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The Admissions Process at Xavier University

This article was written based on the information and opinions presented by Aja Altenhof in a CollegeVine livestream. You can watch the full livestream for more info.

What’s Covered

• When Can Students Apply to Xavier University?
• What Materials Are Needed for the Xavier University Application?
• How Can Prospective and Admitted Students Learn More About Xavier University?

When Can Students Apply to Xavier University? 

Xavier University ’s application deadline is on May 1 every year. Their applications open on August 1 and are evaluated on a rolling basis beginning in mid-September. The first round of decisions is released starting in mid-October, and they continue to be sent out on a rolling basis. 

It is important to check Xavier’s website for specific application instructions and deadlines for the program that you are interested in applying to. Certain deadlines may be earlier than May 1, such as for the Honors and Nursing programs. 

For students applying for financial aid, there is also an incentive to file the FAFSA early . Those who file before December 1 receive a $500 early file grant, which you are eligible for all four years of your degree. 

What Materials Are Needed for the Xavier University Application? 

To apply to Xavier University, students must submit an official high school transcript with a cumulative weighted GPA, a sample essay, and a letter of recommendation from either a high school teacher or guidance counselor. The letter has to be from someone who can specifically talk about your performance from an academic standpoint. 

Xavier University’s application is a test-optional school . That means if you feel like your standardized test scores are not a good representation of your academic ability, you do not need to submit them. If your scores fall within 60 points of the 25th percentile score (SAT) or three points of the 25th percentile score (ACT) for students that Xavier accepts, submitting your test results could be a good idea. If they don’t fall within this range, don’t submit them, as they will only hurt your application.

How Can Prospective and Admitted Students Learn More About Xavier University? 

Each spring, Xavier University hosts events for prospective and admitted students to explore the campus, meet other students, and attend information sessions. There are also information sessions for parents. 

The school also hosts information sessions and other events in various states so students can find out about the school and make contacts more easily. These events also offer an opportunity for students who are seriously considering attending Xavier University to meet and connect with others from their region before making their final decision. 

For more information on admission, cost, or academic opportunities, check out CollegeVine’s Xavier University profile .

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Transfer Admission Process

As a transfer student, you will get personalized attention so you can get the most from the credit you've received at a previous college or university. Our transfer team will review your transfer credits with you and work with you one-on-one to plan your schedule.

To apply for admission choose the online application for Transfer Applicants. If you are over the age of 24 you must use the application labeled “Adult Applicant.”

Apply Online

Your completed application must include submission of the following:

• an official copy of high school transcript or GED test scores
• official copies of transcripts from all colleges attended
• a listing of all courses for which you are currently enrolled (if you are currently taking classes)
• written essay

After You Submit Your Application

Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis. Normally, you will receive an admission decision within one month of submitting your completed application. Failure to send in required documents, such as official transcripts, will delay the admissions decision.

Please submit your FAFSA around the same time as your application in order to receive timely financial aid information.

All transfer students are considered for merit scholarships. No separate application is needed.

Admission Decision and Beyond

Admitted students will receive an invitation to their personalized page and checklist called Road to Xavier. This checklist will keep you organized with the requirements needed to enroll at Xavier, such as submitting a photo for your One Pass (student ID), medical forms, meeting with your academic advisor, registering for courses, housing, parking, dining plans, and more! You will begin receiving important emails before you enroll, such as notifications when your transfer credit has been officially evaluated and posted to your degree audit, called DegreeWorks. You will also receive email notifications about orientation dates and times.

