International Freshman Admissions Timeline

Before Applying

Learn more about the U of M

Learn more about being an international student at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. Sign up for the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) mailing list to get updates on deadlines and scholarships, and information on academic majors, rankings, costs and more! You can also find out when the University of Minnesota Twin Cities representatives will be in your country and connect with us on social media.

Get to know the U of MJoin ISSS mailing list

Become Familiar with Campus

One of the most important ways to know if a college or university is a good fit for you is to explore campus. At the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, we offer many ways to explore campus and learn about the experiences and programs that make the U of M a special place. 

Unable to travel to campus at this time? Check out the many ways you can explore campus virtually

Explore Campus

Explore Majors

The University of Minnesota Twin Cities offers over 150+ majors and 135+ minors. Whether you already know what you want to study or are just starting to look, the U of M will help you discover what makes you driven to learn more.

Explore Majors

English Proficiency Information for International Students

The U of M requires international students to demonstrate a command of the English language that is necessary for success in college level classes taught in English. All undergraduate programs at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities require a specific minimum score for admission.

English Proficiency Information

Apply

August: Application Opens

The application to the University of Minnesota Twin Cities only requires three items: (1) an online application; (2) $55 application fee; and (3) self-reported academic record. No letters of recommendation or essays required! Students can begin applying in August, before their senior year of high school.

Apply to the University of MinnesotaHow we make decisionsSubmit Missing Materials

To track the status of your application, visit Application Tracker. This online tool can help you determine which application materials have been received, which materials may be missing, and whether a decision has been made on your application.

Application Tracker

Admissions Decision Timing

The U of M has three application deadlines. Students who submit a completed application by one of the three deadlines will receive an admissions decision by a specific date: 

November 1: Early Action I Deadline will receive an admission decision no later than January 31

December 1: Early Action II Deadline will receive an admission decision no later than February 15

January 1: Regular Deadline will receive an admission decision no later than March 31

Students whose admission applications are complete by the deadlines listed above will receive full consideration for the University Honors Program and scholarships - no separate application required. Students who apply after these deadlines will be considered on a space-available and funds-available basis. Students admitted into the University Honors Program will be notified by March 31.

Application Deadlines

November: Housing Application Opens

Students who live on campus are more likely to have better grades, stick with school, and graduate on time. At the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, we guarantee on-campus housing for all admitted freshmen who apply for housing, and confirm their enrollment by May 15. Students can begin applying for freshman housing in November. 

Learn More About Housing

Admitted

May: Confirm Enrollment

Save your spot in freshman class! Students confirm their enrollment by paying a nonrefundable $325 confirmation fee by May 15; this action lets us know that you plan to attend the University of Minnesota Twin Cities in the fall.

Confirm Your Enrollment

Undergraduate New Student I-20 Request and F-1 Visa Process

I-20 and F-1 visa process begins after students are admitted and confirm their enrollment. All students who will be studying at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities on an F-1 visa will be required to submit an Undergraduate New Student I-20 Request form to the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS).

Learn about the F-1 Visa Process

Submit Official Academic Documents & Test Scores

Prior to enrolling at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, all confirmed students will need to submit official complete academic documents from all secondary schools attended, along with proof of high school graduation (i.e. graduation certification or leaving exam results), and official test scores from the testing agencies by July 1. We will compare the official documents and test scores against the their Self-Reported Academic Record.

Please request that your test scores be sent to our office directly from the testing agency. A scanned or electronic copy of an official test score report is not considered as official results. 

Secondary School Sample Document

Prepare for Arrival

International freshman must complete both International Student Orientation and Freshman Orientation

International Student Online Preparation Course
Prior to arrival, all new international students are required to complete the International Student Preparation Course. This program is the first step in completing new international student orientation requirements, and it will help you prepare for your arrival at the University. Once on campus, you are required to attend the ISSS Check-in and Welcome Session.

Freshman Orientation: New Student Checklist
Freshman Orientation is required for all new students. Once you have confirmed your enrollment, you will receive information from your college about completing your New Student Checklist. The New Student Checklist, which is an interactive, online checklist where you can sign up for orientation dates, take any required placement exams, and more!

International Student Online Preparation Course InformationFreshman Orientation Information

Arrive on Campus

International students arrive on campus at the end of August. During this time before classes begin in early September, students will attend ISSS Check-In and Welcome Session, Freshman Orientation, and register for classes.

Fall semester usually begins after the U.S. Labor Day in early September and runs through mid-December.

Key Date and Deadlines

First Tuition Payment Due

The first tuition payment is generally due two to three weeks following the start of the semester. There are several ways to pay the balance due on your student account. 

One Stop Student Services: How to Pay