First Year Application Process

Take note of our deadlines to ensure you have plenty of time to submit your entire application. We look forward to getting to know you and what makes you stand out from the crowd.

First-Year Students

Fall Early Decision: November 1 (Binding)

Fall Early Decision is a binding agreement, so it's designed for students who are confident Alfred is the right fit. You are required to submit your enrollment deposit by December 15. 

Fall Early Action: December 1 (Non-Binding)

Fall Early Action let's you show your interest in Alfred and receive your decision early while keeping your college options open until May 1.

Fall Regular Decision: February 1 (Preferred)

Fall Regular Decision is preferred to strengthen your academic record before applying, allow more time to complete your application and keep all of your options open until the national decision deadline of May 1.

Spring Regular Decision: December 1

Spring Regular Decision is similar to Fall Regular Decision if you need to enroll in the middle of the academic year.

1. Official Transcripts

• Official high school transcripts must be submitted by your high school counselor or college advisor. This can be done though the Common App, Naviance or by fax/mail.
• A notarized copy of a GED is also accepted.

International Applicants:

• International students must submit original or certified copies of all secondary and post-secondary transcripts or records of grades to-date and showing proof of graduation. These must be prepared and authorized by the student's home institution and be accompanied by a certified English translation. Learn more about international student requirements.

• Transfer credits from institutions outside the U.S. are considered on a case-by-case basis after the credential has first been evaluated by a recognized agency specializing in evaluation of international transcripts, such as World Education Services or other NACES recognized members.

2. Essay or Personal Statement

You must submit an essay with either the Alfred University Application or Common Application.

3. Letters of Recommendation

• At least one letter of recommendation from a school counselor or academic instructor is required. These can be uploaded to the Common Application or sent directly to our office.
• Additional recommendations from work supervisors, pastors, etc. can be very helpful.

4. Test Scores

• Alfred University is test-optional for the 2024-2025 academic year. High school students applying for Spring 2025 or Fall 2025 admission may apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores, however, students have the option of including scores if they choose. 
• First year students may take either the SAT or ACT. Learn more about these tests on the College Board or ACT websites.

International Applicants:

• International students are required to submit official scores from either the SAT, the ACT, TOEFL, or IELTS examinations. Additional information about required scores.

5. Portfolio for School of Art & Design applicants or
Audition/Portfolio for Performing Arts applicants

Applicants to the School of Art & Design and Performing Arts are required to submit a portfolio or audition.

Learn more about the Undergraduate Art Portfolio

Learn more about the Undergraduate Performing Arts Portfolio

Guidance During the Application Process

Have questions or need any assistance during the application process? We're here for you. Talk with one of our admission counselors today!

You've seen what our magical valley has to offer. It's time to Apply! Submit all of the requirements along with your application.

Lucky for you, there are multiple ways to apply:

Alfred University Application

Common Application

After receiving your acceptance letter:

Congratulations! Welcome to Alfred University!

Once you've been formally accepted, there are just a few simple and easy things for you to do before you officially attend.

Make your Deposit

The deposit holds your place as an incoming student. First Year students planning enrollment should submit the deposit as soon as they have decided to enroll at Alfred University.

Deposit Today

Follow the Accepted Student Checklist

For an easy step-by-step guide on all the things you need to do before officially attending Alfred University:

Accepted Students Checklist

Register for Orientation

You've made your deposit, and completed both the accepted student and deposited student checklists. Now it's time to look forward to Orientation!

Orientation is a time for you to get to know your classmates and the campus. We have special programs and activities that will bring you up to speed socially and academically. Please note that Alfred University students are required to attend one of our Orientation Sessions.

Planning for Arrival

While you're planning your arrival on campus, please consider double checking to make sure you've completed everything you'll need in order to come to AU. Doing so will let you spend more time getting to know your fellow classmates during orientation and welcome week.

See Orientation Checklist