Answers to common questions

Questions about eligibility

I'm in my first year of college. Am I eligible?

Candidates must have completed their first year of post-secondary education before applying to Urban Scholars. Students who are enrolled in post-secondary enrollment options (PSEO) and have not yet received their high school diploma are not eligible.

I'm pursing an Associate’s Degree. Am I eligible?

Yes. Students who are enrolled in 2-year degree programs may apply. In the application, please select Urban Scholars - Undergraduate.

I'm a college senior who is graduating in May. Am I eligible?

You are eligible to apply if you graduated up to six months prior to the start date of Urban Scholars. For example, if you earn your degree between December and May, you would be eligible to apply to the current program. If you graduated in the last six months and have not yet completed any graduate level coursework, please complete the application as an undergraduate.

I'm a graduate student. Am I eligible?

We encourage graduate students who are interested in learning more about careers in the public sector to apply. To be considered, you must be enrolled and in good standing at an accredited graduate program or law school. When applying, select the Urban Scholars - Graduate option in the application.

I am an International Student. Am I eligible?

Yes. Students who are F-1 Visa holders are eligible to apply. Urban Scholars is considered off-campus work. You must obtain either Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT) authorization. Your college or university’s international student services office will start the work authorization process. Please note that Urban Scholars cannot sponsor H-1B Visa holders.

I don't live in Minneapolis. Am I eligible?

Yes. Urban Scholars does not have any residency restrictions. You do not need to be a resident of Minneapolis to apply.

I'm not interested in a public policy or political career. Can I apply?

Yes. We encourages students from academic majors to apply. Our program has selected students with backgrounds in engineering, computer science, public health, historic preservation, accounting and many more majors.

Questions about the application process

Should I submit recommendation letters?

Please do not send recommendation letters with your initial application. We may request additional details, including a recommendation letter at a later time in the application process. 

How long is the application window?

Applications open January 15, 2024 and will close on March 4, 2024. 

Which application should I use?

The Eligibility and application page will provide you with all the information to apply. This includes a link to the City of Minneapolis employment site.

Eligibility and application