International Students at SMS
When should I arrive at St. Margaret's?
You should arrive on the first day of orientation for new international students. The school will provide transportation from Dulles or Reagan National airports in Washington, DC, and Richmond International Airport in Richmond, Virginia.
Will I have an orientation to the school once I get there?
Don't worry, we will be awaiting your arrival! Once you arrive at St. Margaret's School, you will be greeted by the Head of School, Mrs. Broad, the Director of International Student Programs, Mrs. Bohon, as well as other faculty members and students. After spending the night on campus, you will have the next day to orient yourself around campus. At this time, you will have a chance to tour the campus, make changes in your class schedule, meet your teachers and academic advisor, take care of financial matters, and ask any questions you may have. In addition, you will have a town tour and time for local shopping to purchase items for the first few weeks of school. The international orientation lasts two full days before the arrival of our new American students and returning students from last year. It allows plenty of time for getting to know each other, getting to know the school, and having fun!
Will I have an advisor?
Yes. All students are assigned an advisor at the beginning of the school year. You will have the chance to meet yours during orientation. Your advisor is a member of the faculty who has a special interest in working with international students. He or she will help you throughout the year with such things as scheduling your classes, grades, and other concerns. Often they become one of the closest adult friends you have here on campus. In addition, Mrs. Bohon is the Director of International Student Programs and is available to help all international students here on campus.
Will I take an English Test when I arrive?
Yes. All international students are given the Secondary Language English Proficiency (SLEP) exam during the orientation period. This test will help to place you in the appropriate level English class.
In addition, all international students will take the TOEFL in the spring.
We also encourage those international students in the eleventh and twelfth grades
to take the SAT test in preparation for college. During the academic day, students are not
allowed to wear blue jeans to class so you will want to have nice shorts, skirts, slacks, or dresses. You will also need dresses and skirts for church and formal occassions. Finally, each year we celebrate the cultures of our international
students on "International Day." This is a wonderful time to wear native costumes and clothing that reflect your country and culture. Those students who will not be returning home before spring should bring these items in August, if possible. Most international students find it helpful to bring at least $100.00 in
American currency for purchasing necessary items for the first few weeks of school. Orientation will include a trip to a local shopping mall so students should bring extra money for shopping.
Do I need to have medical insurance?
All international students are required to be covered under medical insurance while they are here. We offer three international insurance medical plans through the school. The Bronze Plan is $39.00 per month, the Silver Plan is $49.50 per month, and the Gold Plan is $59.50 per month. We recommend the Gold Plan because it offers the best health coverage. The fee for this insurance may be charged to your student account or paid for separately. Contact Business Manager Nancy Smith with questions.
What should I bring?
As you begin packing, please remember that you will be
sharing a space with a roommate and your room and closet may be smaller than what you are used to at home. Bring clothing for a variety of temperatures, a coat for winter and a light-weight
jacket for fall and spring. Also, bring a swimsuit and athletic shoes for outdoor fun.
Who should my parents contact if they have questions?
Anytime your parents have a concern, question, or need information, they
should contact Leslie Bohon, Director of International Student Programs, your advisor, or Margaret Broad, Head of School, who is always available and happy to talk to your parents. Mrs. Bohon and Mrs. Broad can both be reached through the main school number (804)-443-3357.
Below are the most frequently asked questions with answers
about the International Program:
