Undergraduate Application Processes & Requirements

Admissions Process

At Wilkes University, you’ll join a family of Colonels dedicated to helping you thrive—both in college and in life. Our first step is to guide you through the admissions process. We’re thrilled that you’re considering Wilkes.

How to Apply

  1. Complete one of the following applications accepted by Wilkes:
  2. Submit official high school transcripts.

Wilkes University is test-optional for Fall 2024 applicants for all majors. You have the option to choose whether or not to submit test scores.

The University accepts a limited number of applications for the spring semester. Procedures are similar to those followed in the fall semester.

APPLY TO WILKES

Holistic Approach to Admission

With a focus on promoting college access and equality in the admissions review process, Wilkes University conducts a holistic review on each applicant. Our philosophy is to look beyond grade-point average and test scores to understand the achievements and influences that have contributed to each student’s journey. This approach allows Wilkes University to make a fair and informed admissions decision for each student.

Rolling Admission

Wilkes University considers applications on a rolling basis. That means that you’ll receive your admissions decision within a few weeks of the university receiving all your application materials.

Early Decision

If you are confident that Wilkes University’s unique blend of big-school opportunities and personalized attention is right for you, you may want to apply Early Decision.

Committing early to becoming Colonel comes with several advantages:

  • Priority housing, based on preference and availability.
  • Advanced registration for courses within your intended field of study.
  • Access to an early advising session.
  • Scholarship priority with early FAFSA submission.

Early Decision Application Deadline: Nov. 15

FAFSA Filing Deadline for Early Decision: Nov. 15

Decisions Released: On a rolling basis and no later than Dec. 1

Priority Admission

The Priority Admission deadline is January 15th. Meeting this deadline will unlock priority consideration for admission and access to enhanced financial aid awards. To be eligible for priority admission, you must submit your application by 11:59 p.m. EST on January 15th, and all required items must be received by Jan. 31.

When you’re applying through Common App and our Wilkes University App, please select "Rolling Admission" as your preferred admission plan. You'll be eligible for priority admission if you submit the application by the priority deadline date of January 15th and all other items by January 31st.

Important Dates to Remember

  • Aug. 1 Online application opens for first-year students.
  • Jan. 1 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) external website form opens, allowing students, including high school seniors, to begin applying for financial aid.
  • Nov. 15 Early Decision applications are due.
  • May 1 Admitted students should declare their intent to enroll in the entering class by forwarding a $300 tuition deposit to the Office of Admissions by May 1. This deposit will be applied directly to the first tuition bill.

Admission Requirements

All high school students applying for admission to Wilkes University must have completed at least the following course requirements* before enrollment:

  • four years of English
  • three years of mathematics
  • two years of science (including a laboratory component)
  • three years of social studies

*If you have not taken these courses, you may still qualify for admission. An admissions counselor will work directly with you to request additional information for admissions consideration and ensure you are prepared for college work.

Some academic programs at Wilkes require additional course preparation for admission:

  • Science-related Programs (pre-pharmacy, neuroscience, all majors in the College of Science and Engineering):
    • mathematics courses in algebra II, geometry and trigonometry with four years of mathematics preferred
  • Nursing Majors
    • mathematics course work must include algebra
    • science course work must include biology and chemistry

Several programs require auditions, portfolio review or interview:

  • Digital Design and Media Art (Bachelor of Fine Arts Option Only)
    • portfolio of essay and artworks
    • F.A. application
  • Pre-Pharmacy Guaranteed-seat Program
    • interview with department faculty for qualified students
  • Theatre Arts and Musical Theatre Majors
    • audition and interview with department faculty
  • Theatre Design and Technology Majors
    • portfolio and interview with department faculty

Tour Wilkes

Get to know Wilkes better before you visit in person. View every aspect of campus and hear what current students have to say about Wilkes in our virtual tour.

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