International Student Program | Minneapolis Prep School

FAQ

Answers to the most asked questions.

Are college and/or advanced courses available?

At Maranatha, we offer several Advanced Placement (AP) courses. We also partner with local colleges to provide classes on-site, which allows our students to take university courses and earn college credit while remaining at Maranatha's campus.

In addition, we work with universities such as Harvard, Berkeley, MIT to offer online courses.

Can international students participate in athletic programs?

International students are allowed to participate in junior varsity level or below athletic (according to the Minnesota State High School League policies).

Students are also able to participate in clubs and activities such as Robotics, Strategy Games, Adventures Club, Gaming Club, and many more options.

Is academic counseling provided?

Maranatha's Academic Counseling program engages students early, so they can plan for a successful transition from high school to select universities across the country.

During orientation, the Director of International Student Academics meets with students to map out a course for success based on each students' goals and needs. This plan is reviewed each semester to ensure the student is on track.

The Dean of Academics and Career Counseling works with each student to prepare them for top-level universities and help them stay on task as they work toward their goals.

Is there an ESL or ELL program?

International students are enrolled in ELL class to help with the cultural transition to an American high school and develop academic English and vocabulary proficiency. Language assistance is offered throughout the student’s time at MCA.

The Director of International Student Academics is available for ongoing support, especially in essay writing and high-level reading comprehension, as well as to assist students in their preparation for postsecondary education.

Is tuition assistance available?

Tuition levels for international students take into consideration many factors and may vary depending on the inclusions of the program. Please contact the school if you have questions or concerns.

Questions can be directed to admissions@mcamustangs.org

What colleges or universities do Maranatha graduates attend?

Below is an example of the universities and colleges our recent international student graduates have been accepted for enrollment.

Northeastern University
Purdue University - West Lafayette
Rutgers University
Texas A&M University
University of California - San Diego
University of California - Irvine
University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
University of Sidney
University of Southern California
University of Washington
University of Wisconsin - Madison

In addition to the above list, students graduating from Maranatha have been accepted at some of the nation's best universities:

Brown University
Carlson School of Management-University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Cornell University
Dartmouth University
Duke University
Johns Hopkins University
Harvard University
Northwestern University - Evanston, Illinois
Pepperdine University
Rensselaer Polytechnic University
And more...

What housing arrangements are available?

Maranatha has experienced host families, most of which have students of their own who attend our school.

Maranatha's administration personally visits each host family. Host families attend an orientation that sets expectations for their role in nurturing and assisting an international student in adjusting to American culture.

Our families contribute to an international student's well-being and success, including personal guidance, transportation to and from school, and encouragement in academics and activities/socializing.

What is the Duolingo English Test (DET) score requirement?

A minimum DET score of 75 or above is required for academic enrollment.

For applicants scoring a DET of 70 or below, an alternative English Language Academic Pathway Program is available.

Please contact the ISP Director at InternationalAdmissions@mcamustangs.org for more information.

When does the school year begin?

The 2026–2027 school year will begin on Monday August, 24, 2026 and end on May 29, 2027.

New international students should arrive in Minnesota no later than August 16, 2026, approximately 10 days before the start of the school year. During this time, international students will acclimate to their host homes, adjust to the time change, attend a 3-day orientation (8/18–20) and a get-acquainted outing, take placement tests for math and English, choose course schedules, prepare for classes, and attend back-to-school events.
Returning international students should arrive in Minnesota no later than August 19, approximately a week before the start of the school year. If a returning student is playing athletics, they will need to arrive by August 16. Returning international students still need a few days to adjust to the time zone, move back into their host homes, prepare for school, and attend back-to-school events, including an orientation on August 20, 2026.

Welcome, International Students!

Our International Student Program blends authentic American Christian culture with academic preparation for top U.S. universities.

Since 1978, we've formed students who are not just academically prepared, but genuinely ready for life.

International Student Testimonial

Hear from Julia, Class of 2026

Cultural Ambassador Scholarship

Meet

Melanie Hurlbut

International Student Program Director

FAQ

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