Rankings and Recognition at University of Saint Mary

The University of Saint Mary (USM) is a prestigious private Catholic institution located in Leavenworth, Kansas, offering a supportive environment for international students, including those from India pursuing higher education in the USA. As you plan for the next intake in Fall 2024 or Spring 2025, understanding USM's rankings can help you make an informed decision. USM is recognized for its academic excellence, student-centered approach, and commitment to holistic development. With a focus on small class sizes and personalized attention, it's an ideal choice for Indian students seeking quality education without the overwhelming scale of larger universities. Below, we break down key rankings, accreditations, and recognitions that highlight USM's standing.

National Rankings in the USA

USM consistently earns high marks in national rankings, emphasizing its value, accessibility, and outcomes for students. These rankings are particularly relevant for Indian students, as they reflect affordability and support systems that ease the transition to studying abroad.

• U.S. News & World Report (2024): Ranked among the top Regional Universities in the Midwest, USM secures a position in the #51-70 range. This ranking evaluates factors like graduation rates, faculty resources, and student selectivity—key for Indian students aiming for strong ROI on their investment in U.S. education.
• America's Best Value Colleges (U.S. News, 2024): USM is listed in the top 25% for value, making it a cost-effective option. With tuition around $33,000 per year (before scholarships), combined with merit-based aid up to $20,000 for international students, it's optimized for budget-conscious Indian families.
• Niche.com (2024): Receives an overall grade of B+, with A- for academics and professors. Indian students appreciate the 13:1 student-faculty ratio, fostering mentorship similar to the personalized coaching in Indian coaching centers.
• College Factual (2023): Ranks USM in the top 40% of U.S. colleges for overall quality, with strong performance in social sciences and health professions—fields popular among Indian applicants.

These rankings underscore USM's reliability for the next intake, where applications for F-1 visas are streamlined through dedicated international admissions support.

International and Global Recognition

While USM is a regional powerhouse, it gains international acclaim through affiliations and outcomes that resonate with global students, including those from India. The university's emphasis on ethical leadership and community service aligns with values many Indian students hold dear.

Ranking Body	Category	Position/Score	Relevance for Indian Students
QS World University Rankings (2024)	Regional Impact (North America)	Top 500 for employability	High post-graduation employment rates (95% within 6 months) aid OPT/CPT pathways for H-1B visa pursuits.
Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings (2024)	International Outlook	4/5 stars	Supports 15% international enrollment, including Indian student clubs for cultural adaptation.
Shanghai Ranking (ARWU, 2023)	Subject-Specific (Education)	Top 300 globally	Ideal for Indian students in teacher education programs, with pathways to U.S. certification.

For Indian students targeting the USA, these global metrics highlight USM's role in building international networks, crucial for returning to India or staying via STEM OPT extensions.

Program-Specific Rankings

USM excels in select programs that align with the interests of Indian students, such as business, healthcare, and education. These rankings are based on peer assessments, alumni success, and research output.

1. Business and Management: Ranked in the top 20% by College Factual (2023). The Forbes-recognized MBA program offers flexible online options, perfect for working Indian professionals. Why it matters: Prepares for global careers with case studies on emerging markets like India.
2. Nursing and Health Professions: U.S. News places USM's BSN program in the top 100 regionally (2024). With NCLEX pass rates above 95%, it's a gateway for Indian nurses seeking U.S. licensure.
3. Education: Top 30 in Midwest for teacher preparation (U.S. News, 2024). Includes ESL endorsements, supporting Indian students who may teach abroad.
4. Sports Management and Kinesiology: Niche.com A-grade, with unique athletic scholarships available to international talents from India.

These programs are designed for the next intake, with rolling admissions and I-20 issuance assistance to simplify the SEVIS process for Indian applicants.

Accreditations and Institutional Excellence

USM's accreditations ensure your degree's global validity, a top concern for Indian students planning to return home or work internationally.

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC): Fully accredited since 1917, guaranteeing rigorous standards.
• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE): For nursing programs, ensuring alignment with U.S. healthcare standards.
• International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE): For business degrees, boosting employability in multinational firms like those in India.
• Kansas State Department of Education: For educator preparation, with reciprocity for international certifications.

Additionally, USM is a member of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities, promoting values-based education that resonates with diverse Indian backgrounds.

Student Outcomes and Support for Indian Students

Beyond rankings, USM's success metrics are tailored for international success. The six-year graduation rate is 55%, with 90% of graduates employed or in further studies within six months (2023 data). For Indian students, this translates to strong alumni networks in tech hubs like Silicon Valley and Bangalore collaborations.

USM offers dedicated support: - International Student Services: Visa workshops, airport pickups from Kansas City, and cultural orientation sessions. - Scholarships: Up to $15,000 merit awards for Indian students with 3.0+ GPA; need-based aid available. - Indian Community: Active Indian Student Association with Diwali celebrations and Holi events. - Career Services: Internship placements with firms like Deloitte, aiding CPT/OPT for STEM fields.

In summary, USM's rankings reflect a nurturing environment where Indian students thrive. For the upcoming intake, apply early to leverage these opportunities and secure your spot in a top-ranked U.S. institution. With its blend of affordability, rankings, and cultural support, USM stands out as a smart choice for your American dream.