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Arizona State University Admissions Requirements

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Arizona State University (ASU), with campuses across the Phoenix metropolitan area, is a major public research university offering a wide variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs. ASU is known for its innovative approaches to higher education and its commitment to providing access to students from diverse backgrounds.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

General Admission Criteria for First-Time Freshmen

To be considered for admission as a first-time freshman at Arizona State University, applicants must meet the following general requirements:

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent: Students must have completed a high school diploma or the equivalent (GED).
  • Academic Performance: ASU evaluates first-time freshmen applicants based on a combination of high school GPA, course rigor, and standardized test scores. Students must meet at least one of the following academic requirements:
    • Top 25% of High School Graduating Class: Automatic admission is granted for students in the top 25% of their graduating class.
    • Minimum GPA: A cumulative high school GPA of 3.00 (unweighted) in competency courses is required for admission.
    • ACT/SAT Scores:
      • SAT: Minimum score of 1120 (math and evidence-based reading and writing combined).
      • ACT: Minimum composite score of 22.

Required Competency Courses

In addition to meeting GPA or test score requirements, ASU requires that applicants complete the following high school courses (known as competency courses) with a grade of “C” or better:

  • English: 4 years
  • Mathematics: 4 years (including algebra I, geometry, algebra II, and a higher-level math course)
  • Laboratory Science: 3 years (in at least two different areas: biology, chemistry, physics, or earth science)
  • Social Science: 2 years (including one year of American history)
  • Foreign Language: 2 years of the same foreign language
  • Fine Arts or Career and Technical Education: 1 year

Test-Optional Admission

Arizona State University is test-optional, meaning students are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores. If applicants choose not to submit test scores, their application will be evaluated based on GPA and course rigor.

Holistic Review Process

If an applicant does not meet the minimum requirements for automatic admission, ASU offers a holistic review process. This process considers additional factors such as:

  • Extracurricular Activities: Leadership roles, community service, work experience, and involvement in clubs or organizations.
  • Personal Statement: Students may submit a personal statement or essay highlighting their goals, experiences, and reasons for wanting to attend ASU.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Although not required, letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors can strengthen an application.
  • Interview (if applicable): In some cases, ASU may invite applicants to an interview for a more in-depth understanding of their background and interests.

Transfer Students

Arizona State University welcomes students transferring from other colleges or universities. Transfer students must meet the following requirements:

General Transfer Admission Criteria

  • Minimum GPA: Transfer applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 on all transferable college coursework. Some programs may have higher GPA requirements.
  • Transferable Credit Hours: Students who have completed 24 or more transferable semester credits are considered transfer students. Those with fewer than 24 credits must meet freshman admission requirements, including submitting a high school transcript and standardized test scores (optional).
  • Official Transcripts: Applicants must submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. These transcripts should be sent directly from the college or university to ASU.

Transfer Credit Evaluation

Credits earned at regionally accredited institutions may be eligible for transfer to ASU. The transfer credit evaluation process ensures that courses taken elsewhere align with ASU’s curriculum. Transfer applicants can use the Transfer Guide on ASU’s website to check which courses will transfer and how they apply toward their degree.

Pathway Programs

ASU offers transfer pathway programs in partnership with community colleges. These programs, such as the Maricopa to ASU Pathways Program (MAPP), ensure that community college students take the correct courses to transfer seamlessly to ASU with junior standing.

International Students

Arizona State University is home to students from all over the world. International applicants must meet specific requirements to ensure they are prepared for academic success in an English-speaking environment.

General International Admission Requirements

  • Academic Records: International students must submit official high school or post-secondary transcripts. These documents must be translated into English and evaluated by a credential evaluation service, such as World Education Services (WES), to determine U.S. equivalency.
  • English Language Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency in English by submitting one of the following standardized test scores:
    • TOEFL: Minimum score of 61 (internet-based)
    • IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0
    • Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 95
    • PTE Academic: Minimum score of 53
  • ACT/SAT Scores: International applicants may submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application, but these are optional unless specifically required for certain programs.

Visa Requirements

Once admitted, international students must apply for an F-1 student visa. ASU’s International Students and Scholars Center provides support for the visa application process and issues the I-20 form needed to obtain the visa.

Financial Documentation

International students must provide proof of sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses for the duration of their studies at ASU. This documentation is required for the I-20 issuance process.

Graduate Admission Requirements

Arizona State University offers a wide range of graduate programs, including master’s degrees, doctoral programs, and professional certifications. The admissions requirements for graduate applicants vary by program, but there are some general requirements.

General Graduate Admission Criteria

  • Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. The degree must be equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree in terms of academic standards.
  • Minimum GPA: A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.00 or higher is preferred for most programs. Some programs may accept a lower GPA with additional qualifications or professional experience.
  • Completed Application: Graduate applicants must submit an online application through ASU’s Graduate Admissions Portal.
  • Official Transcripts: Applicants must submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Most graduate programs require two to three letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or colleagues who can speak to the applicant’s academic abilities or professional qualifications.
  • Personal Statement: A personal statement or statement of purpose is typically required, outlining the applicant’s goals, interests, and reasons for pursuing graduate study at ASU.
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): A current resume or CV detailing the applicant’s academic background, work experience, and skills is required.
  • Standardized Test Scores: Some programs require standardized test scores, such as the GRE or GMAT, while others are test-optional.

Program-Specific Requirements

Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Work Experience: Professional work experience is preferred for MBA applicants, though it is not always required.
  • GMAT/GRE: Most MBA programs require applicants to submit GMAT or GRE scores. However, some programs offer waivers for applicants with substantial work experience or strong academic records.
Master of Science in Engineering
  • Engineering Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field.
  • GRE Scores: GRE scores are required for most engineering master’s programs. However, some programs may waive this requirement based on the applicant’s academic or professional background.
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
  • Teaching Experience: While not always required, teaching experience is often considered an asset for applicants to the M.Ed. programs.
  • GRE Scores: Some education programs may require or recommend GRE scores, depending on the specific track or concentration.

Application Process

How to Apply

The application process for Arizona State University is simple and can be completed online. The following steps outline the application process for all students:

  • Submit Online Application: Apply through the ASU website or via the Common Application. The application fee is $50 for domestic applicants and $85 for international applicants.
  • Submit Transcripts: Request official high school or college transcripts to be sent directly to ASU.
  • Submit Test Scores (Optional): If applicable, submit SAT, ACT, TOEFL, IELTS, or other test scores to ASU.
  • Submit Additional Materials: Depending on the program, applicants may need to provide essays, letters of recommendation, or other documents.

Application Deadlines

ASU offers rolling admissions, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. However, it is recommended that students submit their applications by the following deadlines for priority consideration:

  • Fall Semester: May 1
  • Spring Semester: November 1
  • Summer Semester: March 1

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Arizona State University is committed to making education affordable. The university offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities.

Financial Aid Application

To apply for financial aid, students must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). ASU’s school code is 001081.

Scholarships

ASU offers numerous scholarships based on merit, financial need, and other factors. Some of the most popular scholarship programs include:

  • New American University Scholarship: For high-achieving freshmen and transfer students.
  • Presidential Scholarship: For students with exceptional academic performance and leadership skills.

Need-Based Aid

ASU provides need-based grants and loans to students who demonstrate financial need through the FAFSA.

School Contact Information

For more information about the admissions process, or to contact ASU’s admissions office, use the following details:

  • Admissions Office Address:
    Arizona State University
    PO Box 870112
    Tempe, AZ 85287-0112
  • Phone Number: (480) 965-7788
  • Toll-Free: 1-855-278-5080
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: www.asu.edu
  • Office Hours:
    Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Saturday – Sunday: Closed

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