International Q&A
Which English language tests do you accept?
We require the TOEFL test for admissions. It is the only English fluency test we accept.
Do you require the SSAT for admissions?
YES. We do require the SSAT test for your application to be complete. You can register online at www.ssat.org. Both SSAT and TOEFL offer their test in international testing locations. Please view our SSAT Information.
What are the score requirements for the TOEFL and the SSAT?
Benchmark scores for the TOEFL test are as follows:
Entering 9th Grade – 50 (internet based)
Entering 10th Grade – 60 (Internet based)
Entering 11th Grade – 80 (internet based)
The SSAT test is considered in conjunction with the TOEFL, transcripts, teacher recommendations and questionnaires so there is no specific numeric requirement.
Do you accept transfer students in the spring semester?
No. The OES school year starts in September and goes until June. Students typically are not admitted to OES in the middle of the year. Students may start the admissions process in the fall preceding the academic year to which they are applying. Our admissions deadline is usually the end of January.
Does OES issue F-1 visas?
YES. Students who are accepted to OES and return a contract for enrollment will receive all the necessary visa paperwork to attend school in the United States.
Does OES provide ESL support?
YES. We have ESL support for international students entering 9th and 10th grade. Students must be proficient in English to be admitted in 11th and 12th grade.
How many international boarding students do you have and where are they from?
The Upper School has approximately 307 students in grades 9-12 with 58 boarding students. Students come from 12 different countries: Brazil, China, Canada, Hong Kong, Korea, Mexico, Rwanda, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States and Zimbabwe.
Do I need to send all my application materials at one time to be considered for admissions?
NO. We will compile the admissions paperwork as it comes to our office. You do not need to send it all at once. To start the process, we simply need the application form and application fee of $100. You may submit these online, by fax, by mail or email. The questionnaires, recommendations and transcripts need to be in our office by the admissions deadline. Please note, teacher recommendations should be submitted on OES forms.
How do I schedule my interview if I live too far away to visit your campus?
While our preference is to have prospective students visit our campus and spend a day attending classes, meeting teachers and students and touring our beautiful facility, we realize this is a challenge for our families who live far away. If an applicant is unable to visit our campus, we are happy to schedule a SKYPE interview.
If I have family or friends living in the Portland area, may I live with them and be a day student?
Boarding students are always welcome to visit local relatives or friends while in school at OES. However, to be in the day program, a student must be living with one or both parent(s) or court-appointed legal guardian(s) for the duration of their schooling at OES. If this is not the case, a student should apply to the boarding program.
Do you have a host family program?
YES. We connect students with a host family during holidays or short weekends when the dorms are closed. We do not offer a program in which international students can live with a host family year round. Visit our host family link for more information or contact Bonnie Brennan, Director of Residential Admissions.
