"More younger Chinese students choose to go to US high schools, as more parents believe that this leads to a better education if their kids finally choose to go to US universities and colleges," said Yu Haoyang, founder of Global Intellect Consulting in Beijing, which prepares Chinese students to apply to US schools.

"They believe that US high schools offer better English-language and cultural training, and it is easier for their kids to master these skills and become more competitive," she said.

Rhodes noticed that Chinese students nowadays arrive at a younger age, with most starting in the ninth grade. "It's better for assimilation, worldview, and to get culturally immersed so that they are much more ready for the switch to college."

Tang at Brook Hill said: "The earlier the better."

He came for the 11th grade in 2009. "Back then, we came late, so it's harder to join an athletic group or a club, which decides your social circle." He was a substitute player on the soccer team.

Rhodes said that extracurricular groups often play an important role as international students assimilate into student life.

"(The groups) connect them with a different group and identify them as someone other than a boarding student," he said. "When a student comes later, it's more of a challenge."

He said a Chinese girl named Yiling came to the school for eighth grade.

"She's a cheerleader. She's very well-known. And she runs for student council office; she made the most of her time at The Brook Hill," Rhodes said.