Freshman Admission

Apply to SHU as a Freshman

You want a school with academic excellence and real-world relevance. A school with a vibrant community that’s accessible and inclusive. A school that is already known for its achievements and that’s reaching even higher. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Sacred Heart, and we hope you’ll join us.

Let’s get to know each other.

We value a personalized admissions process and strongly encourage all students interested in Sacred Heart to visit our campus.

Register for a Campus Visit

Register for your campus visit today, or contact the Undergraduate Admissions office at 203-371-7881 or via email with any questions about your campus visit.

Important Dates & Deadlines

Date Deadline
November 15
  • Early Decision I Application Deadline (Binding application; Learn more about our Early Decision Program
  • Decision letters will be postmarked by December 1
December 1
  • Early Action I Application Deadline (Non-binding application)
  • Decision letters will be postmarked by January 15
January 15
  • Early Decision II Application Deadline (Binding application; Learn more about our Early Decision Program)
  • Decision letters will be postmarked by February 1
February 1
  • Early Action II Application Deadline (Non-binding application)
  • Decision Letters will be postmarked by February 15
  • Applications received thereafter will be considered within our Regular Decision plan
May 1
  • Enrolled student deposit due and priority deadline for housing

Students who wish to be considered for federal and state financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile is required to be considered for institutional grants and scholarships and other private sources of financial assistance. Refer to the Office of Student Financial Assistance for deadlines for the completion of the FAFSA and CSS Profile that correspond to each decision plan.

Learn more about financial assistance for freshmen

Freshman Admission Requirements

We take a holistic approach to the admission process, and our admission requirements consider a variety of factors. We look at your:

  • Academic performance in high school (as evidenced by GPA; college-level, honors and AP/IB courses)
  • Recommendation
  • Co-curricular activities such as athletics, club and organization participation, volunteerism, and involvement in the arts
  • Personal qualities and interests that will allow you to make a unique addition to the Sacred Heart community
  • SHU is a test-optional institution. You may elect to submit SAT or ACT scores for consideration; however, there is no requirement to do so (with the exception of homeschooled students). If you are unsure whether you would like your scores considered, contact your admissions counselor. Learn more about our test-optional policy.

We want you to know:

The mission of Sacred Heart University is one of inclusivity, respect for others and social justice. We support the right of everyone at any age to freely express opinions in a respectful and nonviolent manner. To that end, any disciplinary action that results from participation in a nonviolent protest will not impact an individual's chance for admission to Sacred Heart University.

Learn More

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