Search

International Eligibility

Many international children attend Harker’s summer programs. To ensure children are placed properly and will have a fun and successful summer, it’s important for our international families to understand our program requirements.

English Language Institute (ELI)

This is the perfect program for students wishing to improve their English in an academic setting, and for those students developing English skills to attend an American school.

  • The program assists international students with their English development.
  • There are academic classes for beginners to advanced students, ages 6-16 years old.
  • Students are tested when they arrive and placed in the appropriate English class level.
  • 6- to 11-year-olds participate in our elementary program at our lower school campus
  • 12- to 16-year-olds participate in our secondary program at our middle school campus
  • Students must meet the age eligibility requirements as of June 1.
  • Exceptional English instruction is the focus of our day and recreational activities and cultural adventures are worked into the program.
  • Interaction with native speakers and cultural experiences enhance English learning.
  • International students aged 6-16 who qualify for admission to the English Language Institute must be highly recommended, have a record of good behavior and be motivated to be actively engaged in the learning process.

Contact us for more information: summerELI@harker.org.

Summer Camp PLUS (K-Grade 5)

International students who possess very strong English skills are welcome in the regular summer programs. These programs are enrichment-based and are not designed to advance skills in English, or to teach English to second-language learners.

  • Academic classes meet from 8:30-11:30 a.m. and require English abilities that match the native-speaking students in listening, speaking, writing and reading.
  • The activity portion of the day (12-5 p.m.) is also designed for those who can easily understand rules and directions given in English. Safety is our main concern and international students must be able to respond to leaders and understand important safety rules for activities such as archery and swimming.
  • An additional international student form (linked on our registration page) is required for all students who attend school outside the U.S. International student applications will not be accepted after May 8.
  • Students must also be placed in the grade level that is appropriate for their ages. Misrepresenting the actual grade level of a student to match English ability is not allowed.
  • Campers who cannot perform at an appropriate level will be asked to transfer to the English Language Institute (if appropriate) or be removed from camp with no refund of tuition.
  • We're happy to help you evaluate your child’s English ability and select a Harker program that will allow for a summer of success for your student!

Contact us for more information: summer@harker.org.

Summer Institute (Grades 9-12) & Summer Institute: Middle School (Grades 6-8)

International students who possess very strong English skills may take courses in the either the 9-12 or 6-8 Summer Institute program.

  • Academic classes require English abilities that match the native-speaking students.
  • Teacher recommendations will help parents evaluate their child’s English ability. Typically students must have many years of English experience in order to be successful in our Summer Institute programs.
  • Misrepresenting the actual grade level of a student to match English ability is not allowed.
  • Students who cannot perform at an appropriate level will be asked to transfer to the English Language Institute (if appropriate) or be removed from the Summer Institute with no refund of tuition.
  • Afternoon activities are also designed for those who can easily understand rules and directions given in English. Safety is our main concern and international students must be able to respond to leaders and understand important safety rules for activities.
  • An additional international student form (linked on our registration page) is required for all students who attend school outside the U.S. International applications will not be accepted after May 8.

We're happy to help you evaluate your child’s English ability and select a Harker program that will allow for a summer of success for your student!

Contact us for more information: summerinstituteMS@harker.org or summerinstituteUS@harker.org.

ELI and SC+ students