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Aurora University: 2024 Requirements, Scores & GPAs

This is the go-to guide for getting into Aurora University. We suggest you read until the end... Not only will we layout the exact GPA and test scores you should aim for when applying to Aurora University, but we’ll also offer creative ways to help your application stand out from the pack. We breakdown Aurora University statistics better than any article out there and show you how these have changed over time. Also, make sure to check out Aurora University on CampusReel to see what it’s really like here . If you're interesting in transferring to Aurora University, the read our transfer guide. You can also use the below calculator to help determine your likelihood of acceptance at Aurora University

This free college chances tool calculates your acceptance chances at any other U.S. college

Please note all chances are estimates based on test score and GPA averages.

What GPA Do You Need To Get Into Aurora University?

Aurora University’s average GPA is 3.39. Aurora University does require GPA. This average GPA means Aurora University is very selective. Often times, schools in this range are trying to increase their selectivity and “prestige”. We can’t read the minds of Aurora University application readers, but they likely want to increase the average GPA from 3.39 to 3.56 this year - to play it safe, we recommend striving for the 3.56 GPA.

*BEFORE CONTINUING PLEASE NOTE: GPA and “prestige” DO NOT mean a college is right for you. Aurora University may seem amazing on paper, but you may hate it... That’s why 700,000 students transfer colleges every year - they end up going to the wrong school. It’s crucial to watch the videos on CampusReel and make sure you can envision yourself on Aurora University’s campus. These Aurora University admission statistics do not sufficiently tell you what a college or university is like.

What Is Aurora University’s Acceptance Rate?

Last year Aurora University’s acceptance rate was 77.24. However, check out how the acceptance rate has changed over time.

As you can see, Aurora University is getting more and more difficult to get into. If this trend continue it’s likely that Aurora University will be even more competitive by the time you apply.

Acceptance rate alone does not indicate your likelihood for getting into Aurora University - it’s a very high level understanding of the true competition. Use the acceptance rate as a general guide for curating a list of 10-15 schools that fall into different ranges of competitiveness. Then, use the below data to get a deeper understanding of how your application will compare to the rest of the pool.

Will You Get Into Aurora University?

Does aurora university require test scores.

Aurora University requires that you either take the SAT or ACT. See the table below for how Aurora University’s accepted students have performed on both tests. You may be wondering how many test scores should you submit. Generally, don’t freak out about taking the test too often. Industry consensus is that you can submit up to 6 tests as a reasonable limit.

Aurora University’s average SAT score is 950 - this is the sum of the math and reading portions of the SAT (the 1600 scale). Check out the below table for a deeper look into how students performed - it’s also very interesting to look at the average test score over time. The trend over time helps give insight into whether Aurora University is getting more or less competitive.

Aurora University’s average SAT score is 950. To be a competitive applicant for Aurora University your SAT score should come close to the average. If you’re closer to the 850, you’re likely going to have a tougher time getting accepted. To consider Aurora University a “target” school (one that you are likely to get into) you should aim for a score of 1050.

Aurora University’s average ACT score is 64. To be a competitive applicant for Aurora University your ACT score should come close to the average. If you’re closer to the 56, you’re likely going to have a tougher time getting accepted. To consider Aurora University a “target” school (one that you have a good chance of getting into) you should aim for a score of 72.

Aurora University Requirements

Now you know where you need to be for getting into Aurora University from a grade and test score perspective. Let’s quickly outline what else you’ll need to provide for your application to get reviewed, and then we’ll move onto the most important section: differentiating your app.

How to get into Aurora University

Follow these steps to maximize your chances of getting into Aurora University. Everything you read above will help prepare you for what you need to achieve to have a shot at Aurora University, but these steps will take you even further in applying that knowledge and differentiating your application.

Main Academic Excellence that is in line with Aurora University admission standards.

• Score at least a 950 on the SAT or 64 on the ACT.
• Maintain a GPA of at least a 3.39.

Join Extracurriculars that Align with Aurora University’s Values.

• Join your school band, a sports team or another group activity. If Aurora University values music heavily, for example, then try to participate in an organization related to that topic.
• Volunteer in your hometown. Aurora has tons of ways to be involved beyond just the college. Aurora University wants applicants that are also good ambassadors for the school - they want students who will give back to the local community and broader Aurora area in general.
• Spend your summer doing something that speaks to your values, personal growth, leadership qualities and other less quantifiable characteristics. Aurora University needs to see past your test scores and grades - they need to know that you will be a valuable and contributing member of their community. You are more than grades and test scores - your experiences should demonstrate that.

