November 16-20, 2026
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.
2026 Schedule of Events
To include your event on the International Education Week calendar, fill out our Share Your News and Events form.
Monday, November 16
International Photo Contest
Vote online November 16-22 for your favorite photos and videos in the Learning Abroad Center's annual International Photo Contest. Winners will be announced November 23.
Carlson International Experience 101
4:00–5:00 p.m.; Hanson Hall 1-106
Are you a Carlson student and wondering what to do for your International Experience? Don't know where to start? Join the Carlson Global Institute for "IE 101" to understand your options, discover resources, and get answers to your questions! RSVP if you plan to attend. See other Carlson Global Institute IEW events.
The Book Will Echo Our Sorrow Read-Together
6:00 p.m.; Library Ranta Rotunda Reading Room (Duluth)
Join us for an international-themed read-together! We will be reading and discussing "The Rocks Will Echo Our Sorrow" by Elin Anna Labba. The book is centered around the forced displacement of the Sámi people. Learn more about this and other IEW events on the Duluth campus.
Tuesday, November 17
International Photo Contest
Vote online November 16-22 for your favorite photos and videos in the Learning Abroad Center's annual International Photo Contest. Winners will be announced November 23.
Coffee and Donuts with Carlson International Students
9:00–10:30 am; Outside Nelson Hall 2-210 (CGI Lobby)
The Carlson Global Institute invites all international students at Minnesota Carlson to stop by the CGI office to grab coffee and a donut. We appreciate having you as part of our community! Coffee and donuts available while supplies last. All Carlson students welcome! See other Carlson Global Institute IEW events.
Sami Stories | Reclaiming Our Identity
6:00 p.m.; Library Ranta Rotunda Reading Room (Duluth)
The Saami Circle of North America, a local non-profit organization, has prepared an evening based on their archival and museum-quality collection of objects, artifacts, and stories. The event will be coordinated by artist, photographer, and writer Marlene Wisuri. Learn more about this and other IEW events on the Duluth campus.
Wednesday, November 18
International Photo Contest
Vote online November 16-22 for your favorite photos and videos in the Learning Abroad Center's annual International Photo Contest. Winners will be announced November 23.
Fulbright Alumni Breakfast
8:30 a.m.; Lakeview Room (Duluth)
Join us to celebrate UMD faculty who have participated in the Fulbright Scholar Program, recognizing the lasting impact of their international experiences. This special breakfast will bring together UMD's Fulbright Scholar alumni community for conversation, connection, and celebration. By invitation only. Learn more about this and other IEW events on the Duluth campus.
Around the World with CGI!
11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.; Glenn & Kay Hasse Atrium, Nelson Hall
Discover exciting study abroad opportunities for Summer 2027, Fall 2027 and Spring 2028 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! See other Carlson Global Institute IEW events.
Wobblies, Cooperatives, and Other Methods for Calling the Wind | Finnish-American Activists
6:00 p.m.; Library Ranta Rotunda Reading Room (Duluth)
Poet and storyteller Sheila Packa will present stories of a two Finnish-Americans: T Bone Slim (musician, poet, Wobbly) and Sirkka Tuomi Holm. Learn more about this and other IEW events on the Duluth campus.
Thursday, November 19
International Photo Contest
Vote online November 16-22 for your favorite photos and videos in the Learning Abroad Center's annual International Photo Contest. Winners will be announced November 23.
International Café
1:00–3:00 p.m.; Burton Hall Atrium
International Café is a vibrant gathering of students, scholars, faculty, and staff in the College of Education and Human Development that celebrates global cultures and connects with the college's international community. The event will feature cultural booths hosted by international students and scholars representing countries such as Japan, Kazakhstan, China, Algeria, and more. Guests will enjoy refreshments, cultural displays, and opportunities for intercultural dialogue and connection within the CEHD community.
International Poster Session
2:30–4:25 p.m.; Jones Hall 135
International students from the Minnesota English Language Program will present posters sharing about their culture and country of origin. All are welcome! Light refreshments will be provided.
Friday, November 20
International Photo Contest
Vote online November 16-22 for your favorite photos and videos in the Learning Abroad Center's annual International Photo Contest. Winners will be announced November 23.
World of Opportunities: Career Readiness & Networking Day
11:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; UMN RecWell—registration required
Connect, learn, and prepare for your future career at this half-day event designed with international student career development needs in mind. UMN community members are welcome to attend and explore the value of global and cross-cultural career skills while building meaningful connections with others. This event is sponsored by the ISSS Culture Corps Program.
Undocumented Migrants and their Everyday Lives: The Case of Finland
12:00 p.m.; Library Ranta Rotunda Reading Room (Duluth)
Join Jussi Jauhiainen, Government of Finland and Speer Visiting Professor of Geography, for a discussion about his research on contemporary immigration. This talk is hosted by the Alworth Institute for International Studies. Learn more about this and other IEW events on the Duluth campus.
Global Exchange Get-Together
3:00–5:00 p.m.; Location: TBD
Calling all UMN incoming and outgoing exchange students! Join Carlson Global Institute, Learning Abroad Center, International Student & Scholar Services, and the UMN Law School for our inaugural Global Exchange Get-Together! This event is designed specifically for UMN's exchange student community. Whether you're currently studying at UMN, you're about to embark on your international experience, or you recently returned from your study abroad, this is your chance to connect, swap stories, share tips, and make global connections!
Small World Coffee Hour
4:00–6:00 p.m.; RecWell, Beacon Room
All international and domestic students are invited to the weekly Small World Coffee Hour to enjoy coffee and treats, learn about different cultures, make new friends, and have fun! Come build community, expand your connections, and meet students and scholars from across the globe in a welcoming space.