Global Education

Tacoma Public Schools (TPS) welcomes students from around the world. Our mission is to create meaningful global connections through student exchanges, cultural understanding, language development, and leadership growth.
 
Currently, TPS accepts international students studying on F-1 or J-1 visas. 
 

Eligibility 

  • Must be entering high school (grades 9-12) and have not completed high school in his/her home country
  • In good academic standing (average C or above)

International Student Enrollment Options

Tacoma Public Schools offers eligible international student admission into either a one or two semester program

  • A one-semester program consists of approximately 4 and a half months of study 
  • A two-semester program consists of approximately months 9 of study 

Tuition

Tuition must be paid in full prior to issuing I-20. Tuition rates for F-1 students are:

  • $12,000 for one full academic year
  • $6,500 for one academic semester

Deadlines to Apply

  • Fall semester – Deadline is July 15
  • Winter semester – Deadline is Dec. 1

Enroll

Reach out to our Global Education team at globaleducation@tacoma.k12.wa.us to begin the enrollment process.

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Have Questions? 

We are happy to help! Please contact: 

Global Education
globaleducation@tacoma.k12.wa.us

Interested in hosting an international student?

TPS partners with international student exchange agencies that connect students and host families. 

Learn more about hosting an international student

Learn more about our high schools

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About Tacoma, WA

  • Third largest city in Washington State
  • Cultural center for the South Puget Sound region 
  • Home to the Point Defiance Park, one of the largest city parks in the nation
  • Home to the Tacoma Dome, the largest wood-domed arena in the world
  • Close to hiking, skiing, golfing, boating and more
  • Only a 40-minute drive to Seattle 

Learn more on Travel Tacoma's website