Experience a welcoming campus and world-class learning
Choosing a university abroad is about more than academics — it’s about finding a supportive community where you can grow personally and prepare for your future. At Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, international students thrive in a welcoming environment that values learning, connection, and belonging.
Saint Mary’s Winona Campus is surrounded by the bluffs of the Mississippi River Valley and just minutes from a safe, vibrant river town. Enjoy dining, shopping, art, and festivals — plus four beautiful seasons filled with new experiences.
“
Saint Mary’s gave me the chance to balance academics and basketball, with scholarship support that made it possible. Studying Biology opened doors, including experiences at the Mayo Clinic. What really stood out were the small classes — my professors knew me, pushed me, and one in particular challenged me in ways that shaped my future. Saint Mary’s has been a great community where I’ve felt supported and connected.“
Francis (Fran) Perroud, Argentina
2024 Graduate, Biology
What you need to apply
Apply to Saint Mary’s online – no application fees!
Submit a general evaluation of transcripts from one of the following agencies: One Earth, Educational Perspectives, SpanTran, World Education Services, or Education Credential Evaluators.
Provide an official score report from an approved English language proficiency exam. Minimum scores: TOEFL 72, IELTS 6.0, Duolingo 105.
All English language proficiency requirements, waiver countries, application requirements, and details can be found here.
Tuition and scholarships
International students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships — no separate application required. Awards can cover up to 65% of tuition (excluding living expenses and fees), require on-campus residency, and are renewable each year.
Explore other Saint Mary’s scholarships (eligibility varies).
International student support
The undergraduate International Center is your hub for support and guidance throughout your time at Saint Mary’s. Our dedicated staff helps international students feel confident, connected, and supported by offering personalized assistance in areas such as:
- Pre-arrival advising
- I-20 issuance and F-1 visa guidance
- Academic support
- Work authorization (on-campus employment, CPT, OPT)
- Cultural engagement and community connections
- Transportation and medical appointments
Supporting you every step of the way — explore resources available to all students:
After you are admitted
After you receive your admission offer, a member of the International Center team will personally contact you to guide you through the next steps toward studying in the U.S. You’ll receive support every step of the way to stay organized, on track, and ready for your arrival on campus.
Your Next Steps
- Complete the Application for Form I-20
Your International Center advisor will email detailed instructions and a secure link to submit your I-20 application, financial documents, and passport copy. - Receive Your Form I-20
You’ll receive your official I-20 by email, which you’ll need to apply for your F-1 visa. - Apply for Your F-1 Visa
Your advisor will guide you through paying the SEVIS I-901 fee, completing the DS-160 visa application, and preparing for your embassy or consulate interview. - Prepare for Travel
Receive guidance on course registration, housing, airport transportation, important dates, and U.S. entry procedures before you depart. - Arrival and Orientation
The International Center will arrange your transportation to campus, and your U.S. journey begins with New International Student Orientation.
General Information:
Cost of attending 2026 -2027
Tuition*: $47,680
Room**: $6,690
Board (food): $5,250
Activity fee: $190
Technology fee: $440
Laundry fee: $80
Orientation fee: $60 (one-time fee that covers one-way airport pick-up)
Total: $60,390
*Additional Expenses May Apply:
Medical insurance: $500-1,000 per year (estimated)
Books: $600-900 per year (estimated)
Airfare & Personal Expenses: varies by student
**Additional fees may apply for certain residence halls.
FAQ's
No, applying to Saint Mary’s is free!
Yes, after a transcript evaluation.
After admission, the International Center will send you the Application for Form I-20. Once you receive your I-20, you can submit your F-1 visa application (DS-160) and schedule your embassy or consulate interview.
No. Both fees are required. The I-901 SEVIS fee is separate from the DS-160 application fee.
Contact your International Center advisor immediately. They will guide you on deferral or other options.
● La Crosse Regional Airport (LSE) – 30 minutes from Winona campus ● Rochester International Airport (RST) – 1 hour from Winona campus ● Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport (MSP) – 2 hours from Winona campus
Yes. The International Center hosts a required orientation covering academics, culture, and F-1 regulations. You will also participate in Welcome Week programming with all new students.
International students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week during the semester. The International Center can help you find jobs and obtain a Social Security number.
You can apply at any time. However, your F-1 visa appointment should be scheduled at least a month before the semester start date.
You can apply up to 365 days before your program start date (listed on your I-20). Applying early is recommended.
Yes. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security requires all F-1 applicants to pay a one-time I-901 SEVIS fee. It should be processed at least three business days before your visa interview. Keep the receipt for your interview and U.S. entry.
Yes, you need an I-20. No F-1 visa is required for entry, but you must have: ● A valid I-20 from Saint Mary’s ● Your SMU admission letter ● Proof of I-901 SEVIS fee payment ● Canadian passport (valid at least six months beyond your entry date) ● Copy of course registration ● Financial documentation used for I-20 issuance A border inspector will review your documents and issue your I-94 (most often electronic), which the International Center will help you retrieve after arrival.
You may arrive up to 30 days before your program start date listed on your I-20. Campus move-in dates are set by the International Center, typically a week before classes begin.
Yes, the International Center arranges transportation for new international students.
Yes. The International Center will guide you through the process.