Early ActionAdmission

Applying under our Early Action admission plan can provide many benefits for interested students, but requires that you pay careful attention to the timeline and requirements of the program. If you have questions about the process, please contact your Admission Counselor for more information.

Why apply Early Action?

Intended for students who consider Gustavus one of their top college choices, Early Action applicants will get an admission decision by November 15, participate in an early scholarship round, and even submit need-based financial aid information by November 1. If you complete everything on schedule, you'll get your expected financial aid package before January 1. This allows you to make your college decision earlier, submit your deposit, and begin planning for your time at Gustavus!

Although you have all the information you need to make your decision before most other students, Early Action is a non-binding admission program, which means that you don't have to make your college decision until June 1.

Early Action Requirements

To be considered an Early Action applicant, you must complete each step listed below by November 1. International early action applicants must complete each step listed on the International Admission page.

  1. Submit the Gustavus Application or the Common Application. On the application, be sure to select the Early Action box under the "Enrollment" section.
  2. Submit all supporting materials for the application, including your high school transcript and official ACT or SAT test scores (optional).
  3. Apply for talent-based scholarships by November 1 if you're interested in music, theatre, dance, or art.

Early Action Timeline

  • Within two weeks: After you've completed your application file, you'll receive an admission decision.
  • November 8: Fine Arts scholarship application(s) due
  • Two weeks after receiving your completed application file: Receive admission decision
  • January 1: Financial aid package sent to admitted Early Action students, if we've received your FAFSA

Talent-based Scholarships

The Gustavus fall scholarship round is reserved exclusively for Early Action students who must complete their scholarship applications by November 1. Please see the talent-based scholarship page for more information.