Alcorn State University Admissions Requirements
Alcorn State University (ASU), located in Lorman, Mississippi, is a historically Black university (HBCU) known for its academic excellence and supportive campus environment. The university offers a wide variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
Undergraduate Admission Requirements
First-Year Students (Freshman)
First-year students are typically those who are entering Alcorn State University directly from high school or who have not previously attended another institution of higher learning.
Minimum High School Course Requirements:
Alcorn State University expects applicants to have completed a high school curriculum that includes the following core courses:
- English: 4 years
- Mathematics: 3 years, including Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry
- Science: 3 years, including two laboratory science courses such as Biology, Chemistry, or Physics
- Social Studies: 3 years, including U.S. History, Government, and Economics
- Foreign Language: 1 year of a foreign language (optional but recommended)
- Electives: Additional coursework in the arts, technology, or other areas is encouraged.
GPA Requirement:
- Minimum GPA: A minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale is required for first-year students. Competitive applicants typically have higher GPAs.
Standardized Test Requirements:
Alcorn State University requires students to submit either ACT or SAT scores as part of their application. The minimum acceptable scores are:
- ACT: A composite score of 16 or higher.
- SAT: A minimum combined score of 880 on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Math sections.
Additional Documentation:
- Official High School Transcripts: These must be sent directly from the applicant’s high school.
- Personal Statement/Essay (Optional): While not required, applicants are encouraged to submit a personal statement highlighting their academic goals, extracurricular activities, and reasons for choosing Alcorn State University.
- Letters of Recommendation (Optional): Up to two letters from teachers, counselors, or mentors can be submitted, although they are not mandatory.
Transfer Students
Students who have attended another college or university and wish to transfer to Alcorn State University must meet specific admission requirements.
GPA Requirement:
- Minimum GPA for Transfer: A cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher on all transferable college-level coursework is required for transfer students.
Required Documents:
- Official College Transcripts: All transcripts from previously attended post-secondary institutions must be submitted directly to the ASU Admissions Office. These must show all completed coursework.
- High School Transcripts and ACT/SAT Scores: These are required only if the applicant has fewer than 30 transferable college credit hours.
Transfer Credit Policy:
- Alcorn State University accepts transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions. Credits earned with a grade of C or higher are typically transferable, but the final decision is made by the university.
- A maximum of 64 credits from a two-year institution can be applied toward a degree at Alcorn State University.
International Students
Alcorn State University is proud to welcome students from around the world. International applicants must meet both the general admission requirements and additional requirements specific to their circumstances.
Academic Requirements:
- Official Transcripts: International students must submit their official high school or secondary school transcripts. These transcripts must be evaluated by an approved credential evaluation service, such as World Education Services (WES) or Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE).
- GPA Requirement: A minimum GPA of 2.5 is required, though competitive applicants typically present stronger academic records.
English Language Proficiency:
If English is not the applicant’s native language, they must demonstrate proficiency in English by submitting one of the following test scores:
- TOEFL: A minimum score of 61 (Internet-based) or 500 (paper-based).
- IELTS: A minimum score of 5.5 overall.
- Duolingo English Test: A minimum score of 85 is required for admission.
Visa and Financial Requirements:
- Visa Application: After acceptance, international students will receive a Form I-20, which is required to apply for an F-1 Student Visa.
- Proof of Financial Support: Students must provide documentation, such as bank statements or sponsor letters, that demonstrate the ability to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses for at least one academic year.
- Passport Copy: A copy of the student’s valid passport is required.
Additional Documentation:
- Proof of Health Insurance: International students are required to have health insurance or purchase it through the university.
Graduate Admission Requirements
Alcorn State University offers a range of graduate programs. Admission to these programs is based on both general university requirements and program-specific criteria.
General Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
- GPA Requirement: A minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 is required for most graduate programs. Some programs may require a higher GPA for admission.
Standardized Testing:
Certain graduate programs may require standardized test scores. Commonly required tests include:
- GRE: The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required for some programs. Minimum required scores vary by department.
