International High School?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Yale University
1

Hello,

I plan giving a shot to Yale in my senior year. Needless to say, I wouldn’t dare to apply if I wouldn’t know that I am a relatively strong candidate. However, I attend an International High School because when I immigrated to the United States three years ago, I didn’t speak any English so I approached the future as realistically as possible and applied to an International High School instead. I knew that I wouldn’t be able to maintain a high GPA if I go to a regular high school where the standards were set up for native speakers. As I am confident with my English by now, I’ve arrived to the point where I don’t need to attend an International High School anymore. But, as I am considering to transfer to another high school, I wonder if it’s necessary, especially as I am in my junior year. I like my school, I’ve received support that helped me grow and learn for which I will stay grateful for a lifetime. I also receive challenging work similarly to students who’ve also mastered English during our high school years together so learning is not an issue.

My question is, do Ivy League schools (specifically my “dream school” Yale) pay more or less attention to what high school a candidate attends? Most importantly, is it a disadvantage that I attend an International High School?

I am not thinking rationally in this matter because why would I think attending an International High School is a disadvantage? I don’t have any valid reasons. Mainly I just want to see if there are any potential biases present in Ivy circles for International High Schools. (For example, surely, it makes sense that standardized test score means are lower but if my individual SAT scores are in the 700’s range, I don’t believe it should limit my chances of being accepted.) Also, I am aware that some high schools might have a reputation of strong candidates applying and admitted each year. My high school doesn’t have such reputation. How does this, if at all, affect the strength of my overall application?

Thank you for reading and attempting to help me! I appreciate your support! :))

2

No, I don’t think the high school you attend plays a factor. P.S. your english is sooooo good.

3

elitelow: Thank you for your quick response for both the helpful answer and kind compliment! :))) I’m aware that there is place for improvements in my English but it is always very encouraging to hear that I’m doing well! :))