Welcome and First Steps

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.

Request Your I-20 or DS-2019

After you confirm your enrollment, you will need to request an I-20 (for an F-1 visa application) or a DS-2019 (for a J-1 visa application).

New Global Gopher Required Tasks

The New Global Gopher Required Tasks list guides you through pre-arrival and post-arrival tasks that you need to complete and information that you need to know.

Sponsored Students

Sponsored students are international students whose tuition is directly paid by a third party (not themselves or their family).

Exchange Student Guide

Discover important requirements and get advice for making the most of your exchange experience.

Get Your Visa

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.

Visa FAQs

Get answers to frequently asked questions about the Form I-20 and DS-160 visa application.

Prepare for Arrival

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 UMN Requirements

Claim Your UMN Email

Your University email address is the official form of communication at the University of Minnesota.

Enroll in Duo

You will need to use Duo Security to access your UMN email, MyU, Google Workspace, Canvas, MyISSS, and more.

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.

Submit Your Final Transcript

Undergraduate students must submit a secondary school transcript and proof of high school graduation. Graduate students must submit official documents from their post-secondary institutions.

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.

Living in Minnesota

Banking

Learn the essentials of the U.S. banking system, including account setup and currency exchange, and make informed financial decisions.

Climate and Clothing

Prepare for Minnesota's distinct seasons with practical advice on dressing for the weather, such as layering techniques.

Healthcare and Insurance

Did you know you must enroll in the Student Health Benefit Plan unless you qualify for a waiver? Ensure your wellbeing by understanding the healthcare system and insurance requirements.

Identification Documents

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

Safety

Your personal safety is our top priority on and off campus. Discover more about UMN Police, safety escorts, and other resources. Learn how to stay safe in urban settings and avoid scams or identity theft.

Transportation

Navigate Minnesota effortlessly with our comprehensive guide to transportation: public transit, campus busing and biking, and driving and car-sharing.

Campus Resources

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.

Get Involved

Programs for New Students

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