Frequently Asked Questions about Conditional Admission

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What does conditional admission mean?

Conditional admission means you are academically qualified for admission to the University of Minnesota. However, because your English proficiency is below the minimum level we require for admission to our degree programs, you will need to enroll in the Minnesota English Language Program (MELP), which is the University of Minnesota's Intensive English Program, in order to achieve the level of English proficiency that will allow you to be successful in your academic program. You will be eligible for admission to your academic program for the fall semester noted in your letter once you have demonstrated high enough English proficiency.

How do I apply to the Minnesota English Language Program (MELP)?

Detailed information about MELP and the MELP application are available online at the MELP website.

When can I begin my studies in my intended major?

Students who are conditionally admitted begin their studies in their intended major in the fall term noted in their conditional admission letter after successfully completing the University of Minnesota's Intensive English Program and achieving the required minimum English proficiency score or higher as measured by end of term assessment results (taken at the end of every semester of English language study). While at MELP, the focus of study is on English improvement. Required scores are provided below under the question, "What are the minimum English proficiency scores I will need to be eligible to enroll in my degree program?"

What kinds of courses will I be required to take before I can enroll in my degree program?

At MELP, you will take courses to develop the English language skills needed to be a successful student in a degree program at the University of Minnesota. Courses are designed to help you improve your grammar, reading, writing, speaking, listening, and pronunciation skills in English. MELP students at higher English proficiency levels may have the option of taking an academic course (for degree credit) in another subject area, in addition to their English language classes.

How many courses will I be required to complete? How long am I required to take English language courses?

Students in the intensive English program take between 22 and 25 hours of English per week. Time in the intensive English program is two semesters. The conditional admission offer is valid until the fall term noted in the conditional admission letter. If the minimum score is not achieved prior to that fall term, the student will need to reapply for admission for the next fall semester.

What are the minimum English proficiency scores I will need to be eligible to enroll in my degree program?

Students who successfully complete all their courses in MELP and score 550 or higher on their End of Term Assessment will be eligible for admission to their degree program, and they will not be required to enroll in any further English language courses. Students who score between 520 and 550 will be eligible for admission but they will be required to take an additional English language course, in addition to their academic coursework, during their first semester as a degree-seeking student. Students who score below 520 will not be eligible for admission as degree seeking students and will need to reapply for admission for the next fall term. NOTE: Students admitted to the Carlson School of Management need to achieve a minimum End of Term Assessment score of 550 to be eligible for admission to their degree programs.

Will my courses count as academic credit (will they count toward my degree)?

Courses in the Intensive English Program do not earn credit towards a degree program. However, if a student is proficient enough, he or she may take one to two courses for credit each semester that will count towards a degree program. Additional details regarding the types of courses that earn credit will be provided by MELP.

Who is my advisor while I am enrolled in MELP? Can I also work with an advisor in my degree program?

The international student advisor at MELP will help advise you on your classes while you are a student in MELP. This advisor will work with non-degree advisors and advisors in your intended degree program if you are eligible to take a credit course while you are a student in MELP.

What is the cost of enrolling full-time in MELP?

Current costs for tuition, health insurance, housing, books, and other expenses are available on the MELP website.

Am I eligible to live on campus if I am a student in MELP? How do I apply for housing?

You may apply for on-campus housing as a MELP student. However, on-campus housing deadlines are May 1 for fall semester, so apply early. To apply for housing, include a housing application with your MELP application. For more information, see the MELP website.

Whom should I contact if I have questions about the Minnesota English Language Program?

Staff in the Minnesota English Language Program would be pleased to answer your questions. They may be reached by phone at 612-624-1503 or by email at [email protected].