University of Minnesota Twin Cities: Admissions, Scholarship, & Housing Guide
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The University of Minnesota Twin Cities (UMN) is one name that should definitely be on your radar. Ranked among the top 25 public universities in the U.S. and placed #203 globally by QS World Rankings 2025, UMN attracts over 50,000 students, including more than 6,800 international students from 130+ countries. The university offers a high return on investment, strong placement opportunities with companies like 3M, Medtronic, and Target, and generous financial aid through scholarships like the Global Excellence Scholarship (up to $25,000/year). Whether you’re interested in Engineering, Business, Arts, or Health Sciences, UMN’s 330+ degree programs offer something for everyone. Let’s explore why this university is such a great pick for international students in 2025!
Why Should You Choose University of Minnesota Twin Cities in 2025?
University of Minnesota Twin Cities, located in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, is a top-tier research institution with a sprawling 1,200-acre urban campus. With a 2025 QS World University Ranking of #203, the university attracts students from over 130 countries, thanks to its world-class faculty, innovative programs, and globally recognized degrees.
UMN is particularly known for its strong placement record—top recruiters like 3M, Medtronic, and General Mills frequently hire graduates. With a high acceptance rate of around 77%, a welcoming international community, and generous scholarships like the Global Excellence Scholarship (worth up to $20,000/year), UMN makes studying in the U.S. more accessible than ever. Following are the key highlights of University of Minnesota Twin Cities in 2025:
| Feature | Details |
| Year of Establishment | 1851 |
| Campus Size | Over 1,200 acres |
| QS World University Ranking (2025) | #203 globally |
| Campus Locations | Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota |
| Placement Rate | High placement rates with strong industry connections |
| Top Recruiters | 3M, Medtronic, Target, General Mills, Mayo Clinic |
| Popular Courses for International Students | Computer Science, Engineering, Business, Health Sciences |
| English Language Exam Required | TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 77% |
| Annual Tuition Fees for International Students | Approximately $40,556 |
| Website | UMN Official Website |
Which Courses Are Popular at University of Minnesota Twin Cities in 2025 and What Are Their Fees and Eligibility?
The University of Minnesota Twin Cities is home to over 50,000 students, including nearly 6,800 international students from 130+ countries. With more than 330 academic programs, this public research powerhouse ranks among the top 50 globally for graduate employability and offers one of the broadest ranges of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in the U.S.
In 2025, the most popular courses among international students include STEM degrees (like MS in Data Science, B.Tech in Computer Engineering), Business programs (MBA, BBA), and creative fields (MFA, BFA, Architecture). Here’s a detailed guide to the most popular courses at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, including fees, language scores, and eligibility criteria:
| Course Name | 1st Year Tuition Fees (USD) | Language Requirements | Eligibility Criteria |
| MS | $10,550 – $65,685 | IELTS: 6.5–7, TOEFL: 79–100, PTE: 59+ | Bachelor’s degree in relevant field, min GPA 3.0, SOP, LORs |
| MBA / PGDM | $19,930 – $65,685 | IELTS: 6.5–7, TOEFL: 100+, PTE: 65+ | UG degree, GMAT/GRE (preferred), SOP, work experience (for some programs) |
| MA | $19,930 – $55,120 | IELTS: 6.5–7.5, TOEFL: 79–100, PTE: 59+ | UG degree in relevant subject, SOP, LORs |
| BA | $36,358 | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 79+, PTE: 59+, Duolingo: 110+ | 10+2 with min 3.0 GPA or 80%+, SAT optional, SOP |
| BSc | $36,358 | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 79+, PTE: 59+ | 10+2 with science subjects, 3.0 GPA or above |
| BBA | $36,358 | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 79+, PTE: 59+ | 10+2 with commerce or business background |
| BE / BTech | $36,358 | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 79+, PTE: 59+, Duolingo: 120+ | 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Math |
| LLM | $52,750 – $58,450 | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL | Bachelor’s in Law (LLB or JD equivalent) |
| MFA | $28,140 | IELTS: 6.5–7.5 | UG degree in fine arts + portfolio |
| BJMC | $36,358 | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 79+, PTE: 59+ | 10+2 with 3.0 GPA or equivalent |
| MArch | $22,270 – $28,140 | IELTS: 6.5–7 | UG degree in architecture or design, portfolio required |
| BFA | $36,358 | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 79+, PTE: 59+ | 10+2, portfolio required |
| B.Ed | $36,358 | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 79+, PTE: 59+ | 10+2 and interest in education |
| MAgri | $14,070 – $30,485 | IELTS: 6.5+ | UG in agriculture or related science |
| BAgri | $36,358 | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 79+, PTE: 59+ | 10+2 with science or agriculture background |
| LLB | $36,358 | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 79+, PTE: 59+ | 10+2 in any stream, entrance test may apply |
| BArch | $36,358 | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 79+, PTE: 59+ | 10+2 with Math, portfolio for some courses |
| Executive MBA | $62,750 | IELTS: 7+ | UG degree, significant work experience (5+ years recommended) |
Where Does University of Minnesota Twin Cities Rank in 2025?
