Direct Answer
Yes, Riverside Girls High School accepts international students for both 2026 and 2027. According to the NSW Department of Education’s capacity update of 1 June 2026, the school is listed as “open” for international enrolments in both years. For 2026, places are available in Years 7, 8, 9, and 10. For 2027, this expands to include Year 11 as well, covering Years 7 through 11. The school does not have a designated catchment area for international students, meaning enrolment is not restricted by where you live; however, homestay availability is limited. Riverside Girls High School offers EAL/D (English as an Additional Language or Dialect) support, making it a strong option for students who need language assistance. As stated by the NSW Department of Education, the capacity data used in this article is a guide only and there is no guarantee placement (subject to availability and assessment). International student enrolments are subject to capacity, availability, and assessment by DE International. All information is current as of the 1 June 2026 capacity update and may change.
Open Year Levels: 2026 vs 2027
The NSW Department of Education’s 1 June 2026 capacity update shows a notable difference between the two intake years.
- For 2026: Riverside Girls High School has capacity in Years 7, 8, 9, and 10. Year 11 is not listed as open for 2026. This means that if you are planning to start in 2026, you should target entry at one of these four year levels.
- For 2027: Capacity expands to include Year 11, with open places in Years 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11. Year 12 is not listed as open in either year, which is consistent with many NSW public high schools that typically do not accept international students into their final year due to the HSC examination schedule and the need for sufficient time to settle and complete coursework.
This pattern reflects a common strategy: the school offers a wider range of entry points for the following year, giving students more flexibility if they are planning ahead. If you are considering Year 11 entry, 2027 is the only option currently available. For students aiming for Years 7–10, both years are viable.
Catchment Area and Accommodation
Riverside Girls High School does not have a designated catchment area for international students. This is a significant advantage because it means your place is not tied to a specific residential address within a school zone. For domestic students, catchment areas often dictate enrolment, but for international students, the school can accept applicants from anywhere in Sydney or beyond.
However, the school reports limited homestay availability. Homestay is the primary accommodation option for international students under 18, arranged through DE International’s approved providers. Limited availability means that while homestay is technically possible, it may not be guaranteed for every applicant. You should factor this into your planning and, if possible, secure homestay arrangements early in the application process. If homestay is not available, students and their families may need to explore other DE International approved accommodation options or consider living with a guardian who meets the department’s requirements. The school’s location in Inner Western Sydney—approximately 8 kilometres from the CBD—offers good access to public transport, which can expand accommodation options beyond the immediate neighbourhood.
English Language Support (EAL/D)
Yes, Riverside Girls High School offers EAL/D (English as an Additional Language or Dialect) support. This is a structured program designed to help international students improve their English proficiency while integrating into mainstream classes. The school does not have a separate intensive English centre on site; instead, EAL/D support is provided within the regular school framework.
This is particularly important because the school accepts students from Year 7 upward, and younger students may need more language support. The EAL/D program typically includes small-group or individualised instruction, assessment of English levels, and coordination with subject teachers to ensure students can access the curriculum. If you are a student with intermediate or lower English skills, this support can be a key factor in your success. For students with very low English proficiency, DE International may recommend an intensive English centre (IEC) before starting at the school, but this is assessed on a case-by-case basis.
School Profile
Riverside Girls High School is a comprehensive (non-selective) government high school for girls, located in the suburb of Gladesville, in Sydney’s Inner Western region. The school is approximately 8 kilometres from the Sydney CBD, making it accessible via bus routes and close to the Parramatta River. It has a student population of around 800–900, spanning Years 7 to 12.
The school is known for its strong academic focus, with a particular emphasis on the creative and performing arts. It offers a range of extracurricular programs including drama, music, and visual arts, as well as sports and leadership opportunities. While it is not academically selective, it has a reputation for producing strong HSC results and has a well-regarded support system for students with diverse needs. The school’s motto, “Honour the work,” reflects its commitment to diligence and achievement. The campus features modern facilities including a library, performing arts centre, and sporting fields.
Who This School Suits (And Who It Doesn’t)
Who it suits: Riverside Girls High School is an excellent fit for female international students who are looking for a supportive, well-rounded education in a suburban setting close to the city. The EAL/D program makes it particularly suitable for students who need English language support, especially those entering in Years 7–10. The lack of a catchment area means you are not restricted by where you live, which is helpful for families who may move during the student’s time in Australia. The school’s strong arts program also suits students with interests in music, drama, or visual arts. The 2027 opening of Year 11 places makes it a viable option for students planning to complete their HSC at the school.
Who it doesn’t suit: The school is not co-educational, so it is not suitable for male students or those who prefer a mixed-gender environment. Limited homestay availability may be a barrier for students who cannot arrange their own accommodation or who require guaranteed homestay. If you need Year 12 entry, this school is not an option in either 2026 or 2027. Similarly, if you are planning Year 11 entry for 2026, you will need to look elsewhere. The school’s comprehensive nature means it may not suit students who are seeking a highly selective or academically accelerated environment, though it does offer extension opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Riverside Girls High School accept international students in Year 11?
Yes, but only for 2027. According to the NSW Department of Education capacity update of 1 June 2026, Year 11 is listed as open for 2027 but not for 2026. If you are planning to start Year 11 in 2026, you will need to consider other schools. For 2027, you can apply for Year 11 entry.
Do I need to live in a specific catchment area to attend Riverside Girls High School as an international student?
No. The school does not have a catchment area for international students. This means your enrolment is not dependent on living within a particular geographic zone. However, you will need to arrange accommodation, and homestay availability is limited, so securing accommodation early is recommended.
Does Riverside Girls High School offer EAL/D support?
Yes. The school provides EAL/D (English as an Additional Language or Dialect) support for international students. This program helps students improve their English language skills while participating in mainstream classes. It is available across all year levels that accept international students.
Can I apply for Year 12 at Riverside Girls High School?
No. Year 12 is not listed as open for international students in either 2026 or 2027. This is standard practice for most NSW public high schools, as Year 12 is a critical HSC year and students typically need to have completed Year 11 at the same school to meet curriculum and assessment requirements.
What is the homestay situation at Riverside Girls High School?
Homestay availability is limited. While it is possible to arrange homestay through DE International’s approved providers, there is no guarantee placement (subject to availability and assessment). If homestay is not available, you may need to consider other approved accommodation options or live with a guardian who meets DE International’s requirements. The school’s location in Inner Western Sydney means there are transport links to a wider area, which may increase accommodation options.
Data Source and Methodology
All capacity data in this article comes from the NSW Department of Education International Students Capacity Update dated 1 June 2026. This update provides a snapshot of which schools are open or closed to international enrolments for the upcoming two academic years, along with specific year-level capacities and notes on catchment areas, homestay availability, and EAL/D support. Please note that this data is a guide only. Places are subject to availability and assessment by DE International. The information may change at any time. For the most current details, refer to the NSW Department of Education’s official school finder or contact DE International directly.
Sources
- NSW Department of Education International Students Capacity Update, 1 June 2026.
- NSW Department of Education School Finder: education.nsw.gov.au/school-finder (accessed July 2026).