It is mandatory for all international students to be covered by SMU health insurance policy in the U.S. Medical insurance will not cover dental expenses or any preventative medical care.

You can purchase an international student health insurance policy from Saint Mary's University upon arrival in the U.S.

More information about insurance through Saint Mary's

Students not wanting to obtain a driver’s license while attending SMU may obtain a Minnesota state identification (I.D.) card for primary identification purposes. The I.D. card cannot replace the driver’s license and does not permit you to drive in the U.S.

To obtain a Minnesota state I.D.:

• Bring your passport, social security number, I-94 card, I-20 and/or other identification documents along with the current fee;
• Your primary identification document must contain your full legal name (first, middle and last), and month, date and year of your birth;
• If your full name is different than the name on your primary document, you must also present proof of your legal name change(s) such as marriage/ divorce certificates and other documents that specify the name change.
• Please view the Minnesota Department of Motor Vehicles website at www.dps.state.mn.us/dvs/ to find the closest location to obtain your state I.D.

To obtain a Minnesota driving license:

• You must pass a knowledge test, vision check and road test even if you have a valid driver's license from your home country;
• Knowledge tests are available at driver exam stations and consists of multiple choice and true & false questions on traffic laws and road signs.
• Vision checks are conducted when you apply for a driving permit or a license
• A road test requires you to make an appointment at the driver exam stations. During the test, you must have:
  
  • a proper identification document;
  • your own vehicle to take the test;
  • proof of insurance for your vehicle.

Having passed the tests, you need to present copies of results, appropriate identification documents, and previous driver’s licenses at a local driving exam station where you will pay the fees and have a photo taken.

Please view the Minnesota Department of Motor Vehicles website at www.dps.state.mn.us/dvs/ to find the closest location to begin the process in obtaining your driver’s license.

One of the greatest attractions to living in Minnesota is the four distinct seasons.

In warm months, Minnesota residents can be found on the one of the state's 10,000 lakes, riding their bicycles on our miles of trails, camping at numerous parks or attending outdoor festivals.

In colder months, Minnesota residents turn their attention to skiing, sledding and other winter activities.

Average monthly temperatures: