November 17-21, 2025
International Education Week is an annual celebration during which University of Minnesota colleges, campuses, and student groups plan events and activities to highlight the University's support of international education.
International Education Week was first declared by the U.S. Departments of State and Education in 2000 as part of their effort to encourage policies and programs that prepare Americans for a global environment and attract future leaders from abroad to study in the U.S. The Global Programs and Strategy Alliance plays a leadership role in promoting the week across the University of Minnesota system. Colleges, offices, and student groups are encouraged to find ways to highlight the University's support of international education in their areas. Contact the GPS Alliance with questions.
Monday, November 17
International Photo and Video Contest
Vote online for your favorite photos and videos in the annual Learning Abroad Center International Photo and Video Contest. Voting is open throughout International Education Week, November 17–21; winners will be announced November 25.
International Trivia Night
6:00-7:30 p.m.; Garden Room — Duluth campus
Students, faculty, and staff are invited to test their global knowledge at International Trivia Night! This event challenges participants to team up and answer fun and intriguing questions about cultures, history, languages, and landmarks from around the world. Bring your friends, enjoy some friendly competition, and win some prizes! Hosted by UMD Study Abroad, International Programs and Services.
Tuesday, November 18
International Photo and Video Contest
Vote online for your favorite photos and videos in the annual Learning Abroad Center International Photo and Video Contest. Voting is open throughout International Education Week, November 17–21; winners will be announced November 25.
International Scholars Meet Librarians
This event has been canceled.
GPS Alliance Annual Celebration
4:00-6:00 p.m; McNamara Alumni Center
Join the Global Programs and Strategy Alliance at our annual celebration to recognize our collective accomplishments in international education and global engagement. We will also honor the 2025 recipients of our all-University awards.
2025 Bob and Kim Griffin Building U.S.-China Bridges Lecture
5:00 p.m., McNamara Alumni Center
The annual Bob and Kim Griffin Building U.S.- China Bridges Lecture features experts in a wide range of China-related topics, from economics and business to culture and politics. This year's lecture is Reflections on the Chinese and Indian Innovation Ecosystem given by Tarun Khanna, the Jorge Paulo Lemann Professor at Harvard Business School. Learn more about the lecture and RSVP.
Wednesday, November 19
International Photo and Video Contest
Vote online for your favorite photos and videos in the annual Learning Abroad Center International Photo and Video Contest. Voting is open throughout International Education Week, November 17–21; winners will be announced November 25.
Around the World with Carlson Global Institute (CGI)
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Humphrey Mondale Commons Atrium
Discover exciting study abroad opportunities for Summer 2026, Fall 2026, and Spring 2027 at the Carlson Global Institute’s Education Abroad Fair! Explore our business-focused study abroad programs and connect with past participants and incoming exchange students from our partner university business exchange programs. Don’t miss this chance to learn about the semester and short-term options you have for your International Experience!
Thursday, November 20
International Photo and Video Contest
Vote online for your favorite photos and videos in the annual Learning Abroad Center International Photo and Video Contest. Voting is open throughout International Education Week, November 17–21; winners will be announced November 25.
Friday, November 21
International Photo and Video Contest
Vote online for your favorite photos and videos in the annual Learning Abroad Center International Photo and Video Contest. Voting is open throughout International Education Week, November 17–21; winners will be announced November 25.
International Poster Session
3:00-4:30 p.m., Lind Hall L130
The Minnesota English Language Program (MELP) will host its annual International Poster Session, which will feature international students presenting a topic from their culture. This event is open to the public, and refreshments will be provided.