Prepare Your Application

• Write a stellar essay that shows Aurora University something they can’t figure out from the other parts of your application. For a detailed guide on writing the best college essay, check this out.
• Get teacher recs that speak to your character. If you know what you’re majoring in and include that in your Aurora University app, try to have at least 1 recommendation from a teacher in that department.
• Apply Before the Deadline. Too many students wait until the last minute to submit their application, and too much can go wrong during this precious time window. Since many students are applying on the last day, it’s possible that Aurora University’s own system crashes. Don’t risk the added stress this can cause - submit your app a few days early.

Related College & Universities:

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Admissions Requirements to Wheaton College

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Admissions Requirements to Columbus College of Art and Design (CCAD)

Admissions Requirements to Otterbein University (OU)

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Aurora University Requirements for Admission

Choose your test.

What are Aurora University's admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

• GPA requirements
• Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
• Application requirements

In this guide we'll cover what you need to get into Aurora University and build a strong application.

School location: Aurora, IL

Admissions Rate: 81.9%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at Aurora University is 81.9% . For every 100 applicants, 82 are admitted.

This means the school is lightly selective . The school will have their expected requirements for GPA and SAT/ACT scores. If you meet their requirements, you're almost certain to get an offer of admission. But if you don't meet Aurora University's requirements, you'll be one of the unlucky few people who gets rejected.

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Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in.

Aurora University GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school's average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 3.57

The average GPA at Aurora University is 3.57 .

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 3.57, Aurora University requires you to be around average in your high school class. You'll need a mix of A's and B's, and very few C's. If you have a lower GPA, you can compensate with harder courses like AP or IB classes. This will help boost your weighted GPA and show your ability to take college classes.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them.

Aurora University hasn't explicitly named a policy on SAT/ACT requirements, but because it's published average SAT or ACT scores (we'll cover this next), it's likely test flexible. Typically, these schools say, "if you feel your SAT or ACT score represents you well as a student, submit them. Otherwise, don't."

Despite this policy, the truth is that most students still take the SAT or ACT, and most applicants to Aurora University will submit their scores. If you don't submit scores, you'll have one fewer dimension to show that you're worthy of being admitted, compared to other students. We therefore recommend that you consider taking the SAT or ACT, and doing well.

Aurora University SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school's average score.

Average SAT: 1083

The average SAT score composite at Aurora University is a 1083 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes Aurora University Competitive for SAT test scores.

Aurora University SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 990, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1170. In other words, a 990 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1170 will move you up to above average .

Here's the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

Aurora University ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, Aurora University likely doesn't have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 22

The average ACT score at Aurora University is 22. This score makes Aurora University Moderately Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 19, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 25.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you're taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school's ACT requirement of 19 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you're happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

We weren't able to find the school's exact ACT policy, which most likely means that it does not Superscore. Regardless, you can choose your single best ACT score to send in to Aurora University, so you should prep until you reach our recommended target ACT score of 19.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Currently, only the ACT has an optional essay section that all students can take. The SAT used to also have an optional Essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. Because of this, no school requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing section, but some schools do recommend certain students submit their results if they have them.

Aurora University considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don't need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you're applying to may require it.

Final Admissions Verdict

Because this school is lightly selective, you have a great shot at getting in, as long as you don't fall well below average . Aim for a 990 SAT or a 19 ACT or higher, and you'll almost certainly get an offer of admission. As long as you meet the rest of the application requirements below, you'll be a shoo-in.

But if you score below our recommended target score, you may be one of the very few unlucky people to get rejected.

Admissions Calculator

Here's our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are. Pick your test: SAT ACT

• 80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
• 50-80%: More likely than not getting in
• 20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
• 5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
• 0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

How would your chances improve with a better score?

Take your current SAT score and add 160 points (or take your ACT score and add 4 points) to the calculator above. See how much your chances improve?

At PrepScholar, we've created the leading online SAT/ACT prep program . We guarantee an improvement of 160 SAT points or 4 ACT points on your score, or your money back.

Here's a summary of why we're so much more effective than other prep programs:

• PrepScholar customizes your prep to your strengths and weaknesses . You don't waste time working on areas you already know, so you get more results in less time.
• We guide you through your program step-by-step so that you're never confused about what you should be studying. Focus all your time learning, not worrying about what to learn.
• Our team is made of national SAT/ACT experts . PrepScholar's founders are Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers . You'll be studying using the strategies that actually worked for them.
• We've gotten tremendous results with thousands of students across the country. Read about our score results and reviews from our happy customers .

