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  • "Three students relaxing outside the residential quad"

    Admission for First Year Students

    Admissions Events
  1. Home
  2. Admissions
  3. Admission for First Year Students

Southern offers a wide range of academic programs and excellent career preparation in a learning community that supports and challenges students to realize their full potential. We are committed to treating each other with dignity, respect, kindness, compassion and civility as we strive for social justice.

Your college experience can shape the rest of your life. It’s an important decision, and we are here to help. Reach out to Southern’s experienced Admissions team with questions about the application process, paying for college, academics, campus life, and more.

Southern Connecticut State University admits students of any age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship, national or ethnic origin, or non-disqualifying handicap to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activity generally accorded or made available to students at the University.

 

Apply Now Request Information Admission Portal

SCSU also accepts first year applications from the Common App.

Important Dates for Spring 2024 Enrollment

  • September 2023: Completed applications will be processed on a rolling basis and notified of admission
  • December 29, 2023: The last day that new First-Year student applications will be accepted
  • January 7, 2024: The last day that new First-Year students can confirm enrollment
  • January 17, 2024: The first day of Spring 2024 classes

Important Dates for Fall 2024 Enrollment

Apply for Free

Connecticut high school seniors are able to apply to Southern for free, with no required $50 application payment, between November 1 and November 15, 2023.

  • November 1 – 15, 2023: Application Fee Free Period for First Year Students (Apply)
  • November 2023: Completed applications will be processed on a rolling basis and notified of admission. 
  • December 1, 2023: Direct Nursing Application deadline
  • January 2, 2024: Honors Application deadline
  • March 1, 2024: Trustee Scholarship Application deadline
  • August 9, 2024: The last day that new First-Year student applications will be accepted
  • August 18, 2024: The last day that new First-Year students can confirm enrollment
  • August 27, 2024: The first day of Fall 2024 classes

How to Apply

Admission Requirements

Strong candidates for admission to Southern will have achieved a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.7 on a 4.0 scale, and a class rank in the top 50% of the graduating class.

Prior to enrollment, applicants must have graduated from an accredited secondary school or hold an official high school equivalency diploma. 

The recommended secondary school preparation includes the following areas:

  • Humanities (English, Social Sciences, Visual and Performing Arts) - 9 credits
  • Science, Techonology, Engineering, and Math (includes Computer Science) - 9 credits
  • World Language - 1 credit
  • Wellness (Physical Education, Health & Safety) - 1 credit

When reviewing applications, Southern considers the following information:

  • High school grades 
  • Rigor of coursework, in the context of options at your school 
  • Grades in any college or dual-credit courses 
  • Information provided in your personal statement on the application 

Test scores, if submitted, are never the sole or primary reason for an admission decision; they are always considered in context and as supplemental information. 

SCSU does not require letters of recommendation, but may request them when a student is appealing a denial. 

Interviews may also be requested to obtain additional information or clarify details on application materials.

Southern Connecticut State University admits students of any age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship, national or ethnic origin, or non-disqualifying handicap to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activity generally accorded or made available to students at the University.

Application Requirements

To apply for admission to Southern, complete the following:

  • The Common Application for Admission, including the essay or personal statement.
  • Pay the non-refundable $50 application fee (payable online by debit card, credit card or e-check)
  • Request that your official high school transcript from an accredited secondary school be sent directly to the Office of Admissions, Southern Connecticut State University. Digital submission is preferred.
  • An official high school equivalency certificate such as the GED may be submitted instead of the high school transcript.

Southern has a test optional admission policy. SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission. Letters of recommendation are not required.

Application Fee Waiver: A waiver of the admissions application fee is authorized for any financially needy student, who (A) has taken the SAT I test using the SAT Fee Waiver; or (B) is a participant in CONNTAC-EOC or an equally recognized educational entity; or (C) is a participant CSU-sanctioned special access program such as CONNCAP or Upward Bound; or (D) in the opinion of the university president or designee has special circumstances. Per Connecticut Board of Regents 12/18/14. For more information please contact the Admissions Office.

