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FAQ
At the Cornerstone Academy - International Language Program (ILP), we've done our best to create a web site that anticipates and satisfies our visitors' needs. With that goal in mind, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions. If you do not find an answer to your question here, contact us at 415-585-5183 or e-mail, carl.kahae@cornerstone-academy.net.
How is your curriculum different?
Click Here to read our curriculum overview to get an idea of what makes us different.
What colleges are your graduates accepted to?
An estimated 98% of all ILP graduates continue their education by enrolling into a four-year university or two-year community college. The California State University system comprises of 23 campuses throughout the state which is the most common four-year school our graduates enter. The University of California System has about seven campuses throughout the state, which 38% of our graduates have been accepted to enter. Our graduates have been accepted into Baylor University, St. John’s University in Boston, University of California -(Davis, Los Angeles, Riverside, Irvine, San Diego, Merced, Berkeley, Santa Cruz), University of San Francisco, Reed College, Cal Poly Pomona & San Luis Obispo, Indiana University, Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, Dominican University of California, as well as, San Francisco State University, San Jose State University, and Humbolt State University. For a detailed listing, click here.
If the student has limited English, should we still apply?
Yes, by all means. ILP has a strong and intense ESL program that enables our students to master their reading, writing and speaking English skills they have learned. We have a number of different levels starting at beginner, intermediate and advance. Each of these levels have three sub-levels within them. We highly encourage our students to participate in our American recreational programs and in some cases, participate in specific subject matter, such as, mathematics, science, dance, choir, and orchestra to name a few, so their English skills can be used and improve while speaking to native students.
Does ILP issue I-20’s for International students?
Yes. We use the SEVIS system like all other approved I-20 educational institutions use, approved by the US Department of Immigration Services and Homeland Security. There is an international student fee for this, and the process can take just a few days provided all the required documentation have been submitted to ILP and admittance have been approved by the Admissions Committee.
Does ILP provide housing facilities?
Yes, beginning Fall 2008 Semester, we will be offering accommodations for students who are enrolled into Cornerstone Academy. All international and domestic students are required to have a local guardian in the U.S. In case of an emergency, Cornerstone Academy must have a guardian who is an adult family member or trusted family friend who lives in the United States (preferably in Northern California). The guardian is responsible for all school business, communication, transportation and housing of student during emergencies, disciplinary action, and/or vacations. If no local guardian is available, Cornerstone Academy will be your guardian. In the event our accommodations are at capacity, arrangements can be made for participation into a home stay program, which is separate from Cornerstone Academy, if there are no relatives or family friend where a student can reside at while attending school. There is a state law requiring students who are in high school or 18 years and below, to stay with an adult guardian and not allowed to live on their own.
Does ILP provide transportation to and from school?
No. We do not have school buses. However, public transportation to the school is excellent from all major parts of San Francisco and the Bay area. The school is located close to the Muni bus lines #44 and 54.
Does ILP provide team sports?
No. ILP does not have any competitive sports in high school, however in our middle school we do. Our current after school high school sports clubs for students, are soccer, tennis, golf, and basketball. However, students do participate in our Physical Education program as part of their daily curriculum.
Do you have a cafeteria?
Yes. Students have the option to purchase lunches or bring lunch from home. There are microwave ovens available for student’s to use. Snack machines are also available for students use. ILP is a closed campus which means, students are not allowed to go off campus during school hours, including lunches.
Are uniforms required?
Yes. Students are required to wear uniform during school hours and on designated field trips. However, there are certain days of the month when students can wear casual clothing, as long as it is not offensive to other students and within the school dress code guidelines.
Do you offer scholarships?
No.
Do you offer student loans?
No.
Do students need to take a test to be admitted?
No. ILP does not give a entrance exam, however, we do give a general assessment test on all students to understand the type of educational foundation each student has. After the assessment test is completed, the students curriculum program will be customized to fit the need of the student. Along with the application, students will submit previous standardized test scores if available, transcripts with grades, and letters of recommendations from both his/her mathematic and English teachers.
How long does the application process take?
If all the required documentation are submitted with the application and application fee, you can expect a response within a few business days, or could possibly be notified that same day. Generally the norm would be a few days.
Can we apply at any time during the school year?
Yes. ILP does not adhere to a specific application window, however, it will depend on what semester the family is trying to get the student in. Our mid year admissions ends on January 31st, all potential admissions will be enrolled in the following Fall semester. But, if the student enrolls in our summer ESL program, the student will be allowed to enter the US prior to the start of the summer program, normally by the fourth week in June.
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