Windermere Preparatory School

Windermere Preparatory School: Courses, Admissions, Tuition Fees, Scholarships and Student Life

Introduction

Windermere Preparatory School is a private, co-educational college-preparatory school located in Windermere, Florida, near Orlando, United States. Founded in 2000, the school provides education from Pre-Kindergarten 3 through Grade 12, serving students from early childhood to the final years of secondary education.

The school combines academic instruction with extracurricular activities, arts, athletics, technology, and international learning experiences. It offers day-school education as well as residential boarding for students in Grades 7–12.

Windermere Preparatory School is particularly known for its International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), which provides a globally recognised pre-university curriculum for students in Grades 11 and 12. Its academic approach encourages critical thinking, independent learning, creativity, and an international outlook.

For international families considering private school education in the United States, Windermere Preparatory School offers an opportunity to experience an American college-preparatory environment while exploring international academic pathways and residential student life.

About the University

Windermere Preparatory School is an independent school and part of Nord Anglia Education, an international organisation operating schools in different countries.

The school was established in 2000 with an initial student population of 175. It gradually expanded its grade levels and celebrated its first graduating class in 2008.

Its campus is located at 6189 Winter Garden-Vineland Road in Windermere, Florida. The approximately 48-acre campus features academic buildings, learning spaces, residential facilities, recreational areas, and specialist facilities for arts and athletics.

The school serves students through three academic divisions:

• Lower School: Early childhood and elementary education.
• Middle School: Middle-grade academic development.
• High School: Secondary education and college preparation.

Windermere Prep provides a personalised learning environment in which teachers encourage students to explore their interests, develop individual strengths, and prepare for future academic opportunities.

Its international community brings together students from different countries and cultural backgrounds, supporting a learning environment that emphasises global awareness and intercultural understanding.

Why Choose Windermere Preparatory School?

Families may consider Windermere Preparatory School for several academic and personal development opportunities.

International academic curriculum: The school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for eligible students in Grades 11 and 12, alongside other academic pathways.

Education from Pre-K through Grade 12: Students can progress through early childhood, elementary, middle, and high school within one educational institution.

International boarding: Students in Grades 7–12 can explore residential education with dedicated boarding support.

Personalised learning: The school focuses on recognising individual interests, academic needs, and learning goals.

Arts and athletics: Students can participate in visual arts, music, theatre, dance, sports, and other extracurricular activities.

Technology and innovation: Learning opportunities include robotics, coding, 3D printing, and technology-supported classroom activities.

College preparation: Academic counselling and college planning support students as they prepare for higher education applications.

International environment: Students can interact with classmates from different backgrounds and develop intercultural communication skills.

These features make Windermere Preparatory School an option for families seeking a comprehensive private-school education in Florida.

Academic Programmes and Courses

Windermere Preparatory School provides education from Pre-Kindergarten 3 through Grade 12. Its curriculum is structured around the developmental and academic needs of different age groups.

The school offers a combination of core subjects, advanced coursework, electives, and enrichment activities.

Academic Division	Grade Levels	Main Areas of Study
Early Childhood	Pre-K3, Pre-K4, Kindergarten	Early literacy, numeracy, language, social development
Lower School	Elementary grades	English, mathematics, science, social studies, arts
Middle School	Middle grades	English, mathematics, science, humanities, world languages
High School	Grades 9–12	English, mathematics, science, social sciences, languages, electives
International Baccalaureate	Grades 11–12	IB Diploma Programme subject groups
Enrichment Programmes	Various grades	Music, theatre, visual arts, entrepreneurship, coding, athletics

Early Childhood Education

The Early Childhood programme focuses on developing foundational learning skills through age-appropriate educational activities.

Students begin building language, communication, early mathematics, creativity, social interaction, and independent learning abilities.

The learning environment encourages curiosity and exploration while supporting children's emotional and intellectual development.

Lower School

The Lower School curriculum develops essential academic foundations across English, mathematics, science, social studies, and other subjects.

