Why Minnesota | International Study

10th

Best U.S. public research institution

Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities

12th

in research spending among U.S. public research universities

National Science Foundation

39th

Top university in the U.S.

Q.S. World University Rankings

World-Class Reputation

The University of Minnesota is a top 10 U.S. public research university with world-class academics, award-winning faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities.

University researchers have been responsible for some of the world’s most innovative and life-changing discoveries such as the first successful open-heart surgery, the invention of the “black box” flight recorder and the cardiac pacemaker, and the invention of GORE-TEX®.

Our faculty and alumni have achieved prominent positions on the world stage and received some of the most prestigious awards. Distinguished alumni and faculty include 26 Nobel Laureates (including Peace Prize), two U.S. vice presidents, Pulitzer Prize awardees, Rhodes Scholars, and former Prime Ministers of Iceland, Tunisia, and the U.K.

Rankings

The University of Minnesota is one of the only Big Ten universities located in a major metropolitan area. You’ll experience a traditional U.S. university full of school spirit, combined with all that a big city has to offer.

Just minutes from campus, you can explore careers at one of 17 Fortune 500 companies, cheer on our six professional sports teams, shop at one of the world’s largest malls, get inspired at an art museum, or kick back and relax at one of our local coffee shops.

The Twin Cities campus is also a world in itself—with miles of bike paths, numerous lakes, and the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area right in the heart of campus.

Take a virtual tour of campus

Great Value

We’re committed to providing all students with a world-class college experience at a great value. Forbes, Princeton Review, and Kiplinger’s Personal Finance have all ranked the University of Minnesota in the “Best Value” category.

The value of a University of Minnesota education goes far beyond the affordable academics. There’s also a wealth of opportunities on campus and in the community.

The vibrant Twin Cities area boasts a more affordable cost of living compared with other large cities in the U.S. And it’s a great place for career and internship opportunities, with 17 Fortune 500 companies, plus private companies in industries from healthcare and medical technology to retail and financial services.

Campus offers an amazing range of facilities, including 14 libraries and more than 2.1 million square feet of research space, along with an extensive array of resources, from educational and personal student support services to social organizations and career centers.

Costs and scholarships

Unlimited Opportunities

Get involved in one of our more than 900 student groups. Whether you want to meet other students from your country, learn about social justice, promote sustainability, or take up a new hobby, there's something for you. And if you can't find a group you want, you can easily create your own!

Want to keep up your soccer skills or take up pickleball? You can join an intramural league or sport club through the Recreation and Wellness Center.

Or you can make a difference by volunteering through the Center for Community-Engaged Learning. Their advisors will help you find opportunities that match your interests, goals, and values.

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