Study in America with Confidence
At The International School of Minnesota (ISM), students benefit from
rigorous academics, personalized support, and the unique advantages of
belonging to both a close-knit international school and the global SABIS®
Network. With students representing more than
30 nationalities, ISM offers an
educational experience that is academically ambitious, internationally minded,
and deeply supportive.
Rated #1 Best Private K–12 School in MN by Niche for four consecutive years
AP® School Honor Roll Platinum distinction
AP® School Honor Roll Platinum Distinction for three consecutive years
57-acre campus designed to support academics, athletics, and the arts
Personalized college counseling beginning in Grade 7
Families from around the world choose ISM because it combines the opportunities of an American college preparatory education with the personalized support of a close-knit international community. Here, students are challenged academically, supported individually, and prepared to succeed wherever their future takes them.
At a Glance
- Minnesota's #1 Private School
- #1 College Prep Private High School in Minnesota
- #1 Best Boarding High Schools in Minnesota
- AP Platinum Recognition
- Boarding Available Starting Grade 8
- Students from 30+ Nationalities
- Member of the SABIS® Network, Educating Students in 21 Countries Across 5 Continents
- Personalized College Counseling
- Preparation for Top Universities Worldwide
Founded in 1985, The International School of Minnesota is Minnesota's #1 private school and the state's #1 college preparatory private high school for four consecutive years. With students representing more than 30 nationalities and boarding available beginning in Grade 8, ISM provides international students with a personalized education designed to prepare them for top universities in the United States and around the world.
When students enroll at ISM, they join more than a school—they become part of the SABIS® Network, a globally recognized educational system serving students in 21 countries across 5 continents.
While students benefit from the personalized support and close-knit environment of ISM, they also become part of a broader international community connected through a shared commitment to academic excellence. With students representing more than 40 nationalities on campus and thousands more across the SABIS® Network, students develop the global perspective, cultural awareness, and connections that help prepare them for success in an increasingly interconnected world.
This global network provides students with the advantages of a proven academic framework, a worldwide community of peers and alumni, and a strong track record of university success at leading institutions around the globe.
A successful university journey begins long before the application process.
At ISM, students are challenged through a rigorous college preparatory curriculum designed to develop critical thinking, communication, leadership, and academic confidence. Small class sizes and personalized support allow students to build strong relationships with teachers while pursuing their individual goals and interests.
As an AP Platinum school, ISM offers advanced academic opportunities that help students prepare for the expectations of university-level study. Students also receive individualized college counseling and guidance throughout the university search and application process, ensuring they are well prepared to make informed decisions about their future.
Whether students plan to attend university in the United States or elsewhere in the world, they graduate with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed in higher education and beyond.
View 2025 University Acceptances Across the SABIS® Network →
Education at ISM extends well beyond the classroom. Students are encouraged to explore athletics, arts, leadership, service, and extracurricular opportunities that help build confidence, friendships, creativity, and independence.
Whether participating in competitive athletics, performing arts, student leadership, academic clubs, or specialized opportunities such as basketball development connected to NBA mentorship, students are supported in discovering their passions while maintaining a strong academic balance.
ISM offers a well-rounded educational experience designed to help students grow in every dimension.
ISM Sports Academies are designed for students who want to pursue their athletic goals without compromising their education. Launching with Basketball Academy, the program combines elite training, performance development, mentorship, and competitive opportunities within a top-ranked college preparatory environment.
As additional academies are introduced, students will have access to specialized pathways that support both athletic growth and long-term academic success—preparing them for opportunities in university athletics, higher education, and beyond.
ISM Basketball Academy
Led by experienced coaches and featuring mentorship from an NBA veteran, the ISM Basketball Academy combines skill development, strength and performance training, competitive exposure, and leadership development within ISM's college preparatory environment. Students train with purpose while continuing to receive the academic support and university guidance that define the ISM experience.
In addition to ISM’s sports academies, we offer a range of varsity athletic opportunities including volleyball, basketball, soccer, golf, softball, and track and field. Whether students are experienced athletes or looking to try a new sport, our athletic programs provide opportunities to grow their skills, build lasting friendships, and represent the school in a competitive and supportive environment.
ISM’s 57-acre campus offers a peaceful and inspiring learning environment. Surrounded by nature and close to Minneapolis, students enjoy both tranquility and access to vibrant city life.
Our Residence Hall offers a safe, comfortable home where boarding students build independence with full support. The modern, three-story facility that accommodates students in private or semi-private rooms and features recreation and fitness spaces, movie theater, common areas, 24/7 security, and live-in supervisors. Boarding is available from Grade 8.
Take the first step toward a bright future in the United States!
