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.
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 |
Please note that official transcripts are sent in a sealed, signature-stamped envelope, or electronically sent from the issuing institution directly to Shepherd University. Print transcripts that are opened by the student or electronic transcripts that are forwarded are considered unofficial.
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