The University of Minnesota Twin Cities holds an impressive position in both national and global university rankings in 2025. Known as one of the top public research institutions in the U.S., the university is part of the prestigious Big Ten Academic Alliance. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities is placed at #203 globally, reaffirming its global academic reputation.
Meanwhile, the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025 ranks it even higher at #87 worldwide, thanks to its cutting-edge research, international outlook, and teaching quality. These rankings highlight the university’s commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and value for money—making it a top choice for international students in 2025. Below are the key details of University of Minnesota Twin Cities rankings 2025:
| Ranking Body | Category | Rank (2025) |
| QS World University Rankings | Global Universities | #203 |
| Times Higher Education (THE) | World University Rankings | #87 |
| U.S. News & World Report | National Universities (USA) | #54 (tie) |
| Top Public Schools (USA) | #23 (tie) | |
| Best Value Schools | #141 | |
| Best Colleges for Veterans | #30 (tie) | |
| Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs | #27 (tie) | |
| Top Performers on Social Mobility | #236 (tie) |
How Competitive Is the Acceptance Rate at University of Minnesota Twin Cities in 2025?
The University of Minnesota Twin Cities has an acceptance rate of 77% for Fall 2025, making it moderately selective. While the university receives over 43,000 applications annually, around 7,100 students make it into the freshman class. This means that roughly 3 out of every 4 applicants are admitted, but admission is still competitive—especially for selective majors like Engineering, Business, and Biological Sciences. Although the university is test-optional through Fall 2027, submitting strong SAT/ACT scores can enhance your application.
The application fee is $55, with early action due by November 1 and regular decision by January 1. Despite the broad acceptance rate, the yield rate is only 25%, which shows that a quarter of admitted students choose to enroll—often due to strong academics, research opportunities, and campus life. Below are the key details of University of Minnesota Twin Cities acceptance rate:
| Admission Metric | Details |
| Acceptance Rate | 77% |
| Total Applications Received | Over 43,000 applications |
| Freshman Class Size | Approximately 7,100 students |
| Middle 50% SAT Score Range | 1310 – 1480. |
| Middle 50% ACT Score Range | 27 – 31. |
| Average Unweighted High School GPA | 3.52 – 3.96 among admitted students. |
| Application Fee | $55. |
| Test-Optional Policy | ACT/SAT scores are optional through Fall 2027 admissions. |
| Early Action Deadline | November 1. |
| Regular Decision Deadline | January 1. |
| Yield Rate (Accepted Students Who Enroll) | Approximately 25%, |
| In-State vs. Out-of-State Enrollment | 66% in-state students; 34% out-of-state and international students. |
| Gender Distribution (Freshman Class) | Approximately 46% male and 54% female students. |
Which Scholarships Can International Students Apply for at University of Minnesota Twin Cities in 2025?
International students applying to the University of Minnesota Twin Cities in 2025 have access to a wide range of scholarships—both merit-based and need-based. These scholarships help reduce the financial burden of studying abroad and support students from diverse backgrounds. Whether you’re an undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral student, there are multiple funding opportunities available. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular University of Minnesota Twin Cities scholarships for international students in 2025:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Details | Reward |
| Global Excellence Scholarship | International freshmen and transfer students (F-1 visa) | Automatically awarded based on academic merit; renewable for up to 4 years | Up to $25,000 per year |
| ISSS Scholarships | Incoming international students with financial need | Offered by International Student and Scholar Services; limited need-based awards | $1,500–$5,000 per semester |
| Learning Abroad Center Scholarships | UMN students in study abroad programs | Includes Diversity & Financial Need Scholarships for international academic travel | $750–$3,000, depending on the program |
| RaiseMe Micro-Scholarships | High school students entering specific UMN colleges | Micro-scholarships for achievements like GPA, community service, or test scores | Up to $2,500 per year |
| Google PhD Fellowship Program | Graduate students in tech-related fields | Competitive fellowship for future researchers; often requires faculty nomination | Full tuition, living stipend, and research support |
| Fulbright Scholarship (USA) | Graduate students from eligible countries | Prestigious, government-funded program for postgrad study in the U.S. | Full tuition, travel, living expenses |
| Nutanix Women in Tech Scholarship | Female students in STEM | Supports international women pursuing tech-related courses | $2,000–$10,000 |
| Education Future International Scholarship | Indian undergraduate and postgraduate students | Merit- and need-based scholarship for Indian students | ₹2–10 lakhs (approx. $2,400–$12,000) |
| Minnesota Indian Scholarship Program | Native American students in Minnesota | Based on tribal affiliation and financial need | Up to $4,000/year (UG); $6,000/year (PG) |
| ROTC Scholarships | Students enrolled in military training programs | Awarded to those in Army, Navy, or Air Force ROTC | Full tuition, books, stipend, and fees |
Where Can You Stay While Studying at University of Minnesota Twin Cities in 2025?