Transfer Policies

• The rank of advanced standing to which the student will be admitted will depend upon the quality and quantity of the work done in the other regionally accredited institution.
• Credit is given for all academic courses (except co-op and life experience) in which a grade of "C" or better has been received.
• The transfer credit, but not the grade is recorded on the students Xavier transcript.
• At least one-half of the course requirements of the major and the last 30 semester hours must be completed at Xavier University for all undergraduate degrees.
• At least 60 semester hours toward a bachelor’s degree must be earned at a regionally accredited four-year institution.
• At least one-half of all business courses must be completed at Xavier University for business majors.
• A minimum of 120 semester hours is required for most four-year degrees (excluding business, which requires 125).
• A minimum of 60 semester hours is required for most two-year degrees (excluding business, which requires 65).
• Certain waivers or substitutions apply to students who transfer in 30 or more semester hours.
• Transfer credit from more than 10 years ago may not be applied to major or business core requirements. If the course pertains to the university core curriculum or general electives, it is usually accepted.
• Students who transfer in two credit hours of a three-hour requirement may have the third hour waived in most cases.

Please note that transfer policies are subject to change without notice. Please schedule an appointment with an admission counselor to discuss the most current policies regarding transferring to Xavier University.

Website Navigation

Admission & aid.

It happens at Xavier!

The faculty and staff of Xavier University of Louisiana are delighted that you have chosen to explore potential enrollment at Xavier. The About Xavier section of this website is a good starting point to learn more about our unique institution. Should Xavier become your college of choice, what awaits you is not only a world-class education from well-known faculty but an enriching campus life that will allow you to grow and develop.

XULA undergrads receive financial aid

XULA Undergrads Receive Pell Grants

In Louisiana for 2022 rankings

YOU ARE IMPORTANT TO US!

Your choice in finding a quality university and pursuing a quality education can be difficult. However, Xavier University of Louisiana has the tools in place to assist you with your decision. Your opportunities are endless, and to help you get started, here are some helpful links to help you navigate.

• GRADUATE ADMISSIONS
• Financial Aid Info for Prospective Students
• UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS
• APPLY & DEPOSIT

Xavier will continue to educate students for the highest levels of achievement. We will continue to craft educational programs and offerings to be responsive to the evolving needs of society. We will broaden our outreach, in the spirit of our founding purpose to welcome others who are in need of the exceptional education we offer. We will educate and be a gift to the world. DR. REYNOLD VERRET, PRESIDENT

Upcoming Events

For More Help Contact Office of Admissions

Office of admissions, xavier university of louisiana, 1 drexel drive, new orleans, la 70125.

504.520.7388

[email protected]

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• Current Students
• Faculty and Staff

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The School of Nursing (SON) provides students with experienced full-time faculty advisors who are ready to assist them throughout the nursing program. In addition, they receive guidance from a National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) coach who will help them prepare for their licensing exam.

SXU has an NCLEX pass rate of 86% in 2024.

SON encourages excellence in nursing practice through hands-on use of the Simulation and Integrated Learning Center (SILC). The health assessment lab mimics exam rooms found in outpatient offices for students to make full health assessments and physical exams allowing students practice what they learn in the classroom The high-fidelity simulation labs provide real scenarios brought to life in a safe learning environment for students to interact with patients across the lifespan. Additionally, practice rooms are available to students spend additional time honing their nursing skills.

Launch School of Nursing

A top-ranked Nursing Program

To become a leader, choose a university that is a leader in nursing education. Saint Xavier University, the School of Nursing and all of it's programs are consistently recognized for their educational quality.

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and master's degree program in nursing at Saint Xavier University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) .

Because of the rigorous standards necessary to earn and maintain accredited status, CCNE-accredited nursing schools like SXU's School of Nursing give prospective students greater confidence in the education they will receive. Earning a nursing degree from a CCNE-accredited program will also assure employers of the value of your education.

Staying the Course

Saint Xavier University is in your corner every step of the way to educate for personal and professional growth. For an extra layer of support, SXU offers the Academic Success Coaching program for nursing students. Two full-time faculty members from the nursing program are available to meet with individual students to identify and address students' areas of opportunity. The academic success coaches offer expert insights regarding study strategies, test-taking techniques and identification of resources. In addition to one-on-one appointments, the academic success coaches offer workshops addressing frequently-identified areas of opportunity.

Program Requirements

For more information, please review the program requirements and course descriptions in the SXU Academic Catalog .

