About the ISP program: Two weeks before the school year begins, international students are welcomed into the homes of Stony Brook faculty. During the week, the international students attend intensive English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. On the weekend, the international students with their American partners visit an American city. International students also attend special dinners and cultural events, experiencing everyday American life in the local community.

Partnership: The School will pair each international student with an American partner of the same gender and approximately the same age and grade. Partners may be from any state or US territory. The partnership continues during the school year. Over the November Thanksgiving vacation, the international student travels home with the American student. During spring vacation in February, the American student spends at least one week with the international student in their home abroad.

Academic Requirements: Once the school year begins, international students are required to take ESL classes, as well as participate fully in all areas of school life. All first year students are enrolled in ESL I or ESL II classes and will continue on to ESL III in the following years. Other academic classes will be based on previously completed coursework and grade level. All international students must be fully mainstreamed by their senior year.

Program Cost: The cost for the year-long ISP language and cultural exchange program is $3,500 per international student, in addition to the boarding tuition. The total payment is due in full before the ISP program begins. Transportation expenses to and from the United States are not covered by the program fees or tuition. It is required that the international student hosts the American student partner during spring vacation, with the American student accepting responsiblity for his own travel expenses.