Students also participate in creative and extracurricular activities that encourage teamwork, communication, and personal development.

Teachers aim to provide individual attention and support according to each student's learning needs.

Middle School

The Middle School programme helps students transition from elementary education towards more advanced academic study.

Students explore subjects such as English, mathematics, science, social studies, world languages, and the arts.

The curriculum encourages analytical thinking, independent work, collaboration, and responsibility.

High School Curriculum

The High School programme covers Grades 9–12 and prepares students for university education.

Students study core subjects including:

• English and literature.
• Mathematics.
• Natural sciences.
• Social sciences.
• World languages.
• Fine and performing arts.
• Elective and specialised subjects.

The school also offers a variety of Honors and Advanced Placement coursework, depending on subject availability and academic planning.

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is a central feature of the school's high-school academic pathway.

Students in Grades 11 and 12 can pursue the IBDP, which is designed to develop academic independence, research abilities, critical thinking, and international awareness.

The programme includes six subject groups:

• Studies in Language and Literature.
• Language Acquisition.
• Individuals and Societies.
• Sciences.
• Mathematics.
• The Arts.

Students also complete the programme's core requirements, including Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service.

The IB Diploma is internationally recognised and can support applications to universities in different countries, subject to each institution's admission and recognition policies.

Entrepreneurship and Technology

Windermere Prep provides opportunities for students to explore entrepreneurial thinking, computer science, coding, and technological innovation.

These activities can help students develop creativity, problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and an understanding of how technology is used in modern industries.

The school also incorporates technology into learning spaces through digital tools and specialist equipment.

Admission Requirements

Windermere Preparatory School follows a selective admissions process. Applications are accepted throughout the year, and admission requirements vary according to the student's age, grade level, academic background, and intended programme.

The school welcomes domestic and international applicants for its day and residential programmes.

Early Childhood Admission Requirements

Applicants seeking admission to Pre-K3, Pre-K4, or Kindergarten generally need to complete the following:

• Submit the online application form.
• Provide current school or preschool reports, where applicable.
• Submit teacher recommendations where requested.
• Complete the required admissions assessment.
• Participate in any additional evaluation arranged by the admissions team.

The school may request a campus visit or family meeting as part of the admission process.

Elementary and Middle School Admission Requirements

Students applying to elementary and middle school grades generally need to provide:

• A completed online application.
• Current academic reports.
• Previous school records.
• Teacher recommendations.
• Standardised or national achievement assessment results.
• Additional information requested by the admissions office.

Accepted assessments may include NWEA MAP, ISEE, Iowa Assessments, Sanford Achievement Test, and other approved testing options.

High School Admission Requirements

Students applying to Grades 9–12 may need to submit:

• Completed application materials.
• Current and previous academic reports.
• Standardised achievement test results.
• Teacher recommendations.
• Additional academic information requested by the school.
• An admissions interview or assessment, where required.

Students interested in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme should discuss their previous academic performance, subject preparation, and programme suitability with the admissions team.

International Student Requirements

International applicants must provide academic documents from their previous schools.

Documents issued in languages other than English require English translations prepared by the school or a certified translator.

Students applying for residential boarding may have an additional admissions process. This can include a student interview and an English proficiency assessment.

Families requiring US student immigration documentation should contact the school's admissions team to understand the applicable visa and financial documentation procedures.

Tuition Fees and Cost of Studying

Windermere Preparatory School is a private institution, and tuition varies according to grade level and whether a student attends as a day student or residential boarder.

For the 2026–2027 academic year, the school's published fees include different tuition arrangements for day students and international boarding students.

Published Tuition and Annual Fees

Programme	Tuition	Annual Activity / Student Fee	Total
Day School, Grades 9–11	USD 31,500	USD 1,675	USD 33,175
Five-Day International Boarding, Grades 7–12	USD 70,200	USD 4,500	USD 74,700
Seven-Day International Boarding, Grades 7–12	USD 87,750	USD 6,500	USD 94,250

These figures represent the published tuition and applicable annual activity or student fees for the listed categories.

