“Our commitment is to provide an excellent education and enriched cultural experience to all international students whilst they are studying at St Mary’s College.”
St Mary’s College is committed to providing a world class education and is considered one of the top academic performing schools in New Zealand. Students’ are inspired by the diverse subject choice and supported to strive for high standards with around 95% of students graduating to universities around the world. The College is the oldest Catholic girls’ school in New Zealand with traditional values which develops the whole person with confidence and a strong sense of social justice. The school has 1000 students and spaces for 45 international students, so the level of care and support is exceptional.
Contact
Sue King – International Student Director
Tel: +64 9 376 6568 ext 817
Mob: +64 21 157 8776
[email protected]
Beverley Steward – International Dean
Tel: +64 9 3766568 ext 722
Mob: +64 21 025 05758
[email protected]
Join us at St Mary's
Students who wish to apply for Years 11, 12 or 13 must be at pre-intermediate English level. All students will be assessed individually.
Experience Life at St Mary’s
There is no better way to understand our school than to hear directly from our students and staff.
Our school video offers an authentic glimpse into daily life at St Mary’s, showcasing classrooms, student activities, leadership opportunities and the supportive community that defines the College.
See our campus in action, hear student stories and discover why families from around the world choose St Mary’s.
Academic Excellence that Opens Doors
Every parent wants confidence that the years invested in education will lead to meaningful opportunities.
At St Mary’s, students are supported to achieve outstanding academic outcomes through expert teaching, personalised learning pathways and a culture that encourages every girl to strive for her personal best.
Our graduates progress to leading universities in New Zealand and internationally, equipped with the confidence, qualifications and resilience needed to succeed in an increasingly global world.
Academic Highlights
- Strong NCEA achievement across all levels
- Excellent University Entrance outcomes
- Scholarship successes
- Personalised academic support
- University and career guidance
- Pathways to leading tertiary institutions
NCEA Result 2025
| Level 1 | 91% |
| Level 2 | 96% |
| Level 3 | 97% |
| UE | 89% |
The Advantage of Central Auckland
Auckland is New Zealand’s largest and most diverse city, making it an ideal destination for international students.
Students enjoy the advantages of a world-class education while experiencing the cultural, recreational and professional opportunities that come with living in a vibrant international city.
St Mary’s central location provides convenient access to public transport, universities, cultural institutions, sporting venues and Auckland’s thriving city centre.
Families appreciate knowing their daughters can enjoy the benefits of city life while remaining part of a close-knit and supportive school community.
Care & Support for Each Student
St Mary’s has four dedicated staff who look after the international students to make sure they are happy and successful. Each student has the support of an Academic Dean who sets realistic expectations and individual timetables, an International Director who looks after their overall wellbeing and a homestay coordinator if they are living in a school monitored homestay, and an administration and student support advisor. The school is very caring and the students are friendly, welcoming and respectful. A classroom buddy and international ambassador programme is established to help support the students during their first few weeks while they settle into school and find friends.
Outstanding Music School
The St Mary’s Music Department is world-renowned for its award-winning achievements and is recognised for musical excellence in New Zealand and abroad. St Mary’s College continues to provide superior music tuition which, over the years, has helped many acclaimed musicians realise their potential. Music is an important part of school life and music instruction is compulsory in Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9. There are many exciting musical opportunities for students at all levels to choose from, such as orchestras, symphonic and jazz bands and choral singing groups. Participation in music groups is also a wonderful way for students to make new friends.
Accommodation
International students can live with an approved caregiver (i.e. family member) or in an approved homestay that the school organises. All homestay families are police checked and meet strict criteria before they can host students.
Application Procedure
Students who wish to apply for Years 11, 12 or 13 must be at pre-intermediate English level. All students will be assessed individually.
It is recommended that students under 14 years need to live with a parent or guardian, the International Director will review each student’s circumstances and assess the circumstances of their living arrangements.