We know girls and we know the all-girl learning environment at Saint Mary's School inspires girls to step outside their comfort zone, engage their minds, amplify their voices, and discover who they are and who they want to become.

Our faculty utilize teaching and learning strategies that capitalize on the strengths of girls - like opportunities for collaboration, self-expression, and self-directed learning. Our curriculum and programming offer a wide array of liberal arts subjects and out-of-class activities to give girls the choice they want. And real-world learning experiences add an additional layer to the Saint Mary's experience to provide girls with learning that is relevant and meaningful for them.

Meet our Seniors!

12 Fast Facts About Girls Schools

Visit The National Coalition of Girls Schools for information about girls' schools including 12 Fast Facts and recent research supporting the value of girls' schools.

A 360-degree Approach

At Saint Mary's School, you are at the center of your high school experience and surrounded by a community of adults and peers who know you and who are dedicated to helping you succeed. 

Boarding school prepares students for college and life like no other educational environment. 

At Saint Mary's School, you can immerse yourself into an exciting 24/7 learning and living community. Here, you will find a home-away-from-home with Saint Mary's 360-degree approach to high school. A team of educational experts works together to guide you in academic and extracurricular course selection, college essays, and more. Extended access to campus facilities, additional time spent with teachers and peers, and a vibrant downtown Raleigh location, further enrich your experience as you discover your unique talents, interests, and life goals.

It's about community.

Residential faculty and students live together in an inclusive and respectful community and work together to create and sustain an environment where

• students are known and their voices are heard;
• the dignity and worth of every person is valued and respected; 
• adults living on campus are accessible and dedicated to helping students gain confidence and independence
• students grow intellectually, socially, culturally, and spiritually;
• students are able to take healthy risks by stepping outside of their comfort zones;
• students and adults learn the power of philanthropy and servant leadership
• students learn to make good decisions, see the "big picture," and live intentionally in community with one another.

The residential community at Saint Mary's School offers regular residential programming to empower students to confidently be themselves, grow in independence, and make healthy, informed and ethical decisions.

For more information about the benefits of boarding schools, visit The Association of Boarding Schools.

College Counseling at Saint Mary's is grounded in developing meaningful partnerships with our students to encourage personal reflection and self-awareness as they progress through high school and on to college. We support our students every step of the way through intentional programming in Seminar classes, beginning in ninth grade. Individual meetings begin upon request by students in ninth and tenth grades and are expected to continue monthly beginning in the winter of junior year. As students move confidently through the college search process, we work closely as a supporter and advocate through the applications process and eventual matriculation. Students are encouraged to bring self-reflection and authenticity to the college search as we work together to identify strengths and talents, promote academic and personal growth, and help foster their independence. We invite parents to participate as partners on this journey by attending meetings, programming, and being available for conversation along the way.

The College Counseling Office consistently provides opportunities for Saint Mary's students to assist in the preparation of applying to colleges and universities. They will guide you through the process of identifying and applying to colleges and universities that best fit you based on your academic profile, interests, and goals. They host nearly 100 college representatives on campus each year from both domestic and international institutions and regularly visit other college and university campuses across the country. As COVID-19 guidelines are updated, our college counselors will once again begin visiting colleges and universities across the U.S. Although your path and progress are in your control, you will have the support of the College Counseling Office along the way.

Traditionally, each year, one hundred percent of Saint Mary's seniors are accepted for admission at a wide array of selective colleges and universities. We are heartened by the success Saint Mary's girls experience in the college application and selection process. A willingness on the part of students to explore the educational options that exist at the local, regional, national and international levels allows them to leave the Saint Mary's community and move forward in their educational pursuits successfully.

Our college counselors encourage and welcome your questions, and look forward to working with you.