Additional Charges

Families should also account for additional charges that may apply:

• New student fee: USD 1,500, one time.
• Additional international student fee for families requiring an I-20: USD 2,250.
• Grade 12 day-school activity fee: USD 1,875.
• Other incidental expenses, depending on the student's programme and arrangements.

Understanding the Total Cost

The total cost of attendance depends on grade level, residential arrangements, programme selection, and additional services.

International boarding students should carefully compare five-day and seven-day residential options before choosing a programme.

Families should also confirm what is included in the boarding package and whether additional expenses such as travel, personal spending, uniforms, or optional activities are charged separately.

The school's official fee schedule should be consulted before submitting an application or making payment because tuition and additional charges can change between academic years.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Windermere Preparatory School provides selected financial assistance opportunities for eligible families.

Unlike universities, private schools generally structure financial support around family financial need, academic recognition, and school-specific award policies.

Need-Based Financial Aid

The school offers need-based financial aid to eligible students applying for Grades 6–12.

Applications are evaluated confidentially through the Ravenna Financial Aid platform, which assesses the family's demonstrated financial circumstances.

Financial aid is limited, and families are encouraged to apply early.

Academic Honors Scholarship

Windermere Prep offers an Academic Honors Scholarship to selected incoming Grade 9 students.

The award recognises students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, personal growth, and meaningful involvement in their school or community.

This scholarship is invitation-only, and families should contact the admissions office for information about eligibility and selection.

Financial Planning for International Families

International families should discuss financial aid availability directly with the admissions office before making enrolment decisions.

They should also confirm whether an award applies to tuition only or includes any residential or additional expenses.

Families should not assume that every applicant automatically qualifies for financial assistance.

Campus Facilities and Accommodation

Windermere Preparatory School operates a campus of approximately 48 acres in Windermere, Florida. Its facilities support academic instruction, residential life, sports, creative activities, and student wellbeing.

Academic Facilities

The campus includes modern classrooms, learning spaces, science facilities, technology resources, and specialist educational environments.

Students can use digital learning tools and subject-specific equipment to support classroom activities and practical learning.

Innovation and Technology Facilities

The school encourages students to explore technology through activities involving:

• Robotics and coding equipment.
• 3D printing.
• Digital learning tools.
• Innovation-focused activities.
• Technology-supported classroom instruction.

These facilities encourage creativity, experimentation, and problem-solving.

Cypress Center for the Arts

The Cypress Center for the Arts is a professional-grade performing arts facility with a 535-seat auditorium.

Students can participate in theatre, music, dance, voice, and visual arts activities.

The facility also provides a venue for performances, creative presentations, and school events.

Boarding Accommodation

Windermere Prep offers residential accommodation for students in Grades 7–12.

Its residential programme includes five-day and seven-day boarding options for eligible students.

The boarding environment is designed to provide a supportive residential community with dedicated staff and structured student activities.

Sports and Recreation Facilities

The school provides athletics and recreational facilities that support sports participation and physical development.

Students can explore different sporting activities according to their interests, age group, and programme availability.

Residential students can also participate in organised activities outside normal classroom hours.

Student Life

Student life at Windermere Preparatory School combines academic learning with sports, arts, extracurricular programmes, leadership activities, and cultural experiences.

The school encourages students to discover their interests and develop confidence through participation in activities beyond the classroom.

Clubs and Extracurricular Activities

Students can explore extracurricular opportunities connected to academics, creativity, technology, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.

Activities may include:

• Academic clubs and competitions.
• Coding and technology activities.
• Entrepreneurship programmes.
• Music and performing arts.
• Visual arts and creative projects.
• Community service initiatives.

Participation helps students develop teamwork, communication, leadership, and organisational skills.

Arts and Creative Development

The school's arts programmes provide opportunities to explore music, theatre, dance, and visual arts.

Students can develop their creative interests through classroom instruction, performances, productions, and other artistic activities.

Athletics and Sports

Sports form an important part of the school's student experience.

