California 91104, USA T: +1 626 507 9223
EF Academy Oxford Cotuit Hall, Pullens Ln., Oxford OX3 0DA United Kingdom T: +44 1865 759667
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