International Applicants

Seattle: The Perfect City to Live & Study

Also called the Emerald City, Seattle is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city in the United States Pacific Northwest region. Featuring breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, evergreen forests, scenic harbors, and beautiful lakes, the city is also a hub for technology, industry, higher education, and vibrant arts and culture. It is home to many global multinational companies, including Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing, Starbucks, Expedia, and Costco.

The Northwest School campus is located in the heart of this beautiful city in the exciting Capitol Hill neighborhood. Our historic buildings are surrounded by museums, concert halls, theaters, and art studios. We are within walking distance of the gorgeous Puget Sound waterfront with majestic views of the bay and surrounding mountains, the world-famous Pike Place Market, the original Starbucks coffee shop, and the iconic Space Needle landmark.

A Landmark Campus for Inspired Learning

The Northwest School campus blends historic charm with modern innovation to offer international students a unique and inspiring learning environment.

Our iconic main building sits at the campus center, and is a 1905 National Historic Landmark by renowned architect James Stephen that features elegant oak staircases, and arched entryways. This beautifully preserved structure houses a variety of classrooms, science labs, art and dance studios, ceramics workshops, a photography lab, and the library.

Our adjacent state-of-the-art 401 Pike Street addition hosts the gymnasium, a 175-seat theater, modern cafeteria, and rooftop sports field. Our campus also includes an urban community garden, spacious arts venue, and on-campus dormitory. Click here to take a virtual tour of our campus, classrooms, and the dorm.

Top-Rated University Preparatory Academic Program

Northwest School teachers are academic experts in their respective fields: 22% of our school faculty hold Ph.D. degrees, and many conduct original research and are published scholars. This expertise in pedagogy and research provides students with a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and intellectually rigorous curriculum, where all courses are taught at or above an Honors level.

Humanities: The High School program includes a signature three-year Humanities course—an integrated, double-credit class that blends History, English, Philosophy, Literature, and Art History. During their senior year, students can choose from a wide array of advanced Humanities elective courses (such as Media Studies, Journalism, Creative Writing, and more) to cultivate university level reading, writing, and research skills that prepare them for the road ahead.

Math & Science: Our Math program spans a range of courses from Algebra I to Advanced Calculus, Mathematical Modeling with Financial Applications, and Statistics. In Science, students take classes in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, with the option to enroll in Advanced Chemistry and Biology courses during their senior year.

Arts: Recognized as the #1 Best High School for the Arts in Washington State (Niche, 2025), the Northwest School offers 50+ courses taught by professional art experts in Dance, Music, Theatre, and the Visual Arts. Every student takes two arts classes each year, enriching their academic journey through creative exploration.

Academic Pathways: Beginning in Spring 2026, Upper School students may declare a pathway at the conclusion of their tenth-grade year. There will be six Pathway options: Environmental Sustainability, Technology & Society, Global Perspective, Excellence in Visual Arts, Excellence in Performing Arts, and Social Justice & Community Action.

Athletics: Students are also encouraged to participate in a range of Athletics programs, with more than 30 Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball, Cross Country, Track and Field, and Ultimate Frisbee school teams.

Expert College Counseling for University Success

The Northwest School's expert college counseling program supports and guides students on their path toward admission to top universities in the U.S. and around the world.

In Grades 9 and 10, students are encouraged to immerse themselves in rigorous academic study, extracurricular activities, and co-curricular programs to build a strong foundation for future success. During these formative years, students explore and refine their passions, and begin setting academic and personal goals for the future. Our dedicated faculty help them develop essential skills to gain confidence through in-class assignments and experiential learning activities.

College Application Prep: Beginning in Grade 11, each student is paired with a dedicated College Counselor who works closely with them to develop a personalized college list, create strong application materials, and prepare for interviews. Students take SAT and ACT practice exams, and can also receive support with test registration, personal statement writing, and application portfolio development.

College Interviews on Campus: More than 100 major U.S. and Canadian universities - including many of the most selective institutions - visit Seattle and the Northwest School as part of their recruitment and outreach efforts to meet and interview students. This makes it easy and convenient for students to participate and learn more about their higher education options.

Please view our updated university matriculation list.

Promoting Student Success

The Northwest School’s Student Success Center focuses on supporting and guiding students through academic and social transitions. Each student is assigned an Academic Advisor to closely monitor their progress, review evaluations, help set academic goals, support course selection, and ensure that parents receive clear and timely communication.

Boarding students can also rely on Residential Advisors to provide an additional layer of support by staying in close contact with teachers, tracking academic performance, and offering ongoing social, emotional, and academic guidance.

Students also benefit from peer tutoring opportunities, as well as access to professional counselors who support their emotional well-being throughout their journey at the Northwest School.

Live and Learn with Friends from Around the World

Our on-campus dormitory offers a warm and welcoming home for five- and seven-day boarding students. Designed for the ideal student life, our dorm features: comfortable rooms; inviting lounges to relax, watch TV, and play games; a shared kitchen; laundry facilities; and a computer lab. The modern dining hall offer daily nutritious meals so that students are well-fed and ready to thrive. Students who live on campus also enjoy access to the indoor basketball and volleyball courts, a modern fitness mezzanine, and a rooftop sports field. Dedicated residential advisors support students and create a safe, caring, and inclusive environment. Boarding students enjoy weekend outings, cultural celebrations, and ongoing events that build community and make dorm life fun and memorable.

Living at the Northwest School offers students the opportunity to grow lifelong friendships with classmates from around the world, while learning important life skills in a safe and supportive environment. Students gain independence, learn how to organize their day, manage responsibilities, cook simple meals, and advocate for themselves—all key skills for their future success in college and beyond. Sharing daily life with peers fosters a strong sense of community and teaches valuable lessons in cooperation and cross-cultural understanding. It’s the perfect bridge between home and university life, preparing students for their next journey and adulthood.

Immerse Yourself in the Beautiful Pacific Northwest

Seattle truly has it all—the snow-capped Cascade and Olympic Mountains, lush islands and lakes, and the sparkling waters of the Puget Sound. The Northwest School offers students a unique opportunity to explore this breathtaking natural landscape, and connect with the outdoors as part of their educational experience.

Our exciting Outdoor Program encourages students to discover and explore this beautiful environment while learning valuable skills and cultivating environmental stewardship. Weekend adventure trips include activities such as rock climbing, hiking along the Olympic Coast, snow cave building, geocaching, and biking on Lopez Island. Every Friday during the winter, the school’s Ski Bus takes students to nearby mountain slopes to enjoy downhill skiing.

Apply to the Northwest School today!

We have a holistic admissions process that considers more than just grades or test scores - we’re looking for curious, passionate, and motivated students who are ready to thrive in our vibrant community. If this sounds like you, please apply!

Our admissions committee members carefully consider every part of your story: your academic records, teacher recommendations, interviews, hobbies, and interests. Learn more and click here to start your application to the Northwest School.

Contact us by email at admissions@northwestschool.org with any questions or if you need assistance.