Navigating Undergraduate Admissions at the University of Delaware

The University of Delaware (UD) stands as a selective institution committed to providing educational opportunities for a diverse range of ambitious and creative applicants. With a long-standing tradition dating back to 1743, UD remains dedicated to admitting qualified Delaware residents while also attracting students from over 100 countries. This article delves into the undergraduate admissions requirements at the University of Delaware, providing a comprehensive overview for prospective students.

Academic Programs and Opportunities

UD offers a wide array of academic programs, boasting over 150 major fields of study, including the option to enter as "undeclared" through the University Studies program. The university provides countless opportunities and learning experiences at every stage of academic growth, including classes with distinguished faculty and excellent programs like study abroad, each supplementing the other with foundations in theory and experience. As a Land, Sea, and Space Grant institution, UD has a long tradition of research focused on tackling problems and inventing new technology.

Holistic Admission Review

Admission to the University of Delaware is not guaranteed based solely on class rank, test scores, or high school coursework. The Admissions Office employs a holistic review process, considering a broad range of criteria to evaluate each applicant. These criteria include:

Rigor of Academic Program: Depth and rigor of the college preparatory program, including the trend in grades.
Course Grades: Grades earned in specific courses, especially those related to the applicant’s proposed field of study. Grades of “B” and above are generally expected.
Overall GPA: Overall grade-point index.
Standardized Test Scores: While submission is optional, SAT/ACT scores are considered if submitted.
Essays: Student essays provide insight into the applicant's personality and writing ability.
Letters of Recommendation: Letters of recommendation from teachers and counselors offer valuable perspectives on the applicant's character and abilities.
Self-Appraisal: The applicant's self-appraisal demonstrates self-awareness and reflection.

The university reserves the right to refuse enrollment to any applicant.

High School Coursework Recommendations

While specific minimum units are specified, most admitted students exceed these requirements. UD expects a strong high-school record with a wide range of courses, including the following course work taken in the 9th-12th grades:

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Mathematics: Three years of college preparatory mathematics (four years recommended).
Science: Three years of science, including two years of a laboratory science.
Academic Electives: Two years of academic electives in fields such as English, mathematics, foreign languages, history, and social sciences or science. Note that academic electives do not include sports activities or driver education.

Test-Optional Policy

All students applying to UD may choose whether or not to submit their SAT or ACT scores as a part of their application. Students who choose not to provide test scores have the option to submit any additional evidence of academic skills in areas related to their intended major, particularly if it is a math and/or science-intensive major.

If students choose to submit official scores, UD accepts both the SAT (code 5811) and ACT (code 0634). The university will superscore the SAT and take the highest composite score from the ACT.

Regardless of the decision to submit test scores, applications are reviewed for merit awards and the Honors College.

Application Process for First-Year Students

First-year domestic students are required to submit their high school grades through the Self-Reported Transcript and Academic Record System (STARS) as part of the application. If admitted and enrolling, they must submit final secondary school transcripts showing all grades for all courses and displaying a completion or graduation date.

To apply to UD, you don’t need to take the SAT or ACT.

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Key steps for first-year applicants include:

Completing the application.
Submitting required essays.
Submitting high school grades through the Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR).
Providing a school counselor letter or the Common Application secondary school report.

Transfer Students

Transfer applicants should not apply using The Common Application. To be considered for admission, transfer students must be in good academic and discipline standing and able to return to their current or most recently attended institution.

The transfer applicant’s total academic credentials are considered, including previously achieved grade-point index in all completed courses, the quality of coursework, the type of institution(s) attended, trend in grades, performance in specific courses relating to the proposed field of study, and statement of interest in attending the University of Delaware. Criteria for acceptance varies by major.

Applicants must submit transcripts from all previously attended colleges. An official, final high school transcript and official standardized test scores are required for applicants who have completed fewer than 24 transferable college credits at the time of the admissions evaluation. Applicants who have received credits for Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) should submit official test scores. Applicants who wish to be evaluated for admissions without submitting their high school transcript and standardized test scores should apply only after completing at least 24 transferable college credits.

Transfer students are eligible to apply to the University Honors Program if they have completed 17 or fewer college credits at the time of enrollment. An official high school transcript and standardized test scores must also be submitted for consideration.

