Engagement Types and Workflow Examples
At International Schools Consulting (ISC), we tailor our fees to the scope, duration, and complexity of each engagement. Below are typical structures to help you understand how we work with schools, boards, and families. Most projects begin with a brief, no-obligation discovery call to clarify needs and determine the best fit.
Student & Family Services
These services are typically offered on a flat-fee or package basis so families know costs up front. (School-commissioned recruitment or referral agreements can be structured separately, if appropriate.)
Initial Consultation (60–90 minutes)
Overview of goals, academic profile, and timeline; high-level recommendations.
Option A: Complimentary for prospective full-package clients
Option B: Flat fee applied as credit toward a comprehensive package
Comprehensive U.S. High School Placement (F-1/J-1)
School list development, application strategy, review of essays and forms, interview coaching, visa preparation guidance, and decision support.
Typical range (per student): tiered flat fee based on grade level and number of schools applied to
Single-Issue or Hourly Advising
For families needing targeted support (e.g., school list review, interview prep, or visa interview practice).
Billed hourly with a two-hour minimum; bundles available at a reduced effective rate
Leadership, Board & Faculty Services
These engagements are usually priced using a daily/project rate or retainer, depending on duration and intensity.
Board & Governance Workshops
Half- or full-day sessions on governance, roles and responsibilities, strategic planning, or Head-support best practices.
Priced per half-day or full day, plus travel and preparation time for customized content
Executive & Leadership Coaching
Ongoing 1:1 or small-group coaching for Heads, senior leaders, and emerging leaders.
Monthly retainer that includes a set number of sessions, asynchronous support, and resource sharing
Faculty Professional Development Programs
Custom workshops, retreats, or semester-long coaching cycles focused on teaching and learning, assessment, or culture.
Project-based fee determined by number of sessions, participants, and deliverables
Systems, Strategy & International Partnership Services
Work in this category is typically complex and multi-phase, so we use project-based and retainer models with clearly defined milestones and outcomes.
Strategic Planning & Institutional Growth Projects
Includes discovery, stakeholder engagement, draft plan development, and implementation support.
Fixed project fee with phased payments tied to major milestones
International Partnership & Dual Diploma Development
Market scan, partner identification, program design, agreement support, and launch planning.
Project fee set according to number of partners, travel requirements, and level of implementation support
Ongoing Advisory & Crisis Support
Priority-access advisory for Heads and boards, including crisis response, communications guidance, and governance counsel.
Monthly or quarterly retainer for a defined level of access and response time
Travel, Expenses & Custom Quotes
Travel & Lodging: Billed at cost for on-site visits, with prior approval of estimated expenses.
Hybrid & Virtual Options: Many services can be delivered fully online, reducing or eliminating travel costs.
Custom Proposals: After an initial conversation, ISC will provide a written proposal outlining scope, deliverables, timeline, and fee structure so you can make an informed decision.
For current rate ranges and to discuss the best structure for your needs, please contact ISC for a personalized quote.
