International Student Services
We help you create a home away from home here at NMH — with trustworthy support to help you thrive
The Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) provides a range of programs and services especially designed for our international students and their families.
We offer immigration advising and support for international students with F-1 status, host an annual orientation for new international students, support students through our Global Ambassador program and student affinity groups, and communicate regularly with our students and their families.
OMA staff are your advocates in the NMH community and will help you connect with whatever NMH resources you need.
Immigration Advising
OMA staff will advise you on immigration matters throughout your time at NMH. International students with F-1 status are responsible for maintaining their status. We will meet with you individually and provide workshops about the rights and responsibilities related to your visa status.
OMA also encourages you to visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Study in the States website, which offers free government resources that explain the rules and regulations governing the international student process in the United States.
Global Ambassadors Program
Through the Global Ambassador Program, student leaders support NMH’s commitment to a globalized community and curriculum. Global Ambassadors (GAs) collaborate with OMA staff to design programming, raise awareness about international issues, and increase global understanding. GAs also directly support international students and their families and work with dorm staff and other campus offices, departments, and programs.
English as a Second Language (ESL)
If English is not your native language, Northfield Mount Hermon is an excellent place to perfect your skills while participating in a rigorous academic curriculum.
Our English as a Second Language courses give you the tools you need to read novels, write papers, and excel at taking tests in English. ESL courses are designed to help you gain confidence quickly through an engaging mix of instruction and activities, including class discussions, skits, role playing, and videotaped performances. You'll also have cultural lessons and take field trips.
Our diverse community — international students, representing 53 countries, comprise 25% of our student body — provides lots of opportunities to use your English with native speakers and classmates from all over the world. You can also join international and multicultural affinity groups to get involved in social, political, and educational activities.
Our experienced ESL teachers are committed to helping you make the transition to our mainstream classes and become successful with your English. They're happy to take the time to go over your writing, review some grammar, or talk with you. At NMH, we want you to be comfortable expressing yourself — because we really want to understand who you are.
International Student Orientation
At this special orientation program, you’ll meet fellow international students and become familiar with the NMH campus and culture before other students arrive. Your family members will have their own orientation program to help them become better acquainted with NMH, too.
This orientation is required for all new international students who have F-1 status. We also welcome new students who identify as international students, including students with U.S. citizenship who live outside the country, students with dual citizenship, students who have a green card or who are permanent U.S. residents, and students studying in the country on other visa categories.