First-Time Freshman Admission Requirements
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If you are currently in high school or have graduated from high school but have not attended another college or university after graduation, you are considered a first-time freshman at SIUE.
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SIUE Application Common Application
| Entry Term | Application Deadlines |
|---|---|
| Spring 2027 | December 28, 2026 |
| Summer 2027 | May 18, 2027 |
| Fall 2027 | August 9, 2027 |
Application deadlines are two weeks before the start of the term. Your application must be complete, including all required materials, by the deadline to be considered for admission.
After submitting your application, you can monitor your application status and view any outstanding requirements through your Admissions Portal.
Required Application Materials
To complete your application, submit:
- Completed Application for Admission: Apply through SIUE or the Common Application.
- Official High School Transcript: Your official transcript must be sent directly from your high school or an approved transcript service to etranscripts@siue.edu.
Admission Requirements
Students are eligible for admission if they meet one of the following criteria:
- 2.6 cumulative high school GPA or higher (4.0 scale)
- 2.0-2.59 cumulative high school GPA with:
- ACT composite score of 19 or higher, or
- SAT score of 990 or higher
- Rank in the top 10% of their graduating class
Students who do not meet these criteria may receive additional review.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is considered a first-time freshman?
A first-time freshman is a student who has not attended SIUE or another college or university after graduating from high school.
This includes:
- Current high school students
- Recent high school graduates
- Students who have earned a GED or HiSET credential
Are SAT or ACT scores required?
No. SAT and ACT scores are not required for admission consideration.
However, students are encouraged to submit scores if available, as they may be used to assist with course placement. Students who do not submit scores may complete additional placement requirements, such as a review of high school coursework or placement tests at SIUE.
What if I do not meet admission requirements?
Students who do not meet admission criteria may receive additional review. SIUE may request additional information, such as an updated transcript or personal statement, to better understand academic preparation and readiness.
How do I submit my transcript?
Official transcripts must be sent directly from your high school or an approved transcript service to etranscripts@siue.edu. Faxed transcripts are also not considered official.
Paper transcripts may be mailed to:
SIUE Office of Admissions
Campus Box 1047
Edwardsville, IL 62026-1047
Transcripts submitted by students, parents, or other third parties are not considered official.
What if I earned a GED or HiSET?
Students who have earned a GED or HiSET credential may be considered for admission based on completion of the credential.
How does SIUE review GPA information?
When multiple GPA scales are provided by a high school (such as weighted and unweighted GPAs), SIUE uses the GPA that provides the most favorable representation of the student’s academic performance.
GPAs reported on scales other than a 4.0 scale will be converted for consistent review.
Should I apply before I graduate from high school?
Yes. Current high school students should apply using their current official transcript. A final official transcript will be required after graduation.
Can I apply through Common Application?
Yes. First-time freshmen may apply through the SIUE application or the Common Application.
How will I check the status of my application?
After submitting your application, you can check your application status through your Admissions Portal.
Your Admissions Portal allows you to:
- View your application progress
- Review outstanding requirements
- Receive updates about your admission status
How will I know my admission decision?
Once your application is complete and reviewed, your admission decision will be available through your Admissions Portal. You will also receive notification using the contact information provided on your application.
What happens after I am admitted?
Congratulations! After admission, students will receive important next steps by email regarding enrollment, orientation, and preparing to begin at SIUE. This information is also available online at siue.edu/admitted.
