CONSULTING BASED ON EDUCATION EXPERIENCE

Having traveled to China more than 30 times, Steve brings both his deep respect for Chinese culture and his passion for helping international students reach their academic goals. His extensive experience bridges two worlds—offering families trusted guidance in navigating U.S. education opportunities.

At Advantage-USA, every consulting relationship begins with a simple truth: the student—not the school—is the brand to be cherished.
Each student is a unique individual with social, emotional, spiritual, and educational needs. Our goal is to understand those needs and enhance them by finding the right-fit school—one that will help the student thrive, not just gain admission.

Through in-depth interviews and conversations, we learn who the student truly is—their strengths, personality, and goals. From there, we carefully match schools where the student can grow into a more confident, capable, and mature version of themselves. We don’t chase prestige for its own sake; we seek environments where students will flourish and excel.

Unlike many agencies, Advantage-USA is led by an educator, not a salesperson.
Steve has spent over 30 years in education, including teaching at two elite independent schools and more than a decade consulting international students. This background gives him a rare perspective—combining insider school knowledge with a mentor’s heart.

While other agencies may place a student and move on, we stay connected for the long term. Our students and families become part of the Advantage-USA community, where we continue to guide, mentor, and support them throughout their entire study experience in the U.S.

To find the “right-fit” school—every time.
Placing the right student in the wrong school can be a disaster. Our role is to guide and advise based on our understanding of both the student and the schools under consideration.
Our devotion is to the client, not the institution.

If you’re just beginning your search for an education consultant, start with a free introductory consultation.
This initial meeting allows both consultant and family to understand the importance of mutual trust and open communication—foundations of every successful partnership.

We offer a simple, transparent fee structure.
Our single-student consulting fee is $5,500 USD, payable as follows:

• $1,000 due upon signing the client contract
   
• Balance due when the first school application is submitted
   

No hidden costs, no confusing packages—just clear, professional service.

Every stage of the school search and application process is personally managed by Advantage-USA.

1. Discovery: We begin by learning about the student’s goals, personality, and academic record—while aligning these with the family’s hopes and expectations.
    
2. Research: Based on our understanding, we create an initial list of 5–8 potential “right-fit” schools.
    
3. Discussion: Together with the family, we evaluate each option’s strengths, challenges, and unique features.
    
4. Selection: The list is narrowed to 3–5 schools for final applications.
    

Throughout the process, we coordinate timelines, manage applications, and maintain communication with schools—so families can focus on supporting their student.

Many international families cannot visit U.S. campuses in person. If we haven’t personally toured a school, families can hire Advantage-USA to conduct a campus visit and provide a detailed report—including photos, impressions, and insights from on-site conversations.

The move to a U.S. school represents a major life transition. Adjusting to a new culture, routines, and social environment can be overwhelming for both students and parents.
Our continued connection with families provides a steady hand throughout this journey. We remain accessible to help with questions, cultural adaptation, and emotional support—ensuring a smooth and successful adjustment.

Students attending day schools typically live with an American host family. Advantage-USA has extensive experience identifying kind, caring, and well-vetted host families who open their homes to international students.

Some schools use outside agencies for host placements; however, Advantage-USA offers its own International Student Guardian Service (ISGS). Through ISGS, we:

• Interview and screen potential host families
   
• Provide cultural and relational training
   
• Remain available to both student and host 24/7
   
• Offer ongoing evaluation, counseling, and support to ensure a healthy, happy experience
   

The ISGS fee is separate from consulting services and varies depending on the school’s geographic region and local cost of living. Host family stipends also reflect these factors.

On average, families can expect an annual cost of $15,000–$25,000 USD (in addition to school tuition and fees).

While this may seem significant, it remains $15,000–$25,000 less expensive than most U.S. boarding school options, which now average $55,000–$65,000 USD per year.
In most cases, the day school option—with a strong host family—offers both financial savings and a more immersive American cultural experience.