Broaden your education in a Global city

For the past 13 years, Pacifica has been welcoming international students from across the globe. These students hail from over 14 countries and bring a unique and wonderful diversity to our campus. We’ve hosted students from China, France, South Korea, Italy, Thailand, and Brazil. Not only do they learn from us but we learn from them as culture, language, and experiences are shared together in community!

 

Why Choose Pacifica?

Pacifica Christian High School is a liberal arts high school devoted to teaching young men and women to think critically and wisely, instilling heartfelt joy and interest in learning, while encouraging lives of faith, character, and service to the glory of God. International students at Pacifica Christian High School are introduced to an enriching, warm community of young people, eager to embrace new students to the Pacifica family. Our international students are challenged academically while being cared for by their teachers, counselors, and coaches in an environment that teaches them to think and live well. Graduates find a pathway to colleges and universities across the country.

Santa Monica is the perfect base for international students to explore all that Southern California has to offer. We are located less than one mile from the beautiful Palisades Park overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with its sunny beaches, inviting year-round temperate climate, and world-famous Santa Monica Pier. Santa Monica also offers easy access to neighboring communities like Malibu, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Venice. Visit top nearby universities like Pepperdine, UCLA, and USC and experience life in Los Angeles, one of the most influential and diverse cities in the world.

International student from Italy competing in a Cross Country meet

Notable Programs

STEM

Competitive Athletics

Center for Philosophy & Theology

AP & Honors Courses

Fall Student Retreat

Performing & Studio Arts

Film Program

Leadership Opportunities & Clubs

How to Apply

Step 1: Start Your Application

If students require a host family, they can apply directly through Cambridge Network or Private School Exchange.

If students do not require a host family, they may apply through our online application system. Please be sure to select the International I-20 Application when beginning the process.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

International programs vary, but all international applications will require some form of:

  • Teacher Recommendations
  • Official Transcripts
  • English Proficiency Exam Results

Step 3: Take the TOEFL or TOEFL Jr.

The TOEFL helps students stand out confidently in English. It's the only test that measures all four academic English skills — reading, listening, speaking and writing — the way they are actually used in a classroom. It helps Pacifica know what English support our candidates might need.

Step 4: Have a Zoom Interview

One of our friendly admissions associates will conduct one or more Zoom interviews with candidates and their families. In some cases, an interpreter can be arranged, but most of the interviews are conducted in English. We want to get to know you, and why you are motivated to study with Pacifica here in sunny California.

international students in front of brick wall

Student Housing Options

International students must either live with a parent or adult guardian over the age of 26 who can communicate in English to the school regarding issues such as academic questions, attendance, and school policies.

If students do not have an adult guardian or parent to live with, they can contact Cambridge Network or PSE for host family living arrangements. Pacifica Christian High School has partnered with these organizations to ensure the best possible international program—one that prepares students for life abroad prior to arriving at Pacifica and ongoing support throughout the school year.

Hosting international students at Pacifica has been a wonderful way to serve the Lord and our community by using our gifts of hospitality and service. Our personal understanding and appreciation for the global family has been broadened and it's truly been an amazing experience. We've hosted students from China and Italy and the relationships we've formed with these teens will be lifelong.” – Pacifica Host Parent

pacifica international students


Pacifica Christian High School admits students of any sex, race, color, and national or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of sex, disability, race, color, or national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, financial assistance programs, athletic, and other school administrated programs.