Private school vs public school is an age-old debate in the US. Parents leaning in the direction of private education have to ask themselves if the benefits of private school are worth the high cost. While public schools in the States are far from perfect, they are different from how they are usually perceived in Cambodia.
Students in U.S. public schools score comparably on standardized tests to students in private schools. Furthermore, with many benefits from public schools, the majority of students and their parents choose the public school in their neighborhood as their first choice for education. The state-funded schools have also become increasingly popular among international students.
One significant advantage of public high schools is the huge cost savings for international students and their families. Since public high schools are part of a system of free education in the U.S., there is no tuition, probably taking out your biggest financial worry.
International student tuition averages 30% less at public high schools than private. In addition to the lower tuition, public schools do not charge extra fees for books or extracurricular activities. There may be extra expenses of supplies and participation in sports teams, yet public schools are still much more budget-friendly than their private counterparts.

Public schools, into the bargain, can provide students with an authentic American high school experience and an excellent education – not to mention access to multiple extracurricular activities, from athletics to music and theatre. Students are also more likely to be exposed to students from different cultures, and such diversity can be a crucial learning experience.
Academic opportunities are another plus at American public high schools. The schools often have the resources to offer more academic opportunities like advanced classes and courses in specialized subjects like technology and the arts. Meanwhile, teachers in public schools are required to be certified by the state. Certifications also require ongoing education and periodic renewal of credentials.
Studying in the U.S, public high schools can grant the wishes of many who dream of studying in the States, and ICES Cambodia is here to help. Signed for the exchange program with ICES Cambodia and go on a thrilling adventure overseas right now!
For more information on how you can high school abroad with ICES Cambodia, as well as the program fees and application process, please contact 077 777 244 or 098 686 901. To be eligible, you must pass the English Proficiency Test provided by ICES Cambodia and have a good academic record (Average “C” in main subjects for the past 3 years). Register now to take the English Test: https://forms.gle/3qifKLu79f4hx5uB7 .