At the University of Minnesota Twin Cities students are spoiled with great accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for the structure and convenience of on-campus housing or the flexibility and variety of off-campus apartments in Minneapolis, there’s something to suit every lifestyle and budget. In 2025, international and domestic students can choose between furnished residence halls run by the university or independent rentals close to campus. From cozy studios to shared flats with friends, living in Minneapolis gives you access to a vibrant, student-friendly community just minutes from your lecture halls. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in terms of living arrangements and monthly rent:
| Accommodation Type | Description | Estimated Monthly Rent (USD) |
| On-Campus Housing | University-managed residence halls and apartments offer furnished rooms with amenities such as internet, laundry facilities, and meal plans. Contracts are typically for the academic year, and housing is guaranteed for first-year students who apply by the deadline. | Approximately $1,250 per month (including housing and meal plan) |
| Off-Campus Housing | Private apartments and houses near campus provide various options, from studios to multi-bedroom units. Rent varies based on location, size, and amenities. Students often share units to reduce costs. | Varies: Studio: $1,100–$1,300 1 Bedroom: $1,300–$1,500 2 Bedrooms: $1,800–$2,000 3 Bedrooms: $2,000–$2,300 4+ Bedrooms: $2,500+ |
Conclusion
Choosing the right university abroad is a big decision—and the University of Minnesota Twin Cities checks all the right boxes. From its 77% acceptance rate to its global reputation (#87 in THE Rankings 2025) and over 330 top-tier courses, it offers a welcoming, high-quality, and affordable U.S. education. Add to those scholarships worth thousands of dollars and flexible test-optional admissions, you’ve got the perfect setup for a successful student life. Looking for student accommodation near the University of Minnesota Twin Cities? University Living can help you compare and book verified housing options—secure your room today with expert support and exclusive offers!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the University of Minnesota Twin Cities acceptance rate for 2025?
The University of Minnesota Twin Cities acceptance rate in 2025 is around 77%, making it a moderately selective university. With over 43,000 applications received annually and 7,100 students enrolling in the freshman class, it’s accessible yet competitive for popular courses like Engineering, Business, and Health Sciences.
What are the popular courses at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities for international students?
Popular University of Minnesota Twin Cities courses for international students in 2025 include:
1. MS in Data Science
2. MBA and BBA in Business
3. BTech in Computer Engineering
4. MFA and BFA in Arts
5. LLM in Law
6. BArch and MArch in Architecture
These programs are known for their strong job placement rates and high academic quality.
How much does it cost to study at University of Minnesota Twin Cities for international students?
The average tuition fees for international students at University of Minnesota Twin Cities range from:
Undergraduate: $36,000–$40,000 per year
Postgraduate: $14,000–$65,000 per year Fees vary based on the course and level of study.
What scholarships are available for international students at UMN?
International students at UMN can apply for several scholarships in 2025, including:
Global Excellence Scholarship (up to $25,000/year)
ISSS Need-Based Scholarships ($1,500–$5,000 per semester)
RaiseMe Micro-Scholarships (up to $2,500/year)
Google PhD Fellowship, Fulbright, and Nutanix Women in Tech Scholarship
Most scholarships require academic merit or financial need documentation.
What are the University of Minnesota Twin Cities rankings in 2025?
As of 2025, UMN Twin Cities ranks:
#203 in QS World University Rankings
#87 in Times Higher Education World Rankings
#54 in U.S. News National Universities
#23 in Top Public Schools (USA)
These rankings reflect its strong research, employability, and academic reputation.
