Applying to Saint Francis University
Important Dates
Applicant Frequently Asked Questions
Applying to Saint Francis University
Students may apply to Saint Francis University anytime after July 1 of their junior year. To be considered a candidate for admission, students must submit the following:
Completed Application for Admission along with a $30.00 non-refundable application fee.
SAT I and/or ACT Scores
At least one letter of recommendation
Essay or writing sample. See Application for Admission for detailed essay options
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Important Dates
January 15: Priority application date for Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Physician Assistant Science Programs
March 1: Priority application date for Merit Scholarship consideration. (Founders', Presidential, Assisi, and Red-Flash Co-Curricular)
May 1: National Candidate Reply Deadline
May 1: Deadline to file FAFSA to receive PHEAA Grant consideration (PA residents only)
Applicant Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Saint Francis University prefer that applications be submitted on-line or completed using the paper application?
A: The Office of Admissions currently has no preference as to which application students complete.
Q: What criteria do you use to evaluate students for admission?
A: Students are evaluated for admission based upon:
- Grade Point Average
- Rigor of their high school curriculum
- SAT and/or ACT Scores
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Co-curricular involvement
- Service to school. church, and community
- Class rank (if available)
Q: What if I am unsure about my major?
A: You're not alone. Undecided or Exploratory is our largest incoming "major". Being undecided at a liberal arts institution such as Saint Francis allows you to keep your options open to really explore all that we have to offer. Who knows you may choose our "Self-Designed" major to create a program that custom fits your educational and career goals.
Q: Will I graduate in four years?
A: On average students will graduate from public universities in 5.1 years compared to 4.2 years for private colleges and universities. Apart from our five and six year entry level graduate programs the majority of our students are able to graduate in four years. This in large part is due to our excellent student to faculty ratio, small class size, and tremendous academic support. However, graduating in four years is no guarantee and there may in fact be very positive reasons for lengthening your stay in Loretto; internships, double majors & minors, or study abroad just to name a few.
Q: Are interviews required as part of the application process?
A: Interviews are not required as part of the application process. However they are strongly recommended in order for students and parents to get their questions answered and to better understand the college search and application process. They are also a great way for the enrollment staff to get to know students in order to better serve their needs.
Q: When will I be notified of my application decision?
A: Typically students will receive notification of the admission committee's decision within three weeks of the submission of a complete application. A complete application includes the Saint Francis University Application for Admission, official high school transcripts, SAT I or ACT scores, essay or other writing sample, and a letter of recommendation.
Q: Do I need to take any SAT II exams?
A: No, Saint Francis University does not require the SAT II Exam.
Q: Will my essay score from the SAT I or ACT exam be evaluated as part of my application?
A: No, we do not currently utilize the SAT I or ACT essay in application review. The Saint Francis University Application for Admission outlines three options for essay or writing sample submissions.
Q: How do I qualify for a merit based scholarship?
A: Students are considered for merit scholarships based upon their application for admission. Students meeting academic scholarship guidelines will automatically be considered for these awards. Students who do not meet these guidelines are strongly encouraged to submit a resume, activities list, or other documentation of their co-curricular involvement in order to be considered for a Red Flash Co-Curricular Scholarship.
Q: Do you have an Honors Program?
A: Yes, founded in 1984 the Saint Francis University Honors Program challenges intellectually ambitious students from all disciplines. While pursuing their major field of study students enroll in Honors courses which allow in-depth, creative study of a variety of subject areas.
Q: Do you accept Advanced Placement Courses or college courses I have taken in high school?
A: Yes, we do accept Advanced Placement Courses. You will find the information on the required scores and course credit awarded by clicking the Advanced Placement link. Generally any grade of "C" or better awarded by an accredited college or university will transfer to Saint Francis. Students must submit an official transcript from the registrar's office of the respective insititutions.
Q: When and how do I apply for financial aid?
A: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the only financial aid form the we require students to complete. This form is available in your high school guidance office after December 1. Details concerning the filing of the FAFSA can be found on our financial aid website.