There's a lot more to PrepScholar that makes it the best SAT/ACT prep program. Click to learn more about our program , or sign up for our 5-day free trial to check out PrepScholar for yourself:

Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials - high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We'll cover the exact requirements of Aurora University here.

Application Requirements Overview

• Common Application Not accepted
• Electronic Application Available
• Essay or Personal Statement Required for some freshmen
• Letters of Recommendation 2
• Interview Not required
• Application Fee No fee required
• Fee Waiver Available? None
• Other Notes

Testing Requirements

• SAT or ACT Considered if submitted
• SAT Essay or ACT Writing Optional
• SAT Subject Tests
• Scores Due in Office None

Coursework Requirements

• Subject Required Years
• Foreign Language
• Social Studies 3
• Electives 3

Deadlines and Early Admissions

• Offered? Deadline Notification
• Yes Rolling Rolling

Admissions Office Information

• Address: 347 Aurora, IL 60506
• Phone: (630) 892-6431 x6431
• Fax: (630) 844-5535
• Email: [email protected]

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in Aurora University, you'll probably be interested in these schools as well. We've divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to Aurora University.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than Aurora University. If you improve your SAT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you're competitive for Aurora University, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for Aurora University, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If Aurora University is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

Data on this page is sourced from Peterson's Databases © 2023 (Peterson's LLC. All rights reserved.) as well as additional publicly available sources.

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APA and MLA

Citation resource, citation handbooks, apa in-text citations, apa reference page, mla in-text citations, plagiarism and turnitin.

Citing sources properly is an important part of avoiding plagiarism.

Learn more about plagiarism in the guide linked below.

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• APA Template

APA Format, 7th Edition

Open the APA template below, save it to your own document name and location, and start typing your paper. Do not forget to delete any explanatory text or unnecessary information to your project, such as unneeded tables or footnotes.

This template was created by consulting the APA Publication Manual, 7th edition.  Some components might not be required for every assignment-- always consult your instructor's rubric and prompt for specific requirements.

Citations with one or two authors

(Black, 2011)  

(Black & White, 2011)

Citations with three or more authors

  (Black et al., 2011)

Other Reminders: 

In text citations are necessary whenever a writer is quoting or paraphrasing information from a source.

When quoting, three elements are necessary: the author's last name, year of publication, and the location of the quote (use p. for a page number, and para. for a paragraph number). 

Et al. is a phrase that means "among others," which is why it is used when a sources has multiple authors.

If there is no date available, use the abbreviation (n.d.) for no date.

The Reference page entry allows the reader to access the same sources as the writer. Here are some common sources and ways to format those sources.

Journal Article with a DOI

Author’s last name(s), first initial. (date). Title of article with only the first word, the first word after a colon, and any proper nouns capitalized. The Name of the Journal in Italics, Volume number in italics (Issue number in parentheses), first page-last page. DOI as URL

Journal Article without a DOI

Author’s last name(s), first initial. (date). Title of article with only the first word, the first word after a colon, and any proper nouns capitalized. The Name of the Journal in Italics, Volume number in italics (Issue number in parentheses), first page-last page. URL to article if available

Printed Book 

Author's/Editor's last name, first initials. (Year of publication).  Title of book. Publisher.

Webpage on a Website

Author(s) of article. (Date Published, Copyright Date or Last Revision).  Title of document.  Name of Website. URL

Film or Recording

Author, A. A. (Director). (Year of release).  Title of work  [Description]. Publisher. URL

MLA Format, 8th Edition

The  Modern Language Association (MLA)  is typically used for subjects in the humanities. Here are resources on formatting your essay, formulating your in-text citations, and composing your reference entries on the last page of your essay.

MLA in-text citations are used whenever a writer uses information from an outside sources, no matter if it is quoting, paraphrasing, or summarizing. This citation acknowledges that the information comes from that particular source. 

In-text citations have two basic components: the author's last name and the location of the material (usually in the form of a page number). 

You can decide if you would like to name the writer in the signal phrase or in parentheses.

1-2 Authors

If you have a source with one or two authors mention all of their names in each citation.

Pink argues "....." (24)

 (Pink 24)

Pink and Green agree ....... (24)

(Pink and Green 24).

