Student Life
Something big awaits you. Here, you'll encounter people and ideas from around the world that will inspire your thinking and take you down unexpected paths. Discover life on the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus.
900+
Student organizations
90%
First year students live on campus
7,197
International students
900+
Student organizations
90%
First year students live on campus
7,197
International students
Meet Our #UMNdriven Students
At the U of M you can dream, and you can do. You can dive in and create. You can build and become, learn, and discover. And you can share your successes and those of everyone you meet here who inspires you. Share what makes you #UMNproud through any of our many social media channels.
Housing and Dining
When you live on campus, you'll get a jump-start on meeting new people and developing lifelong friendships while being close to classes, libraries, rec centers, restaurants, and whatever resources you need, from mental health support to work-study jobs. Nearby, the campus is surrounded by distinct and welcoming neighborhoods, so whether you commute or live close, there are endless places to discover.
Get Involved
Students come together to socialize and learn from each other in countless ways. Across campus and in every major, you'll discover purpose, community, and opportunity.
“The Libraries were my favorite part of the U of M. The librarians were always super helpful. I’ve spent a lot of late nights in the various libraries on campus.”
Lauren Stach '22
Biosystems Engineering
Read Lauren's story
Student Health
Your health matters. That’s why our students are automatically enrolled in student health benefits. With top-notch medical care and insurance, we’ve got everything you need to stay healthy, right here on campus.
Club Sports and Recreation
Centered in a vibrant metropolitan community, the Twin Cities campus is also a world in itself—with miles of bike paths, numerous lakes, and the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area right in the heart of campus. You'll also have access to state-of-the-art recreation and wellness facilities, with programs in everything from intramural sports to outdoor recreation and fitness programs.
“The U of M is such an amazing place for all genders, races, backgrounds, and orientations. You will always be accepted. I am a proud member of the LGBT community today because of the support I found during my time at the U.”
Rob Orlowski '12
Arts and Culture
Art plays a meaningful cultural and educational role throughout the U of M campus, inspiring students to think differently about their world. With more than three dozen public artworks and the magnificence of Northrop, the Weisman Art Museum, the Bell Museum, and the West Bank Arts Quarter, inspiration is just a step away. Meanwhile, the Twin Cities is also home to a dynamic arts community. The Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, the Guthrie Theater, and the Minneapolis Institute of Arts are just a few examples.
“Being on the cross country and track teams has been one of the most formative experiences I have had at the U. Competing at this level has pushed me to get the absolute most out of my abilities, both for myself and for the team.”
Abby Kohut-Jackson '22
Neuroscience
Read Abby's story
Safety
The safety of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors is incredibly important. Students receive real-time safety alerts via text message, and alarm buttons and emergency phones are located throughout campus. Parking facilities, skyways, and tunnels are monitored 24 hours a day with the aid of security cameras, and campus escorts are available to bike and walk with you to and from campus locations and nearby neighborhoods—just call 612-624-WALK.
Getting Around Campus
The Twin Cities campus is centered in one of the most bike-friendly cities in the nation. You can pedal your own wheels or hop on a Nice Ride or electric scooter.
Not a cyclist? Free Campus Connector shuttles will carry you everywhere on campus, while buses and light rail guide you swiftly around the Twin Cities. And don’t worry about staying warm in winter—we’ve literally got you covered with an underground tunnel system.
“After living in Southern California for eight years, I of course moved here for the weather. Kidding! In all seriousness, the admissions team and current students I spoke with were welcoming, and exuded a pride in the school and community that was unmatched.”
Lauren Hamilton '25
Law
Read Lauren's story
