Umd And Foreign Students: What's The Deal?

The University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) welcomes international students and offers a unique combination of learning and research to help students launch world-class careers. With a strong focus on world languages and cultures, UMD is the only US university with an undergraduate degree that integrates world languages, cultures, and creative industries. The university has a diverse student body, with over 2,700 international graduate students from more than 130 countries. International students can apply for admission by submitting an online application, paying a $50 non-refundable fee, and providing academic records and proof of English proficiency.

Application process for international students

The University of Minnesota Duluth welcomes applications from international students. The application process for international students is outlined below:

Application for Admission

The admissions process is for international students on a temporary visa. To apply, access the online application, create an account, and log in. Fill out the required fields and submit them with a non-refundable $50 fee. This fee can be paid online with a credit card at the time of application or at a later date. However, note that your application will not be complete until the fee is paid.

First-Year International Students

Submit high/secondary school records. While the Admissions Committee will accept unofficial documents, students who have finished high school should request an official transcript be sent to [email protected].

Transfer International Students

Submit academic records from all colleges/universities attended, whether inside or outside the U.S. Additionally, submit official high/secondary school records. While unofficial documents are accepted, it is encouraged to submit official academic records from all schools as soon as possible. All documents must be translated into English.

Proof of English Proficiency

Refer to the English Proficiency Requirements page for detailed information on acceptable tests and scores.

Submission of Documents

It is preferable to send all documents electronically to [email protected]. Alternatively, they can be sent via postal mail to:

UMD International Admissions Processing

184 Darland Admin Bldg.

1049 University Drive

Duluth,

MN 55812

International Student Application Deadlines

It is recommended to apply early, as the process of applying for, interviewing for, and receiving a US student visa can be time-consuming. Submit your application well before the deadline. The priority deadline is May 1, and the final deadline is June 15.

Temporary visa requirements

The University of Minnesota Duluth accepts international students and offers a unique combination of learning and research to launch students on a world-class career. The university's admissions overview for international students outlines the following temporary visa requirements:

• Application for Admission: Access the online application, create an account, fill out the required fields, and submit the application with a non-refundable $50 fee.
• Academic Records: First-year international students must submit high school records. Transfer international students must submit academic records from all colleges/universities attended, as well as official high school records. Unofficial documents are accepted, but official records are encouraged and must be translated into English.
• Proof of English Proficiency: Refer to the English Proficiency Requirements page for detailed information on acceptable tests and scores.
• Official Documents: Refer to the Official Documents Requirements page for information on what constitutes an official document and how and when to submit them.
• Submission of Documents: Send all documents electronically to international@d.umn.edu or via postal mail to the UMD International Admissions Processing address.
• Application Deadlines: Submit your application before the deadlines to avoid delays in the visa process. The priority deadline is May 1, and the final deadline is June 15 for the Fall semester. For the Spring semester, the priority deadline is November 15, and the final deadline is December 1.
• Visa Process: After receiving admission, request your visa document, complete the International Student Preparation Course, and schedule your visa interview.

The University of Minnesota Duluth welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and provides resources to support international students throughout their academic careers.

High school preparation guidelines

The University of Minnesota Duluth accepts applications from international students on a temporary visa. The University's website provides a list of guidelines for first-year international students to prepare for their application. Here is a detailed breakdown of the guidelines for high school preparation:

Academic Records:

Submit official high school/secondary school records. While unofficial documents are accepted for the application, the University encourages applicants to submit official transcripts. Ensure that all documents are translated into English.

English Proficiency:

Provide proof of English language proficiency. Refer to the English Proficiency Requirements page on the University's website for detailed information on acceptable tests and scores. This is a crucial aspect of your application, as it demonstrates your ability to succeed in an English-speaking academic environment.

Standardized Test Scores:

Include scores from standardized tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, ACT, or SAT. These tests assess your academic readiness and English language skills. Achieving competitive scores on these exams will strengthen your application.

Coursework and Grades:

The Admissions Committee will evaluate your high school coursework and grades. They will consider your academic performance in relation to your country's educational system. Ensure that your transcripts include a detailed breakdown of the courses you have completed and the corresponding grades.

