New Students

Welcome to UMN

Congratulations on your admission! Here's what you need to do next.

Confirm Your Enrollment

When you confirm your enrollment, we will hold your place in the incoming class.

Get a New Visa

You will be responsible for scheduling your visa appointment after you receive your I-20/DS-2019.

Transfer Your Visa

You will need to transfer your I-20/SEVIS Record if you currently hold F-1 or J-1 status at another U.S. institution.

Dependent Visas

You can obtain a dependent visa for your spouse and/or children under age 21.

Choose Your Arrival Date

At a minimum, you should plan to arrive at least 10 days before the program start date on your I-20 or DS-2019.

Plan Your Expenses

It is important that you determine if you will have sufficient funding to cover your finances.

Find Housing

There are a variety of housing options available for students both on-campus and off-campus.

Arrive in Minnesota

You will need to carry your documents with you during your travel, and you should get your I-94 record after arrival.

Transportation to Campus

There are many options for getting to campus from the airport, including light rail, buses, shuttles, and taxis.

Graduate Assistantship

You will have to complete certain requirements before you can begin your position.

Complete the International Student Preparation Course

It is important that you complete the International Student Preparation Course as soon as possible. It will help you prepare for your transition to the UMN.

Submit Your Documents to MyISSS

After you arrive in the U.S., you must scan and submit your documents to MyISSS. Students studying online from outside the U.S. will not do this until after arriving.

Take an English Test if Required

Depending on your English test score, you may be required to take an English test when you arrive on campus.

Remove Registration Holds

Most international students have two or more holds on their student records. You will need to complete certain actions to have them removed.

Enroll in Duo

You will need to use Duo Security to access your UMN email, MyU, G Suite, Canvas, and more.

Submit Your Final Transcript

Undergraduate students must submit a secondary school transcript and proof of high school graduation.

Submit Your Immunization Form

Minnesota law requires all students to be immunized against measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus, and diphtheria.

Pay Your Tuition

You can pay tuition online through your Student Account by using Flywire.

Banking

It is important that you learn about the U.S. banking system including currency exchange, bank accounts, and debit cards.

Climate and Clothing

The weather in Minnesota varies a lot depending on the time of year. You can make the most of it by being prepared.

Healthcare and Insurance

All international students must purchase the Student Health Benefit Plan unless they are eligible for a waiver.

Identification Documents

You will need to get a U Card and decide if you will get a state ID or driver's license.

Safety

The University of Minnesota works hard to ensure that campus and the surrounding neighborhoods are safe for students.

Transportation

You can explore public transportation, use the University buses, or ride a bike to get around campus.

Disability Resource Center

The DRC is committed to making the University accessible and inviting for all students and community members.

English Language Support

The Minnesota English Language Program, Tandem Plus, and more are here to help you.

LGBTQIA+

ISSS provides services for international LGBTQIA+ students, including counseling and referrals.

Health and Fitness

The University of Minnesota has an on-campus clinic, mental health support, and state-of-the-art recreation facilities.

Programs for New Students

Make new friends and prepare for classes by joining events and programs created specifically for new students.

Welcome and First Steps