Mercy International Program
Welcoming Students Entering Grades 8-12 from around the globe!

Our Lady of Mercy’s International Program welcomes exceptional students, entering grades 8-12, from around the globe!

Students admitted to this competitive program receive personalized attention and have ample opportunity to improve their English language skills by fully integrating into the school community and culture. Mercy international scholars are high-achieving, strong English speakers and writers excited to engage fully in our community. 

Over the years, Mercy’s combined domestic and international student body has represented students from more than 30 nations.

Living & Learning in Rochester

International students will enjoy our thriving city year-round. Known as the “Festival City,” Rochester boasts festivals almost every weekend from late spring through the fall. It is also home to a vibrant culinary scene, performing arts, museums, and stunning natural attractions. Rochester is the third largest metropolitan area in New York State and is located on the southern shore of Lake Ontario.
Apply to Mercy in Six Simple Steps:

List of 6 items.

  • Online Application

  • Academic Transcript/Record

    A signed records release is required to give Mercy your daughter’s academic records, attendance and discipline reports, 504/IEP information (if applicable), and other pertinent information.
  • Entrance Exam

    Entrance exams are required and offered monthly, virtually or in-person. They include both math and ELA and take approximately 90 minutes to complete.
  • English Proficiency Scores

    All international applicants (non-English speakers only) are required to provide TOEFL or Duolingo scores.
  • Two Recommendations

    International applicants must submit TWO teacher recommendations from the Math and English teachers you have worked with within the past two years. 

    Teacher recommendations and transcripts must be in English and include an explanation of the grading scale.
  • Student Interview

    All international applicants must complete a virtual (Zoom) interview with a member of the Mercy Admissions Office. Please register for your interview in MercyLINK or email admissions@mercyhs.com for assistance.

Visa & Housing Information

List of 2 items.

  • Student Visas

    Mercy international students typically enter on J-1 or F-1 visas. Before international students can apply at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate for a student visa, they must first apply and be accepted by Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women. Upon acceptance and payment of the deposit and required fees, families will receive the Form I-20. Mercy will notify families when the I-20 is sent and do not advise scheduling an appointment for visa interviews before receiving it. Families will need to pay the I-901 fee in order to schedule the visa interview and may also be asked to provide a copy of the student’s acceptance letter. Please visit the U.S. Immigration and Customs and Department of Homeland Security websites for additional information about navigating the student visa process.
  • Accommodations

    As part of Mercy’s commitment to providing international students with a fully immersive experience, all international students are placed with local host families who have been interviewed and carefully selected.

    These family homes provide a warm and comfortable environment for Mercy international students. Each student will have their own room, wireless internet connection, access to laundry facilities, TV, and phone services. Rooms are fully furnished, with linen and bathroom amenities. Students will eat and participate in family activities, providing them with plenty of opportunities to learn more about U.S. culture and practice their English language skills. All families are located within driving distance of the school and host families will provide transportation for the student.
    Become a Host Family
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Your Daughter Will Thrive at Mercy!
Begin the Journey Today.

Phone: 585-288-7120    |    Fax: 585-288-7966    |    Email: info@mercyhs.com
Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women is a sponsored ministry of the Institute of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas and a member of Mercy Education.
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