圣玛丽女子学校 (St. Mary's Girls School)
Welcome to Saint Mary's School!
At Saint Mary’s School, we challenge girls academically – to be BOLD, to be INSPIRED, to be PREPARED and to become EXTRAORDINARY.
When girls enroll at Saint Mary's School, they are a part of a long legacy of women – alumnae who have come from every walk of life, from across the United States and around the world. Here, girls are accepted and empowered in their learning; to grow spiritually and socially. They are recognized for their unique talents, passions, and interests – and those yet to be discovered.
They also grow in confidence, amplify their voices, and discover who they want to become.
We are excited to welcome you to Saint Mary’s and hope to see you on campus very soon. In the meantime, take a look around our website and learn more about our academics, athletics, arts, clubs, organizations, faculty, staff, and our fantastic outcomes. And remember:
Here the Bonds of Friendship Strengthen.
VISIT SAINT MARY'S
- The International Student Experience
- Why all Girls?
- Why Boarding School?
- Matriculation & College Counseling
- In-Person Campus Visits
- Take a Guided Virtual Tour
- Virtual Visits
- Prospective Family Events
- Meet Our Alumnae
- Our Spirit: Traditions
- Clubs & Organizations
- Contact the Admissions Office
The International Student Experience
Saint Mary’s School is pleased to welcome international students from around the world to share our beautiful campus in Raleigh, North Carolina.
As we fulfill our mission to educate young women for college and life, we recognize the need to include the global perspectives our international students bring. Just as you can learn more about the U.S. educational system and culture, our U.S. students will learn about you, your culture, and your beliefs. What you might be most surprised by is not how many differences there are, but how much all Saint Mary’s girls have in common - a love for learning, a commitment to their communities, and a desire to succeed.
Saint Mary’s recognizes that coming to a new school in a different country can present unique challenges. That's why we have an established support system to help you navigate your first year here and make you feel at home quickly. Our Global Ambassador Program (GAP) Prefects, are selected student leaders who live in each dormitory and are focused on the needs of our international students. They are here to answer questions, help with homesickness, and offer advice and friendship. In addition, you will have a faculty advisor with whom you will meet at least three days each week. Your advisor will guide you through your academic program at Saint Mary's, as well as oversee all aspects of your student life at Saint Mary's.
If you have scheduled a meeting with the Admission Office, please print this form, fill it out, and bring it with you to your meeting.
Thank you!
Admission Requirements
International students applying to Saint Mary’s School must possess a strong command of English. We do not offer English as a Second Language (ESL), so our students must be prepared to meet the demands of a competitive curriculum in English. In addition, we are looking for applicants who have a strong desire to engage fully in the Saint Mary’s community, whether through sports, music, dance or clubs. Our goal is to provide an environment where international students truly feel that they are having an “American high school experience” and where English is the common language for all students.
To that end, only 10% of our students are international, ranging from 5-10 international students per grade. Within each grade we are deliberate in selecting a group of students who represent different geographic regions and cultures.
Saint Mary's School welcomes applications from qualified international students. A completed application for admission consists of the following items:
Application deadline is January 30
- A completed online or paper application
- $100 application fee
- Official high school transcript(s)
- Teacher recommendation forms
- Satisfactory scores on the Secondary School Admission Test (SSAT)
- An internet-based TOEFL score of 90 or above. PLEASE NOTE: We do not accept the SLEP or TOEFL, Jr.
- A personal interview. Interviews can be completed on campus or via SKYPE
Applicants will be notified of Admission decisions on March 10, 2021.
Important Information Regarding I-20s
In order to accept our offer of admission, all admitted students are required to complete the online enrollment forms and submit a non-refundable enrollment deposit. In order to obtain an I-20, tuition and fees must be paid in full. We will not mail I-20s until payment has been made in full and the payment has cleared. Therefore, please do not schedule your visa interview prior to May 20 in order to have time to make payment and receive your I-20. If you are currently attending a school in the US and need to have your I-20 transferred, please give your school official the SEVIS code, ATL214F10254000, for Saint Mary's School. All I-20s will be shipped via UPS.
