Admission Requirements

Application and Credit Requirements

The Seattle University Admissions Office reviews applications holistically. General admission requirements are listed below, but know that many factors are considered in the admissions process. Students with specific questions regarding their admission should contact their Admissions Counselor.

To see a list of required materials, please see the How to Apply page.

Successful candidates complete the following minimal program in high school (each unit is equivalent to one academic year of study): 

  • English: 4 units
  • Mathematics (college preparatory): 3 units
  • Social studies: 3 units
  • Laboratory science: 2 units
  • Foreign language: 2 units
  • History: 1 unit
  • Additional academic units from the above disciplines: 2 units

 

Direct Entry Admissions Requirements

At Seattle University, students can apply directly to their intended major. For instance, students who select "Nursing" as their intended major will be considered directly for admission to our Nursing program. If admitted, students can begin their journey in their major right from the beginning.

As a result, certain programs—Nursing included—have additional admission requirements. Please review the programs with direct entry admission requirements below:

ACT and SAT exam scores

Seattle University employs a holistic review of your application materials to determine admission. Part of that holistic review includes evaluating student performance on the SAT or ACT exam, an optional admission component.

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, scholarship, and course placement decisions.

Should applicants choose to submit test scores, they must be received by November 15 for early action consideration and by January 15 for regular admission consideration. We will provisionally accept self-reported scores from the Common Application to complete applications. Students submitting self-reported scores must follow up with an official score report if they attend SU.

International students

Although international students are not required to submit the SAT or ACT, the Admissions Office recommends international students take either exam and submit their scores.

Gaps in education

Some applicants have taken some time off while completing a degree. Students with a gap of 5 or more years may be asked to establish a current academic record at another college or university before applying for Seattle University admission. In addition, recent prerequisite coursework may be needed to apply to specific majors. Don't hesitate to contact your Admissions Counselor for more information.

English proficiency requirements

Applicants whose native language is other than English must demonstrate English proficiency regardless of the length of residency in the U.S., citizenship, or immigration status. 

Gaps in Education

If an applicant has a gap in education of 5 or more years, they may be asked to establish a current academic record at another college or university prior to applying for admission at Seattle University.  In addition, recent prerequisite coursework may be needed to apply to specific majors. Please contact your Admissions Counselor for more information.