- GMAT: Required for certain business-related graduate programs.
- MAT: The Miller Analogies Test (MAT) is required for education-related graduate programs in some cases.
Required Documents:
- Official Transcripts: Graduate applicants must submit official transcripts from all institutions attended.
- Letters of Recommendation: Most graduate programs require at least two letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
- Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a personal statement or essay detailing their academic goals, career aspirations, and reasons for pursuing a graduate degree at Alcorn State University.
- Resume or CV: Many graduate programs, especially professional degrees, require a current resume or curriculum vitae (CV).
Program-Specific Requirements:
Some graduate programs may have additional requirements, such as portfolios, auditions, or interviews. It is important to check the specific program page for details.
Application Process
The following steps outline the process for applying to Alcorn State University for both undergraduate and graduate students:
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
- All applicants, whether undergraduate, transfer, international, or graduate, must submit an online application through the Alcorn State University website or Common Application.
Step 2: Submit Required Documents
The following documents must be submitted:
- Official Transcripts: High school or college transcripts must be sent directly from the issuing institution.
- Standardized Test Scores: If required (for undergraduate applicants, ACT or SAT scores; for graduate applicants, GRE, GMAT, or MAT scores, if applicable).
- Letters of Recommendation (if required): Can be sent via email or uploaded through the application portal.
- Personal Essay: Required for graduate applicants and recommended for undergraduates.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
- Undergraduate Application Fee: $10 (non-refundable).
- Graduate Application Fee: $30 (non-refundable).
Step 4: Await Decision
Once all documents are submitted, applications are reviewed. Decisions are typically communicated within a few weeks for undergraduate applicants and may take longer for graduate applicants, as many graduate programs have their own review committees.
Application Deadlines
Alcorn State University operates on a rolling admissions basis, but certain deadlines apply, particularly for financial aid consideration.
Undergraduate Application Deadlines:
- Fall Semester: May 1 (priority deadline)
- Spring Semester: November 1
- Summer Semester: April 1
Graduate Application Deadlines:
Graduate programs may have specific deadlines depending on the department. However, most applications follow these general guidelines:
- Fall Semester: July 15
- Spring Semester: December 1
- Summer Semester: April 1
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Alcorn State University is committed to making education affordable and offers a variety of financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, and loans.
Types of Financial Aid:
- Federal and State Grants: These include Pell Grants and Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grants for eligible students.
- Merit-Based Scholarships: Alcorn offers scholarships based on academic performance, leadership, and community service.
- Work-Study Programs: Federal work-study programs provide students with part-time jobs to help offset tuition and living expenses.
- Student Loans: Federal loans, such as subsidized and unsubsidized loans, are available for eligible students.
How to Apply for Financial Aid:
- Complete the FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) should be submitted by the deadline using Alcorn’s school code: 002396.
- Scholarship Applications: Scholarships are automatically considered for incoming students based on their academic performance. However, certain scholarships may require additional applications.
Special Programs and Considerations
Alcorn Honors Program:
The Alcorn Honors Program provides enhanced academic opportunities for high-achieving students. Admission to the honors program requires:
- A high school GPA of 3.5 or higher.
- Strong standardized test scores (if submitted).
- A separate application with an essay and recommendations.
Dual Enrollment and AP Credit:
Alcorn State University allows students to earn credit through Advanced Placement (AP) exams or dual enrollment programs. Credits are awarded based on AP exam scores of 3 or higher and dual enrollment course grades of C or higher.
Contact Information
For further information about the admissions process, or for any questions regarding the application, financial aid, or special programs, you can reach Alcorn State University’s admissions office through the following methods:
Alcorn State University Admissions Office
Mailing Address:
Alcorn State University
1000 ASU Drive, #279
Lorman, MS 39096-7500
Phone Number:
(601) 877-6100
Fax:
(601) 877-2394
Email:
admissions@alcorn.edu
Website:
www.alcorn.edu
Office Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM