Apply for Admission
Admission
We want you to apply to Gustavus! By applying, hopefully you'll discover that Gustavus is a good match for you while we learn if you're a good match for us.
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Our office has a holistic approach to admission, which means we evaluate all the information in your application-- not just "the numbers." That's much fairer to you and a much better way for us to build a class.
Consequently, as you apply, emphasize your academic preparation for college, give details about any involvement, offer explanations for any challenges, and help us understand what makes you distinctive. We only know what you tell us, so be thorough in your application!
As we get to know you through your application, campus visits, and contact, we hope to make your college search more informative and less complicated.
Keep the following tips in mind as you begin your application:
- There is no application fee;
- Early Action applicants must have all materials in by November 1;
- Rolling Admission applications are reviewed on a rolling basis beginning November 15;
- Though there is no application deadline, we receive the majority of our applications by early winter and our class is usually filled by late spring;
- Admitted students should confirm their intention to enroll at Gustavus by submitting a $300 non-refundable deposit postmarked by May 1; and,
- While you should only deposit at one college and have until May 1 to explore all your college options, your housing selection priority is determined by your deposit date.
Early Action or Rolling Admission
Gustavus offers two admission plans, allowing you to choose whichever one fits you best. Learn more about Early Action by exploring our Early Action website.
| Early Action | Rolling Admission | |
|---|---|---|
|
What is it? Who is it for? |
Non-binding admission plan allowing you to have all the information you need to make your decision before Winter Break Students who consider Gustavus a top college choice All application materials and forms must be submitted by November 1. |
Standard admission plan in which you'll receive your decision approximately three weeks after completing your application Students applying to and deciding between several colleges and universities Review of applications will begin November 15 and continue on a rolling basis through May 1. |
First-year Application/Admission Process*
*International and Transfer applicants have different timeline and material requirements*
- Application for Admission. Apply to Gustavus online or by submitting the Common Application. All application formats ask for personal details, a list of accomplishments and experiences, and a writing sample.
- High School Transcript. Please ask your school counselor to send us your transcript.
- Recommendations (Optional). We welcome recommendations from teachers and counselors. They may submit their own letters or use the Gustavus Recommendation Form.
- Fee. There is no application fee at Gustavus.
- Status. All applicants can check what pieces of the application have been received and their admission status.
- Notification timeline. Once we've received all parts of your application (see #1 and #2 above), you can expect an admission decision within three weeks beginning November 15. To make sure you get notified at the time you want, use the basic timeline below.
Application complete by Admission decision by November 1 (Early Action) November 15 December 1 or after Rolling notification begins December 15 - Scholarship award. Beginning November 15, within three weeks of receiving your admission letter, you'll receive another letter awarding any scholarships for which you're qualified.
- Deposit. Regardless of when you were admitted, you can confirm your intention to enroll at Gustavus by mailing a $300 non-refundable deposit postmarked by May 1. You can also deposit any time online with a credit card or by electronic transfer from a savings or checking account.