Prerequisites - Gonzaga University

As an applicant for first-time student admission, you are expected to have graduated from an accredited high school with a college preparatory curriculum while showing evidence of ability to complete the University's requirements for graduation.

The following pattern of course work is recommended for admission to Gonzaga:

4 years of English
3 to 4 years of mathematics (including algebra I, geometry, algebra II/trigonometry)
3 years of history or social studies
2 to 3 years of the same foreign language; world language preferred, American Sign Language accepted
3 to 4 years of natural or physical laboratory science
4 to 5 academic courses senior year

Our office reviews each application thoroughly, and while we do not publish minimums, we do offer guidelines. If you have a GPA below 3.1, an SAT combined score for Verbal/Critical Reading and Math below 1070, or an ACT composite score below 23, we encourage an interview. Interviews may be done in person as part of a campus visit, or on the phone with an Admission Counselor.

The office of admission carefully considers the following items as part of the application to Gonzaga University:

Curriculum and School
Grade Point Average and Grade Trends
The SAT or ACT scores
College Essay
Activities and Honors
Character

Updated SAT and ACT Policy

We will accept all sections of the new SAT as it is provided, but will not universally use the new Written portion for the class applying for fall semester 2009. We are currently reviewing our policy with regard to the SAT Writing test for the entering class of 2010 and beyond.

We will not require the Written Section of the ACT until further analysis is done.

Home-School Policy

Home-schooled students are a significant part of Gonzaga University's applicant pool. You and your parents may choose home schooling for a variety of reasons and may implement a variety of styles. Therefore, your application receives highly individualized attention.

In recognition of the unique perspective and experience you can provide to our student body, we encourage you to apply for admission. We request the following information:

A high school transcript and/or test score that shows academic achievement (either a GED or an ACT)
Test scores: ACT and/or SAT (all students entering as freshmen or transfers with less than 30 credits must take one of these two standardized tests)
A portfolio of your work, including writing samples, a description of studies done in mathematics (with examples when appropriate), and examples of science projects
A one to two-page essay (topics given in application)
A list of activities and honors, or a resume
One letter of recommendation, by someone other than a parent, addressing academic accomplishments
The School Report, which can be filled out by a parent/guardian

The Admission Committee will consider all material submitted and encourage you to arrange an admission interview, if possible. Please contact the Office of Admission with questions or for more information.