When should I start applying to colleges?
Are you wondering when the right time is to start applying to college? We interviewed the experts and compiled these tips to make the process a little smoother for you.
Steps to apply
At Bluffton University, your journey to success begins with a personalized application process. From your very first interaction through to graduation, we work closely with each applicant to support sound academic planning tailored to your goals.
While academic achievement is important, we also consider factors like the rigor of your high school and the challenge of your coursework. Successful applicants typically present transcripts demonstrating strong, in-depth study in English, mathematics, foreign language, science and social studies—grounded in the values of empathy and integrity that define the Bluffton community.
Requirements
FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS:
HS graduate or GED
Preference for college prep program
- 4 units English
- 3 units mathematics
- 3 units social studies
- 3 units science
- 3 units of foreign language
Class rank or College Credit Plus classes may be considered for decision of admittance. Students who do not meet initial entrance requirements may be invited to apply to the Discovery Program, which requires additional application materials.
You are welcome to apply after June 1 following your junior year. Deadline for submitting your application is July 1 the summer prior to the intended first day of class. The application deadline for transfers and returning students is Aug. 1.
Here are the materials needed to be considered for admission:
- Submit your online Bluffton application or Common application
- Then send us the following:
- Official high school transcript
- High School Guidance Counselors; please send transcripts to us through parchment or via email to admissions@bluffton.edu or Bluffton University, Office of Admissions, 1 University Drive, Bluffton, OH 45817-2104
- ACT/SAT Scores (optional) - required for nursing applicants and Scholarship opportunities
- Upon applying for admission, students agree to abide by the Standards of campus conduct
- Statement of nondiscrimination
- Official high school transcript
- We review applications on a rolling basis. Your admission decision should arrive within two weeks after we receive the required materials above.
Additional materials may be requested so that we can learn as much as we need to make our admissions decision.
Home school students are welcomed at Bluffton. In additional to standardized test scores such as the ACT or SAT and a transcript of courses, a personal interview is required. A reading list and writing sample may also be requested.
Bluffton students who have not been enrolled for one or more semesters must apply for readmission. Students can apply as a returning student by using the free online application. Students who have outstanding bills will not be readmitted until those obligations are met.
Individuals who are not candidates for a degree may be allowed to take courses on a part-time or full-time basis. Applications may be requested from the admissions office.
Bluffton reserves the right to withdraw an offer of admission if additional information subsequently comes to its attention which, if known at the time the offer was extended, might have changed the acceptance decision.
When should I start applying to colleges?
Are you wondering when the right time is to start applying to college? We interviewed the experts and compiled these tips to make the process a little smoother for you.