Introduction 
Chelsea Academy welcomes students from abroad to our beautiful campus in the Shenandoah Valley just an hour drive from Washington, D.C. We offer a team of highly qualified and committed educators, a college-preparatory curriculum with standard and honors courses, and an array of sports teams, outdoor adventure, drama, choral music, and other extra-curricular activities. Chelsea Academy prepares students from around the world for entrance into American colleges and universities.
College Counseling
Chelsea works closely with its international students to prepare them for success in college and to guide them through the college application process. They are introduced to the SAT and practice taking this required exam. They are provided guidance in completing applications, including the deadlines, essays, and other requirements. From college visits to class meetings, small group advising, and one-on-one counseling, the College Counselor provides students with the direction and advice needed to identify colleges and universities that match their particular interests and aspirations.
College Preparation
Chelsea Academy provides international students quality preparation for college through our ESL support program. Students will receive additional help with TOEFL preparation. Over the years, our students have improved their test scores an average of nearly 20 points while attending Chelsea.
SAT Performance
The Chelsea average SAT score for 2019-2020 was 1375, over 250 points higher than the Virginia schools average.
College Acceptances
Our international students have gained acceptances to top colleges and universities including Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University, Pennsylvania State University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and State University, Johnson and Wales, Michigan State University, Virginia Commonwealth University, George Mason University, University of Miami, and University of Connecticut.
Homestay
International students are hosted by Chelsea families, who welcome them and provide a home-away-from-home. Room and board are provided, and students experience life as a member of an American family. Students are expected to participate in family meals, activities, and even chores. Their cooperation and contributions to family life help to create a positive, fully integrated experience.
Instruction and activities outside of school hours are provided to help international students adapt to living and studying in the United States, and students are able to take advantage of the varied natural and cultural resources of the area, including the Blue Ridge Mountains, historic sites, and Washington D.C., through weekend trips and excursions.
A typical weekday for international students at Chelsea Academy follows the school schedule, including classes from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., sports in the afternoon, and dinner with their host families followed by homework in a study hall.
Testimonials
“During my four years at Chelsea the teachers have cared about me, helped me with my English, and helped solve any problems I have had. If I had to choose my high school again, I would still choose Chelsea!” Bella Fu, Class of 2018
“Chelsea has been great for me! I have received a lot of personal attention from the faculty, and I have made very good friends.” Santiago Pardo, Class of 2018
Application Process
Chelsea Academy is registered with SEVIS, the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, and is authorized to issue I-20’s to international students so that they may acquire an F1 visa.
In addition to the regular application for admissions, international students must submit a TOEFL score, participate in an on-site or Skype interview, complete the Admissions Test (if on site), and complete an ESL Questionnaire.
Applying to Chelsea Academy
Please follow the steps outlined in the application link below
*Chinese students who are interested in applying for the international program should contact Helen Wu, helenwuva@gmail.com
Click for Application Materials
Tuition and Fees: International tuition and ESL-support and homestay fees are available by calling the school.
Soccer Academy: Chelsea Academy is not a soccer (football) academy. We are a private Catholic School in Virginia, USA, and are NOT affiliated with Chelsea Football Club in the UK.
Questions: For more information and assistance with the application process, please contact our Director of Admissions at admissions@chelseaacademy.org, or call 540-635-0622.