First-Time Freshmen
You are considered a first-time freshman if you have or will be recently graduating from high school or have obtained your GED and have never attended a college or university. Students who have attended any institution of higher education after high school/secondary school cannot apply as a first time freshman student.
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Admissions Requirements
The Office of Admissions carefully evaluates each student’s application and completed a holistic review of the student, including academic performance and personal character and achievements. When evaluating high school coursework, we look for completion of the following number of units/years:
- 4 English (including courses in grammar, composition, and literature)
- 4 Mathematics (three units must be Algebra I and higher)
- 3 Social Studies (including U.S. history)
- 3 Science (all courses to be college preparatory laboratory science, preferably including units from biology, chemistry, and physics)
- 2 Foreign Language or American Sign Language (two units of the same language)
- 1 Art/Humanities or Technology
Application Process
1. Complete the Shepherd University application or apply through the Common App.
2. Submit the $45 application fee or an approved application fee waiver.
3. Send an official high school transcript or GED to Shepherd either electronically to admission@shepherd.edu or via mail to:
| Shepherd University Office of Admissions PO Box 5000 Shepherdstown, WV 25443 |
Home Schooled students who do not have a high school transcript must submit GED/TASC results or a detailed portfolio describing the breadth of coursework use to provide a high school education. This should include textbooks and course materials used, reading lists, community service projects, athletic and artistic endeavors.
4.(Optional) Send your SAT or ACT scores. (SAT code: 5615, ACT code: 4532).
5. It is recommended that you submit a personal statement with your application. Personal statements can be typed into the online application, mailed, or emailed to admission@shepherd.edu. For a list of writing prompts, click here.
Early Action Deadline: November 15
Regular Admission Deadline: Rolling
