Apply Now!

Review the eligibility requirements and apply on or before the listed deadline by submitting all items listed under the application checklist to the appropriate location.

Program Contact


If you have questions regarding the application process, special needs, eligibility, or need assistance completing the requested forms, please contact:

Heidi Soneson at sones001@umn.edu or call 612.625.2571.

Application Checklist

Follow this checklist to apply for the program.

Review the Eligibility Requirements
Apply by the Application Deadline. It is recommended that you apply early; complete applications are reviewed as they are submitted.
Apply for your passport
Research Scholarship Possibilities
Plan to attend the mandatory Pre-Departure Orientation

Print and submit the following pieces to the Learning Abroad Center (map):

  • Print and Submit: Application Checklist
  • Learning Abroad Application
    On the top portion of the form, please indicate the following to help us identify your program:

    Program Name: MSID-Senegal
    Sponsor: LAC
    Program Track/Host Institution: leave blank
    Term: If you plan to enroll in the fall/academic year Pre-Session, be sure to indicate this on your application form.
  • Resume
    Outline your educational history, work experiences, hobbies, extracurricular activities, special skills, etc. You should stress especially those items that may be relevant to MSID or to an internship in the country to which you are applying. (1–2 pages)

  • Statement of Purpose
    Describe why are you applying for the program, including both personal and academic goals. Include what steps you have taken to prepare for the program, including personal experiences and academic coursework. Finally, describe any specific requirements or preferences concerning the content of the internship and what you hope to gain from participating in the internship experience. (300–500 words)
    Note: Submit your statement of purpose in English and compose a second copy in French.

  • Academic Recommendation
    An academic recommendation should come from a college-level professor, instructor, or TA who is familiar with your current French ability based on your participation in his/her French course.

  • College Transcript
    Submit an official or unofficial transcript from each institution you have attended or are currently attending.

  • Method of Payment Form
    Submit a $50 non-refundable application fee with this form.

››Applicants with GPA Below the Requirement Only

  • Low GPA Essay
    In approximately 250 words, describe your academic strengths and any extenuating academic or personal circumstances that have contributed to your GPA being lower than what is required for this program.
  • Special Circumstances Recommendation pdf
    A recommendation should come from a professor, advisor, or TA who can speak to your academic strengths and recommend you for participation although your GPA is lower than what is required for this program. This recommendation is in addition to any other recommendations required by the program.

 

Eligibility Requirements
This program is open to all individuals. Eligibility does not require student or University of Minnesota status. Students meeting the criteria below are qualified to apply for this program:

Language Level Four semesters of college-level French or equivalent (applicants must have enrolled in a French course within one year of participation or demonstrate advanced-level language proficiency)
GPA 2.5
Class Standing Junior, senior, graduate student, or individual with bachelor's degree; second-semester sophomores on a case-by-case basis
Other Strongly preferred: Coursework related to development and/or Senegal or West Africa, or volunteer or social services experience

Program Dates & Application Deadlines


Submit complete applications to the Learning Abroad Center according to the appropriate deadline:

Terms
Dates
Deadline
Spring Semester 2008
Jan. 21–May 9
Oct. 1
Fall Semester 2008
 Sept. 1–Dec. 12
Apr. 1
Fall Semester + Presession 2008  (New option for 2008) Aug. 3–Dec. 12 Apr. 1
Academic Year 2008–09 Sept. 1–Apr. 24 Apr. 1
Academic Year + Presession 2008–09  (New option for 2008) Aug. 3–Apr. 24 Apr. 1
Spring Semester 2009
 Jan. 19–May 8
Oct. 1

*If the deadline falls on a weekend, submit your materials on the following business day.

Check here for the full Program Calendar.

 

Next Steps

Here's what to expect after submitting your application to the Learning Abroad Center:

  1. The Learning Abroad Center sends an email notification to confirm that your application was received.
  2. The Learning Abroad Center emails you to request missing items if your application is incomplete.
  3. Your completed application is reviewed.
  4. The Learning Abroad Center emails you within 3–4 weeks with a decision regarding your acceptance into the program.
  5. If accepted, follow the instructions outlined in the acceptance email. You need to pay a program deposit to the Learning Abroad Center.
  6. If you choose not to complete the application process, email the program contact.
 
Last modified on May 20, 2008