First-Year Student Application FAQ's
Questions Related to Application Reviewplus or minus
Q: What do you look at when reviewing an application?
A: We take a holistic approach to reviewing your application for admission. We take into consideration many factors including coursework, cumulative GPA, class rank (if applicable), standardized test scores, letters of recommendation and extracurricular activities. Typical Scranton students have excelled academically in high school and have distinguished themselves through extracurricular activities, leadership and community service.
Q: Do you accept the Common Application?
A: Yes, we only accept The Common Application and you must submit it online.
Questions Related to Early Actionplus or minus
Q: If I apply Early Action, when will I be notified?
A: If you have all of your application materials in by the November 15 deadline, we will notify you of a decision on December 15. Regular Decision Applicants will be evaluated after December 15 and notified on a rolling basis after January 1.
Q: If I apply Early Action to Scranton and get accepted, do I have to attend?
A: No. Early Action is non-binding, which means that you still have until May 1 to make your decision.
Questions Related to Scholarshipsplus or minus
Q: Is there a separate application for merit scholarships? How do you apply for merit scholarships?
A: There is no separate application for scholarships. You are automatically evaluated for merit-based scholarships when you apply. If you are accepted and receive a scholarship, you will be notified of your scholarship in your acceptance letter.
Q: Does my major have an impact on scholarship?
A: No. Scholarships are based on academic achievement.
Questions Related to SATs and ACTsplus or minus
Q: Do I have to take the SATs and ACTs?
A: We require standardized test scores, unless you are applying SAT/ACT Optional. You may submit your SAT scores, ACT scores, or both.
Q: What are the requirements for SAT/ACT Optional?
A: Please visit our SAT/ACT Optional webpage to learn more.
Q: Do I have to take any SAT II subject tests?
A: No, we do not require or consider SAT II subject tests in the admissions review process.
Q: Do you “superscore” standardized test scores?
A: Yes. We will superscore your SAT, meaning we will take your best math score and combine it with your best evidence-based reading score, regardless of test date.
If you took the ACT, then we will combine the highest subject tests from multiple test dates.
If you took both the SAT and the ACT, we will use whatever score type is the highest.