Frequently Asked Questions

How is your college prep program different from others?

Woodside is a small school. This allows us to tailor our program to the needs of our students, providing special challenges to gifted students or filling gaps for those who may have them. Above all, each students gets the attention he or she needs and deserves.

Besides offering many important foreign languages, we require students to take philosophy and current events throughout every year, and we make electives like art and photography available to every student every semester. Also, students are required to earn P.E. credit every semester and they have the option to earn this in a Woodside program or outside of the school at a gym or program of their choice.

What colleges are your graduates accepted to?

95% of Woodside graduates continue their education by entering a four-year university or a two-year community college. The State University system is the most common four-year schools, followed by the UC System. Recently, graduates have entered Stanford, UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UCLA, USF, Reed, and Cal Poly, as well as SFSU and CCSF.

Why is the school called 'International'?

The school's enrollment includes students from many foreign countries, including China, Japan, Korea, Indonesia, South America, and Europe. These students make up about 40% of our enrollment, and help contribute to the diverse student environment at Woodside

If the student has limited English, should we apply?

Yes. Woodside has a strong E.S.L. program that enables students to develop their English skills rapidly. We have levels from beginning to advanced, and encourage students to join the American programs as they improve their English.

Does Woodside issue I-20's for International students?

Yes. We use the SEVIS system approved by the US Immigration Service. There is an international student fee for this, and the process can take just a few days provided the application process is complete.

Does Woodside provide housing?

No. Woodside is strictly a day school only. International students need to make their own arrangements to find housing. We can sometimes provide referrals for Homestay arrangements, rentals, etc.

Does Woodside provide transportation to and from school?

No. We do not have school buses. However, public transportation to the school is excellent from all parts of San Francisco and the Bay Area. The school is located close to the Muni bus lines #28 and 29, and the N Judah.

Does Woodside provide team sports?

No. Woodside does not offer competitive sports. Our current program offers 1) a daily exercise and games program in the Golden Gate Park, 2) an Adventures P.E. program where students are instructed in activities such as mountain biking, skiing, rafting, canoeing, hiking, camping, and rock climbing, and 3) the option to participate in an outside P.E. program where students can earn credit at a gym or other approved exercise/sports program.

Do you have a cafeteria?

No. However, we do have microwave ovens, a refrigerator, and snacks and drinks machines available for student use on campus. Breaks and lunches can be taken off-campus and there are many restaurants, delis, and grocery stores near the school.

Are uniforms required?

No. Students do not wear uniforms. There is no dress code.

Do you offer scholarships?

Scholarships are occasionally available, especially if students apply in March for the upcoming school year and can demonstrate financial need. Since the tuition rate is modest compared to other independent private schools, Woodside does not have a large scholarship fund.

Do you offer student loans?

Yes. Once you are a registered student, parents can apply for a loan through a program called Citiassist provided by Tuition Management Systems, which manages the school's tuition collection program.

Do students need to take a test to be admitted?

No. Woodside does not give an entrance exam. Along with the application, students submit previous scores on standardized tests, transcripts of grades, and letters of recommendation. If any of these materials are not available, indicate this on your application.

How long does the application process take?

If all the necessary materials are submitted with the application and application fee, you can expect a response within a few days, and sometimes the same day.

Can we apply at any time of the year?

Yes. Woodside does not have a specific application window. If there is space, students may enroll at any time during the year.