We explain how to apply to become an Urban Scholar.

• We encourage students from all backgrounds and majors to apply.
• Our program has selected students with backgrounds in engineering, computer science, public health, historic preservation, accounting and many more majors.
• We have a variety of projects for Urban Scholars.

What to know

• Eligibility
• Qualifications
• Applications
  • Undergraduate student
  • Graduate student
  • Law student

Who can apply

To apply to our program, you must be:

• Enrolled and in good standing at an accredited college, university, graduate program or law school, or
• A recent graduate with a degree conferred in the last three months

Applications for Summer 2025 Urban Scholars are open February 17 through March 17, 2025.

Not eligible:

• Students who are enrolled in post-secondary enrollment options (PSEO) and have not yet received their high school diploma are not eligible.

Requirements

You must also:

• Have completed at least one year of post-secondary education
• Be authorized to work in the United States
• Be prepared to participate on a full-time basis (40 hours per week) from June 2, 2025, until August 15, 2025
• Take part in the Urban Scholars Leadership Institute (USLI) in Minneapolis each week during the program. Read about USLI

Note:

• You do not need to be a resident of Minneapolis to apply for the Urban Scholars program.

Cultural competency

• The ability to understand, appreciate and interact with people from cultures or belief systems other than your own.

Altruism

• Care about other people and their needs without regard for your own needs.
• Think about other groups who have a stake or interest in various projects, initiatives or activities.

Teamwork and collaboration

• Take a broad view of the team concept.
• Consider values, opinions and preferences of other group members in completing tasks and in decision-making.

Resiliency and adaptability

• Show resiliency in the face of obstacles, setbacks and other sources of stress.
• Adapt well to changing conditions.
• Recognize when changes in priorities, direction or the pace of activities appear necessary.

Undergraduate application

Apply to be an undergraduate Urban Scholar

Graduate application

Apply to be a graduate Urban Scholar

Law student application

Apply to be a law student Urban Scholar