Frequently Asked Questions

I was just admitted. What do I do now?

• • Review the decision deadline provided in your acceptance letter. Admitted students that accept enrollment to the program are required to pay a deposit. Incoming students should then refer to the Incoming Student Requirements webpage for a full list of requirements. 

Who do I ask for help regarding academic-related questions?

• • For academic advising, students can contact Marlin Farley (he/him/his), Senior Academic Adviser at epichstu@umn.edu. 

How do I enroll in classes?

• • Registration for admitted students is completed through the University of Minnesota’s One Stop online registration system. Your program coordinator will send you an email with information regarding registration for your specific program. You can register for classes through One Stop.

How many credits should I take?

• • While many students register for a full-time course load of approximately 12 credits per semester to complete degree requirements within 2 calendar years, this may not be feasible for all students. Students should register for courses that they can reasonably accommodate given their unique circumstances and demands beyond academics. Upon matriculation, students have 5 years to complete the degree requirements. 

What courses do students normally take for my program?

• • To review sample course schedules for the first academic year visit the New Student Guide located in the middle of the webpage. 

What are some tips on transitioning to graduate school?

• • The following tips were informed by the Counseling & Psychological Services from IU Health Center:

    • Be patient with yourself. It’s normal to experience some physical and emotional symptoms as you adjust to the program like anxiousness and sleep disturbances. Take time to meet your peers, make friends, and explore your new campus! Check out our EpiCH events, program socials, etc. to build your learning community and peer support network. Reach out to EpiCH Student Services regarding any questions regarding courses and academics at epichstu@umn.edu.

    • Set others’ expectations straight. Talk to your family, significant others, friends, etc. about what the first year will be like for you, explain what you’re thinking and feeling, and tell them directly what you need from them so they can understand your experience and be supportive. If you’re in a relationship, set aside a set-in-stone weekly date with your partner. Plan to check in with them to discuss adjustments, chore responsibilities, etc. Talk to your family and friends about any commitments or finances that will impact summer or holiday plans. 

    • Imposter syndrome is real. Many begin this journey feeling confused, and believe they are the only ones who’ve never learned the material before, among other thoughts. Know that you are not alone and acknowledge how you’re feeling.

    • Strive for balance. Develop a schedule that’s consistent and includes personal time. Find the activities that help you rest and recharge. Say “no” to some things and seek support when you need it.

    • Unexpected events happen. Be sure to stay in contact with your professors, instructors, etc., when changes to your health, family health, personal circumstance etc. occur as soon as possible. If you need to work through a concern, consider contacting Boynton Mental Health services and resources, a Mental Health Advocate, and the Disability Resource Center to discuss accommodations. 

Who do I contact if I need help completing my visa application?

• • The International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) is a hub that supports international students in advising to help maintain immigration status. To learn how to contact them, visit their Contact Us webpage. 

Are there funding opportunities specifically for international students?

• • International students are eligible for most scholarship opportunities offered to incoming School of Public Health students. Students that complete their application by the scholarship priority deadline, December 1, are automatically considered for scholarship funding. Scholarship funding for students applying to the program after December 1 is limited. Specific funding within the University of Minnesota can be found on the Funding webpage of International Student & Scholar Services. 

  • International students should keep in mind that there are limited resources for financial aid offered by the University of Minnesota and the School of Public Health and should plan ahead of time for how they will fund the cost of their studies. 

Can I apply for graduate assistantships, research assistantships, and/or teaching assistantships as an international student? 

• • Yes! International students can apply for assistantships. Additional steps may be required of the student depending on the student’s visa, once the position is offered and accepted.

Where else can I look for funding for my education? 

• • Supplementing graduate education includes outside scholarships, paid internships, employment, graduate assistantships, student loans, etc. The School of Public Health offers several resources to assist in locating funding opportunities: scholarship & funding, employment opportunities including campus jobs, and financial aid, loans, and grants. 

Where do I look for graduate assistantships, research assistantships, and/or teaching assistantships?

• • Student employment opportunities can be found on the ‘Student’ tab located on the UMN Office of Human Resources website.

How soon can I apply for graduate assistantships, research assistantships, and/or teaching assistantships?

To be eligible for graduate for a graduate assistantship a student must be: 

• • Admitted to a graduate school degree program or a post-baccalaureate professional degree program AND

  • Registered for the required minimum number of credits each semester (except for summer) an assistantship is held

    • To review full information on eligibility, registration requirements, and types of appointments visit the Graduate Assistant Employment website. 

What are the benefits of graduate assistantships, research assistantships, and/or teaching assistantships?

• • Benefits depend on the terms of the appointment. Applicants should carefully review the job announcement for details regarding benefits. Tuition and employment benefits can be found on the Tuition and Employment Benefits website.

Am I required to enroll full-time in order to be eligible for financial aid?

• • Full-time and half-time enrollment is defined by the program. Review the full-time status definition in your program guidebook. Information on minimum credits is found on the Minimum Graduate Credits for Financial Aid website. 

Who do I contact regarding questions I have about my financial aid award?

• • For questions about Federal Financial Aid, please contact One Stop at onestop@umn.edu or 612-624-1111. If you have accepted admission to the program, please provide your student ID number to expedite your inquiry. 

  • If you have specific questions about financial aid and paying for your education, please contact SPH financial aid adviser, Brian Olson at olson282@umn.edu.

Who do I contact regarding questions about my School of Public Health scholarship(s)?

• Questions regarding internal scholarships offered by the School of Public Health should be directed to epichstu@umn.edu. 

How can I find out more about the Twin Cities?

• • The School of Public Health compiled some resources and information regarding the Twin Cities on their Living in Minnesota webpage. Explore Minnesota offers a variety of guides, destination ideas, things to do, accessible travel information for the Twin Cities and beyond. 

How do I find housing?

• • Incoming students can visit the Graduate Student Housing webpage to search for on-campus housing. On-campus housing is limited so students are encouraged to contact property management early. 

  • Incoming students searching for off-campus housing can utilize apartment search websites or the UMN-managed Off-Campus Housing website. 

What are my options in getting to campus?

• • Explore the Parking & Transportation website to review parking, transit, campus maps, UMN tunnels and skyways, bike parking, and other transportation-related information. 

Do students work while they complete their degree?

• • Many students work some type of employment while completing their degree. If you’re currently employed, talk openly to your employer about any adjustments you may need to make during the degree program. 

What student support services can I utilize while in the program?

• The School of Public Health along with the University of Minnesota offer a variety of student services and supports. Visit the Student Resources webpage for a full list and links.