The Individualized Major Program admits new students twice a year, in spring and fall. Admission is non-competitive; each application is judged on its own merits. The steps involved in applying for an individualized minor are described below.
Guidelines for applying to our minor
Application steps
What is the deadline for the upcoming semester?
The IMP minor has a rolling application cycle, with deadlines listed below.
- Fall deadline: December 1, 2025
- Spring deadline: April 14, 2026
What is an initial consultation?
This is an informational session when you can ask questions about the program and we can get a sense of your interests. You are welcome to schedule a consultation even if you don't plan to apply right away.
How do I schedule a consultation?
To schedule your initial consultation, use the Student Appointment Scheduler to book an appointment with IMP Assistant Director Mia Ranard.
How do I apply for an individualized minor?
Download the IMP Minor Application Form. Once complete, email it to imp@iu.edu or deliver it in person to the IMP office in Lindley 201D.
What are the questions on the application essay?
- Does the minor resemble others that are regularly offered at IU Bloomington? If so, how is the proposed IMP minor different from others it may resemble?
- What is the principle of coherence unifying the courses for the minor?
- What do you hope to learn from completing this minor?
- How does the minor complement your major? Is there a close thematic connection? Does it address an interest not otherwise reflected in your degree?
What are the regulations for course selection?
The application also asks you to list the courses you propose to include in your minor. Your course selections must adhere to the following regulations:
- A minimum of 15 credit hours
- No more than two courses from any single department
- A minimum of 9 credit hours from the College of Arts and Sciences
- A minimum of 9 credit hours at the 300-400 level
- A minimum of 9 credit hours taken in residency on the Bloomington campus
- No more than 3 hours of internship and 3 hours of independent readings credit
- No more than two courses that are already completed at the time the student applies
- Only two courses from the individualized minor can count toward other degree objectives including majors, other minors, or certificates.
What are helpful resources for selecting courses?
- Advice from faculty members
- College of Arts + Sciences Undergraduate Academic Bulletin
- Bulletins of other IU Bloomington schools
- The websites of various academic departments
How long will the review process take?
The review process is typically 7-10 business days once a final draft of the application is received. Your application will be reviewed by one of our faculty committee members and you will be notified of their decision via e-mail.
What are the possible outcomes?
- Admission: The committee may decide to accept your proposed minor as-is.
- Conditional admision: They may admit you, but require you to make some changes to your course selections (such as the addition or removal of a course).
- Denial: The committee may decide not to admit you. If this happens, you are welcome to revise your application and reapply in a future semester.