Applying to College

Most students apply between July and December of their senior year. It’s best to apply as early as possible so that more scholarships are available and you have more options for orientation dates and housing preferences.

How do I apply?

Here’s the application process for most universities:

  • Learn the admission requirements for the schools you’d like to attend. Requirements may vary if you’re comparing Texas universities with out-of-state schools.
  • Submit your application for admission (ApplyTexas for Texas residents, the Common Application for nonresidents).
  • Submit official transcripts.
  • Supply your class rank.
  • Send entrance exam scores (SAT or ACT) if you have them. They may not be required.
  • Pay the application fee.
  • Some schools may also require an essay, interview or references.

Make sure you fill out your application completely and have someone check your work — it’s really important! And plan ahead so you don’t miss priority dates. If you have questions, ask your high school counselor or call the college admissions office.

Submit your UNT admission application by March 1 for the fall semester. Applications will still be accepted after this date, but will be subject to a late fee. Learn more about the UNT admissions process.

Admissions policy:

Admission requirements vary if you’re comparing Texas universities with out-of-state schools. Visit UNT freshman admission requirements for detailed information.

UNT Admission Requirements

You are admissible to the university if you meet one of the following criteria:

  1. Have a 3.0 GPA (unweighted)
  2. Are in the Top 10% of your class
  3. Are in the top quartile of your class combined with your SAT or ACT scores

Students not meeting these requirements will be reviewed on an individual basis. Learn more about UNT admissions requirements.

College entrance exams and placement tests

Some universities require college entrance exams, and for some placement tests as part of the college application. The SAT and ACT are the most common entrance exams. However, at UNT and at many schools, these tests are optional. UNT uses unweighted GPA and class rank in assessing admissibility – check each school’s admissions requirements.

The CLEP and Advanced Placement (AP) tests enable you to get a jumpstart on your college course load, allowing you to finish school quicker and save money.

SAT

What is it?
The most widely accepted college entrance exam

What's the difference?
Evidenced-based reading and writing, and math

Find out more at the College Board website.

ACT

What is it?
Alternative college entrance exam

What's the difference?
English, math, reading and science reasoning

Find out more at the ACT website.

CLEP tests

What is it?
College-level exams that may allow you to “place out” of some college courses

What's the difference?
33 exams on different topics so you can earn college credit and finish your degree faster

Find out more at College Board's CLEP website.

AP tests

What is it?
Advanced Placement (AP) courses/exams that allow you to earn college credit while you’re in high school

What's the difference?
Nearly 40 exams offered and AP college credit is accepted by most universities worldwide

Find out more at College Board's AP site.