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: Scholarship Exchange (IRSEP) Country
Sponsor: Learning Abroad Center

• Application Essay
  Your essay should be 2,500 words and double-spaced. Cite all sources as you would for an academic paper. Divide the essay into the following five categories of approximately 500 words each:

  1. Describe the following: a) Your academic goals for your exchange; b) Your reasons for applying for the Scholarship Exchange program (IRSEP) in the particular country.
  2. The program requires a three-year commitment. Answer the following: a) What you believe you can contribute to the program while abroad b) what you can contribute upon your return and c) how your background has prepared you for this.
  3. When traveling to another country, we all carry with us what might be called our "cultural baggage"—our attitudes, beliefs, and ways of thinking and behaving. Describe what you see as the more obvious characteristics of your culture and explain how these might help or hinder your exchange experience.
  4. Identify what you believe to be an important current political, social, educational, or economic issue of the country where you plan to study. Briefly describe the key aspects of this issue. Draw a connection between this issue and what you might experience in the country.
  5. Describe two or three differences you expect to encounter in the academic and general student life in the country where you plan to study. How will you adjust to these differences? Draw upon any past adjustments you may have had to make in your life.
     
     
• Two Academic Recommendations
  The recommendations must be academic and at the university level (employers, friends, parents, or high school teachers are not usually accepted). The one exception would be employers who directly relate to the the scholarship requirements.
  
  
• College Transcript
  Official transcript from each college or university you have attended. Be sure to submit a transcript that includes grades from your most recent semester of enrollment.
  
• Method of Pament Form
  Submit a $50 non-refundable application fee with this form.
  
  
• Terms of Agreement Form
  Please be certain to review the terms of agreement before signing. Only qualified applicants are considered.
  
  
• Résumé
  In one to two pages, outline your educational history, work experience, hobbies, extracurricular activities, special skills, relevant awards, travel, and community service. You should stress those items that may be relevant to study in the country to which you are applying. Professional résumé style should be used. (Consult your college career office on tips for preparing a resume.)

Complete at least one year of study at the University of Minnesota prior to and following participation.

Complete at least one year of study at the University of Minnesota prior to and following participation.

Complete at least one year of study at the University of Minnesota prior to and following participation.

Complete at least one year of study at the University of Minnesota prior to and following participation.