Alabama State University Admissions Requirements

Alabama State University (ASU) is a public historically black university (HBCU) located in Montgomery, Alabama. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields. Understanding the admissions process and requirements is crucial for prospective students seeking to join this prestigious institution.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

First-Year Students (Freshman)

First-year students are those applying directly from high school or those who have never attended a college or university. The following outlines the key requirements for undergraduate freshman admissions:

Minimum High School Course Requirements:

Prospective students should have completed the following high school courses:

• English: 4 years
• Mathematics: 3 years (including Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry)
• Science: 2 years of laboratory science courses
• Social Studies: 3 years
• Foreign Language: 1 year (preferred but not required)

GPA Requirement:

• A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale is required for regular admission. However, higher GPAs are recommended for more competitive programs or scholarships.

Standardized Test Requirements:

ASU accepts either the SAT or ACT. The following minimum scores are required:

• ACT: A minimum composite score of 18
• SAT: A minimum score of 960 (combined Evidence-Based Reading and Writing + Math sections)

Optional Test Scores:

• ASU is test-optional for students with a high school GPA of 3.0 or higher. In this case, standardized test scores are not mandatory but are still considered if submitted.

Additional Documentation:

• Official High School Transcripts: Must be submitted directly from the high school.
• Personal Statement/Essay (Optional): While not required, applicants are encouraged to submit a personal statement to highlight their academic goals, extracurricular activities, and reasons for choosing ASU.
• Letters of Recommendation (Optional): Though not mandatory, students may submit up to two letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors.

Transfer Students

Transfer students are those who have completed coursework at another institution of higher education after high school graduation. The requirements for transfer students include:

Transfer GPA Requirement:

• A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 on all transferable college-level courses.

Required Documents:

• Official Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities. These transcripts must be sent directly to ASU’s Admissions Office.
• High School Transcripts and ACT/SAT Scores: Required if the applicant has fewer than 24 college credit hours.

Transfer Credit Policy:

• ASU accepts transfer credits from accredited institutions. Courses with a grade of “C” or higher are generally eligible for transfer. However, the final decision is made by the university.
• A maximum of 64 credits can be transferred from a two-year institution, and a maximum of 90 credits can be transferred from a four-year institution.

International Students

International students are welcome at ASU and must meet specific requirements to ensure their admission and enrollment process is smooth.

Academic Requirements:

• Official Transcripts: International applicants must submit official secondary school transcripts, including translations if necessary. Transcripts must be evaluated by an approved credential evaluation service, such as World Education Services (WES).
• GPA Requirement: A minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale is required.
• English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency in English by submitting scores from one of the following:
  • TOEFL: Minimum score of 61 (internet-based)
  • IELTS: Minimum score of 5.5
  • Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 85

Visa Requirements:

• International students must apply for a F-1 Student Visa after receiving an acceptance letter and Form I-20 from ASU.
• Proof of financial support is required to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses for at least one academic year.

Additional Documentation:

• Passport Copy: A copy of the applicant’s passport is required.
• Bank Statements: Students must provide proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
• Proof of Health Insurance: International students are required to provide proof of health insurance coverage or purchase a policy through the university.

Graduate Admission Requirements

Alabama State University offers a variety of graduate programs, including master’s, doctoral, and specialist degrees. Admission to graduate programs requires meeting both general and program-specific requirements.

General Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• GPA Requirement: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 to 3.0, depending on the specific graduate program.
• Standardized Tests: Some programs may require GRE, GMAT, or MAT scores. Check individual program requirements for specific test requirements.
  • GRE: Minimum required score varies by program.
  • GMAT: Required for some business-related programs.
  • MAT: May be required for education-related programs.

Required Documentation:

• Official Transcripts: Applicants must submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
• Letters of Recommendation: Most graduate programs require at least two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
• Personal Statement/Essay: A statement of purpose or personal essay outlining the applicant’s academic and career goals.
• Resume/CV: Required for many graduate programs, particularly in professional fields.
• Program-Specific Requirements: Some programs may require additional materials, such as portfolios for art-related programs or audition tapes for music programs.

Additional Considerations:

• Work Experience: Some programs, particularly in business, education, or social work, may require relevant professional work experience.
• Interviews: Certain graduate programs may require an interview as part of the admissions process.

Application Deadlines and Important Dates

Alabama State University follows a rolling admissions process, but there are key deadlines that applicants should be aware of to ensure timely processing of their applications.

Undergraduate Application Deadlines:

• Fall Semester: June 1
• Spring Semester: November 1
• Summer Session: April 1

Graduate Application Deadlines:

• Graduate programs have specific deadlines that may vary by department. Applicants are encouraged to check with their specific program for details. However, common deadlines include:
  • Fall Semester: July 15
  • Spring Semester: December 1
  • Summer Semester: April 1

Application Process

The following outlines the steps in the application process for both undergraduate and graduate applicants:

Step 1: Complete the Online Application

• All prospective students must submit an online application through the ASU website or the Common Application (for undergraduate students).
• Pay the non-refundable application fee:
  • Undergraduate application fee: $25
  • Graduate application fee: $35

Step 2: Submit Required Documents

• Transcripts: Official high school or college transcripts must be submitted directly to the ASU Admissions Office.
• Test Scores: Submit SAT, ACT, GRE, or other standardized test scores as required by the specific program.
• Letters of Recommendation, Personal Essays, and Other Materials: Depending on your program, additional materials may need to be uploaded through the application portal or sent separately.

Step 3: Await Decision

• Once all materials are submitted, the Admissions Office will review the application.
• Admission decisions are typically communicated within a few weeks for undergraduate applicants. Graduate admissions may take longer due to department-specific reviews.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

ASU offers a range of financial aid options to help students manage tuition and other costs, including:

Types of Financial Aid Available:

• Grants: Federal and state grants such as Pell Grants and Alabama Student Assistance Programs.
• Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships are available for students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement.
• Loans: Federal student loans, including subsidized and unsubsidized loans, are available for eligible students.
• Work-Study Programs: Federal Work-Study allows students to work part-time on campus to help cover expenses.

How to Apply for Financial Aid:

1. Complete the FAFSA: Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using ASU’s school code (001005).
2. Scholarship Applications: Visit ASU’s scholarship portal to apply for university-specific scholarships.

Contact Information

For more information or assistance with the admissions process, applicants can contact the Alabama State University Admissions Office using the details below:

Alabama State University Admissions Office
Mailing Address:
Alabama State University
Office of Admissions
P.O. Box 271
Montgomery, AL 36101-0271

Phone Number:
(334) 229-4291

Fax:
(334) 229-4940

Email:
admissions@alasu.edu

Website:
www.alasu.edu

Office Hours:

• Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM