Nacel Open Door

Private School Program

Nacel Open Door | 380 Jackson Street, Suite 200 | St. Paul,~1~
MN 55101 USA | www.nacelopendoor.org | 800 l 622 l 3553
 Nacel Open Door
Private School Program
Nacel Open Door | 380 Jackson Street, Suite 200 | St. Paul, MN 55101 USA | www.nacelopendoor.org | 800 l 622 l 3553
~4~
Private School Program
6 Private School Program 16 How to Attract International
Introduction Students to Your School

8 Support 18 Universities Our Grads have

Attended
Program Director 8
Regional Managers
Local Representatives
8
9
20 Alumni Spotlight
Advising Staff
National Office
10
10
24 What Else does NOD have to
Invoice Liaison 11
Offer
Foreign Partners 11 26 Arnold Franco Scholarship
13 Options for Schools 28 Nacel Open Door Information
30 Basics of the Private School
14 2 +1 Program Program

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Private School Program
For students seeking an academically oriented experience at a U.S. private school, Nacel Open Door,
Inc. (NOD) offers the Private School Program (PSP). PSP maintains one of the largest networks of
schools in the industry, giving students a variety of options to choose from while picking a school
to fit every need. Once in the U.S., students have the support of Local Representatives, Regional
Managers, and Student Advising Staff to ensure their time in PSP is one of learning and growth.

Superior Support
Regional Managers make sure schools have transcripts, health records, and English proficiency
information for each student. They work to meet the individual school’s international program
growth goals, and provide support to schools if students have academic or behavioral challenges.

A Local Representative is assigned to each student and family and will regularly contact both of
them. Local Representatives are available to assist Host Families and students at all times, and
will work to help ease the integration process. NOD also operates a 24-hour emergency phone
line available to students, Host Families, and schools. Additionally, PSP provides National Advisors
trained in supporting the unique needs of international students.

Students
More than 125 quality private schools choose to work with PSP because of superior student
applicants and unparalleled support for students, Host Families, and Foreign Partners. Potential
students are carefully screened to ensure the program is a good match for the schools as well as
the individual students. In order to further enrich their educations, students are encouraged to
participate in extracurricular activities such as music, art, athletics, etc.

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Host Families
Students live with Host Families while studying in the U.S. These families open their homes to students
in order to serve as an additional support system for the student. Host Families come from all walks
of life, and no two families are the same. Regardless of family structure, all Host Families are carefully
screened and interviewed to ensure the family is of the highest quality possible.

Nacel Open Door

Since 1957, Nacel Open Door, Inc. (NOD) has promoted programs and opportunities aimed at
students who want to broaden their perspective of the world and gain practical experience
living, working, and learning in another culture.

NOD has different programs to meet the varying desires of international students who are
interested in exploring the world. For students who want a full year of study in another
culture, NOD offers academic programs in both public and private schools. For those
students more inclined to participate in Short Term Programs, NOD offers tutorial,
homestay, and activity programs.

Nacel Open Door has further diversified its program offerings by expanding
into the private school market. NOD launched its own educational
initiatives with schools in the U.S., Korea, Poland, China,
the Philippines, France, and Japan.

Language acquisition, experiential learning, global exploration,

formal college preparatory education, and advanced online learning
have become the hallmarks of NOD.

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Support
Role of PSP Program Director
The Director oversees the Private School Program, and Regional
Managers report directly to the Director. The Director works with
foreign countries to develop innovative programs that meet the needs
of Natural Parents and their children. American schools that wish to
develop or expand their international program are welcome to contact
the Private School Program Director for collaboration.

Vicki Pelletier
vpelletier@nacelopendoor.org

Role of Regional Managers

Regional Managers (RMs) are the main point of contact for schools and Local Representatives. Local
Representatives report to one of the RMs. The RMs oversee students in a particular region of the
country. RMs act as the communication liaison between the schools, Local Representatives, and the
Foreign Partners. The Regional Manager works with everyone involved from the initial application,
the acceptance and admission processes, during the years the student is on program, and ultimately
through to graduation.

Christine Parker Lydia Colarusso Hope Egolf

cparker@nacelopendoor.org lcolarusso@nacelopendoor.org hegolf@nacelopendoor-team.org

~8~
Role of PSP Local Representatives
Local Representatives are the face of NOD across the country, working in the field to maintain and build
relationships with students and Host Families. They match families with PSP students, monitor the
student’s experience, and provide support to both parties for the duration of the placement.
They send a monthly report to the National Office and the Natural Parents, meet with students
one-on-one, and plan several student activities throughout the school year.

Our Local Reps also meet frequently with individual students, and organize group outings and trips with
fellow international students. This includes:

• Meet and greet with new students upon arrival

• Campus visit for new students prior to first day of school
• Once per semester in-person, one-on-one meeting with Local Rep
• Lunar New Year celebration with other PSP students
• Fall or Spring activity with other PSP students

~9~
Role of Advising Staff
The Student & Host Family Advisors support students
and Host Families throughout their time in the Private
School Program. A large role of the Advisors is to assist
students and Host Families with cultural adjustments
by providing appropriate culturally sensitive advising
services, resource referrals, assessment, and evaluation
services.

An Advising Department is crucial to the success

of an international student program because they
provide constant support for Nacel Open Door staff,
Host Families, and the students themselves to ensure
program success. Students who have support during
transition periods can adjust to American life more Janel Cook Cory Brathall
quickly and effectively, and therefore have a better jcook@nacelopendoor.org cbrathall@nacelopendoor.org
overall experience, both academically and socially.

Role of National Office Staff

The National Office staff support the Private School Program in a variety of ways.

The Administrative Specialist connects directly with Foreign Partners to make sure the students receive all the
materials they need before arriving in the U.S. They also assist with all paperwork for the Private School Program.
This includes checking online Host Family applications and CBC Portal/Results, and sending insurance cards, welcome
packets, and student ID cards.

The Travel Department at the National Office ensures the safety and wellbeing of students while they travel on
program. Some of the responsibilities include: requesting necessary travel paperwork from students and Foreign
Partners, confirming trip details, and sending travel approval e-mails.

The Marketing Department at the National Office creates all marketing collateral for the program, including
handbooks, forms, and advertising materials.

The Student Health Insurance Coordinator processes medical claims and answers insurance questions.

There is also a 24-hour, seven-days-a-week support line. This allows students, Host Families, and staff to have direct
access to help in an emergency situation.

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Role of PSP Invoice Liaison
The Tuition and Fees Financial Liaison for Nacel Open
Door is in charge of all aspects of tuition and fee
finance for international students on the NOD Private
School Program. This includes communicating with
the schools to get tuition and fee information for each
academic year, being the point of reference for tuition
and fees throughout the year, and communicating this
financial information to NOD’s Foreign Partners.

All information regarding tuition and fee payments for

PSP students must go to the Tuition and Fees Financial
Liaison.

Julie Suemitsu
jsuemitsu@nacelopendoor.org

Role of Foreign Partners

Nacel Open Door is fortunate to have long-standing
relationships with key partners around the world.
Developed over many years, these relationships
allow for a unique blend of collaboration and
assistance that benefits students and schools.
Students are chosen for their English ability as well
as character traits which allow them to adapt to
study in the United States.

Schools reap the benefits by receiving

applicants qualified for the individual school’s
unique academic profile.

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Options for Schools
Over the last decade, international students have played an important part in America’s schools. Nacel
Open Door works with dedicated partners in countries throughout the world and is prepared to assist you
with your international student program goals.

2+1 Program
Be part of China’s hottest trend! See the accompanying pages for more information. Check out our
students’ college acceptance list on pages 18 and 19.

International Student Diversity Program

Working with you, we create a custom ratio of Chinese/Korean/other countries for your school.

Short Term Program

Want a more personal way to introduce students to your school? Host a Short Term international
student group. Our Director of Short Term Programs is looking forward to discussing options with
you.

Scholarship Program
This is a discounted tuition program marketed to international students who would not otherwise be
able to study in America.

English/Academic Intensive Program

There is a growing opportunity for a program tailored to meet the needs of international students
whose academic and English proficiency performance are below our general application’s rigorous
standards.

Boarding Program
Many international students prefer a dorm home or residency experience.

High School to College Program

Graduates of your school, who meet requirements, are guaranteed acceptance into a local college.

To discuss optimum options for your school, please contact Vicki Pelletier, Private School Program
Director, at vpelletier@nacelopendoor.org or 484-336-5243.

~13~
2+1 Program
What is the 2+1 Program?
A large segment of Chinese parents are choosing to have their children remain in China
for their sophomore and junior years of high school. This choice is due to economics,
family relationships, cultural reasons, or a combination of all three.

Nacel Open Door is excited to be at the forefront of this change. Through our “2+1
Program” we are preparing students, within our American-based academic programs in
China and Taiwan, for transfer into a U.S. high school for their senior year. We hope that
you will see a great benefit in accepting 2+1 seniors into your school:

BENEFITS IN ACCEPTING 2+1 STUDENTS:

1. Students arrive with two years of American-based learning.
2. The academic programs in China utilize American teachers to teach
subjects in English, using an American curriculum. In Taiwan, social
studies and English courses are taught by American teachers using an
American curriculum, while other classes are taught in Chinese by
local teachers.
3. Two years of transcripts reviewed by trusted staff.
4. Students receive SAT and TOEFL prep in their junior year in their
home country.
5. Students receive college counseling and college application prep
prior to transfer to the US.
6. Students come with written recommendation letters as part of their
college portfolio.

We hope you will consider accepting these well-qualified senior transfers through the 2+1
Program. Please let us know if you would like to view a sample course list and syllabus
from the American-based schools in China and Taiwan.

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2+1 Program Requirements
• Participating students must attend our American-based programs in China and Taiwan for both
sophomore and junior years.
• Students will explore U.S. high school choices in their sophomore year to allow them time to
prepare for school applications.
• During October of their junior year, students must complete applications to be accepted into
American high schools. We also encourage students to send a video with their application to
distinguish them and reinforce their language abilities.
• 9th and 10th grade transcripts will be reviewed along with junior year courses to ensure a
smooth transition into the U.S. system and ensure graduation requirements will be met.
• Students must take TOEFL during their junior year in their home country.
• Students will receive SAT test prep and will take SAT practice tests in their home country.
• College counseling and application prep will be provided in their home country.
• Students come with official, translated letters of recommendation for college applications.
Students will also bring other relevant materials for their college portfolio, including names
and positions within clubs and activities, volunteer work, etc.

Below are samples of 10th and 11th grade course lists for the American-based 2+1 Program in China.

Grade 10 Grade 11

English 10 Literature and Composition

Speech Journalism
Algebra II Statistics
Biology Chemistry
World History US History
Chinese Chinese

2+1 Program College Portfolio Contents:

• Teacher recommendations
• Transcripts, including 9th, 10th, and the final 11th grade transcript
• List of colleges that the student plans to apply to
• An essay for the student’s college application
• The TOEFL taken in China
• Sample college application

~15~
How to Attract International
Students to Your School
Nacel Open Door works with 72 Foreign Partners in 35 countries around the world. The Partners
recruit students who want a high quality education found in the United States. These students are
college-bound and desire a U.S. high school diploma as a stepping stone to a U.S. university. When
students are considering high schools, there are many factors that influence their decision. The
suggestions below are the criteria most requested by Natural Parents and their children.

Cost & Tuition

The biggest deciding factor for students from non-Asian countries is affordability/cost. Schools that
have already successfully recruited students from around the world offer deep tuition discounts or
scholarships to students every year they attend. Affordability also means that Host Family stipends
must be low ($300-$400 monthly). Schools should be committed to advertising, within the school
community, for Host Families willing to accept a low monthly stipend. The total cost of tuition and
Host Family stipend should not be more than $10,000 for students from countries with a lower cost
threshold.

International students gravitate to the West Coast or the Northeast. In order to attract international
students from various countries, schools in other regions should price their tuition competitively.

Natural Parents want to know tuition and school fee cost prior to application. This can be as early as
September of the year prior to the student’s attendance. Schools should set tuition prices no later than
January 1.

Acceptance
The acceptance process should not take longer than two weeks, and I-20s should be issued within two
weeks of acceptance. This is especially true for Chinese applicants who may be applying to several
high schools simultaneously. This allows ample time for the student to obtain a visa. The exception is
transfer I-20s. Please issue transfer I-20s as close to the end of the school year as possible.

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School Life
To help introduce the student to your school, plan a new student orientation. This orientation should be
scheduled within 1-2 days of the school start date, allowing international students to optimize the time
spent in their home country.

It’s also extremely important for international students to immerse themselves into the school and
American culture. This includes making American friends, a task that they often feel is difficult to do. The
school can create ways for American students to interact with international students to make things easier
for them. Some ideas include assigning international students an American “buddy” for the first two weeks
of school and/or creating an American/International Student Club.

Student Ambassador
First year international students feel overwhelmed in a new school setting. Pairing an American buddy, or
Student Ambassador, with a new international student hastens acclimation into school life.

School Offerings
Natural Parents look for schools that provide unique offerings for their children, as this helps justify the
international tuition cost, which is often higher than domestic tuition. Some events and activities that
are popular: student buddy program, activities to promote integration of American and international
students, providing moon cakes for Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival, Chinese take-out brought in for lunch once
per quarter, and a field trip to a nearby city or multi-cultural festival. An American/International Student Club
is a great platform for students to share ideas, introduce games native to their home country, cook together
and join in interactive activities.

Course Selection
International students choose schools which allow student input during the course selection process.

Calendar
Students should be aware of all important school dates, including breaks, as soon as possible. A school
calendar should be posted no later than April 30 as this allows international students to book flights
without difficulty. A school break scheduled around the Chinese New Year allows Chinese students to travel
home for this important cultural holiday. The date for Chinese New Year changes each year, but generally
falls in late January or mid-February and the celebration often lasts for 3-6 weeks.

End Dates
Students are always anxious to return home as summer approaches. For best attendance, we recommend
scheduling full days (instead of half days) at the end of the year.

Immunizations
During the first week of school, it is a good idea to set up an immunization clinic on school grounds in order
to have international students vaccinated properly. Nacel Open Door strives to have students fully vaccinated
prior to arrival, however not all vaccines are available abroad.

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Universities Our Grads
Have Attended:
• Albany University • Diablo Community College • Mary Baldwin University
• American University • Dickinson College* • Maryland Institute College
• Arizona State University* • Drexel University of Art*
• Arkansas Tech University • Earlham College • Maryland University of Art*
• Art Center College of Design • Emerson College • Marymount College
• Art Institute of Chicago* • Fashion Institute of Technology • Massachusetts Institute of
• Babson College (FIT) Technology (MIT)
• Baruch College • Florida International University • MCPHS University
• Beloit College* • Fordham University • Miami University
• Boston College* • Franklin & Marshall College • Michigan State University*
• Boston Conservatory • Furman University • Michigan Tech
• Boston University (BU) • George Mason University • Midwest State University
• Brandeis University • George Washington University* • Millersville University
• British Columbia University • Georgia State University • Missouri University*
• Brockport College • Georgia Tech • Montclair State University
• Bryant University • Gilion Institute of Higher • Morrison Institute of Technology
• Bryn Mawr College Education* • New York Film Academy
• Buffalo State College • Grinnell College* • New York Institute of
• California State University* • Hillsdale College Technology*
• Carnegie Mellon University • Hofstra University • New York University (NYU)
• Case Western Reserve University • Holy Family University • North Carolina State University
• Clemson University • Hope College • Northeastern University
• Cleveland State University • Illinois Institute of Technology* • Northwestern University
• College of the Holy Cross • Indiana State University* • Occidental College
• College of William & Mary • Iowa State University* • Ohio State University
• Columbia University • Johns Hopkins* • Otis College of Art & Design
• Concordia College • LaSalle College • Parsons School of Design*
• Cornell University • Lawrence College • Penn State University*
• Creighton University • Lehigh University • Pepperdine University
• De Paul University • Lowell College* • Portland College*
• Dennison University • Luther College • Pratt Institute
• DeSales University* • Marquette University • Providence College

* College Acceptances for 2+1 Seniors of PSP

Colleges that Rank in the Top 50 Universities in the U.S.
~18~
• Purdue University* • University of California- • University of Southern
• Rensselaer Polytechnic Santa Cruz* California (USC)
Institute (RPI)* • University of Central Florida • University of Texas
• Rhode Island School of • University of Central Oklahoma • University of the Pacific
Design (RISD)* • University of Chicago • University of Toledo
• Rider University • University of Cincinnati • University of Toronto
• Rose-Hulman Institue of • University of Colorado – • University of Utah
Technology* Boulder* • University of Virginia (UVA)
• Rutgers University* • University of Connecticut • University of Wisconsin-
• State University of (UCONN)* Green Bay
New York - Stony Brook* • University of Connecticut • University of Wisconsin-
• State University of • University of Delaware Madison
New York- Binghampton • University of Denver • University of Wisconsin-
• Stetson University • University of Florida Milwaukee
• Stevens Institute of • University of Georgia • University of Wisconsin-
Technology • University of Idaho Oshkosh
• Syracuse University* • University of Illinois* • University of Wisconsin-
• Temple University • University of Indiana* Stevens Point
• Texas Tech • University of Iowa • University of Washington
• Tulane University • University of Kentucky • Vanderbilt University*
• University of Alabama • University of Las Vegas • Virginia Tech*
• University of Arizona* • University of Lincoln • Wake Forest University
• University of the Arts • University of Maryland- • Wartburg College
• University of Arts London College Park • Washington and Lee University
• University of British Columbia* • University of Massachusetts • Wellesley College
• University of California- • University of Massachusetts • West Virginia University*
Berkeley Amherst (UMass) • Western Iowa Tech Community
• University of California-Davis* • University of Minnesota* College
• University of California-Irvine* • University of North Carolina at • Western Michigan University
• University of California- Chapel Hill • Westminster College
Los Angeles (UCLA) • University of Pittsburgh • Wheaton College
• University of California- • University of Rhode Island* • Whitman College*
Riverside • University of Richmond • Worcester Polytechnic Institute
• University of California- • University of Rochester* • Wright State University
San Diego* • University of San Francisco • York College
• University of California- • University of Scranton
Santa Barbara* • University of South Florida

* College Acceptances for 2+1 Seniors of PSP

Colleges that Rank in the Top 50 Universities in the U.S.
~19~
Alumni Spotlight
Ryan Chen, Class of 2011
Q: In what ways did coming to the United States for high school prepare you for college?
A: Communication, culture and confidence.

Q: How did living with a Host Family benefit you?

A: Many ways. They always cared about me; they were always with me. It was my
second home.

Q: What advice would you give to an international high school student?

A: Having a friendly relationship with your Host Family is very important. Make time to
communicate with all people; not just at school but also at home.

Q: What were the benefits of coming through the Nacel Open Door program?
A: My Local Representative Lydia was very responsible. She helped me a lot during my stay.
Overall, everything worked pretty well during those two years. I really enjoyed my stay in
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

Q: Would you recommend that a parent send their child with Nacel Open Door?
A: Absolutely.

Academic Highlights
Alma Mater:
• High School: Salem Christian School
• Undergraduate: University of Connecticut
• Graduate: University of California,
San Diego
Degree:
• B.A. Political Science
• Graduate: International Affairs

Occupation: Graduate Student/Intern

~20~
Chaewon Bak, Class of 2016
Q: What are your future plans?
A: I am going to run my own brand marketing
business.

Q: In what ways did coming to the U.S. for high

school prepare you for college?
A: Coming to a U.S. high school helped me to
improve my English skills and prepare for
the SAT and AP tests.

Q: How did living with a Host Family benefit you?

A: It helped me to experience American culture
and to improve my English speaking skills
very quickly.

Q: What advice would you give to an international

high shool student?
A: Be open-minded, work smart AND hard, be
friendly, and don’t be shy!

Q: What was the benefit of coming through the Nacel

Open Door program?
Academic Highlights
A: Nacel Open Door introduced me to a good Host Family. Alma Mater:
They sincerely care about your well-being; so do not be • High School: Archbishop Wood High School
afraid to share your concerns with Nacel. • Undergraduate: University of California,
Los Angeles (UCLA)
Q: Why would you recommend that a parent send Degree:
their child with Nacel Open Door? • Major: Business Economics
A: Nacel is very organized, systematic, caring, and
open-minded. When students have concerns, they Occupation: Undergraduate Student
immediately give practical advice and help.

~21~
Seil Park, Class of 2014
Q: What are your plans after you graduate?
A: My plan is to pursue what I love which is being an innovator
in business. I have always wanted to be an entrepreneur since I
grew up watching both of my parents do business. I am currently
interning at Rock Tackle Co which is a fishing related company. I
am also working for my university’s school admission office as a
school tour guide. Both of my jobs have helped me to learn so
much about business.

Q: How did attending a U.S. high school prepare you for college?
A: Attending a U.S. high school prepared me in several ways. It
prepared me to be a better speaker, athlete, and helped me
understand American culture. The biggest challenge that I faced
was speaking a new language. It was very difficult to learn how to
speak English; however, interacting with Americans helped me to
be confident in speaking.

I also appreciated being able to play sports. Participating in sports and studying academics is almost impossible in
South Korea. The educational system in America allowed me to enjoy both sports and academics. Playing sports
helped me to meet friends, understand the American culture, and keep in shape. My high school basketball coach
has greatly impacted my life, and he still mentors me today. My experience playing in high school prepared me to
play at the college level too.

Q: How did living with a Host Family benefit you?

A: Living with a good Host Family really helped me to understand the American culture and they were
there when I needed someone to talk to. They are like a real family and are there to help you. My
Host Family has been there for me through good and bad times. They still continue to be so gracious
to me. During breaks in college I spend my time
with them, and every year we share Christmas
Academic Highlights together. They have always looked out for my best
interests.
Alma Mater:
• High School: Salem Christian School
• Undergraduate: Cairn University Q: What was the benefit of coming to the US
with NOD?
Degree: A: The biggest benefit of coming to the US with
• Majors: Bible and Business Administration NOD is that the organization found me an awesome
school, and Host Family. Without the help of Nacel it
Occupation: Undergraduate Student
could have been very difficult.

~22~
Sebastian Shin, Class of 2009
Q: Would you recommend Nacel Open Door to parents
of potential international students??
A: Yes, for many reasons. During my time with Nacel Open Door
(NOD) they took care of all my housing, course requirements,
transportation, and cultural difficulties. I didn’t have to worry
about all these transitions because NOD did this for me. Students
are also given a personal Local Representative. This was invaluable
to me as it provided someone who was specifically supporting
me academically and personally. My parents were all the way in
Korea, but I had my Representative was there to back me up and
help me as a young 16-year-old. All of these characteristics of NOD
gave me the good foundation to continue my degree and career in
the United States.

Q: How did you improve as a student while in studying in

the U.S. with a Host Family?
A: I improved my English skills, social skills, and learned how to
interact with different cultures. Compared to a boarding school
experience, I feel my English became particularly proficient
because of the consistent interaction I had with my American
Host Family.

Q: What advice would you give to a new international student?

A: Be a risk taker. Be the Frontier.

Academic Highlights
Alma Mater:
• High School: Cardinal O’Hara Catholic School
• Undergraduate: University of Illinois

Degree:
• B.A. Technical Systems Management
Concentration: Renewable Energy

Occupation: Field Engineer

~23~
What Else Does NOD
Have to Offer?
In addition to the Private School Program, Nacel Open Doors offers shorter programs for international students interested
in studying at an American high school and opportunities for American high school seniors to study abroad after graduating.

Short Term Program

Nacel Open Door offers Short Term Programs that provide high
school students the opportunity to experience life in the United
States by living with a Host Family and experiencing American culture
firsthand. These Homestay programs typically last three weeks and
are offered in the summer.

Tutorial programs are great for students interested in structured

English instruction in a small group setting. These programs provide
students with a 4:1 student-teacher ratio and as a result, students
receive individualized English instruction based on their own specific
level and areas in need of improvement. We also offer Homeschool
English Classes, as well as optional Activity programs.

Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX)

If your students are interested in studying outside of the United States, the Congress-Bundestag
Vocational Scholarship provides an opportunity for U.S. high school graduates who have undertaken vocational
training to spend their 13th year abroad pursuing their vocational interests! This program seeks to enroll students
who have demonstrated maturity and responsibility and who can be entrusted to fulfill their roles as exchange
students without day-to-day supervision.

The Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange Program provides a unique intercultural educational opportunity for
American and German youth. Each year over 300 American high school students, receive full scholarships to
become exchange students to Germany, where they will live with Host Families for a year, attend German
schools, and have an internships.

~24~
Nacel Open Door also offers other programs for students interested in studying abroad:

Academic Year Program

The Academic Year Program (AYP), similar to the Private School
Program, is offered for students who are looking for a broader
experience of life in America. Students can spend either five
months (academic semester) or 10 months (academic year) in the
United States, living with a Host Family and attending an American
high school; usually a public high school.

Participating in a long-term academic program means total

immersion in American life, and as such, it is an ideal way to
achieve proficiency in the English language as well as gain a
complete cross-cultural experience involving American home life
and school.

Nacel International School System

The Nacel International School System (NISS), under Nacel
Open Door, offers country directors, established schools, and
investors an opportunity to provide clients with their own American-
styled school. There are a variety of program options available for
implementation, ranging from a full course of NISS study to
a dual high school diploma (American plus Local diploma)
program, in which students take their normal country courses and
supplement that course of study with key subjects from American
core curriculum and/or English Language Development (ELD)
curriculum.

