Explore a holistic, streamlined process for applying to a bachelor’s degree program after high school.
All first-year applicants are required to submit the following:
Start your Common Application and add Seattle University to your “My Colleges” page.
You’ll use your application to tell us a little more about yourself and your experiences inside and outside the classroom.
Early Action: November 15
Regular Decision: January 15
Step 2: Review Admissions RequirementsSee admissions requirements for the major you’re considering. Admissions requirements include things like course prerequisites in high school, GPA and English language proficiency.
Discover all the majors you could take at Seattle University, and find the one you’re most interested in.
Step 3: Assemble Required MaterialsCheck out required application materials and make a plan. A complete application includes the following:
In addition to your Personal Essay on the Common Application, all applicants are asked to complete one short answer essay and have the option to respond to a question about inclusion and belonging. Some programs—like Nursing—have additional essay requirements.
Common Application Short Essay: Located in one of the world's top cities for technology and innovation and deeply rooted in 500 years of Jesuit tradition, a Seattle University education is innovative, global and holistic. We encourage students to challenge preconceived notions, reflect before they react and strive for the greater good. What is it that drew you to apply to Seattle University? Where do you hope a Seattle University education will take you?
Belonging and Inclusion Short Essay (Optional): At Seattle University we are inspired by the diversity of our campus community and are committed to a culture where equity, inclusion and belonging are hallmarks of who we are. Tell us about an experience you have had involving equity, inclusion or belonging—whether through celebration, inspiration, challenge or adversity—and why it was meaningful to you and how it would demonstrate your unique ability to contribute to the university.
Essay for Nursing Applicants: The nursing program is a competitive program that admits students directly to the four-year nursing cohort. The College of Nursing’s mission is to educate and inspire leaders to transform health care for a just and humane world. Why are you applying to the nursing program at Seattle University and what aspects of the profession uniquely excite you? Please limit your response to 250 words or less.
Step 4: Submit Your ApplicationYou did it! Way to go! We’ll review each part of your application carefully, thoughtfully and holistically. We can’t wait to learn more about your goals and how a Seattle University education can support your vision.
When you submit your Common Application to Seattle University, you’ll receive a follow up email to access the Redhawk Admissions Portal.
Your Redhawk Admissions Portal is your one-stop shop to check your application status, review any missing materials and see important updates regarding the admissions process.
During our review process, we’ll reach out if we need more information—or if we would like to invite you to apply for the University Honors program.
Be sure to check the portal regularly for updates.
Application Fee WaiversThe nonrefundable $60 fee can be waived for the following students:
Eligible students will select their appropriate fee waiver in the Common Application.
Seattle University Admissions employs a test-optional application review process for all first-year applicants. You may choose whether or not you would like to have your ACT or SAT test scores included in the holistic review of your admissions application.
If you choose to submit your test scores, Seattle University will use the highest sub-scores on both the ACT and SAT Reasoning test when making admission and course placement decisions.
Although international students are not required to submit the SAT or ACT, the Admissions Office recommends you take either exam and submit your scores.
1160-1360 SAT Score
Middle 50% Among Admitted Students
24-30 ACT Score
Middle 50% Among Admitted Students
Add Seattle University to your schools in the Common Application. When you reach SU’s school-specific portion of the application, you may elect to not report your scores. Adjustments can be made to your test-optional decision until your Common Application is submitted. After you have submitted you cannot change your test-optional status.
How do you evaluate applications without standardized test scores?Admissions employs a holistic review process using transcripts, coursework, grade trend, recommendation letters and other application materials not including SAT or ACT test scores.
If admitted to the university, you will be admitted directly to the program for which you are applying, a pre-advising program or a different major that aligns better with your high school coursework.
Will I be at a disadvantage if I choose not to submit standardized test scores?No. If you feel that your academics are well-represented without standardized test scores, we will employ a holistic review process using the other elements of your application.
How does financial aid work if I apply without standardized test scores?If you apply test-optional, consideration for scholarships and financial aid will remain the same as it will for those applicants applying with standardized test scores.
I’m submitting test scores with my application. When do you need to receive them?Test scores must be received no later than November 15 for those applying for Early Action and no later than January 15 for those applying for Regular Decision admission consideration.
We will provisionally accept self-reported scores from the Common Application to complete applications, but you are required to send official scores if they choose to attend SU.