Request Information

Want to know more about graduate programs at Saint Xavier University? Please fill out the form below!

Contact the Office of Admission

• 773-298-3050
• Toll Free: 844-GOTO-SXU (844-468-6798)
• Fax: 773-298-3076
• Email: admissionFREESXU
• M-F: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Admission Requirements
• Transfer Guides
• Transfer Admission Requirements
• Academic Calendar
• School of Nursing

What I enjoy most about SXU is the diversity on campus and the countless opportunities to give back to the community. I chose the BSN program at SXU because of the faculty. They really push their students to not only be the best nurses, but the best people.

My interdisciplinary nursing courses at SXU have effectively enabled me to gain important skills as a student nurse. Through these experiences, I have obtained knowledge and skills that will contribute to critical situations throughout my nursing profession.

Meet the Faculty

Pamela Abbott

Assistant Professorial Lecture Phone: 773-298-3755 Email: [email protected]

Paige Bajenski

Asst Professorial Lecturer Phone: 773-298-3171 Email: [email protected]

Charlene Bermele

Interim Dean Phone: 773-298-3750 Email: [email protected]

Caroline Bruno

Assistant Professorial Lecture Phone: 773-298-3726 Email: [email protected]

Mary Desmond

Associate Professor Phone: Email: [email protected]

Jennifer Dusak

Assistant Professorial Lecture Phone: 773-298-3742 Email: [email protected]

Karina Fierro

Adjunct Faculty Phone: Email: [email protected]

Arlena Garcia

Adjunct Faculty Phone: Email: [email protected]

Vanessa Garcia

Asst Professorial Lecturer Phone: 773-298-3182 Email: [email protected]

Kailey Kehoe

SIM Lab Assistant Phone: 773-298-3710 Email: [email protected]

Christina Kent

Asst Professorial Lecturer Phone: 773-298-3519 Email: [email protected]

Assistant Professor Phone: 773-298-3739 Email: [email protected]

Chrissy Kubelka

Asst Professorial Lecturer Phone: 773-298-3737 Email: [email protected]

Joanna Kwak

Asst Professorial Lecturer Phone: 773-298-3735 Email: [email protected]

Eileen McCann

Clin Nur Ed / Assoc Prof Phone: 773-298-3718 Email: [email protected]

Assistant Professor Phone: 773-298-3418 Email: [email protected]

Mary Murphy-Smith

Associate Professor Phone: 773-298-3723 Email: [email protected]

Colleen O'Hearn

Asst Professorial Lecturer Phone: 773-298-3727 Email: [email protected]

Assistant Professor Phone: 773-298-3730 Email: [email protected]

Mary Pierson

Adjunct Faculty Phone: Email: [email protected]

Jennifer Pietranczyk

Dir SIM Lab/Academic Tech Phone: 773-298-3710 Email: [email protected]

Michele Poradzisz

Adjunct Faculty Phone: Email: [email protected]

Jennifer Rogoz

Asst Professorial Lecturer Phone: 773-298-3363 Email: [email protected]

Zepure Samawi

Professor Phone: 773-298-3214 Email: [email protected]

Kathleen Soso

CNT Faculty Associate Phone: 773-298-3757 Email: [email protected]

Mary Tiberg

Asst Professor/Coordinator Phone: 773-298-3179 Email: [email protected]

Courtenay Vihtelic

Assistant Professor Phone: 773-298-3715 Email: [email protected]

Lisa Watson

CNT Faculty Associate Phone: 773-298-3736 Email: [email protected]

Caroline Wilson

Associate Professor Phone: 773-298-3724 Email: [email protected]

Karen Barry Wood

Associate Professor Phone: 773-298-3746 Email: [email protected]

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Xavier University of Louisiana Requirements for Admission

Choose your test.

What are Xavier University of Louisiana'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 Xavier University of Louisiana and build a strong application.

School location: New Orleans, LA

This school is also known as: XULA

Admissions Rate: 95.2%

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 Xavier University of Louisiana is 95.2% . For every 100 applicants, 95 are admitted.

