While the United States has dozens of boarding schools available for students in practically any grade, you may consider sending your child to Scotland for an educational experience. Scotland offers rich history in a scenic environment, in addition to giving a child the opportunity to study abroad. A total of 37 different schools with the option of boarding exist in Scotland, according to the Scottish Council of Independent Schools. When choosing a school, factors such as the location and cost of education factor in. Additionally, many of the schools have special admission policies for international students.
Locations
Those looking for a boarding school within busy city limits may not find too many in Scotland. The Scottish Council of Independent Schools reports that most of Scotland's boarding schools exist within rural regions of the country. High concentrations of boarding schools can be found within the rural region of Perthshire. Moray and Midlothian also hold large numbers of boarding schools. A few schools, such as the Edinburgh Academy School, can be found within the larger city of Edinburgh. Despite the rural locations, most schools have a solid transport link to local airports for students.
Costs
The cost of boarding school in Scotland, on average, depends upon the age of the student being boarded. For junior boarders, those in middle school or younger, costs total f5,975 per term with three terms per year, totaling f17,925 per year as of August 2010. These amount to around $9,661 for a term or $28,983 per year. High schoolers, or senior boarders, pay an average of f8,214, or $13,281, per term. The year's total comes to an average of f24,642, or $39,844. Boarding costs for Scotland include tuition in the cost. To help families with a lower income, all Scottish boarding schools offer fee assistance based upon financial need shown.
Curriculum
Scottish boarding schools, the majority of which are coeducational, begin the school year in either August or September and conduct class until June, usually. These schools often give students schedules as to when they must be back in the dormitories. Times vary by school. Additionally, Scottish boarding schools offer what they call "added value" to the daily life of boarders. This refers to extracurricular activities students engage in after classes, such as sports, clubs or other hobbies. These schools tend to follow the English school structure and use AS and A levels to measure student success. These tests review the learning of the year and are designed to prepare students for university enrollment. Others follow Scottish curriculum or offer the International Baccalaureate instead.
Admissions
Most Scottish boarding schools feature an admissions deadline of sometime in November or December. Admission requirements for each school vary, with each school outlining its admission process on its website. In general, once a student's application has been reviewed, that student then takes an entrance test for the school; this includes students applying from outside of Scotland as well. If a student's entrance exam scores qualify, and the transcripts from previous schools are up to par, the student will likely be accepted into the boarding school and attend an induction day in June. Induction days exist to give students a glimpse into boarding school life.
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