Portland Christian Schools welcomes international high school students into a vibrant Christian community — with academic excellence, American culture, and a host family experience.
“. . . Portland Christian has provided me a chance to try all different kinds of experiences throughout my high school years . . . band, the musical, student council, cross country, track, Mathematics Honor Society and I have been invited to be in the National Honor Society next year.”
— International Student from South Korea
Why Portland Christian?
More than a school — a community
The International Student Program (ISP) at Portland Christian Schools began in 1986. The program has developed over the years as a leading international student program among national high schools. Our program pairs rigorous academics with a genuine family placement experience, helping students thrive in every dimension of American high school life.
Program Highlights:
Academics
- The ISP program offers ESL support to students as they build their English skills
- A good command of the basic skills of English reading, writing, conversation, and mathematics is gained
- Other ESL courses offered include subjects such as English and Bible
- Strong emphasis on English as a second language, academics, college preparedness, and the transition of students from ESL courses to mainstream courses
AP Classes
- Advanced placement (AP) classes are offered to qualifying students
Biblical Worldview
- Clear teaching of the school’s Statement of Faith within the school’s program, and expectation to comply with the behavior standards listed in the Parent -Student Handbooks and Student Agreements
- Guidance on how to develop a relationship with Jesus Christ and to grow in relationship with others
Diplomas
Our program offers two different diplomas, both of which are accepted by American colleges and universities for admissions purposes:
- Jeanne Lampi Scholar diploma – to attend a high-tier American university
- Standard diploma – American high school diploma
Extra-Curricular Activities
In addition to rigorous academic courses, students have the opportunity to participate in extra-curricular activities.
- Band, choir/ensemble, drama, art club, ski club, international club (FAB), Student Council, National Honor Society, and Math National Honor Society
- Athletics – cross country, girls volleyball, soccer, basketball, girls cheer, baseball, softball, golf, and track & field
*Applicants who are newly enrolling but not participants in a CSIET (Council on Standards for International Educational Travel) approved program may not be able to participate in extracurricular sports until they have been at Portland Christian High School for one school year
Student Selection
- Applicants from a range of English-speaking proficiency accepted
- All nationalities are welcome
- Acceptance is based upon academic history, recommendations, maturity, and parental support
- Students with a history of strong academics will be granted priority admission
Host Families
- Each student is required to live with a local family
- International students not living with their biological families are placed with Christian host families who are screened and approved by the school
- Living accommodations are met with a host family program comprised of a diverse group of Christian families
- Each adult in the household has had a background check
- Students are expected to engage in family lifestyle, attend church regularly, and pay a monthly host family stipend (this includes food, lodging, and transportation to and from school)
Meet Ms. Bridges
NAME: VICKI BRIDGES
Degree: BA and BS from Oregon State University; Master of Arts in Teaching from Portland State University, Oregon.
Experience: JAPANESE TEACHER AND INTERNATIONAL STUDENT PROGRAM SPECIALIST, employed with PCS since 2021