The school should attract local students, third country nationals

residing in the host country, and/or foreign students in order to
provide a truly intercultural-immersive educational experience.

~25~
Arnold Franco Scholarship
Arnold Franco was an insurance executive, philanthropist, WWII
veteran, historian, and one of our original board members who
served the organization for 53 years. To honor his amazing life
and contributions to international education, we’ve established
the Arnold Franco Memorial Scholarship in partnership with
Notre Dame International High School in Paris, France, to offer
students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the French
cultureArnold cherished.

Born in Richmond Hill, Queens, New York

in 1923, Arnold majored in history at the
University of Michigan and then Queens
College, graduating with the class of 1943. Infantry Training,
Camp Wheeler,
He then joined the army and was part - Spring 1943
of a group that landed at Omaha beach.
After the war, Arnold opened an insurance
brokerage in New York City.

Arnold helped establish Open Door Student

Exchange in New York, and helped oversee
the merger with Nacel Cultural Exchanges in Minnesota in
1997. He passed away in his home on July 11, 2016, at
the age of 92.

Nacel Open Door, its board members, and staff are grateful
to Arnold Franco for his years of dedication, generosity, and
support. Those who knew him loved him for his kind spirit,
fascinating conversations, and the wisdom he shared. We
Arnold Franco, Cafe de la Paix,
will miss you Arnold! Paris - June 1945

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Enhance Your Global Perspective & Cultural Arnold Franco Memorial
Understanding While Studying In France Scholarship Includes
In memory of Nacel Open Door Board Member, Arnold * Your flight to and from France
Franco, we are excited to offer this opportunity of a
lifetime! * A pre-selected French Host Family
who will provide you a safe, caring
One scholarship will be awarded to a qualifying American home during your stay
student, to study in France for fall or spring semester
during the 2017-18 school year. * Books, Fees, and Tuition at
Notre-Dame International
High School, Paris

Who Can Apply: Scholarship open to all American students in grades 10-12 who are interested in
living with a French Host Family. No French requirement!

How To Apply: Complete and mail your application, a copy of your official transcripts, and your
essay on how you would use this opportunity, to: Nacel Open Door, 380 Jackson St. #200, St. Paul, MN
55101 or email to: GRobertson@naceled.com

Learn more and/or download the application online at www.nacelopendoor.org

Look for “Scholarships” under the “About Nacel” tab.
Our History
Nacel Open Door Inc., a nonprofit organization, was formed in April 1997 by the merger of Nacel
Cultural Exchanges and Open Door Student Exchange.

Language teachers founded Nacel Cultural Exchanges in France in 1957. Homestay exchanges
with the U.S. began in 1969, helping thousands of young people discover a new appreciation for
our global community.

Open Door Student Exchange was founded in 1964 to provide intercultural learning opportunities
to high school students and their families.

For more than 50 years, NOD has helped facilitate successful homestays for thousands of international
students, from nearly 30 countries around the world, and local Host Families.

Our Philosophy
Our world can be made better if today’s youth learn to understand and appreciate its cultural
and linguistic diversity. Young people benefit from experiences that complement their classroom
learning. This helps them develop an awareness of their role as world citizens and instills in them
an ability to enjoy and adapt to diversity and change.

Immersion is the best way to become acquainted with another country’s people, heritage, and
values. Living with a Host Family provides a warm and secure setting for experiencing another
culture. Communication is the key to understanding culture. Knowledge of language, an eagerness to
improve communication skills, and a curiosity for learning permit a higher level of understanding.
The friendships that result from the sharing of family and cultural life encourage continued
communication, growth, and understanding across borders.

Opportunities to participate in such experiences must be accessible and affordable to as wide a

range of people as possible.

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Our Affiliations
Nacel Open Door, Inc. is listed by the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel
(CSIET) and is designated by the United States Department of State as a J-1 exchange visitor
program sponsor.

St. Paul Preparatory School is an AdvancED accredited, college preparatory school enrolling
students in grades 9 - 12. St. Paul Preparatory School is authorized by the U.S. government to
issue form I-20 to apply for the F-1 student visa.

Nacel Open Door, Inc. and Nacel International School System do not discriminate on the
basis of race, color, gender, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation,
socioeconomic status, or disability in administration of its admissions and scholarship
programs, the administration of its educational, athletic, or other school programs, or its
employment practices.

