Sending your student across the world for high school is a serious investment in their future, and a big step for your family. We don't take it lightly. Students here come from more than 30 countries, and while they're with us, we're their family in America: their teachers, their dorm counselors, and a whole community that looks out for them.
Your student will be part of a genuinely global family — students from more than 30 countries who lead their own cultural celebrations and share in American ones. They'll get serious college preparation, small classes, and the same 200% of life every student here receives: full academics, plus the focus and resilience to thrive far from home. 100% of our graduates go on to college, and one in three of them attends a top-50 university.¹
¹ Classes of 2020–2026 (U.S. News & World Report).
What to Expect
Your student lives in a closely supervised, on-campus dormitory, steps from class. Days are structured: classes, quiet study hours, chef-prepared meals (vegetarian and non-vegetarian), activities, and rest. Weekends bring trips, game nights, and celebrations. It's a warm, busy, well-run home — not a place anyone feels lost.
How We Care for Your Student
Being far from home should never mean being unsupported. We handle the things that worry parents most:
Language
Our English Language Learner (ELL) program meets each student at their level, assessed on arrival.
Visas & documents
We guide you through the I-20 process and keep passports and travel documents safe.
Travel
We help arrange airport pick-up and drop-off (Des Moines or Cedar Rapids) around breaks.
Breaks
Students may stay on campus over spring break, with supervision and activities.
Health & well-being
Every boarding student meets our school mental-health professional early in the year, and academic tutoring is available.
Applying From Abroad
Every international student's situation is a little different, so our Director of Admissions guides your family personally. In short:
01
Apply online
A short application ($30 fee) with your student's most recent transcript.
02
Send scores
SSAT (preferred), TOEFL, or a similar English test, plus a recommendation and a short essay. (Maharishi School's SSAT code is 4770.)
03
Interview
In person or by video.
04
Accept & get your visa
Once you accept and sign your student's enrollment contract, we begin the I-20 process and help with visa interview preparation and enrollment.
Priority for a fall start is April 1 (decisions by April 15); for spring, November 15.