Tessa International School

1. General Information

About (Overview)

Tessa International School is an independent, multilingual institution located in Hoboken, New Jersey, known for its innovative approach to early childhood and elementary education. The school provides a globally focused curriculum that integrates immersive language learning with rigorous academic standards. Students at Tessa International School benefit from a multicultural environment where languages such as French, Mandarin, and Spanish are taught through full immersion programs, encouraging fluency and global awareness from a young age.

The school’s philosophy is rooted in fostering intellectual curiosity, cultural understanding, and independence, ensuring that each student becomes a confident learner and a responsible global citizen. With small class sizes and a nurturing environment, Tessa International School emphasizes individualized instruction, critical thinking, and creativity. The school is dedicated to developing well-rounded students who are equipped to thrive in an interconnected world, both academically and socially. Its international outlook, combined with strong academic systems, sets it apart as a leader in bilingual education and progressive learning models for primary-aged students.

Contact Informations

Address: 720 Monroe Street, Hoboken, New Jersey, 07030, United States
Phone Number: +1-201-755-5585
Email Address: admissions@tessais.org

School Facts

CategoryDetails
Founding Year2017
MottoInspiring Global Citizens
TypePrivate International School
Languages OfferedFrench, Spanish, Mandarin
Academic LevelsPreschool to Elementary
School ModelBilingual Immersion

Tessa International School Rankings

Ranking CategoryPosition
Best International Primary Schools in New JerseyTop 5
Top Bilingual Immersion Schools in the U.S.Recognized
Innovation in Early EducationHighly Rated
Global Curriculum ApproachDistinguished

2. Tessa International School Academics

Faculties / Departments

  • Early Childhood Education Department
  • Elementary Education Department
  • Language Immersion Department
  • Arts and Creativity Department
  • Physical Education and Wellbeing
  • Global Citizenship and Cultural Studies
  • Student Support and Enrichment Services

Courses and Programs / Majors

  • Bilingual French Immersion Program
  • Spanish Language Immersion Track
  • Mandarin Immersion Program
  • Core Math and Science Curriculum
  • Global Social Studies Curriculum
  • Arts, Music, and Movement Classes
  • Cultural Exchange and World Studies Modules
  • Early Literacy and Language Development
  • STEAM Exploration Labs

Online Learning

Tessa International School places strong emphasis on in-person immersion learning; however, digital tools are integrated into classroom activities to supplement lessons and provide flexible learning options when needed. During times of remote education, the school offers virtual language sessions, interactive cultural lessons, and digital assignments to maintain language development and academic continuity.

While there is no full online degree-equivalent path, students benefit from technology-enhanced instruction, allowing them to access resources, communicate with teachers, and participate in group activities virtually. The digital learning environment is carefully designed to uphold immersion principles by incorporating multimedia language exposure and interactive storytelling sessions. The school believes that a blended learning approach can reinforce skills outside traditional classroom settings while still prioritizing face-to-face interaction for cultural and linguistic immersion.

Average Test Scores

TestAverage Score Range
Internal Language Proficiency AssessmentAbove 85%
Reading and Literacy BenchmarksAbove National Average
Math Progress EvaluationsConsistently High Performance

Retention and Graduation Rates

Retention rates at Tessa International School are exceptionally high due to strong parental satisfaction, engaging curriculum, and effective bilingual development programs. Families often choose to keep their children enrolled throughout the available grade levels because of the school’s supportive community and progressive academic environment.

While Tessa does not have traditional graduation rates like high schools or universities, student continuation into higher-level bilingual programs and successful transitions into competitive middle and elementary schools reflect the program’s success. Many students demonstrate advanced language proficiency and critical thinking skills when advancing to the next stage of their education, which indicates positive academic outcomes and high retention satisfaction.

3. Tessa International School Admissions

GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range

As an early education and elementary institution, Tessa International School does not require GPA, SAT, or ACT scores for admission. Instead, the school evaluates applicants through developmental readiness assessments, language exposure evaluations, and family interviews to determine alignment with bilingual immersion goals. Admissions staff focus on a child’s curiosity, adaptability, and readiness to engage in a multilingual environment rather than standardized academic scores. For older grades, teacher recommendations and previous school records may be considered to support smooth integration into the immersion program.

Tessa International School Acceptance Rate

CategoryPercentage
Estimated Acceptance Rate40% – 50%

Tessa International School Application Requirements

The application process at Tessa International School is designed to be welcoming while still ensuring that the school can meet the educational needs of each student. Parents are required to submit an online application form along with basic student information, previous school records if applicable, and vaccination documentation. A family interview or school tour is often scheduled to provide insight into the immersion experience and academic expectations.

For language programs, the school may conduct observational sessions to understand a child’s adaptability and comfort with immersive instruction. The admissions team values cultural openness, parental engagement, and enthusiasm for international learning. Rather than focusing on academic scores, the school aims to admit families who are committed to supporting a multilingual educational journey.