3 or More Authors

If you have three or more authors, mention the author who is listed first and use the phrase et al., which is Latin for "among others."

Red et al. presents..... (page number)

(Red et al. 34)

If there is no author listed, use the source's title or shortened version of the title. If it is an article or other work within a larger publication, use quotes around the title. If it is a larger, stand alone work, use italics. 

("All the Colors" 23)

( Works of Art   90)

This college guide uses the most recent data available provided by the U.S. Department of Education. This information was last updated on October 10th, 2023.

Aurora University Admission Requirements Guide

Whether you’re just starting to consider as an option or are well into the application process, this guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the undergraduate admission requirements. After reading this guide, you will understand what needs to be done to maximize your chances of being admitted to this institution’s undergraduate program.

Aurora University Acceptance Rate

For the most recent class, the acceptance rate was . While odds of being accepted into this university are favorable, it is still important to follow the admission requirements. Neglecting to include even one required component could result in discarding your application without offering you a chance to resubmit. On that note, let’s discuss these key requirements.

SAT Score Requirements

The SAT is a standardized test that measures college readiness and educational foundation. The SAT has been used for nearly 100 years to test prospective students in mathematics, reading, writing, and language. Here are the SAT metrics to take into account when applying to .

Average SAT Scores

When looking at the undergraduate students who were in the most recently admitted class, the average SAT Score was .

Here is the range of SAT scores segmented by the three sections of the test: Critical Reading, Math, and Writing.

ACT Score Requirements

The ACT was founded in 1969 and serves as another college readiness measurement tool. The four subject areas are: English, mathematics, reading, and science. Here are the details regarding ‘s ACT Requirements.

Average ACT Scores

When examining the most recently accepted undergraduate class, the median ACT Score for is .

Here is an updated range of ACT scores segmented by the three sections of the exam: English, Math, and Writing.

Application Requirements

Does use the common app.

Like most major U.S. schools, does use the Common Application for their admissions process. The Common App is a unified application that prospective students use to apply to undergraduate colleges and universities. It allows applicants to use a single application that can be sent to as many colleges as they apply to, instead of repeatedly inputting the same demographic and academic information per school. may request additional materials, such as supplemental essays and questions, but the primary application structure remains the same.

Application Checklist

See our application checklist for below to ensure you complete and submit the proper materials.

Required Application Materials:

• Completed Common App
• Standardized Test Scores, such as the SAT or ACT
• Personal Statement (College Essay)
• Application Fee or Fee Waiver
• Academic Transcripts (at the time of submission and when senior year first semester grades are released)

Optional Application Materials:

• Additional Recommendation Letters (Teacher Evaluations)

Facts & Frequently Asked Questions

Is public or private.

is a private, non-profit university. Private universities’ primary sources of funding are through tuition, donations, and endowments. Although tuition may be higher at these nonprofit institutions, generous financial aid packages are more common than public schools. Tuition rates do not differ between in-state and out-of-state students.

How Many Students Does Have?

‘s student body is made up of undergraduate degree-seeking students, according to our latest data. offers the benefits of both large and small schools. The class sizes and student to faculty ratios are much lower than what a large school would have, and yet the college still offers a variety of options to network and get to know your professors.

How do I apply to ?

Make sure you have all of the required application materials we covered on hand. You can learn more about the application process for this particular institution at ‘s Website.

is located in , . To visualize where ‘s campus is based in relation to ‘s downtown area and landmarks, take a look at the interactive map below.

Final Thoughts on Applying to

Hopefully this guide helped you to learn more about the admissions requirements for . When applying to colleges, remember to keep in mind that not every school will be a good fit. Take the time to evaluate what’s most important to you, such as the school’s academic opportunities, financial aid benefits, and location. All of the application components we covered are important – take your time to put your best foot forward. The College Grid team wishes you the best of luck on your college applications!

Sydney Janssen

As a valedictorian in high school, I developed a strong passion for learning and pushing myself to achieve academic success. Now, as a first-generation college graduate, I'm excited to share my experiences and insights with others who may be navigating similar paths through College Grid.

Aurora University

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Published costs and averages can be misleading: they don’t fully account for your family’s finances (for financial aid) or your academic profile (for scholarships).

Want to see your personalized net cost after financial aid and scholarships?

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Aurora University Admissions

What is the acceptance rate for aurora, will you get in, will you get into aurora.

Test Scores and High School GPA for Aurora University See Other Colleges

Admissions Statistics

Admissions deadlines, admissions requirements.

