Dreaming of studying at the prestigious University of Minnesota Twin Cities but worried about the cost? The Global Excellence Scholarship (GES) 2024/2025 could be your key to unlocking an exceptional education abroad. This merit-based scholarship offers substantial financial support to outstanding international students, making a world-class education more accessible.  

But how exactly does the GES work? This comprehensive guide dives deep into the intricacies of the scholarship, answering all your burning questions and equipping you for success.

Automatic Consideration: No Extra Application Needed! 

Here's the good news: there's no separate application for the GES. When you submit your application for admission to the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, you're automatically considered for this prestigious scholarship. The university takes a holistic approach, evaluating your entire application package to identify the most deserving candidates.   

Award Details: A Helping Hand for Your Academic Journey

The GES offers significant financial support, varying amounts ranging from $10,000 to $15,000 per year. This renewable scholarship can provide crucial financial backing for up to four years for freshmen and three years for transfer students, easing the burden of tuition fees.  

Maintaining Your Scholarship: Commitment is Key 

To retain your GES award, it's vital to demonstrate continued academic commitment. This means maintaining satisfactory academic progress, typically defined as a minimum GPA requirement set by the university. Additionally, you'll need to be enrolled full-time (at least 13 credits per semester) and maintain a valid F-1 visa status.

Important Considerations: Keeping Your Scholarship on Track

• Reduced Course Load: While receiving the GES with a reduced course load is possible, the award amount might be adjusted based on your lower tuition cost. Remember, full-time enrollment is a requirement for scholarship renewal. Exceptions can be considered upon appeal, so don't hesitate to contact isssfund@umn.edu for more information.
• Studying Abroad: The GES cannot be applied to study abroad programs. However, the scholarship resumes upon your return, and credits earned abroad (if successfully transferred) can contribute to the required 30-credit annual minimum.  
• Changing Majors: Flexibility is a plus! Changing majors within the University won't jeopardize your GES award. Your academic path can evolve without impacting your scholarship eligibility.  
• Visa Status Matters: The GES is exclusively for F-1 visa holders. Maintaining this status is crucial for continued scholarship receipt.  
• Award Adjustments: Unfortunately, mid-program adjustments to the GES award amount are not possible, regardless of financial hardship or academic excellence. Explore other ISSS Funding Programs if you encounter financial difficulties.
• Extending Your Scholarship: The GES typically covers four or three years, depending on your entry point (freshman or transfer). If extenuating circumstances require additional semesters to complete your degree, contact isssfund@umn.edu to discuss a possible extension.  
• Leave of Absence: Taking a leave of absence can impact your scholarship eligibility. While appeals can be submitted to isssfund@umn.edu upon your return, continued scholarship receipt is not guaranteed.
• Academic Performance: Maintaining satisfactory academic progress is essential. Falling into academic probation could lead to scholarship loss.

Cream of the Crop Recognition The GES is a highly competitive scholarship reserved for international undergraduate students, both freshmen, and transfers. It's a testament to your academic prowess, awarded only to those demonstrating exceptional academic achievement in their previous studies. Think top of your class and a track record of strong academic preparation.