Visiting Scholars FAQs

Is Minerva University an accredited institution?

Yes. Minerva University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC.)

Will my credits transfer to my university?

Acceptance of credits is at the individual discretion of each college or university. Most four-year colleges and universities accept transfer credit for up to two years of study. Minerva will work with each Visiting Scholar’s intended institution to facilitate the transfer of Cornerstone Curriculum Certificate course credits to that institution. Because Minerva cannot guarantee the transferability of courses at each Visiting Scholar’s intended institution, applicants are encouraged to check with their school’s registrar regarding their transfer credit policies.

Is this a remote or residential program? Where is Minerva University located?

We do not yet sponsor student visas for Visiting Scholars. Minerva University is headquartered in San Francisco with global residences around the world.

Which courses are part of the Foundation Year curriculum?

Visiting Scholars take the four Cornerstone courses and an Integrated Learning course each offered over two semesters.

Which courses are part of the Cornerstone Curriculum Certificate curriculum?

The Cornerstone Curriculum Certificate program consists of four (8 unit) two-semester long Cornerstone courses: Complex Systems, Empirical Analyses, Formal Analyses, and Multimodal Communications. Collectively, these courses focus on developing the habits of mind and foundational concepts (HCs) that underlie four core competencies—thinking critically, thinking creatively, communicating effectively, and interacting effectively. The Cornerstones are structured to teach you to apply all four core competencies across multiple disciplines. The curriculum also requires a two-semester long Integrated Learning Course (1 unit).

How long is the Visiting Scholars year?

Visiting Scholars year enrollment is available for the full 2022-23 academic year (September - April.) Students enroll for each semester and must complete the full year to receive the Certificate.

When are the dates of the Visiting Scholars year courses?

Dates for the fall semester for the 2022-23 academic year are September 5, 2022 through December 16, 2022. Spring semester classes will begin January 9, 2022 and end in April 2023. There are two short academic breaks per semester and a winter break from December 17, 2022 to January 7, 2023.

How do I apply to be a Visiting Scholar?

Applications are now open. We will be accepting applications until May 9 on a rolling basis. The application consists of 3 parts and can be completed in 3-4 hours on a computer with a webcam and Internet.

Can I take one, two, or three but not all four courses?

No. Students must take all four year-long Cornerstone courses and enroll for the full 2022-23 academic year.

What time will the courses be offered?

The exact course times will be determined once we know the location of enrolled Visiting Scholars. Courses are typically offered Monday/Wednesday and Tuesday/Thursday.

Who will be teaching the courses?

Courses will be taught by regular Minerva University faculty.

What is the tuition for the Visiting Scholars year?

The complete cost of the remote Visiting Scholars year is $18,650 comprising $17,650 tuition and $1,000 in fees for the full year. If accepted into the program, there is a $1000 deposit, non-refundable, which will be applied towards tuition. If Minerva is able to offer a residential offering, there will be additional costs associated with housing and in-person services.

What is included in the student fees?

The student fees include costs associated with orientation, community program access, and work associated with student records and transferring credits.

What are the technical requirements to participate?

The technical requirements include a computer and headset that meet the requirements for use of the Forum^TM and access to high-speed internet.

If I sign up for the Visiting Scholar year, am I eligible to enroll at Minerva University?

No. While Visiting Scholars will complete the same Foundation Year coursework, this is separate from Minerva’s undergraduate program and the Visiting Scholars year is not equivalent to admissions to the Minerva University’s undergraduate program. There will be an application window upon completion of Visiting Scholars Year during which Scholars can apply for the undergraduate program, if they wish.

If I am selected as a Visiting Scholar, will Minerva sponsor my F-1 or J-1 visa application?

Not at this time. The Visiting Scholars Year is currently not a residential program and is not intended to qualify any student for the F-1 (student) or J-1 (scholar) visa category.

Is financial aid available for Visiting Scholars?

No. Minerva does not provide financial aid for Visiting Scholars. Students who need financial aid are encouraged to search for external resources.

For additional questions, please email visitingscholars@minerva.edu.