Extracurricular Activities:

While not explicitly mentioned in the guidelines, consider including information about any extracurricular activities, leadership roles, or community service projects you participated in during high school. These experiences can showcase your well-rounded personality, dedication, and potential contributions to the University community.

Early Preparation:

Start preparing for your application well in advance. Applying for a US student visa can be a lengthy process, so it is recommended to submit your application before the deadline. Contact the University's admissions office with any questions or for guidance throughout the application process.

English proficiency requirements

The University of Minnesota Duluth does accept international students. To apply, students on a temporary visa need to fill out an online application and submit a $50 non-refundable application fee.

International students at the University of Minnesota Duluth must demonstrate English language proficiency through one of the following methods:

Secondary School Education

If you completed secondary school in the U.S. or in a country on this list, you satisfy the basic English language proficiency requirements.

Post-secondary Education

You satisfy the English proficiency requirement if you completed post-secondary coursework in the U.S. or a country on this list, and:

• The coursework consisted of least 16 semester credits, or 24 quarter credits
• ESL coursework was not part of the qualifying number of credits
• The coursework was completed within the past 2 years
• The coursework was completed while living in the U.S. or in a country on this list

It's important to note that not all countries where English is an official language or widely spoken are included on the English proficiency exemption list. The English Language Requirement is set by a University-wide ESL Policy committee which includes representatives from various departments.

Standardized Tests

The University of Minnesota Duluth accepts the following standardized tests as proof of English proficiency:

• TOEFL iBT: Minimum scores of 21 in Writing and 19 in Reading. The exam date should be within two years of the graduate program start date.
• IELTS Academic: Minimum scores of 6.5 in Writing and Reading. The exam date should be within two years of the graduate program start date.
• Duolingo English Test: Minimum overall score of 115 and a Literacy Subscore of 115. The exam date should be within two years of the graduate program start date.
• PTE Academic: Minimum scores of 59 in Writing and Reading. The exam date should be within two years of the graduate program start date.
• Cambridge C1 Advanced: Minimum scores of 180 in Writing and Reading. The exam date should be within two years of the graduate program start date.

International student resources

The University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) welcomes international students and scholars as part of its goal of developing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and researchers. The university offers a unique combination of learning and research, providing an excellent environment for launching a world-class career.

Application Process:

To apply for admission, international students on a temporary visa must complete the online application and submit a $50 non-refundable application fee. First-year students should submit their high school records, while transfer students must provide academic records from all previously attended colleges or universities, along with high school records. All documents must be translated into English. Additionally, applicants need to demonstrate English proficiency by referring to the English Proficiency Requirements.

Deadlines:

UMD has priority and final deadlines for applications. The priority deadline is May 1, and the final deadline is June 15 for the Fall semester. For the Spring semester, the priority deadline is November 15, and the final deadline is December 1.

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS):

ISSS is a dedicated service at the University of Minnesota that assists international students and scholars in achieving their goals. They provide support and resources to help international community members make the most of their time at the university.

Minnesota English Language Program (MELP):

MELP offers English as a Second Language courses for admitted students who want to improve their English skills. They also provide an Intensive English Program for students preparing to apply to universities or take English proficiency exams.

International TA Program:

This program offers courses and consultations to international graduate students seeking professional development in teaching and using English in the US cultural context.

Minnesota International Student Association (MISA):

MISA is an organization representing over 4,000 US and international students. It promotes cultural awareness and understanding on campus and in the surrounding community.

The Council of International Graduate Students (CIGS):

CIGS provides a platform for international graduate and professional students to advocate for their academic, professional, and social development. They organize events benefiting the international student community and facilitate connections with domestic students.

Global Programs & Strategy (GPS) Alliance:

The GPS Alliance is the central international office for the University of Minnesota system. It focuses on international services for faculty, academic exchanges, and funding information for graduate study and research abroad.

For more detailed information, prospective international students can refer to the International Student Brochure available on the UMD website.

Frequently asked questions