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Why SCLA

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Finding the Right School for Your Student

As you search for the best school for your student, consider location, cost, academic excellence, teaching staff, environment, and opportunities for personal growth. These elements shape not only your student’s educational experience but also their personal development and future opportunities.

At St. Croix Lutheran Academy, we go beyond the classroom to provide a nurturing and Christ-centered environment where students are empowered to reach their full potential. Our rigorous academic programs foster a lifelong love of learning, preparing students for success in higher education and beyond. Our dedicated and experienced teachers are passionate about helping students discover their unique gifts and talents, while our close-knit, supportive community ensures every child feels valued and encouraged.

Beyond academics, St. Croix Lutheran Academy offers countless opportunities for students to grow personally and spiritually. Through leadership roles, extracurricular activities, and community service, students learn to apply their knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on the world. 

Academic Excellence

At SCLA, excellence in academics is nurtured and supported by our dedicated faculty and staff, 60% of whom hold master’s or advanced degrees.

University Guidance

Students are supported by the Guidance Department to be well prepared for the university. 

On-Campus Dormitory

The SCLA residence program offers a unique opportunity for international and American students to interact in secure and convenient on-campus accommodations. 

Courses and Curriculum

While maintaining high academic standards, SCLA supports a portion of its 500 students through its English as a Second Language (ESL) program. This structure enables matriculation of 99% of international students to top universities in America.

We support academic excellence through:

  • 10 AP courses
  • Four on-campus dual credit courses through Bethany Lutheran College
  • Exceptional faculty -- more than 60% of teachers hold advanced degrees
  • ESL during the school day at no extra cost
  • Dedicated teacher support time
  • Supervised after-school and evening study time
  • Peer tutoring
  • Ability grouping

ReaD MORE ABOUT OUR Courses and Curriculum

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10 AP Courses

ratio

13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

3 levels of ESL logo

3 Levels of ESL

countries

15+ Countries

enrollment

50+ Clubs and Activities

exam

Average SAT 1310


 

Student Mentoring

All new international students are matched with an American mentor for their first year of attendance. Each month mentors and mentees are involved in a group activity to build friendship and confidence in a new setting. American mentors and new international students often build lifelong friendships.

  • Acclimation help

  • International adjustment support

  • Ambassador, mentor, personal check-ins, peer support

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SCLA mentors and mentees enjoy downhill skiing.
SCLA mentors and mentees enjoy a variety of engaging activities.

 

Location

St. Croix Academy is located on a 30-acre, park-like campus, overlooking Thompson Lake, a few minutes from downtown St. Paul, Minnesota. We offer an affordable, university-preparatory program of education for grades 6-12 that has a reputation for excellence in a friendly and safe environment. The campus is within walking distance of over 50 shops and restaurants and is just 20 minutes from the MSP International Airport.

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Take the Tour

Why Minnesota

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Reputation for Excellence

St Croix Academy began its international program in 1995, and it has become an integral part of the school culture. For more than 20 years, international students have comprised 20% or more of the student body each academic year.

International graduates of St. Croix Academy are well-prepared to go on to top American universities, and have matriculated at NYU, Harvard, MIT, Penn State, Rutgers, and Boston University.  We help students thrive by providing support in the following ways:

SCLA caring teachers

 

Admissions Process


 

International Tuition and Fees

25-26 Total International Tuition and Fees $42,800
Tuition $28,300
Residence Fee (includes meals) $10,500
International Enrollment Fee (non-refundable; holds place at St. Croix) $4,000

Additional Costs