First-Year Admission

Entrance into Lourdes University requires either:

• An earned diploma from an accredited high school
• A homeschool program in a college preparatory course of study
• GED certificate

The faculty recommends the following:

• Four units of English
• Three units of mathematics
• Three units of social studies (including one in history)
• Three units of science
• Two units of foreign language

The following documents are used in evaluating candidates for first-year admission:

• High school GPA and class rank
• Optional ACT (American College Test) or SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) scores.
• Lourdes University is proud of our test-optional admissions policy. Submission of ACT or SAT scores for incoming undergraduate student applicants is optional. Learn more.
• Other indicators of potential for academic success as documented in the application
• Optional letters of recommendation and personal statements will be examined for students with a GPA below 2.75.

Homeschooled students who have completed their high school program and are seeking admission to Lourdes University must submit a home-generated transcript of their courses (with grades). Admission to Lourdes University will be decided on an individual basis, taking into account the high school curriculum pursued and the grades achieved. As with other direct-from-high-school students, ACT or SAT scores are required.

You can apply to Lourdes University through one of two options: the Gray Wolf Application or the Common App.

APPLICATION MATERIALS

Submitting a complete application is the first step towards becoming a Lourdes student. As a first-year applicant, this includes the following:

1. Complete our Gray Wolf application or Common App application here.
2. Self-reported application data: Upload unofficial high school transcripts with your online application OR include your current course load (the classes in which you are currently enrolled). Please include your highest level of English, Math, and Science.
3. Note: Official transcripts will be required before registering for classes at Lourdes.
4. STRONGLY ENCOURAGED: Letter of academic recommendation from a high school teacher, guidance counselor, coach, or mentor.
5. OPTIONAL: Official ACT or SAT test scores (our ACT code is 3598). If you prefer to submit your score, we encourage you to submit the writing score. 

Lourdes University is proud of our test-optional admissions policy. Submission of ACT or SAT scores for incoming undergraduate student applicants is optional. That gives prospective students a choice when considering whether or not to submit their standardized test scores.

As a test-optional institution, Lourdes is one of 1,000+ accredited higher education institutions that does not require standardized testing for admission. That aligns with the Lourdes University holistic admissions process. Our University considers several metrics, including your classroom performance, rigor of coursework, writing ability, extra-curricular involvement and recognition, and teacher/counselor recommendations to give us a total picture of who you are as a student.

Standardized test scores may not always accurately indicate the abilities needed to succeed in college for a number of student populations. Those without access to test preparation courses and tutors are one example. The cost to retake these standardized tests can often be a deterrent and, therefore, a barrier to admission. The test-optional admissions policy can also benefit individuals with learning and physical differences and English language learners.

The test-optional admissions policy allows Lourdes University to maintain our academic standards and ensures we admit students with the capacity to succeed.

To be eligible for institutional and federal financial aid, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and request a copy be sent to Lourdes University. The university’s code is 003069.

Upon acceptance to the university and receipt of the FAFSA, Lourdes can then determine the amount of institutional and federal financial aid a student is eligible to receive.

The Lourdes University Admissions Department offers the following helpful steps to high school juniors as they Get Ready for College.

STEP 1

Determine what you are looking for in a college or university

Factors to consider:

• Size of campus
• Academic programs
• Admissions requirements
• Location
• Distance from home
• Extracurricular activities and athletics
• Honors programs
• Private or public institution

STEP 2

Create a master list of colleges and universities you are interested in exploring

Keep in mind:

• Don’t let cost be a factor in the early stages of your search
• Determine which colleges and universities offer what you are looking for
• By the fall of your senior year, have a list of six to 10 schools chosen

STEP 3

Register for the SAT/ACT

Keep in mind:

• Schedule for more than one testing date
• Most colleges and universities take your highest combined SAT or ACT composite score
• Check each college or university’s policy
• Review the SAT/ACT score requirements for college and university scholarships

STEP 4

Check your high school graduation requirements and keep your grades up

General college and university requirements:

• 4 units of English
• 3 units of Social Sciences/History
• 3 units of Math (algebra I, II and geometry)
• 3 units of Science (biology and chemistry)
• 2 units of Foreign Language
• 1 unit of Fine Arts

STEP 5

Prepare for the SAT/ACT

Keep in mind:

• Juniors are encouraged to take the PSAT, SAT or ACT at least once during their junior year
• SAT test dates are in September, October, November, February, April and May
• ACT test dates are in September, November, January, March, May and June
• Ask your high school guidance counselor for specific dates

STEP 6

Schedule campus visits

Steps to follow:

• Visit college and university websites
• Contact the Admissions Office of the colleges and universities you are considering
• Plan a campus visit
• Make an appointment with an Admissions Coordinator or Faculty Advisor

Lourdes University is pleased to work with School and Guidance Counselors. The following information and links are provided to assist you in working with students.

Sincerely,

Callie Zake
Director of Undergraduate Admissions and Financial Aid

CONTACT INFORMATION

luadmits@lourdes.edu
419-885-5291
800-878-3210, ext. 5291
Lourdes University’s Federal School Code: 003069