how to apply to minerva + tips

Summary

In this video, Helen, a Minerva student from the Class of 2025, explains the unique application process for Minerva University, highlighting its absence of fees, standardized tests, and demographic quotas. The application consists of three parts: basic information, cognitive challenges assessing creativity and reasoning, and a section showcasing significant accomplishments. Helen offers practical tips for applicants, emphasizing the importance of confidence, preparedness, and choosing unique achievements to stand out. Her insights aim to help prospective students navigate the distinctive Minerva application with clarity and ease.

Takeaways

• 😀 Minerva's application process is unique and significantly different from traditional U.S. colleges.
• 📄 There is no application fee required to apply to Minerva.
• 📝 No standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are needed for admission.
• 🚫 There are no quotas for gender or ethnicity in the admissions process.
• ⚖️ U.S. citizenship, athletics, or legacy status do not influence admissions decisions.
• 💰 Family or financial status is not considered during the application process.
• 🔓 There is no enrollment cap, allowing all qualified applicants to be accepted.
• 🔍 The application consists of three parts: personal information, cognitive challenges, and a list of accomplishments.
• ⏳ The cognitive challenges assess reasoning, creativity, and expression, and are timed and proctored.
• 🌟 Applicants should choose unique accomplishments that reflect their true interests and passions.

Q & A

What makes Minerva's application process unique compared to other U.S. colleges?

Minerva's application process is unique because it does not have an application fee, standardized test requirements, gender or ethnicity quotas, preferential treatment for U.S. citizens or athletes, considerations of family financial status, and there is no enrollment cap.

What are the three main parts of the Minerva application?

The application consists of three parts: 'Who You Are,' which includes personal information; 'How You Think,' which features various challenges; and 'Accomplishments,' where applicants share significant achievements.

How can applicants complete the first part of the Minerva application?

Applicants can complete the first part of the application through the Common App, after which they can proceed to the remaining sections on Minerva's website.

What types of challenges are included in the 'How You Think' section?

The 'How You Think' section includes challenges that assess understanding, reasoning, math, creativity, and writing. It also has a speaking component where applicants are recorded.

Are there any restrictions on who can apply to Minerva?

No, there are no quotas or restrictions based on gender, ethnicity, or citizenship status. Anyone who meets Minerva's criteria can apply.

What should applicants consider when listing their accomplishments?

Applicants should be selective about their accomplishments, focusing on unique experiences that highlight their interests and passions, rather than typical activities that other applicants may also have.

What advice does Helen give regarding the 'How You Think' section?

Helen advises applicants not to overthink the challenges in the 'How You Think' section and to trust their instincts, as it's more about demonstrating existing knowledge and creativity.

How can applicants prepare for the speaking component of the application?

Applicants can prepare by having a pen and paper ready to outline their thoughts and key points they wish to discuss when responding to prompts.

Why is it important for applicants to reflect on why they want to attend Minerva?

It's important for applicants to consider their motivations for attending Minerva to ensure a mutual fit between their goals and the university's offerings, which can strengthen their application.

How can prospective students contact Helen for more questions?

Prospective students can reach out to Helen with any questions through the comments section of her video or by direct messaging her on Instagram.