Welcome

Welcome to the University of Minnesota!

On behalf of the staff of International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) in the Global Programs and Strategy Alliance, congratulations on your admission to the University of Minnesota!

The University of Minnesota — one of the nation’s top research universities — is centrally located in the thriving, metropolitan area of the Twin Cities. For pursuing your academic program and discovering career and internship opportunities, this is a great place to be. 

As a top research university, UMN provides an amazing range of facilities and resources on campus. With more than 2.1 million square feet of research space, 14 libraries, educational and personal student support services, research programs and centers, social organizations, and career preparation resources, you are equipped for success while in school and in the future.

Complete Your ISSS New Student Requirements

To ensure the University of Minnesota can verify your immigration status, you must complete the following ISSS new student requirements:

  1. Complete the International Student Preparation Course.
  2. Complete your ISSS Check-in through MyISSS as soon as possible after you arrive at UMN. U.S. government regulations require that all new F-1 and J-1 international students report their arrival, or “check in,” with the university upon arrival. 

A registration hold (the AI “Determine Current Visa Status” hold) will be added to your record close to the start of your first semester if either of these requirements is incomplete. Once the hold goes into effect it will prevent you from making changes to your course registration, and you will not be able to register for future terms until the requirements have been completed.

Please note, many new international students have at least one registration hold in effect on their record prior to their arrival. Make sure to visit MyU and navigate to the "Holds" tab to determine if there are any actions you must take (learn how). All registration holds need to be resolved before you will be allowed to register.

Get to Know ISSS

ISSS is your "home away from home." The staff of ISSS is ready to help you accomplish your educational goals and support your transition to campus. We believe that your wellbeing is a high priority.  We are here to help you navigate U.S. culture and campus through the various services we provide:

  • Advising to help you maintain your immigration status
  • Counseling to help you navigate academic and personal challenges
  • Programs to help you meet other students and build leadership skills that are essential for your personal and professional success

We are delighted you chose to study at the UMN, and we look forward to meeting you! Please email us at [email protected] if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Barbara Kappler, Ph.D.
Assistant Dean
International Student & Scholar Services

We Are Here to Help You!

If you have any questions, email [email protected]. If you are not sure who to ask on campus, we will answer or direct you to the correct office.

For More Information

These resources can help you prepare for the University of Minnesota.

Last updated: October 27, 2023