Online MBA: International Applicants

Explore the Process for Applying to the MBA program as an International Applicant

Minnesota Carlson is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive community that encourages all members to reach their full potential through learning, working, and service. The Online MBA format supports the School's mission while allowing students outside the United States to access Carlson's brand and network.

The Online MBA is excited to accept international students. However, the University of Minnesota cannot grant student visas to online students.

Request Information
Schedule Appointment
Apply

Key Admission Dates

RoundSpring Start (January)Summer Start (June)Fall Start (September)
Round 1October 15February 15May 15
Round 2November 15March 15June 15
Round 3December 15April 15July 15

We will accept applications after the deadline if space is available.

Gather Materials for Your Application

Please note that all materials will be required in some form for an Online MBA application. If materials are missing, an application will be marked incomplete, and the admissions decision will be delayed. Please check your applicant checklist in the application portal to ensure all materials are received.

For the residency requirement, you will need to work with your academic advisor to find an alternative arrangement if you cannot enter the US.

Minnesota Carlson requires a first degree comparable to a U.S. bachelor's degree. Generally, this means a degree requiring at least 3-4 years of post-baccalaureate university study. If you are unsure whether your degree is acceptable, please inquire early.

Unofficial transcripts must include your name and the name of the institution. or email them to [email protected] for attachment to your application file. Official transcripts will be required if you are admitted to the program.

Please do not mail in paper copies of your transcript. International credentials must include both the original language document(s) and an English translation. English language translation services in the Twin Cities Please include copies of the original language diplomas if a degree was conferred, in addition to original language transcripts or mark sheets.

The University of Minnesota reserves the right to require the submission of official transcripts or credentials at any time during the admission review process.

See the details below for advice on the specific countries listed.

If credentials do not show the university grading system, submit an official statement from the university with this information. If credentials do not record the awarding of the degree, submit certified true copies of your diplomas.

International Grading Systems

Former USSR and EuropeApplicants from these countries should submit official English translations and credentials in the original language.
People’s Republic of ChinaPlease submit official transcripts and degree award statements in English and Chinese.
Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, France, and Universities Outside North America on the French SystemApplicants from universities in these countries may submit certified or attested mark sheets or reports detailing the results of all exams. These credentials must be certified by university personnel or government officials and should bear the original signature of the certifying official. Do not certify your own credentials.

Online students cannot be issued an F-1 or J-1 visa. You must have a work permit or dependent visa to pursue the online program while you reside in the US.

Proof of English Language Proficiency is required of all applicants and must be demonstrated in one of the following ways. 

  • Complete at least the last two years of a bachelor's degree or one year of graduate school (full-time) in the U.S., U.K., Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Anglophone Africa, or the English-speaking Caribbean and will provide official transcripts
  • Complete education solely in English in a country where English is not the official language and will provide documented proof (Ex. India)
  • Will provide the official results of an English language test taken within the last two years

You must take the TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, or Duolingo exam if you do not meet one of the other requirements. We accept scores from any of these exams, it is not necessary to take more than one. Scores must be less than 2 years old when you apply.

You are not exempt if you have lived in an English-speaking country for several years but have not completed any prior education in English.

TOEFL

Typically competitive candidates have scores within the following ranges:

  • 90-105 internet-based TOEFL
  • 600-650 paper-based TOEFL

Minnesota Carlson must receive an official score report directly from the testing service. The code for the Carlson School MBA is 6874, and the department code is 02.

IELTS

Minnesota Carlson requires a 7.0 overall band score and no section lower than 6.5.

IELTS scores are verified using the Test Report Form (TRF) number. You may upload a scanned copy of your IELTS Test Report Form in your application or email the score report to [email protected].

Score reports will be accepted via email from applicants or the testing agency.

PTE AcademicMinnesota Carlson requires a score of 65 on the PTE Academic. The School must receive an official score report from Pearson. When you take the exam, please specify that you wish to have an official score report sent to the Carlson School of Management MBA Programs at program code JP3-5T-48.
DuolingoWe require an overall score of 120 and a literacy section score of 120 for admission consideration. Please send your test results directly to [email protected].

Begin Your Journey to Minnesota Carlson

Apply Today
Webform

Request information

Complete this form to receive information about coursework, admissions, tuition, and more.

*Required information

Illustration of laptop with envelop on it next to a globe

Tips on applying to U.S. schools as an International Applicant

Our admissions team put together 10 tips on navigating the business school application process so you can earn a spot at your top-choice program in the United States.

View Tips