Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

We issue Form I-20s after a student is admitted, provides proof of funding and KIC staff approves the funding for one academic year at Minnesota State University.

• I-20s are sent to students who are coming directly from their home country in 14-21 business days (3-4 weeks, potentially longer during holiday seasons).
• If students are transferring from another school in the U.S. (either High School, College or University), we have to wait until their current school releases the student's SEVIS record before we can issue the I-20.

Every admitted undergraduate international student on an F-1 or J-1 visa automatically receives the International Maverick Scholarship upon enrollment at Minnesota State University. For more information on this scholarship or others, visit our Scholarships page.

All students are required to provide proof of English Proficiency at the time of application. This requirement cannot be waived for any student, even if the student is intending on applying to the Intensive English Program.

To view which forms of English Proficiency scores  Minnesota State University accepts, visit our International Admission Checklist.

International students study on an F-1 visa at Minnesota State University. When an international student is admitted to the University, the Kearney International Center issues a document called the Form I-20. The student uses this document to apply for the F-1 visa at the U.S. Consulate nearest to them.

Some students who already have a visa (such as an H or L visa) may choose not to change to the F-1 visa.

Admitted students are allowed to change their major up until the time their Form I-20 is issued.

• If you have NOT received your I-20, you may list your desired major on the Financial Documentation & I-20 Request form. The major request will be processed at the same time as your Form I-20.
• If you have received your Form I-20, the Kearney International Center will not change your major until you report to campus. During orientation, KIC staff will provide further instructions on how to change your major.

Email is the main way of communicating with Minnesota State University, so it is vital that your email is always up to date! To update your email address in your student record, please submit this request form. 

Update Email Address

Information on your admission letter is taken directly from your e-application, so it is very important you provide accurate information at the time of admission. If you have an updated physical address or the name is incorrect, please include your desired changes as a note on your Financial Documentation & I-20 Request form.

After your Form I-20 is processed, your name on the Admission Letter will be updated to reflect your official passport name. You will be able to find your updated Admission Letter in your personalized dashboard. 

We're very excited that you've chosen Minnesota State University for your education. To view the next steps after admissions, visit the Kearney International Center's New Student page for comprehensive information.

Go to New Student page

All incoming international students must attend International Student Orientation the week before their first semester. New students meet with their academic advisor and register during orientation week. More information is shared via email once the semester start is within 90 days.