Financial Aid
International Student Financial Aid Form must be submitted to Victoria Maurer, Assistant Director of Financial Aid and Admissions vmaurer@sms.edu. Families are also required to complete the Parent Financial Statement.
Why all Girls?
At Saint Mary's, Girls Take Center Stage
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.
GIRLS TAKE CENTER STAGE IN ALL-GIRLS LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS.
ALL-GIRLS LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS CREATE A CULTURE OF ACHIEVEMENT.
A GIRL OCCUPIES EVERY ROLE IN ALL-GIRLS LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS.
ALL-GIRLS LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS EMPOWER STUDENTS TO BECOME BOLD LEADERS.
ALL-GIRLS LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS CHAMPION THE EDUCATIONAL NEEDS OF GIRLS AS A GROUP CURRENTLY UNDERREPRESENTED IN STEM MAJORS AND CAREERS.
ALL-GIRLS LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS CAPITALIZE ON GIRLS' UNIQUE LEARNING STYLES.
STUDENTS IN ALL-GIRLS LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS STRIVE FOR GREATNESS.
STUDENTS IN ALL-GIRLS LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS ARE SUPPORTED BY A COMMUNITY OF PEERS, TEACHERS, AND SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS.
ALL-GIRLS LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS ENGAGE STUDENTS IN ACTIVITIES THAT PREPARE THEM FOR LIFE BEYOND THE CLASSROOM.
IN ALL-GIRLS LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS THERE ARE NO STEREOTYPES ABOUT WHAT GIRLS LIKE OR WHERE THEY EXCEL.
IN ALL-GIRLS LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS GIRLS ARE FREE TO FIND AND USE THEIR VOICE AND SPEAK WITHOUT INTERRUPTION.
STUDENTS GRADUATING FROM ALL-GIRLS LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS ARE MORE ENGAGED IN CIVIC ISSUES AND LIFE.
Girls’ school grads are 6x more likely to consider majoring in math, science, and technology, compared to girls who attend co-ed schools.
3/4 of girls’ school grads consider college a stepping stone to graduate school.
93% of girls’ school grads are very or
extremely satisfied with their school’s
ability to provide individualized attention.
Research provided by Art & Science Groupe, LLC and the National Coalition of Girls' Schools

What the research shows
According to recent research, graduates of all-girls schools have a definitive edge over their co-educated peers, including
- having stronger academic skills;
- being more academically engaged;
- demonstrating higher science self-confidence;
- displaying higher levels of cultural competency;
- expressing stronger community involvement;
- exhibiting increased political engagement.
Research provided by Higher Education Research Institute (HERI) at the University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA); Dec. 2018.
The Girls' School Advantage: By the Numbers
Why Boarding School?
People and Programs - Boarding & Residential Life
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.
Meet some of our seniors!
Matriculation & College Counseling
Students are at the center of Saint Mary's College Counseling program, which emphasizes finding an ideal fit where a student will thrive.
College Decision Day Video, 2021
Our Mission
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.
Although the college search process formally begins in the eleventh grade, you and your family have the benefit of access to your college counselors as early as ninth grade. The college counselors at Saint Mary's School offer support to you and your faculty advisor on questions related to academic planning and preparation for college.
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.
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100% of graduates admitted to 4-year colleges
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8:1 student-to-faculty ratio
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Average class size is 14 students
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80% of faculty hold advanced degrees in their fields, including 5 PhD’s
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Accredited by the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS)
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Member of the National Coalition of Girls’ Schools, National Association of Independent Schools, Southern Association of Independent Schools, North Carolina Association of Independent Schools, the National Association of Episcopal Schools, The Association of Boarding Schools
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College Counselors are members of the National Association for College Admission Counseling, the Southern Association for College Admission Counseling, and the Association of College Counselors in Independent Schools
Morgan Phillips
Director of College Counseling
919-424-4117
mphillips@sms.edu
Click here for more about our College Counseling staff.
