Santa Clara University

Thank you for considering Santa Clara University. As you begin the application process, be sure to review the information on this page. Below are factors we consider as well as a few tips on making your application as strong as possible.

What We Look For in Your Application

Every applicant is an individual. At Santa Clara, we select our admitted class from a group of many qualified candidates. No single grade, factor, or score will automatically gain or deny you admission to SCU. We're interested in students who can be successful at Santa Clara while taking advantage of all the University has to offer and enriching our campus community.

 

We weigh a variety of factors in selecting our freshmen class; below are the primary ones.

 

Academic Potential

Your high school performance is the main factor in our admission decision because your record is the most meaningful indicator of your abilities. We pay close attention to the rigor of the classes you've taken, the grades you've earned, and the work you've accomplished. We're interested in seeing that you've challenged yourself throughout your high school years. Your guidance counselor will send us a profile of your school, which we consider in reviewing your application.

 

Standardized Tests

Standardized test scores add to our knowledge of your abilities, but we don't make decisions simply on the basis of test scores. For the academic portion of your evaluation, we consider your high school records as well as your standardized test scores (SAT Reasoning Test or ACT).

We strongly encourage you to send us your official SAT and/or ACT scores each time you take the test. In the evaluation process, we only consider your highest SAT section scores or highest composite ACT scores across all test dates as long as the actual test dates occurred before our specified application deadlines. Please note that standardized test scores need to be sent to us directly by the testing agency. We do not accept faxed test records or self-reported score results from applicants.

Activities, Jobs, and Other Interests

Your non-academic activities, including extracurricular accomplishments, part-time jobs, hobbies, and community service, also play a very important role in your application. We consider leadership positions, out-of-class recognition, community and volunteer service, and other experiences when making admission decisions.

• Tip - The quality of activity is more important than the quantity. We are particularly looking to see if you have taken leadership roles or been influential in group activities or projects.
  

Other Personal Information

Because we want to have a sense of who you are as a person, we look closely at the essay and personal statements you're asked to write, your guidance counselor's evaluation, and teacher recommendation.

• Tip - Make sure the majority of the essay you write is about you. For example, if you find someone inspiring tell us how or why this person inspires you and what actions you've taken or plans you've made as a result.
  

How to Prepare

Before starting the application process, please be aware of the many documents that you are required to submit. Your application review cannot be complete until we have all of the required documents.

 

Required Documents

• Common Application and SCU Supplement
  
• Official high school transcript
• Official SAT or ACT test scores (taken by the specified application deadline)
• One Academic Teacher Evaluation
• Secondary School Report
• Mid Year Report (Only Regular Decision applicants or candidates differed from Early Action)
• $55 application fee
  

Timeline for Preparation

1. Be aware of the two deadlines:
   November 1 Early Action (non-binding)
   January 7 Regular Decision
2. Begin preparing your application materials well in advance of the deadline. Be sure to give your counselors and teachers ample time to write their letters of recommendations and send transcripts.
3. We prefer that you submit all documentation online through the Common Application, including transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
   
4. Be sure to make copies of all the documents you submit for your records, in case something is mishandled or misplaced.
5. Submit all required documents by the stated deadlines. Call our office well in advance of the deadline should you have difficulty in completing your application. Test records will only be accepted if they are officially sent by the testing agency, and the test occurred before the stated application deadline.
   
6. If the Admission Office notifies you that something is missing from your application, be certain to respond promptly and submit the missing documents. We are unable to review your application until all documents are in hand.
   
   

 

How to Pay for College

Financing a college education will take sacrifice and support. Santa Clara has a financial assistance program designed to provide you and your family with options.