Online Program Application Process

The application process at Bemidji State is easy and free!

1. Apply

Distance students must apply for admission to Bemidji State University using the same process and forms as our on-campus students:

• Undergraduates: Apply online as an undergraduate.
• Graduate Students: Apply online through the School of Graduate Studies.

Special Program Admission Procedures

BAS programs, RN-BS Nursing and the Project Management BS require transfer of technical and/or professional credits.

After being admitted to BSU, submit separate applications for these programs:

• Elementary Education BS “DLiTE”
• RN-to-BS Nursing
• Social Work BSW hybrid program “SWIM”

Online Courses

Not seeking a degree, but need an online class or classes?

You can apply online as a non-degree seeking student, and register for classes as soon as your application is processed. Prerequisites and other course restrictions apply. FAFSA-based financial aid is not available under this option. Application processing is usually completed within a few days. Follow the undergraduate online application instructions and select the following as you complete the application:

In Application Section 6 “Major”: Select Bemidji State as your school. Select “Complete courses but not a degree” under Major – Educational Intent. Select “Online” as your preferred delivery method. Select “General Studies (Undecided)” as your major/academic program. Select “Not Seeking Degree” as your desired degree/award.

Already Enrolled at Another Minnesota State School?

If you are already enrolled at another Minnesota State college or university, you may be eligible to take certain online courses through Bemidji State University as a “visiting student”, without having to apply to BSU. Financial aid and transferability should be considered. Please contact admissions@bemidjistate.edu for details.

Successful Application Tips

When completing your application for BSU admission:

• Please choose the major that you are most likely to complete, as that will produce the most accurate transfer credit evaluation. Do not leave the major field blank, if possible.
• The “online” delivery method is for completely online program options, but also includes Elementary Education (DLiTE) and hybrid Social Work (SWIM).
• The “off site” delivery method is for the Biology BS or BA program with BSU courses offered at North Hennepin Community College.

2. Transfer Credit Evaluation

Your previous college/university credits will be evaluated for transfer after we receive your official transcripts. The BSU transfer team can download transcripts from Minnesota State schools electronically. If your transcripts are from outside of the Minnesota State system (including the University of Minnesota), please contact that college or university to request an official copy of your transcript be sent to the Office of Admissions at BSU. Your transfer evaluation will be completed within 3 weeks after your admission to BSU. We will notify you by email when it is complete.

3. Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships

• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
• Apply for special scholarships for distance learners.
• Check with your major department to learn about other scholarship opportunities.

4. Register for Classes

• Review registration guidelines and policies.
• Register through E-Services at MyBSU or contact Extended Learning for assistance.
• Learn more about your E-Services account and the registration process at Registration FAQs.

5. Verify Computer Requirements

Review computer and Internet required specifications.

6. Purchase Course Materials

• Find required texts for your courses at the University Bookstore.
• You may order your textbooks online and your order will be shipped to you.
• You may charge BSU Bookstore purchases to your student account.

7. Succeed

Take advantage of the many student services offered at Bemidji State University.