You are typically NOT considered an international applicant if you have American citizenship, regardless of whether or not you are attending a high school in the US. You would be considered out-of-state for tuition and application purposes, but not international. Really this question is more about the enrollment goals of the university and whether or not they choose to count you towards their international student numbers or not. As far as applying, it does not have a significant effect on the process.

At some colleges, your application will be read by the international admission team as they as they are responsible for your region and often more familiar with the school curricula and other aspects related to student life in that area. However, when it comes down to choosing an expat vs an international student, you often have the advantage as you are eligible for federal aid and do not have the burden of providing proof of finances.

Although you are considered a domestic student, you have the benefit of the international experience and hopefully language skills you have gained while living outside of the US. These are great assets to highlight in your applications. How has your international experience shaped you? What can you bring from this to your future campus? I help guide my students to focus on and add activities to their resume which will enhance their application and demonstrate their uniqueness. We also find creative ways to include these international experiences in their essays.   

Our next post in our expat series focuses on how to apply for financial aid as a US expat.