Students can participate in athletic programmes and recreational activities that encourage fitness, teamwork, discipline, and personal development.

International Community

Windermere Prep welcomes students from different countries and backgrounds.

This international environment provides opportunities for cultural exchange and helps students develop an understanding of different perspectives.

Residential students can also build friendships through shared activities, supervised boarding experiences, and campus events.

International Student Support Services

Windermere Preparatory School provides support for international students through its admissions team, residential programme, and wider school community.

International Admissions Assistance

The admissions team assists international families with application procedures, academic documentation, grade placement, and programme selection.

Families can contact the school for clarification about required documents and admission assessments.

Boarding and Residential Support

International boarding students receive residential support through the school's Residential Life programme.

The boarding environment is designed to provide supervision, structured activities, and a supportive community for students living away from their families.

Immigration Documentation

International families requiring student immigration documentation should coordinate with the admissions office.

The school can provide guidance on the documentation required for the applicable student visa process.

Visa eligibility and approval remain subject to the relevant US immigration authorities.

Academic and Personal Development

Teachers provide academic guidance and personalised support to help students progress through their chosen educational pathways.

Students can also participate in activities that support social development, confidence, independence, and emotional wellbeing.

Cultural Adjustment

International students may need time to adapt to a new education system, language environment, and residential routine.

The school's international community and residential programme provide opportunities to develop friendships and become familiar with American school life.

Research Opportunities and Experiential Learning

Windermere Preparatory School encourages students to develop practical knowledge through projects, academic activities, technology, creativity, and experiential learning.

Its educational approach aims to help students apply classroom knowledge to real-world questions and challenges.

International Baccalaureate Research

Students enrolled in the IB Diploma Programme complete an Extended Essay, an independent research project that explores a topic connected to one of their academic interests.

The process helps students develop research methods, academic writing, independent thinking, and information evaluation skills.

Technology and Innovation Projects

Students can explore robotics, coding, 3D printing, and technology-related activities.

These experiences encourage experimentation, collaboration, creativity, and practical problem-solving.

Entrepreneurial Learning

The school's Entrepreneurial Studies programme introduces students to business concepts and entrepreneurial thinking.

Students can explore innovation, business ideas, teamwork, and the development of practical skills relevant to modern professional environments.

Arts and Experiential Activities

Students can develop their interests through music, theatre, visual arts, dance, and performance opportunities.

Academic subjects may also be connected with seminars, field trips, and interdisciplinary activities.

Community and Global Learning

The school encourages students to develop international awareness and participate in activities that connect learning with broader social and cultural issues.

These experiences can help students become more independent, thoughtful, and globally aware.

Career Opportunities and Employment Prospects

Windermere Preparatory School is a college-preparatory institution rather than a university or professional training provider.

Its main objective is to prepare students for higher education and future professional pathways through academic development, extracurricular participation, and personal growth.

University Preparation

High school students receive college-planning guidance to help them explore university options, understand application requirements, and prepare for further education.

Students can receive support with:

• University research and selection.
• Academic planning.
• Application preparation.
• Personal statements and essays.
• Understanding admission requirements.
• Exploring scholarships and financial aid.

Academic Pathways

The school's academic curriculum can prepare students for different university disciplines.

School Academic Area	Potential Future University Fields
Mathematics and Computer Science	Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering
Biology and Chemistry	Biological Sciences, Medicine-related study, Biotechnology
Business and Entrepreneurship	Business Administration, Economics, Finance
English and Humanities	Literature, History, Law-related study
Social Sciences	Psychology, Political Science, Sociology
Visual and Performing Arts	Fine Arts, Music, Theatre, Design
Environmental and Natural Sciences	Environmental Science, Sustainability, Scientific Research

These are potential academic pathways rather than guaranteed career outcomes.

College Counselling

College counselling supports students as they prepare applications to universities in the United States and other countries.

The school reports that its graduates have progressed to a range of highly regarded universities.

