2021-2022 Academic Catalog

Evaluation of Applicants

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All applications are individually evaluated. As soon as applications are complete, decisions are reached and applicants notified. Every attempt is made to complete this process within two weeks.

Admission standards have been established by the University to select those students who will be most likely to succeed in the various programs of the University.

  1. Academics. An applicant must be a graduate of an approved or accredited secondary school or have an equivalent preparation as determined by any state's Department of Education.
  2. Assessment and Ability Standards. An ability to do work in higher education should be evident from an assessment examination such as the SAT or ACT. Cumulative grade-point average is considered in evaluation of the application. In certain instances, other kinds of evidence may be used to determine the ability to do such work.
  3. Character and Personality. Applicants must be able to demonstrate that they possess the personality traits, interests, attitudes and personal characteristics necessary for higher education.
  4. Admission to Special Curricula. A student seeking admission to a special curriculum may be required to complete additional requirements or have earned specific credentials.

The Office of Admissions considers as many variables as possible in making admission decisions: class rank, GPA, type of curriculum completed in relation to proposed major, school counselor or other recommendations, personal essay, on-campus interview, standardized test scores, activities and maturity. Each of the variables contributes to the overall assessment of applicants.

Student Credentials

All credentials presented in support of an application for admission become the property of the University and cannot be returned to the student. The complete file will be retained according to the provision of University policy and the Family Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, as amended.

All information filed in support of the application must be complete and authentic. Any false information may be grounds for denial or dismissal.

Pennsylvania Residency

Residency is determined at the time of admission. Change of residency may only occur by appealing to the residency appeals committee. For more information, contact the Office of the Provost and vice president for academic affairs at 724-938-4407 after admission and prior to registration.

Advanced Placement Credit

A student who has taken advanced placement examinations under the auspices of the Educational Testing Service may receive credit for them at California, provided the score is 3.00 or higher. Some courses require minimum scores of 4.00.