International School or Overseas Boarding School, What's the Difference?

                   

“If I were to attend boarding high school in America, I would have sacrificed 4 years of my life that I could be spending with my family, right here at home,” says a high school Grade 12 student, who has been studying at Concordia International School Shanghai since Grade 2. 

For many families exploring international education options, deciding between local international schools and boarding schools abroad is a common question. This choice often depends on both the readiness of the child and the family: Is the child independent enough to thrive on their own? Are they emotionally prepared for the challenges of adapting to a new, structured environment? 

And, is studying at a boarding school truly worth it, especially with so many high-quality options available within Shanghai’s international school community? Let’s start by comparing the experiences offered by international and boarding schools.

Emotional Impact and Development

One key factor in choosing a school is how it supports a child’s emotional and social growth. Research indicates that children often build essential social skills, confidence, and resilience through steady family connections. However, at boarding schools, students may experience separation from this family support, which can lead to emotional challenges. According to psychotherapist Joy Schaverien, boarding school students often develop “coping mechanisms” that manifest as emotional distance or behavioral changes, potentially impacting their ability to form close relationships in adulthood. 

In contrast, international schools like Concordia provide a setting where family support is part of a child’s daily life. Studies, such as those by The National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health, highlight that adolescents with strong parental relationships are more resilient and engage in fewer risky behaviors. By attending school locally, students benefit from a consistent family presence that helps them thrive both academically and personally. 

College Readiness and Academic Performance

For some parents, the appeal of boarding schools lies in their academic rigor and the potential advantage in college admissions. However, the high-pressure environment at many boarding schools may also foster a need to conform, sometimes overshadowing students’ individuality and personal growth. This pressure to fit a specific mold can limit exposure to diverse perspectives, which is essential for developing a well-rounded worldview. 

International schools like Concordia prepare students for college within a balanced environment that respects individual strengths. Concordia’s high school students achieve at a level comparable to top boarding school graduates, with personalized support that fosters their unique talents and encourages a life-long love of learning. 

The above information was obtained by researching school websites and school profiles. 

Social Development and Peer Influence

As suggested by Schaverien, boarding school students often encounter a unique social structure, one that encourages conformity to specific cultural or academic norms. While this structure fosters independence, it can also limit students' ability to develop an authentic sense of self. At international schools, students benefit from a more varied social environment, where they can explore diverse interests and connect with peers from different backgrounds, encouraging healthy social development. 

For example, one Concordia student who considered boarding school ultimately chose to stay because of the holistic experience offered by her current school. Reflecting on her decision, she shares:

 

“I understand why people choose boarding schools, thinking it helps kids develop independence or leads to better college options. But honestly, after being at Concordia for 10 years, I get the same experience here.” 

For her, Concordia offers a supportive community without sacrificing family involvement, which has allowed her family to actively shape her values and beliefs—an important part of her social and emotional wellbeing. 

Finding the Right Fit

Ultimately, the decision between an international or boarding school should be based on what’s best for the child and family as a whole. Parents should weigh factors like emotional well-being, social development, academic freedom, and cultural connection to make a choice that allows their child to thrive. For many families, staying at an international school like Concordia offers a balanced approach to both academic and personal growth within a supportive community, all while maintaining close family and school community connections.