From our distinctive admissions process to the completely new approach to learning, Minerva has built a university experience like no other. While nearly every aspect of life at Minerva is different, there are four things that truly set us apart from other highly-selective institutions.
01
Student Life Around the World
Open 2014
Open 2016
Open 2017
Open 2018
San Francisco
Berlin, Buenos Aires
Hyderabad, Seoul
London
The world needs global citizens. Living in up to seven of the world’s greatest cities you will experience a diversity of vibrant cultures, while gaining access to a wealth of educational resources far beyond those available in a traditional campus environment.
Each Minerva residential location is selected for its global significance, providing multiple vantage points for deep cultural understanding. While in each city, you will have numerous educational, social and community-building opportunities — from access to leading figures and programs with top institutions to student-led extracurricular activities.
02
Small Classes and Interactive Learning
<20
students in each Active Learning Seminar
For an education to be effective it must be both an active experience and an intentional intellectual progression. The Minerva curriculum is expressly designed to teach the critical skills necessary for future success.
Unlike the passive lectures at most universities, all Minerva classes take place in small interactive seminars. Top professors lead students through lively discussion, intensive debate, and collaborative work sessions. This active learning approach is designed to stimulate deep cognition, enhancing your understanding of course material and furthering your ability to apply concepts to unfamiliar situations in novel ways.
03
A Truly International Group of Students
78%
of students come from outside the United States
Minerva attracts students with extremely diverse backgrounds, who share a common sense of purpose. They are energized by learning to solve complex challenges and make a positive impact on the world.
Your academic performance is only part of the picture. Admissions offices often overlook the qualities most needed to succeed, both academically and personally. Minerva selects students based on promising characteristics like curiosity, determination, collaboration, and creativity — those which truly indicate your future potential.
04
Merit-based Admissions and Need-based Aid
100%
of students demonstrating need are eligible for financial aid
For university admissions to be fair they must treat every applicant equally. Every highly-selective American university gives preference to students from the US, with advantage given to groups like legacy applicants and recruited athletes. At Minerva, students are admitted based purely on merit, so there is no majority group.
Highly selective admissions standards are balanced by low tuition costs — $10,000 per academic year — and a financial aid program that makes a Minerva education accessible to all eligible students. The resulting community is both incredibly diverse and talented.
Applications for Fall 2020 are now closed. To be notified when admissions reopens, complete Part One.
Admission to Minerva is not a matter of chance. Regardless of where you come from, if you meet our rigorous standards — demonstrating the curiosity, drive, and potential to excel — you are guaranteed an invitation to attend.