Application Process
  • An online application is accessible on the Admissions website.
  • Current deadlines for applications are listed on the Admissions website.
  • Candidates should complete an online application for admission. Full credentials must be presented, accompanied by a non-refundable $50 Application Fee, before consideration is given. An official copy of the High School Transcript or high school equivalency diploma is required. Official scores from the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or American College Testing Program (ACT) and letters of recommendation are optional for first year applicants. 
  • Applicants with documented financial hardship may request an application fee waiver per the instructions in the Freshman Application Requirements section of the Southern Admissions website.
  • Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis with decision notifications beginning on or about October 1 for the following fall. Candidates should confirm their intent to enroll by May 1 with a non-refundable $200 enrollment deposit. This payment reserves a position in the entering class and is credited toward the applicant’s tuition.
  • To apply for financial aid, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) should be submitted to the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships. All information, forms, and application deadlines are available online at the SCSU Office of Financial Aid website.
  • Final acceptance of high school seniors not yet graduated from secondary school is conditional upon the satisfactory completion of their high school diploma or equivalent program.
AP, CLEP and IB

If you are interested in receiving credit for high school AP exams, please review Advanced Placement. Official score reports must be sent to Undergraduate Admissions.

If you are interested in receiving credit for International Baccalaureate (IB) exams, please review International Baccalaureate policy.  Official score reports must be sent to Undergraduate Admissions.

To learn about Southern’s College Level Examination Program (CLEP) policy, please visit CLEP.

If you are earning college credits while in high school through an Early College Experience program, please remember to submit official college transcripts.

Home School Policy

Southern welcomes undergraduate applications from homeschooled students. Please provide the following information: 

  • Completed Common Application with personal statement or essay.
  • SAT or ACT scores are recommended if available.
  • Transcript of all secondary level work completed. This transcript should include all courses taken and describe how the student was evaluated and who completed the evaluation of the student. 
  • An official high school equivalency diploma/GED certificate is recommended.
  • An official copy of any college transcripts or Advanced Placement score reports.
  • A resume of activities and community involvement
  • At least two letters of recommendation from people who can evaluate your academic readiness for college level work and/or speak to your personal qualities, educational goals or community engagement.
  • An admissions interview may be requested.
Test Optional Admissions

Southern is proud of our commitment to student success and social justice. We seek to serve the state of Connecticut and our region by instilling in all of our students the value of the liberal arts and sciences as a foundation for professional development and life-long learning. In that spirit, Southern has a test-optional policy and applicants are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores. Applicants can decide for themselves whether their test results best reflect their academic ability and potential.

Consistent with recommendations from the National Association for College Admissions Counseling, we believe that the learning and performance in high school are far more important for college success than performance on a one-time standardized test, and there is an abundance of evidence supporting this. All applicants can apply under our test-optional policy. This includes homeschooled applicants, candidates applying from secondary schools that provide written evaluations rather than grades, candidates attending online/virtual high schools and GED recipients.

Southern accepts self-reported exam scores* for admissions review. Applicants who self-report scores, earn admission, and choose to attend Southern will have to send their official scores via the testing agency or on an official school document before they can matriculate.

*Student athletes may be required to provide ACT or SAT scores to the NCAA for athletic eligibility. Nursing, Social Work and Education all require separate admission to their programs and may request standardized test scores as part of their requirements.

*English proficiency exam scores are not included in this policy. Students who are required to submit the TOEFL, IELTS, or DET will need to submit official scores upon submission of their application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Prospective Student Questions

  1. How do I apply to Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU)?

    First year students can apply by completing the Common Application online.
     

  2. What are the application requirements for a new first-time freshman student?

    • Complete the Common Application
    • Complete the essay or personal statement as part of the application.
    • Pay the non-refundable $50 application fee. (Fee waivers available to those who qualify.) 
    • Request that your official high school transcript be sent to SCSU. Digital transmission is preferred. 
    • International Students must have their secondary school transcripts evaluated as equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma by an accredited NACES evaluating organization and must demonstrate proficiency in the English language through satisfactory performance on one of the following:
      • TOEFL - 72 iBT/525 paper
      • IELTS - 6
      • ELS Academic English Level 112 certificate of completion
      • SAT - 900 (combined critical reading and math only)
      • ACT - composite score of 19
      • Pearson PTE – 53
      • Duolingo English Exam -100
         

  3. What are the admission requirements for a new first-time freshman student?

    Applicants must graduate from an accredited secondary school or hold an official high school equivalency diploma. Secondary school preparation in the following areas is recommended:

    • English (4 years)
    • Mathematics (3 years)
    • Natural sciences (2 years)
    • Social sciences, including U.S. History (2 years)

    In addition, at least two years of a modern language other than English are recommended. SCSU requires modern language study as part of its degree requirements. 