• High School GPA Required
• High School Rank Neither required nor recommended
• High School Transcript Required
• College Prep Courses Required
• SAT/ACT Considered but not required
• Recommendations Considered but not required

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First-Year Application Process

Application timeline.

We are currently accepting applications for Fall 2024.

St. Thomas offers two admissions types – Early Action (EA) and Regular Decision (RD). Both are free and completely non-binding, so you don't have to commit to St. Thomas until May 1.

• November 1 – Early Action Deadline
• January 15 – Regular Decision Deadline
• After January 15 – Applications reviewed on a rolling basis

What are we looking for?

There's no single thing we look for in an application. Each is evaluated holistically with your academic, extracurricular and personal achievements all considered.

We encourage students to provide a variety of details in their applications, including your academic records and insight into the experiences that have made you who you are.

Overall, the goal of our admissions process is to identify students who will succeed in the classroom while also contributing to our university and the broader community in diverse and meaningful ways.

How to Apply

Apply online (for free) using the Common App or our application for First-time, First-year Students:

• Start a New Application
• Continue Existing Application
• Contact Admissions

Does this sound like you?

To give you a sense about what successful applicants look like, here are some facts about our most recent first-year class:

• Middle 50 percent high school GPA: 3.4-3.9
• Middle 50 percent ACT: 24-29
• Middle 50 percent SAT: 1120-1360

Note: St. Thomas is a test optional school and students are not required to submit ACT or SAT test scores as part of their application. See our test optional policy for guidance on whether or not to submit your scores.

Parts of the Application

Transcript(s), test scores, essay questions, letters of recommendation, transcript(s) (required).

We require high school transcripts be sent to us before your application can be reviewed. This transcript must include your entire set of high school grades and courses to date.

We will accept unofficial transcripts for your application. You may submit an unofficial transcript by downloading it from your school system and sending it to [email protected] or your admissions counselor .

If you've attended multiple high schools – and your entire record isn't included on the transcript of your current high school – you're required to submit an official transcript from your previous high school(s) as well.

If you've taken college classes before, we recommend you submit official college transcripts as well – though this IS NOT required.

Students who are admitted and enroll: Please note that an OFFICIAL transcript will be required prior to starting classes at St. Thomas. This official transcript will need to be sent directly from your school and include your graduation date.

Impacts from COVID-19 We know that COVID-19 may have affected the way your school awards grades. We encourage you to share your story when applying for admission. Let us know how COVID-19 impacted your learning and grades/GPA.

Test Scores (Optional)

St. Thomas is a test optional school, which means that students are not required to submit ACT or SAT test scores as part of their application.

Our test optional page has more information about this policy and offers guidance about whether or not to submit your scores. Please contact your admissions counselor if you have any questions.

If you do choose to submit your test scores, you can self-report your highest composite and subject scores for the ACT and/or SAT on the application. Your scores DO NOT need to be officially sent to us during the application process.

Essay Questions (Recommended)

Though you aren't technically required to answer our essay questions, we highly recommend that you do – especially if you apply without test scores.*

Responses to these questions are used to understand the demographics of our applicant pool and may also be used for other limited purposes after an admission decision (for example, communication about student clubs or organizations that may be of interest) Your information regarding gender, pronouns, race and ethnicity will not be visible to the admissions committee and are not considered during the University of St. Thomas application review.

Below are the current essay prompts. You can choose to write about them or to submit a different personal essay of your choosing. We want to learn a little about you as a person, so please submit an essay that will help us do that.

• Discuss a meaningful contribution you have made through involvement in school, church, community activities or family responsibilities.
• Describe an event, a person or an educational experience that has had a major impact on your life and why.
• Share additional information about your personal story that would be beneficial to the application review process. What do you want the readers to know about you apart from courses and academic credentials?
• Provide an explanation of your transcript record. Is there anything on your transcript that you would like to share more information about with the admissions committee?

We recommend that your essay be one to two pages long.

We also ask a second essay question about your experience with diversity and inclusion. This essay is also optional, but will give you a chance to reflect and speak from your heart.

* If you're applying without a standardized test, we strongly recommend submitting both essays to provide a more well-rounded understanding of your experience.

Letters of Recommendation (Recommended)

Though it's not required, we suggest that you submit one or two letters of recommendation from teachers or other people in your life who can help us get to know you better as we review your application.

Recommenders can email letters to [email protected] or your admissions counselor .