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Basics of the
Private School Program
The Private School Program (PSP) began in the year 2000 with the goal of providing qualified foreign
students the ability to attend private high schools in the United States. The program was a spin-off
of Nacel Open Door’s Academic Year Program and focused on the former Korean Academic Year
participants who wished to return to the United States to continue their education.

Since its inception, the Private School Program has grown in both size and quality. PSP works with
hundreds of students enrolled in 125 private schools across the country. We have an extensive
interviewing, testing, screening, and selection process. The students selected for our program are
high-quality, college-bound students.

Our PSP students are full tuition-paying students interested in continuing their education at high-
quality private schools in the United States. The students on our programs do not specifically require
English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, and many of them have already spent a full year studying
in the United States, Canada, South Africa, Australia, or New Zealand. These students are college-
bound and committed to their education.

Nacel Open Door offers extensive support for both the students and the Host Families throughout
their participation in the PSP. We will locate a Local Representative from within the school or local
community who will work directly with the students and Host Families. Local Representatives are
responsible for locating and screening Host Families, as well as monitoring the student and Host
Family relationship throughout the year.

The Private School Program is an opportunity for your school to welcome qualified, full tuition-paying
international students to your campus, and it is an opportunity, through Nacel Open Door, to offer your
students and teachers the opportunity to travel and learn about the cultures of the world.

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The Nacel Difference
Professional Staff
Nacel Open Door has a whole team of dedicated
professionals who work closely with each school from
beginning to end, ensuring a successful experience for
all of our program participants.

Communication
The PSP Director and Regional Managers are diligent in
responding to your questions and concerns, whether by
phone, email, or in person.

Excellent Support System

Nacel Open Door offers 24/7 support for Host Families and
students. In addition, monthly contact with every Host Family
and student helps to minimize adjustment issues.

Proven Program
The Private School Program was one of the first private
high school F-1 visa programs in the country.

Dedicated Reps
Local Representatives provide ongoing support for the Private
School Program throughout the United States.

CSIET Full Listing

Nacel Open Door has achieved the honor of a full listing
with the Council on Standards for International
Educational Travel (www.CSIET.org). Our files are audited
yearly to ensure compliance with industry standards.

Program Options
Nacel Open Door has a network of international schools
throughout the world! NOD also offers one-year exchange
opportunities for both American and international
students, as well as summer programs for students
desiring a shorter program.

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Program Requirements
School Requirements
Schools must be listed with the Student Exchange Visitor Information Service (SEVIS) and have the
ability to issue a Form I-20 in order for the student to receive a F-1 visa.

Student Requirements
PSP applicants are high-quality, college-bound students and have sufficient English skills to succeed
in an American high school. Students are also screened for good social skills and the ability to adapt
to new situations.

Host Family Requirements

Host Families provide room and board and a loving family atmosphere. An application, criminal
background check, and good references are required in addition to a home visit, which is completed
by the Local Representative.

Local Representative Requirements

The role of Local Representatives is to identify and screen Host Families. They are required to
participate in a yearly training session, pass a Criminal Background Check, and comply with all
Nacel Open Door and Council on Standards for International Educational Travel (CSIET) guidelines.

Our Local Representatives provide a link between Nacel Open Door and the school, student, and
Host Family at the local level.

Student Application Process

The process of accepting a PSP student is straightforward. Below is a summary of the steps that
are involved:
• The student selects a PSP school they would like to attend, and completes a dossier
(or application).

• The student dossier is forwarded to the school by the PSP Regional Manager for review.

• The student is officially accepted by the school, and a letter of acceptance, Form I-20,
and tuition invoice are issued.

• A Host Family is identified and screened by the Local Representative, and the Host Family
information is sent to the school and the Natural Parents.

• Nacel Open Door issues a check to the school for the student’s tuition and fees prior
to the student’s arrival.

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Acceptance Time Frame
Natural Parents and students are anxious to hear acceptance decisions. Standard time frame should
be no longer than two weeks. A sample time frame:

• Set up Skype interview time with your Nacel Open Door Regional Manager within 48 hours
(two working days) of receiving the student application

• Within 24 hours of the Skype interview, notify your PSP Regional Manager as to whether or
not the application process can move forward

• School issues acceptance decision letter within two weeks of receiving the student’s application.

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~34~
 PSP Program Guide 9/2017

Nacel Open Door | 380 Jackson Street, Suite 200 | St. Paul, MN 55101 USA | www.nacelopendoor.org | 800 l 622 l 3553
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