Saint Mary's School Expanded Recruitment Efforts
The Raleigh boarding school is targeting Japan and Saudi Arabia to diversify its student body.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Secondary Education
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Saint Mary's School in Raleigh has launched an international recruitment initiative, with counselors scheduled to visit Dhahran and Tokyo in fall 2026. This effort aims to further diversify a student population that currently includes representatives from over 17 countries.
Why it matters
Expanding international reach allows the private school to broaden its global footprint and cultural diversity within its grades 9-12 enrollment. This push comes despite a challenging landscape for foreign students, following a year where federal authorities revoked thousands of visas.
Saint Mary's School currently serves students from more than 17 countries, with international students making up 11% of the total enrollment. The school is an Episcopal boarding and day institution that has operated in Raleigh since 1842.
The players
Saint Mary's School
This is a private independent Episcopal boarding and day school for grades 9-12 located in Raleigh, North Carolina.
United States Department of State
This federal agency is responsible for the issuance and revocation of visas for international students and other travelers.
The details
Admissions counselors will attend recruitment fairs and conventions in Japan and Saudi Arabia to connect with prospective families. Applicants from these regions will undergo a comprehensive review process, including personal interviews, transcript submissions, teacher recommendations, and potential language testing.
Timeline
Saint Mary's School was established in 1842.
The State Department revoked 8,000 student visas in 2025.
Admissions counselors will travel to Japan and Saudi Arabia in fall 2026.
Roadmap
The school's international outreach efforts demonstrate a commitment to global education despite tightening federal immigration controls. This strategy mirrors broader trends among independent boarding schools seeking to maintain diverse campuses amid shifting international visa policy environments.
Prospective international families should ensure all documentation meets current requirements given the 2025 federal visa revocation trends. Local residents may see an increase in international visitors on the Raleigh campus as recruitment efforts progress through 2026.
The takeaway
Schools are increasingly prioritizing global outreach to ensure a diverse student environment regardless of international enrollment barriers. Prospective students should focus on early application preparation to navigate the complex visa landscape effectively.
What happens next
Admissions counselors are scheduled to travel to Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, and Tokyo, Japan, in fall 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about the local educational landscape in Raleigh Secondary Education.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The North State Journal.
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