How to Apply

How to Apply: The Basics

Whether you're planning to attend college for the first time or transferring from another institution, we're excited that you're considering St. Cloud State. If you are ready to explore your passions, challenge yourself and take advantage of an exemplary education, we invite you to apply for admission.

Step One:
Complete an online application or download and complete a paper application and return it by mail by the appropriate deadline. Make sure to familiarize yourself with our deadlines in order to guarantee admission and scholarship consideration.  And remember – it's always best to apply early!

Step Two:
Put in a request with your high school counseling office to send an official transcript to SCSU.

If you’re transferring from another institution (or completed college-level coursework while in high school), review our  transfer transcript information.

What we look for

For students with no college level credit completed upon HS graduation, you are GUARANTEED ADMISSION if:

• You have a 2.5 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) 

Students may also be admitted based on a thorough evaluation of each candidate. In our evaluation, we consider GPA, curriculum and other academic indicators. Extra-curricular activities may also be considered, and personal statements and recommendations, which are optional, may be considered if you opt to submit them.

Recommended College Preparation Standards:

• English: 4 years.
• Mathematics: 3 years. Requires two years of algebra and one year of geometry.
• Science: 3 years. At least one course must be in a biological science and one in physical science. All courses should include laboratory experiences. Examples of appropriate courses are anatomy and physiology, biology, botany, zoology, astronomy, earth science, chemistry, physics, physical science and geology.
• Social Studies: 3 years. At least one course or its equivalent in US history and one in geography are required.
• World Language: 2 years of the same language. Any language, including American Sign Language (ASL) is acceptable.
• World Culture or The Arts: 1 year. World Culture courses are non-language courses which teach about other cultures, provide a global perspective, and foster an understanding of other cultures. Appropriate art courses include music, drama, survey, and visual arts courses.

Placement for coursework is required for all students. Placement for courses is determined by a variety of assessments including but not limited to Accuplacer, ALEKS PPL, ACT, SAT, MCA, High School GPA, and previous Collegelevel coursework. 

Application Deadlines