  4. What are the deadlines for applying?

    Fall 2024 deadline: The last day that new First-Year student applications will be accepted is on August 9, 2024.

  5. How do I apply to the Honors College?

    Applications for joining the Honors College are due at the beginning of January for the following academic year. There is an application and an essay the student will need to complete. 
     

  6. What are the qualifications for admission to the Honors College?

    High school seniors with outstanding academic ability (minimum 3.6 GPA based on a 4.0 GPA scale and top 15% of their class. 

    Successful candidates can demonstrate a commitment to community service and/or co-curricular activities such as athletics or performing arts, and leadership qualities.
     

  7. Are there any Honors Scholarships?

    First year students accepted into the Honors College are awarded financial support. All of the 40 incoming Honors College first year students will receive a scholarship covering at least one-half the cost of in-state tuition and fees, renewable for 4 years. The top 20% of accepted Honors College applicants will receive a Presidential Merit scholarship covering full in-state tuition and fees, renewable for 4 years. 
     

  8. What are the Trustee Scholarship (merit) criteria and selection process?

    When you apply for admission, you will automatically be considered for the Trustee Scholarship, which is awarded based on academic achievement and availability of funds. No separate application is required. You will be notified if you are awarded a Trustee Scholarship and must return the form included with your notification letter by May 1 to indicate acceptance and intention to enroll at Southern.
       

  9. Can I schedule a campus tour?

    Yes, we offer campus tours throughout the year. Schedule a campus tour now.
    Information sessions are also provided by Admissions representatives. Some tours also include an information session – check the schedule when you book your visit. A confirmation email will be sent to the email address provided when you register for a tour. You may also view the virtual tour and visual tour on our website: https://visual.southernct.edu
     

  10. Can I request a catalog, course schedule, or application?

    • Requesting admissions information can be done through our Request Information form.
    • The Undergraduate Catalog is available online at Catalogs and Academic Maps. 
    • You can view course schedules in BannerWeb.
    • Paper applications for admission are not available. You may access the online application at your school or local library, or you may schedule an appointment for computer access at Southern and we can assist you with the application
Submitted Application Questions

  1. How do I check to see if I’m missing anything from my application?

    Students can login to the Admissions application portal to view any outstanding requirements. 

    If you have not activated your admissions portal after applying, click here and ‘sign up’ with the email address used for the Common Application
     

  2. How can I reset my password for the admissions portal?

    Students can contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office at (203) 392-5644 to reset the password. 
     

  3. How can I send my high school or college transcripts?

    The college transcripts can be sent electronically or via mail to Southern Connecticut State University, Undergraduate Admissions Office, 501 Crescent Street, New Haven, CT 06515. Electronic submission is preferred. Email: Admissions@southernct.edu
       

  4. Did you receive my high school transcript?

    Students should allow two to five business days for documents to be received and processed by the Southern Admissions Office. 

    Once a transcript, or any application document, has been received and processed, it will show as received in your Admissions portal. 
     

  5. How can I add my social security number for Financial Aid?

    Student can update their SSN on this secure form:
        

  6. How can I check the status of my application?

    Students can check the status of their application by logging into the Admissions application portal.
     

  7. How can I change my contact email address?

    Student can send an email to admissions@southernct.edu with new email address. 
     

  8. How can I change my mailing address?

    Student can send an email to admissions@southernct.edu with the new mailing address. 
     

  9. Why is it saying I am an International Student when I am not?

    Students who are not U.S. citizens will by default be identified as an international student. If you entered that you are not a U.S. Citizen on the admission application in error, send an 

    email and proof of citizenship to admissions@southernct.edu. (Birth Certificate, U.S. Passport) 

    Undocumented students, or students who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents and do not have a visa status may qualify for in-state tuition if s/he meets the Connecticut General Statute 10a-26 – 10a-29. If yes, student can submit the Application for In-State Tuition. 

    • For more information about undocumented students, please visit: https://www.southernct.edu/undocumented-students 

     

     

  10. How can I reactivate my Undergraduate Application? 

    If you applied for admission to Southern within the past year and you did not complete your application, you might not need to submit an entirely new application and pay the application fee again. You may be able to reactivate your application for a new term. https://www.southernct.edu/admissions/reactivate 

    • Note: An incomplete application for admission may be moved one time and only to following semester/term. 

