Embarking on your academic journey in the United States is a dream for many international students. Great news awaits! The University of Minnesota Fellowships for the academic year 2025-2026 are now open for applications. This article delves into the fellowship’s details, its extensive benefits, and the comprehensive application process, ensuring you have all the information you need to apply successfully.
Overview of the University of Minnesota Fellowship
The University of Minnesota Fellowship is a fully funded scholarship tailored for international students pursuing master’s degrees. This exceptional opportunity offers extensive financial and logistical support, including full tuition coverage, living expenses, travel, and health insurance. Such comprehensive support ensures that talented students can focus entirely on their studies without financial constraints.
The fellowship is a part of the esteemed Yousriya Loza-Sawiris Scholarship Program, initiated by the Sawiris Social Development Foundation. This initiative aims to support the fourth round of the fully funded program for applicants enrolling in the Master of Development Practice (MDP) degree at the Hubert H. Humphrey School of Public Affairs, University of Minnesota, USA. The scholarship equips students with a multidisciplinary education that addresses pressing global challenges like poverty, population growth, food insecurity, climate change, and nonprofit management.
Key Information at a Glance
Scholarship Summary
Level of Study: Master’s Degree
Institution: University of Minnesota
Location: United States
Fields of Study: Various master’s programs (click here for a comprehensive list of available options).
Duration: Two years
Deadlines:
December 15: Deadline for consideration for both University of Minnesota fellowships and Humphrey School merit-based aid.
January 15: Deadline for consideration for Humphrey School merit-based aid only.
Level of Study: Master’s Degree
Institution: University of Minnesota
Location: United States
Fields of Study: Various master’s programs (click here for a comprehensive list of available options).
Duration: Two years
Deadlines:
December 15: Deadline for consideration for both University of Minnesota fellowships and Humphrey School merit-based aid.
January 15: Deadline for consideration for Humphrey School merit-based aid only.
Scholarship Coverage
The fellowship provides recipients with the following benefits:
Full tuition coverage for the duration of the program.
Living expenses to support day-to-day costs.
Travel expenses, ensuring students can travel to and from the United States.
Comprehensive health insurance to safeguard students during their studies. Click to Know More
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the University of Minnesota Fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Language Requirements
Proficiency in English is mandatory. Applicants must provide valid TOEFL or IELTS scores. Minimum scores are as follows:
TOEFL: 600 (paper-based), 250 (computer-based), or 100 (Internet-based, with at least 22 in each section).
IELTS: Overall band score of 7.
Proficiency in English is mandatory. Applicants must provide valid TOEFL or IELTS scores. Minimum scores are as follows:
TOEFL: 600 (paper-based), 250 (computer-based), or 100 (Internet-based, with at least 22 in each section).
IELTS: Overall band score of 7.
Academic and Professional Qualifications
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from a reputable institution in a relevant field.
Must satisfy the entry requirements for the MDP program.
Should have an excellent academic and professional track record.
A strong liberal arts background and solid quantitative and analytical skills are advantageous.
Previous coursework in mathematics, statistics, and economics is highly recommended. Apply Hrere
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from a reputable institution in a relevant field.
Must satisfy the entry requirements for the MDP program.
Should have an excellent academic and professional track record.
A strong liberal arts background and solid quantitative and analytical skills are advantageous.
Previous coursework in mathematics, statistics, and economics is highly recommended. Apply Hrere
Personal and Financial Requirements
Demonstrated inability to finance studies independently.
Strong interpersonal skills, evidenced by involvement in extracurricular activities, community work, or entrepreneurial initiatives.
Demonstrated inability to finance studies independently.
Strong interpersonal skills, evidenced by involvement in extracurricular activities, community work, or entrepreneurial initiatives.
Additional Requirements
A valid Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score is mandatory; however, there is no specified minimum score.
Submission of supporting documents, including:
HR letter from the current employer detailing salary or a salary slip. In cases of unemployment, a bank statement is required.
Two letters of recommendation.
A copy of the applicant’s valid passport ID page.
Updated resume.
Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate studies.
One recent personal photograph.
A valid Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score is mandatory; however, there is no specified minimum score.
Submission of supporting documents, including:
HR letter from the current employer detailing salary or a salary slip. In cases of unemployment, a bank statement is required.
Two letters of recommendation.
A copy of the applicant’s valid passport ID page.
Updated resume.
Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate studies.
One recent personal photograph.
Application Process
Follow these steps to ensure a successful application for the University of Minnesota Fellowship:
Choose Your Program
The University of Minnesota Graduate School offers over 130 research-based master’s and doctoral programs across two campuses. Select the program that aligns with your academic and professional goals.
Review Application Criteria
Application requirements vary across programs. Carefully review the criteria for your chosen program to ensure you meet all prerequisites and have the necessary materials ready.
Contact Your Program of Interest
Some programs require specific materials that must be submitted before your application is reviewed. Reach out to the relevant department for clarification and ensure all necessary documents are submitted on time.
Check Application Deadlines
To avoid delays, submit your completed application and all supporting materials at least two weeks before the application deadline. This will provide ample time for processing.
Submit Your Application
Create an application profile on the University of Minnesota’s official application portal.
Upload all required transcripts, credentials, and documents.
Pay the application fee to finalize your submission.
Why Choose the University of Minnesota Fellowship?
This fellowship is an extraordinary opportunity for international students seeking to advance their education and contribute meaningfully to global development. Here’s why this program stands out:
Comprehensive Financial Support
The fellowship eliminates the financial burden of pursuing higher education, covering tuition fees, living expenses, travel, and health insurance.
Prestigious Institution
The University of Minnesota is a world-renowned institution with a legacy of academic excellence and innovation. Studying here provides access to top-tier faculty, resources, and a vibrant academic community.
Focus on Sustainable Development
The MDP program at the Hubert H. Humphrey School of Public Affairs is designed to address critical global challenges, making it an ideal choice for individuals passionate about creating sustainable solutions for pressing issues.
Networking Opportunities
Being part of this program connects students with a diverse network of professionals, academics, and peers, fostering collaborations that can shape future career paths.
Holistic Development
The multidisciplinary curriculum equips students with the knowledge and skills to tackle complex global challenges, preparing them for impactful careers in public policy, nonprofit management, and beyond.
Tips for a Successful Application
Start Early: Begin gathering the required documents and preparing for standardized tests well in advance.
Seek Guidance: Reach out to the program’s admissions team or alumni for insights and advice.
Highlight Your Strengths: Emphasize your academic achievements, professional experience, and extracurricular activities in your application.
Proofread Carefully: Ensure all documents are free of errors and present your best self to the admissions committee.
Stay Organized: Keep track of deadlines, requirements, and application components to avoid last-minute stress.
Start Early: Begin gathering the required documents and preparing for standardized tests well in advance.
Seek Guidance: Reach out to the program’s admissions team or alumni for insights and advice.
Highlight Your Strengths: Emphasize your academic achievements, professional experience, and extracurricular activities in your application.
Proofread Carefully: Ensure all documents are free of errors and present your best self to the admissions committee.
Stay Organized: Keep track of deadlines, requirements, and application components to avoid last-minute stress.
Conclusion
The University of Minnesota Fellowship is a life-changing opportunity for international students aspiring to make a difference in the world. By offering comprehensive financial support and access to a world-class education, this fellowship empowers students to tackle global challenges and drive meaningful change. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about sustainable development, don’t miss this chance to apply. Start your application today and take the first step toward a brighter future.