This means the school is a nearly open admissions school. They accept nearly all students, so for the most part, you just need to submit an application to get in. But if you don't meet all their application requirements, you'll be one of the very few people who gets rejected.

We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world's best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies . We've overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools , from state colleges to the Ivy League.

We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools.

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

Xavier University of Louisiana 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: 3.75

The average GPA at Xavier University of Louisiana is 3.75 .

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

With a GPA of 3.75, Xavier University of Louisiana requires you to be above average in your high school class. You'll need at least a mix of A's and B's, with more A's than B's. You can compensate for a lower GPA with harder classes, like AP or IB classes. This will show that you're able to handle more difficult academics than the average high school student.

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.

Xavier University of Louisiana 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 Xavier University of Louisiana 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.

Xavier University of Louisiana 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: 1091

The average SAT score composite at Xavier University of Louisiana is a 1091 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes Xavier University of Louisiana Competitive for SAT test scores.

Xavier University of Louisiana SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 1000, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1190. In other words, a 1000 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1190 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.

Xavier University of Louisiana ACT Requirements

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

Average ACT: 23

The average ACT score at Xavier University of Louisiana is 23. This score makes Xavier University of Louisiana Moderately Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 20, 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 20 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 Xavier University of Louisiana, so you should prep until you reach our recommended target ACT score of 20.

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.

Xavier University of Louisiana 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

This school offers nearly open admissions, which means they give almost every student an offer of admission. To be safe, you should aim for a 1000 SAT or a 20 ACT or higher . If you can achieve this, you're pretty much guaranteed a spot in the incoming class.

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 Xavier University of Louisiana here.

Application Requirements Overview

• Common Application Accepted
• Electronic Application Available
• Essay or Personal Statement
• Letters of Recommendation 1
• Interview Not required
• Application Fee No fee required for domestic applicants
• 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 August 1

Coursework Requirements

• Subject Required Years
• Foreign Language
• Social Studies 1
• Electives 7

Deadlines and Early Admissions

• Offered? Deadline Notification
• Yes July 1 None

Admissions Office Information

• Address: 1 New Orleans, LA 70125
• Phone: (504) 486-7411 x7411
• Fax: (504) 520-7941
• Email: [email protected]

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in Xavier University of Louisiana, 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 Xavier University of Louisiana.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than Xavier University of Louisiana. 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 Xavier University of Louisiana, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for Xavier University of Louisiana, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If Xavier University of Louisiana 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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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, gpa requirements for xavier university.

Hi all! I was researching Xavier University, and I'd like to know what GPA they typically look for in applicants. Can anyone help me out with some info or advice regarding their expectations? Appreciate the help!

Hello! Xavier University, located in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a moderately competitive university when it comes to GPA requirements. While they don't have a fixed minimum for admission, the average GPA for entering students tends to fall around a 3.68 on a 4.0 scale. This places the average admitted student roughly in the A-/B+ range.

However, keep in mind that the admissions process is typically holistic, meaning that your GPA is just one aspect of your application. Other factors, such as the rigor of your high school coursework, extracurricular activities, test scores (if available), and personal essays, will also play a significant role in the admissions process. So, even if your GPA is slightly lower than the average, you can still have a competitive application by showcasing your strengths in other areas.

To improve your chances of admission to Xavier, make sure to focus on maintaining or improving your GPA while also building a strong overall application with meaningful extracurriculars and well-written essays. Good luck!

