International Student Admissions & Support
Wherever You Call Home, Welcome to the International Admissions Experience
At Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, we value respect, dignity, and belonging for all. We celebrate diversity and deliver a high-quality education that inspires every student to enrich the learning experience.
International students bring unique life experiences and global perspectives that make our university stronger and more connected to the world. For more than 112 years, Saint Mary’s has welcomed students from around the globe and supported them in reaching their academic and personal goals.
Whether you’re an undergraduate or graduate student, we’re ready to welcome you to Saint Mary’s!
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Our Global Community
26+ counties represented on our campuses. welcoming students from every part of the world.
International Student Definition & Community Support
You are considered an international student if you are not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and need a visa to study in the United States. Students with pending permanent residency are also classified as international students. If your status changes during the application process, please let us know so we can update your record.
At Saint Mary’s, a Lasallian Catholic university, we welcome students from around the world into a community grounded in respect, service, and dignity. Wherever you come from, you are part of our shared mission to learn, lead, and serve together.
Explore Campus Options & Student Life
We have two campuses in Minnesota for international students. Our Winona Campus is for undergraduates where students live on campus and enjoy a full college experience. The Minneapolis Campus is for graduate students, located near downtown with access to a diverse community and career opportunities.
Support from the Start
We are here to help you from day one. Our experienced staff will guide you through every step of the process — from completing your application to choosing the program that’s right for you. But our support doesn’t stop once you’re admitted. From the moment you arrive on campus, we’ll be here to help you along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Minnesota is located in the northern United States, about six hours by car or one hour by plane from Chicago. Minnesota offers the best of both worlds with a mix of vibrant cities, and beautiful natural landscapes including lakes, forests, and parks perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring. Experience all four seasons — from snowy winters to sunny summers — and enjoy the friendly culture known as “Minnesota Nice.”
Being Lasallian Catholic means Saint Mary’s is a welcoming and inclusive community grounded in faith, service, and respect for all people. We celebrate diversity and encourage all students to learn, lead, and grow together in a supportive environment.
While the application process is largely similar to that of domestic students, international applicants must submit additional documentation, including proof of English proficiency. For detailed instructions and requirements, please visit the Undergraduate International Student or Graduate International Student pages.
Saint Mary’s offers on-campus housing for undergraduate international students, with a variety of room types. To remain eligible for scholarships, international students are required to live on campus.
For graduate students studying in Minneapolis, campus housing is not available, but there are many apartments and shared rental nearby, within walking distance or a short commute.