International

Living in another country is a transformative experience that few have the opportunity to embrace. At Albany Academy, we empower students to immerse themselves in new cultures, broaden their perspectives, and develop a deeper global understanding.

Three students, two female and one female, in their school uniforms, smile and pose for the camera outside of the Upper School.

At Albany Academy, international students are valued members of our community, bringing diverse perspectives that enrich the student experience for all Academy students. We are committed to fully integrating international students into all aspects of our vibrant campus life, providing the support students need to thrive academically and socially. We ensure that our students gain not only cultural understanding and lifelong friendships, but also the skills and confidence to succeed in America's top colleges and universities. More importantly, we equip them with the adaptability, independence, and global awareness that will serve them well throughout their academic and professional journeys.

International Application Checklist

Step-by-step list outlining what is needed for international application to Albany Academy.

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College Matriculations

With a 100% college acceptance rate, Albany Academy students are highly sought after by top colleges and universities.

Class of 2024 Matriculations

Apply to Albany Academy

International students are encouraged to begin with an application. Our International Director is here to support you through the admissions process.

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MEET THE INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR

International Student Program

Academic Support

A male student sits on a bench outside with the Albany Academy Upper School in the background.

At Albany Academy, we are committed to ensuring all students thrive—academically, personally, and globally. In addition to the robust academic support available to all students, our International Student Program offers enhanced resources tailored to meet the unique needs of international learners.

New international students benefit from weekly extended Writing Center sessions and guided study sessions with our International Student Coordinator, helping them build confidence, strengthen academic skills, and adjust to the rigor of the Academy’s curriculum.

International students have access to:

E-books and digital learning tools
Reading support materials and study guides
The extended Writing Center
One-on-one and small group study sessions with the International Coordinator
SAT Prep for students in Grades 10 and 11

These supports are designed to empower students to reach their full potential and thrive in an environment that is truly Exceptional Beyond Measure.

We are very pleased with William’s experience at Albany Academy. We are impressed with the educational resources and the learning opportunities. We especially appreciate Dr. Chen’s leadership in AA’s international program which brought many opportunities for William to learn and grow. William enjoys the activities with the international students on the weekends and during the holidays. We strongly recommend Albany Academy to future students for its strong academic structure and programs, individualized guidance, leadership opportunities, public speaking training, competitive sports and more. Pingping Cai P’27

College Counseling

Events

Throughout the year, Albany Academy hosts a variety of events that celebrate cultural exchange and global understanding. These experiences offer international students opportunities to explore American traditions while also sharing the richness of their own cultures with the broader school community.

A student poses with international parents at the welcome BBQ.

Signature events include:

Student and Host Family Welcome Gathering
Fall College Visits
Thanksgiving Celebration
Holiday Crafts Workshop
Lunar New Year Festivities
End-of-Year BBQ Celebration with the Head of School

These meaningful moments help foster a vibrant, inclusive community—one where every student feels seen, valued, and inspired.

Host Families

Albany Academy’s International Program offers students a meaningful opportunity to immerse themselves in American culture while becoming part of a supportive school community. As part of this experience, our students live with a local host family during their time at the Academy.

Our Admissions office, in coordination with our international education partners, will assist in placing students into host families. Our host families are deeply committed to supporting the success and well-being of their guest student.

Host families provide:

A private room and welcoming home environment
Nutritious meals and household amenities
Transportation to and from school and related events

This enriching, cross-cultural experience fosters lifelong connections and supports the student’s transition both academically and socially.

For more information, please contact Dr. Jessica Chen, Director of International Student Support, at 518-429-2329 or chenj@albanyacademy.org.

About Albany

Albany Academy is proudly located in Albany, New York—the capital of the state and the center of the growing Tech Valley region. This 19-county hub of innovation and education stretches from the Canadian border to the lower Hudson Valley, offering access to world-class resources, partnerships, and learning opportunities.

Our campus is ideally positioned just three hours from New York City, Boston, and Montreal, with Albany International Airport only minutes away—making national and international travel both easy and accessible.

Albany is home to more than 40 colleges and universities, including University at Albany (SUNY), Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), Union College, Siena College, and Skidmore College, among others. These institutions bring incredible energy and opportunity to the region, especially in fields like science, engineering, the arts, and global affairs.

Albany Academy students benefit from a location that is both globally connected and locally supportive—an environment that mirrors the Academy’s mission to be Exceptional Beyond Measure.

Learn more about Albany, NY and the surrounding area:

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