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The number of transfer credits accepted varies based on your program of interest.

International Students

International students attending the University of Delaware represent over 100 countries. The Office for International Students and Scholars assists these individuals in adapting to their new environment and to the American educational system.

All applicants whose first language is not English are required to adequately demonstrate English competency as a part of the application process. Students may demonstrate competency by submitting scores from IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or TOEFL. Please contact the test center directly where you took the IELTS test and request that your official test scores be sent to the address provided by UD. Unofficial Test Report Forms from students are not accepted.

International students who need to improve their English skills but meet the University’s academic requirements may be admitted through Academic Transition.

Advanced Placement and Credit by Examination

The University recognizes competencies attained through its courses, courses completed in secondary school, as well as through military experience. Students may earn Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and College Level Examination Program (CLEP) test credit by sending their official score report(s) to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Additionally, credit based on examination results may be offered for some curricular areas.

Students who undertake a course experience via high school/college programs cannot receive both transfer and test credit for the same coursework.

Admission Deadlines and Enrollment

Applications must be received by January 15th. Admission or readmission to the University is granted for a specific semester, fall or spring. The admission status will be revoked if a student does not enroll in classes for the admitted term.

All offers of admission or readmission are contingent upon maintaining a satisfactory academic performance and a positive personal record. The University may cancel the acceptance of any student who fails to successfully complete all coursework in progress. Students may request deferred admission by writing to the Admissions Office. The student’s credentials are reevaluated in such cases, and the request may be granted, depending on the availability of space.

Academic Renewal

When a student leaves the University without earning a degree, the student may apply for readmission to the University under the Academic Renewal policy. Students returning to UD after a separation of at least 5 calendar years are eligible for academic renewal if they earn a “C” or better in each course for 12 credit hours after their return. The request for academic renewal will be processed after successfully completing the approved 12 credit hours of course work. A minimum of thirty additional credits applicable toward the degree must be earned following the Academic Renewal.

Associate in Arts Program (AAP)

Delaware residents who graduate from a Delaware high school may choose or be placed in the University of Delaware Associate in Arts Program (AAP), a two-year curriculum that promotes successful completion of the Associate in Arts degree. At the Associate in Arts Program, students receive additional support and the benefit of small classes, individualized attention, and comprehensive academic advisement. Students begin their University of Delaware career at one of the Associate in Arts campuses in Dover, Georgetown, or Wilmington, then transition to the Newark campus upon completion of the A.A. degree. As a non-residential program, tuition for the Associate in Arts Program is reduced and students may also qualify for the State of Delaware SEED Scholarship Program. The lower tuition and the eligibility for a SEED Scholarship apply only to UD students who enroll in the Associate in Arts Program in Dover, Georgetown, or Wilmington.

Additional Programs

The University of Delaware and Beebe Healthcare’s Margaret H. Rollins School of Nursing in Lewes, Del., partnered in 2017 on a program designed to provide a pathway for nursing students in Sussex County. Students accepted into this program enroll in both the Margaret H. Rollins School of Nursing and the UD Associate in Arts Program at the AAP’s Georgetown campus, eventually earning both a nursing diploma and an Associate in Arts degree.

Tips for Prospective Students

Start Early: Begin thinking seriously about college during your junior year of high school.
Explore Interests: Consider your interests and how they align with potential majors.
Build Relationships with Teachers: Strong letters of recommendation can significantly enhance your application.
Begin Your Essay: Start working on your college application essay early to avoid feeling rushed.
Research Colleges: Explore different colleges and universities to find the best fit for your goals and preferences.
Visit Campuses: If possible, visit campuses to get a feel for the school's environment.
Attend Summer Programs: Participate in summer college programs to experience college life firsthand.
Consider Additional Evidence: Students may choose to provide additional evidence of academic skills in areas related to your intended major, particularly if it is a math and/or science-intensive major. Such evidence may include scores on AP examinations or other indications of your interest and ability to succeed in a challenging academic environment.

Non-Discrimination Policy

The University of Delaware does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran status, gender identity or expression, or sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law in its employment, educational programs and activities, admissions policies, and scholarship and loan programs as required by Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and other applicable statutes and University policies. The University of Delaware also prohibits unlawful harassment including sexual harassment and sexual violence.

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