However, university admission depends on each student's academic record, application strength, chosen institution, and admission requirements.

Studying in Windermere, Florida

Windermere Preparatory School is located in Windermere, a community in Orange County near Orlando, Florida.

The area offers a suburban environment with residential neighbourhoods, recreational spaces, shopping facilities, and access to the wider Orlando metropolitan region.

Location and Connectivity

The school is located at 6189 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Windermere, Florida.

Orlando provides access to an international airport, entertainment attractions, cultural activities, shopping centres, and other community facilities.

Students and families can explore the surrounding region for recreational and educational experiences.

Living Environment

Windermere offers a residential environment with green spaces and access to local services.

International boarding students can live on campus through the school's residential programme, while day students generally travel from their family homes.

Families should consider transportation, accommodation, healthcare, personal expenses, and other living arrangements when planning their child's education.

Recreational and Cultural Opportunities

The Orlando region is known for its entertainment attractions, recreational activities, shopping destinations, and cultural experiences.

Students can explore opportunities to learn about the local community and participate in activities outside school, subject to school schedules and family arrangements.

Application Deadlines and Important Considerations

Windermere Preparatory School accepts applications throughout the year through a rolling admissions process.

Families can enquire about availability for their intended grade and academic term.

The school has also announced applications for the 2027–2028 academic year.

Important considerations include:

• Grade placement: Confirm the appropriate grade according to the student's age and previous academic records.
• Academic documents: Prepare current and previous school reports.
• English translations: Arrange certified English translations of international academic records.
• Admissions assessments: Check the required standardised or school-administered testing.
• Boarding applications: Complete the separate residential admissions process for Grades 7–12.
• English proficiency: Confirm whether an English-language assessment is required.
• Financial planning: Review tuition, annual fees, additional charges, and boarding expenses.
• Financial aid: Check eligibility and application deadlines for need-based assistance.
• Immigration documents: Contact the school regarding student visa documentation where applicable.
• Accommodation: Confirm residential availability before finalising travel arrangements.

Since applications are accepted on a rolling basis, families should contact the admissions office early to understand available places and complete the required assessments.

How to Apply as an International Student

International families can follow these general steps when applying to Windermere Preparatory School.

Step 1: Select the appropriate grade

Determine the correct grade based on the student's age, previous education, and academic records.

Step 2: Choose day or boarding admission

Decide whether the student will attend as a day student or apply for the residential programme.

Boarding applications are available for Grades 7–12.

Step 3: Complete the online application

Submit the school's application form with accurate student and family information.

Step 4: Prepare academic documents

Collect current school reports, previous academic records, and teacher recommendations where required.

Step 5: Arrange English translations

Ensure that international academic records are translated into English by the school or a certified translator.

Step 6: Complete admissions testing

Submit accepted standardised achievement test results or complete the assessments arranged by the admissions team.

Step 7: Attend the required interview

Boarding applicants may be invited to a student interview and may need to complete an English proficiency assessment.

Step 8: Review the admission decision

After receiving an admission decision, review the grade placement, tuition fees, residential arrangements, and enrolment instructions.

Step 9: Complete financial arrangements

Submit required payments and complete the documentation related to tuition, boarding, and any applicable financial assistance.

Step 10: Prepare for arrival

International families should coordinate with the school regarding immigration documentation, accommodation, travel, orientation, and the student's first day.

Conclusion

Windermere Preparatory School offers a private college-preparatory education for students from Pre-Kindergarten 3 through Grade 12. Its academic environment combines traditional subjects, advanced coursework, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, arts, athletics, and technology-based learning.

The school's residential programme for Grades 7–12 provides an additional option for international families seeking a boarding-school experience in Florida.

Its focus on personalised learning, extracurricular development, college preparation, and international exposure makes it an institution worth exploring for families planning secondary education in the United States.

Before applying, families should carefully review grade-specific admission requirements, tuition and boarding costs, scholarship availability, academic programmes, and residential arrangements. Early communication with the admissions team can help ensure a smoother application and enrolment process.