In-Person Campus Visits
Individual Campus Visits Available!
Saint Mary's School offers prospective day and boarding families applying for the 2021-2022 school year the option to visit campus. Individual visits may include touring Saint Mary’s campus, one-to-one meetings with faculty/staff and conversations with current students. Individual day visits can be scheduled Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Every person interested in visiting campus must submit a screening form prior to arriving on campus. Screening forms must be received 24 hours prior to your arrival to campus. Once approved for campus access by our security and facilities directors, an admission staff member will reach out to you regarding your itinerary and additional arrival details.
Click here to request an individual visit. Visits are not considered confirmed until your screening forms are approved and you hear from a member of the admission staff. You may also contact the Admission Office directly at 919-424-4100 or admission@sms.edu to schedule your campus visit or for more admission information.
R.S.V.P. for these exciting events!
Family Visitation Days
September 29, 2021
November 12, 2021
January 18, 2021

Lunch 'N Learn Events
Head of School Lunch 'N Learn
October 7, 2021
Student Life Lunch 'N Learn
October 21, 2021
College Counseling Lunch 'N Learn
November 4, 2021
Seminar Program Lunch 'N Learn
November 18, 2021
Academics Lunch 'N Learn
January 6, 2022
Athletics & the Visual and Performing Arts Lunch 'N Learn
January 20, 2022
Boarding 101 Lunch 'N Learn
February 3, 2022
Academic Support Services Lunch 'N Learn
February 17, 2022
Admission Events
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Smedes-Emory Parlor
Take a Guided Virtual Tour
Welcome to Saint Mary's guided campus tour!
Experience the spaces on Saint Mary's beautiful, historic 23-acre campus – virtually. Simply click on the numbered videos below and enjoy exploring all Saint Mary’s has to offer.
MEET MATILDA '21
Your Tour Guide
Select a location
Learn more about Saint Mary's!











What's the Saint Mary's difference? We know you want more than just a classroom experience.
That's why our Academic and Student Life teams work together to make sure your Saint Mary’s experience doesn’t end with your last class of the day. The possibilities are endless for you to explore your interests and discover who you are and who you want to become.
Leadership education is integrated into all activities across campus. You will be challenged to ask questions and examine the “why” of things as you are empowered to speak up and speak out. You will enjoy the freedom to be you – the REAL you, as you develop a personal sense of accountability and respect for yourself and others. And you will utilize the resources found in our urban Raleigh location, to contemplate how your actions impact our school, our wider community, and even our world.
Whether joining a club, running for student government, dancing the night away at Winter Formal, traveling to a mixer off campus, or working in the school’s community garden, you will be an important part of our vibrant living and learning community. And no matter what you choose to do, you can be sure your classmates and the network of dedicated adults will be there to encourage and celebrate you every step of the way.
Student Life News
Throughout Saint Mary’s history, clubs and organizations have been an integral part of student life. Today, Saint Mary’s boasts clubs that have been active on campus for more than a century as well as those launched and created by students just this year.
The annual club and organization assembly in Pittman Auditorium and club fair on the lawn was held Monday, September 20, to introduce this year’s clubs, facilitate students signing up for open membership groups, and officially kicking off the year’s club activities.
Virtual Visits
Can't visit in person? No problem!
Here's a chance to experience an engaging academic presentation virtually!
21st Century Learning
Quick Video Tour
Virtual Lesson Video
Raleigh Tour
What parents say about Saint Mary's!