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Want To Get Into The Ivy League? Here’s How Long The Application Process Really Takes

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One of the main gates on the Brown University campus, decorated with the University crest. (Photo by ... [+] Rick Friedman/Corbis via Getty Images)

While the college admissions process begins in earnest during a student’s junior year of high school, a standout college admissions profile is the result of years of strategic and intentional planning. This is especially true for students with Ivy League dreams—joining the ranks of students at Yale, Princeton, and Harvard requires time, dedication, and consideration long before students start their applications. Even the most talented, qualified students underestimate the amount of time that goes into planning for and completing the application process. Starting early and planning ahead are crucial for crafting stand-out Ivy League applications.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how much time you should realistically expect to invest in the Ivy League admissions process, from start to finish:

Developing Your Hook: 4 Years

A “ hook ” is the element of a student’s profile that “hooks” the attention of admissions officers—it is the X factor that distinguishes a student from thousands of other applicants. It should be the anchoring interest around which all other elements of an application coalesce. Developing this defining passion requires time and dedication, so the earlier a student starts intentionally exploring their interests to develop this hook, the better. Beginning in freshman year, students should explore activities, courses, and volunteer opportunities in their schools and communities, thoughtfully weighing what they most enjoy as they do so. Over the next few years, students should hone their hook through continued involvement in extracurricular or volunteer opportunities that align with their guiding interests, seeking leadership opportunities when applicable.

Building an Independent Project: 2 years

One of the most effective ways to showcase a hook is through an independent passion project. Sophomore, junior or fall of senior year, students should craft an initiative that uses their passions to better their communities, as this will demonstrate self-motivation, genuine passion, and leadership acumen to Ivy League and other top colleges. Their project could take the shape of scientific research, a nonprofit, a community initiative, or a startup business. Students should spend a few months brainstorming, planning, and setting clear goals before entering the implementation stage. They should be sure to document their progress meticulously as they overcome hurdles and meet their goals, as this will enable them to relay their successes clearly and specifically on their applications in the future.

Researching Colleges & Structuring College List: 6 months–1 year

During their junior year, students should consult a variety of resources and rankings and begin to develop their college lists. As they do so, they should keep in mind that every ranking system takes unique factors into account—for instance, while U.S. News and World Report focuses on metrics related to academic quality such as academic reputation and graduation rates, Forbes is heavily focused on financial metrics , considering ROI, average debt, and alumni salary. In addition to weighing schools’ rankings, students should also seek to balance their college lists by comparing their academic standing with the academic profile of admitted students. If a student’s GPA and test scores fall within the middle 50% of admitted students, the school is a match; if they are above the 75th percentile, that school is likely a safety, and if their scores are below the 25th percentile, the school is a reach.

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Studying & Taking Standardized Tests: 6 months–1.5 years

Typically, students will have completed the mathematics coursework needed to take the SAT and ACT by the spring of their sophomore year and should sit for diagnostic ACT and SAT tests around that time. Once they receive their diagnostic scores, students should create a study plan that will enable them to reach their goal score, which should be set relative to their college aspirations; students with Ivy League dreams should aim to earn a 34+ on the ACT or a 1550+ on the SAT. The amount of time needed to prepare for and ace standardized tests often varies greatly depending on students’ diagnostic scores, goal scores, and how much time and effort they devote to studying.

Writing Essays & Assembling Applications: 6 months

Finally, completing the actual application is perhaps the shortest stage of the process—though it is the most important. Students who have dedicated time and effort to building their applicant profiles throughout their high school careers will reap the benefits of their long term planning; they will be able to approach the process with a clear understanding of the unique story they wish to convey through their application components. Students should kickstart the process in the spring of their junior year by requesting recommendations from their teachers, school counselors, and other non-academic mentors. The summer before senior year is a critical time to work on the personal statement, which tends to be one of the most time consuming elements of the application process as it requires lengthy brainstorming, drafting, and editing. Supplemental essay prompts for specific schools are generally released in August, so students should plan to devote the remainder of their summer and fall to completing those essays. Finally, with focus and dedication, students can complete the activities list in one to two weeks, but they should devote concerted attention to the activities list like all the other elements of their application and be sure not to save it until the last minute.

While every student is different and will need to assemble their own timeline, the college admissions process is a demanding one—particularly for students determined to gain admission to the most elite universities in the country. Students should begin preparing early in order to give themselves some leeway and submit applications that they are truly proud of.

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