Application Process

  • Submit online inquiry or application form
  • Provide previous school or daycare records
  • Schedule campus tour or family interview
  • Participate in language readiness observation if required
  • Receive admissions decision
  • Complete enrollment documentation

Tessa International School Application Deadlines / Important Dates

EventDate
Application OpensFall Season
Priority DeadlineJanuary
Family InterviewsWinter
Decision NotificationsEarly Spring
Enrollment ConfirmationSpring

Essay Prompt

While Tessa International School does not always require a formal essay from students due to their age range, parents may be asked to complete a statement of interest explaining their goals for their child’s bilingual education. This written statement helps the school understand family values and determine alignment with Tessa’s mission of raising culturally aware global citizens.

Tessa International School Scholarships

Tessa International School offers limited tuition assistance programs and financial aid options for qualifying families. Scholarships are need-based and aim to make bilingual immersion education accessible to a diverse population. Families are encouraged to apply early for consideration, as financial aid resources are allocated based on both demonstrated need and available funding.

Tessa International School Tuition and Fees

CategoryCost (Approximate Annual)
Preschool Program$20,000 – $25,000
Elementary Level Tuition$25,000 – $30,000
Application Fee$75
Additional Program FeesVaries

4. Student Profile and Demographics

Student Demographics

The student population at Tessa International School is diverse, reflecting its international mission and bilingual focus. Students come from multilingual households, expatriate families, and local communities seeking global education opportunities. Ages range from preschool to elementary levels, and cultural representation includes a wide mix of backgrounds. Ethnic and linguistic diversity is celebrated and integrated into classroom themes, cultural festivals, and language days.

Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities

Tessa International School believes in inclusivity and makes efforts to provide financial assistance to families who may not otherwise have access to international immersion education. The school also accommodates students with mild learning differences by offering tailored support and close teacher communication. With small classroom sizes, teachers are able to focus on individual developmental needs, ensuring that every student, regardless of background, receives attention and personalized guidance.

Student Body

CategoryDetails
Total StudentsEstimated 150 – 200
International FamiliesPresent
Financial Aid RecipientsAvailable
Languages RepresentedMultiple

University Diversity

Diversity is an integral part of Tessa International School’s identity. Unlike traditional schools, Tessa incorporates diversity into its core academic and cultural framework by embedding global perspectives into daily learning. Students learn about international customs, participate in multilingual celebrations, and engage in cultural sharing projects that broaden their worldview from an early age. The school community includes families from around the world, which nurtures acceptance and open-mindedness. This daily exposure to varied languages and customs fosters empathy and prepares students to navigate multicultural environments with confidence and respect. Tessa’s commitment to diversity extends beyond representation by actively promoting cultural curiosity and cross-cultural communication within curriculum design and school events.

Average Earnings

As an institution focused on early education, Tessa International School does not track graduate earnings like universities do. However, the long-term benefits of bilingual education and global awareness have been widely recognized in academic research. Students who begin language immersion early are more likely to develop high cognitive flexibility, enhanced communication skills, and a strong foundation for academic excellence in later years. These skills translate into future career advantages, as bilingual individuals often have higher earning potential in fields such as international business, diplomacy, technology, and education. Tessa’s progressive approach sets its students on a trajectory that supports future academic success, leadership, and professional competitiveness in a globalized job market.

5. Tessa International School Faculty and Staff

Teachers and Staff

The faculty at Tessa International School consists of highly trained educators who specialize in bilingual immersion and early childhood education. Many teachers are native speakers of the languages they instruct, ensuring cultural authenticity and proper linguistic modeling. Staff members are selected not only for their academic qualifications but also for their passion for multicultural education and ability to nurture young learners. Support staff, administrators, and academic advisors work collaboratively to maintain a safe, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating environment for all students.

Faculty Profiles

Faculty members at Tessa International School often hold international teaching certifications and have experience in global education systems. Many have taught in multilingual environments around the world and bring valuable cross-cultural teaching methodologies into the classroom. Their achievements include curriculum innovation, language program development, and active participation in international education forums. Teachers maintain ongoing professional development to stay at the forefront of bilingual education practices, ensuring that students receive a world-class learning experience.

6. Tessa International School Campus and Student Life

Campus Life / Housing

Tessa International School offers a vibrant campus environment designed to support creativity, exploration, and language interaction. The school features modern classrooms, interactive play spaces, language-specific cultural corners, and creative arts areas. Since it is a day school, student housing is not provided, but the campus community fosters a family-like atmosphere where students engage in collaborative projects, cultural celebrations, and language immersion activities. Extracurricular offerings include music, dance, world art workshops, and international celebration days that encourage students to express themselves and explore new interests.

Transportation

Located in an accessible urban area, Tessa International School is easily reached by local families using public transportation, private car services, or school-recommended commuting partners. The school ensures safe arrival and dismissal procedures with organized drop-off zones and staff supervision. Families who commute from nearby cities often arrange carpool networks to streamline transportation. The campus layout supports easy navigation for young children, with secure entry points and monitored mobility inside school grounds to ensure student safety at all times.