Dad of three SMS girls
Mom of two SMS girls
Mom of Class of 2020 graduate
MEET REBEKAH (mom)
Grade(s) of Child(ren)
CC, Class of 2023 | Day Student
MEET BROOKE (mom)
Grade(s) of Child(ren)
Emmy, Class of 2025 | Boarding Student
MEET COLLEEN (mom)
Grade(s) of Child(ren)
Amelia, Class of 2025 | Boarding Student
Meet some of our seniors!
Prospective Family Events
Dear Prospective Saint,
At Saint Mary's School, we know girls. We know what you need to learn, grow, and thrive. We are a place where you will find the courage to be yourself, expand your horizons, and open your heart and mind to new ideas and experiences. Our dynamic 24/7 learning and living community is the perfect place to make friends from around the state, the country, and the world - all while achieving academically and learning more about who you are and who you want to become.
Come for a visit and see for yourself. Tour the campus, sit in on a class, spend the night on dorm. This is the best way to know if Saint Mary’s is the right school for you.
We can’t wait to meet you!
Warmly,
Kim Slade
Director of Enrollment and Financial Aid
Admission Events
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Smedes-Emory Parlor
Meet Our Alumnae
Our Spirit: Traditions
Our Spirit: Traditions
After more than 175 years, Saint Mary's has cultivated a wealth of traditions to mark important milestones, honor achievements and celebrate girls. Sharing in these traditions connects students with the generations that came before them and gives girls the courage to make their own special mark at Saint Mary's.
ANNUAL EVENTS
Students look forward to yearly events like Sigma-Mu Day, Spirit Week, Truckin' in the Grove food truck rodeo, Lighting O' the Grove, Honor Week, Winter Formal, Prom, Spring Fling, Dance Off, and commencement, to name just a few.
SCHOOL RING
Saint Mary's iconic black onyx school ring bears the school seal and the student's class year. Saint Mary's rings are often passed from grandmother to mother to daughter. Students receive their ring at a formal ring banquet in the fall of their junior year. The Saint Mary's school ring unites students with an international network of Saint Mary's alumnae.
SCHOOL HYMN
The Saint Mary's School Hymn ties students to the school's spiritual foundation. Students sing it, arm-in-arm with friends and teachers in Chapel and at special events, and carry it with them far beyond Saint Mary's gates.
CONVOCATIONS
Academic convocations open and close each school year. In August, the opening academic assembly kicks off the first day of classes. In the spring, the Honors Convocation recognizes and celebrates students, faculty, and staff for outstanding academic achievements and contributions to school life.
OUR EPISCOPAL HERITAGE
At the heart of saint Mary's legacy is a rich Episcopal heritage, which informs the school's values and calls everyone in the community to respect the dignity of every human being and strive for justice and peace among all people. The historic Saint Mary's Chapel is the center of spiritual life on campus. A student vestry works closely with Saint Mary's chaplain, who leads worship and spiritual formation programs. Our chaplain is available to the entire Saint Mary's community for pastoral care, counseling, and spiritual guidance. Learn more about the Chapel program here.
Truckin' in the Grove, 2021
College Decision Day, 2021
Traditions & Fun at Saint Mary's
Clubs & Organizations
Discover new passions, rekindle old favorites and grow as a leader through participation in Saint Mary's many clubs and organizations.
Giving of yourself as part of the Saint Mary's community is an important part of life at the school and participating in one or more clubs and organizations available at the school makes it easy. Club members meet during Flex Times or other identified times and are encouraged to collaborate with other clubs when executing a project or event.
Whatever your interests, you will find something to inspire you to express yourself and grow as a leader. Check out all the clubs and organizations you can explore by clicking here.
Contact the Admissions Office
Contact Us
To learn more about our curriculum, extracurricular activities, and campus calendar, or for more admission information, please contact:
Admission Office
Saint Mary’s School
900 Hillsborough Street
Raleigh, NC 27603-1689
919-424-4100
919-424-4122 (Fax #)
admission@sms.edu
See the Visitor Center for information on accommodations, directions to Saint Mary’s School, local attractions, and a guided campus tour.
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