     

     

  11. How do I withdraw my admission application?

    You can send an email withdrawing your admission application to admissions@southernct.edu. It is helpful to us if you can provide a reason for withdrawing. If you have chosen to attend another school, please let us know. 

    You can also log into your application portal to withdraw your application. 
     

  12. When will I hear back with a decision?

    Completed applications (all required documents received) will be reviewed on a rolling basis and applicants will be notified of the decision beginning October. Please allow up to two weeks for application review once SCSU has received all required documents.
     

  13. How do I find out my admissions decision?

    An email will be sent to the preferred email address you listed on your admissions application (be sure to check your spam folder). 

    A hard copy of the decision letter will be mailed to the home address you provided on your application.

Financial Aid Questions

  1. When is the financial aid deadline for the fall semester?

    The FAFSA priority deadline to ensure access to all funds for which you are eligible is March 15th
        

  2. Can I apply for financial aid after the priority date of March 15th?

    Yes, but some funds may be exhausted after the priority date. 
     

  3. How do I apply for financial aid?

    To apply for financial aid, you (and your parent, if you are a dependent student) should complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) annually online at either www.studentaid.gov or by downloading the MyStudentAid App on any mobile device. Be sure to add Southern's School Code to ensure your aid offer is issued promptly: 001406.

    Click here for a step by step video on how to complete the FAFSA via the mobile app.
        

  4. I applied for financial aid but I have not received a financial aid packet. Who should I speak with?

    You can contact the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships at (203) 392-5222 or email financialaid@southernct.edu. You must be accepted for admission in order to receive a financial aid award. Please allow up to two weeks from the date Southern receives your FAFSA information for your award to be processed. When complete, you may view your award in the MySCSU portal. (https://myapps.southernct.edu)
     

  5. Is there financial aid available for undocumented students?

    es, there is limited funding available. To apply, complete and email the Undocumented Student Aid Application to the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships at financialaid@southernct.edu.
     

  6. May I request a re-evaluation of my financial aid package?

    To appeal your financial aid award, email the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships at financialaid@southernct.edu. 
     

  7. What if my financial aid application is still incomplete?

    Contact the Office of Financial Aid if you need help understanding what documents are needed to complete or verify information in your financial aid application. 
     

  8. How do outside scholarships affect my Southern financial aid award?

    Financial aid and scholarships cannot exceed the Cost of Attendance except for the Federal Pell Grant.

 

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Contact

Location

Office of First Year Admissions
Wintergreen Building, Room 114
501 Crescent Street
New Haven, CT 06515

Contact

Phone: (203) 392-5644
Fax: (203) 392-5727
Email: admissions@southernct.edu

Office Hours: Mon - Fri, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Find Your Admissions Counselor

Admissions Counselors

First Year applications from Connecticut are assigned to counselors based on high school.

Nilvio Perez

Nilvio Perez
Director of Admissions
(203) 392-5652
perezn18@southernct.edu

 

Gloria Lee

Gloria Lee
Associate Director of Admissions
(203) 392-6606
leeg1@southernct.edu

 

Tim Belcher

Tim Belcher
Assistant Director of Admissions
(203) 392-5726
belchert1@southernct.edu

 

Nick Gleifert

Nicholas Gleifert
Associate Director of Admissions – Marketing and Events
(203) 392-6477
gleifertn1@southernct.edu

 

Sir Snowden

Dr. Sir Snowden
Associate Director of Admissions - Early College and High School Outreach Coordinator
(203) 392-6109
snowdens1@southernct.edu

 

Elisabeth Cerino

Elisabeth Cerino
Assistant Director of Admissions
(203) 392-5247
cerinoe3@southernct.edu

Scott Ouellette
Assistant Director of Admissions
(203) 392-5446
ouellettes1@southernct.edu

Administrative Staff

Maria Celina Alles-Gonzalez
Administrative Assistant
(203) 392-7179
allesgonzam1@southernct.edu

Betty Jackson
Office Assistant
(203) 392-5642
jacksonb7@southernct.edu
   

Melissa Ingram
Secretary
(203) 392-5645
ingramm1@southernct.edu
  

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