Graduate Programs Fair & Research Symposium

The Graduate School is proud to host this year’s Graduate Programs Fair in partnership with the TRIO McNair Scholars Program. The Fair and Symposium offer opportunities to connect directly with graduate program representatives and scholars from across the University of Minnesota. With more than 200 graduate and professional degree programs led by renowned faculty at the Twin Cities and Duluth campuses, chances are you’ll find a program that’s perfect for you.

View of the University of Minnesota Campus on the banks of the Mississippi River
Student at a job fair

This event is free and open to all students – whether you are just beginning to think about graduate school or actively preparing applications.

Why Should You Attend?

The Fair will provide valuable opportunities to:

  • Connect directly with graduate program representatives about admission requirements, program offerings, and funding opportunities.
  • Hear from TRIO McNair Scholars, who will present their undergraduate research in a wide range of disciplines, and share personal insights about preparing for graduate school.

This is your chance to explore graduate education, build connections, and gain the knowledge you need to confidently take your next step.


Events & Registration

Discover resources, make connections, and take your next step toward graduate education. 

11:00 AM: Office of Graduate Fellowships & Awards

President's Room - 3rd Floor, Coffman Memorial Union
Are you interested in pursuing graduate school but unsure if you can afford it? Attend this session to learn about the multiple ways to fund your graduate studies, as well as tips and tricks to find funding.
RSVP for this session!

11:30 AM: Community of Scholars Program

President's Room - 3rd Floor, Coffman Memorial Union
Learn about the Community of Scholars Program (COSP), a welcoming community that supports graduate students through community-building, professional development and funding opportunities, the COSP Writing Initiative, social events, and individualized consultations. We'll highlight what COSP offers, who is eligible, and how the program can support your graduate school journey.
RSVP for this session!

Noon: Office of Graduate Admissions

President's Room - 3rd Floor, Coffman Memorial Union
Applying to grad school?! Learn about how to choose a graduate program, the application process, and specific tips for preparing a strong application. All are welcome - from those curious about Grad School to others who are ready to apply! 
RSVP for this session!

12:30 PM: 3-Minute Thesis

President's Room - 3rd Floor, Coffman Memorial Union
Come learn about the 3-Minute Thesis Competition taking place at the University of Minnesota on November 13! The competition is a fun, fast-paced event where graduate students communicate their research to a non-specialist audience in three minutes or less, using one slide, without props or jargon.
RSVP for this session!

Noon - 2 PM: McNair Scholars Symposium

Great Hall - Coffman Memorial Union
While at the Grad Fair, stop by the Symposium to see the research being conducted by current University of Minnesota undergraduate scholars, and how they are communicating their efforts to faculty and peers. No RSVP required!


Participating Programs


Info for Participating Programs

Is your Duluth or Twin Cities program interested in exhibiting at the Fair? 

If so, register here - and use our Media Kit to help spread the word to prospective students!


GSDO Statement of Nondiscrimination

Graduate School Diversity Office (GSDO) programs, events, and resources are open to all UMN and UMD domestic graduate students, and generally center the intersectional experiences of marginalized students whose identities have been historically excluded in graduate education.

Gopher Grad Logo with tagline that reads "bridge to graduate school and beyond" and a photo of Goldy Gopher holing a diploma, wearing a cap and gown
McNair Scholars Program logo