How to Apply as an Incoming Freshman
Ready to become a CMU Chippewa? Applying is easy and we’re happy to help. Here's what you need to know to apply as an incoming freshman.
Follow these steps
Step 1: Check Our Admissions Criteria
We take several things into consideration when evaluating applications for admission, including GPA, high school course selection, and sustained academic progress. Additionally, we will consider your SAT/ACT score if you choose to submit it.
We strongly recommend that you complete the following courses in high school:
- English: 4 years
- Mathematics: 4 years
- Biological and physical sciences: 4 years
- History and social sciences: 4 years
We also encourage you to complete these additional courses:
- Foreign language: 2 years
- Fine arts electives: 2 years
- Hands-on computer experience: 1 year
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Apply as early as August 1 before your senior year in high school. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
After December 1, Maroon and Gold Merit Scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Apply directly to CMU or apply using the Common Application.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
As part of the online application, you’ll need to pay a $40 application fee. If your family is experiencing financial hardship, speak to your high school guidance counselor to see whether you qualify for a fee waiver.
Step 4: Send Us Your Transcript
We will consider you for admission and a merit scholarship with either an official or unofficial transcript. You may submit an unofficial transcript at the time you apply, or ask your school counselor to submit an official copy.
Keep us updated with new transcripts at the end of each semester. It may result in a higher scholarship.
We must receive your final official high school transcripts prior to your enrollment. If you participated in an early/middle college program or a dual enrollment program, we must also receive official transcripts from each college.
Step 5: Submit Your Test Scores (optional)
Most students do not have to submit a test score in order to be admitted and earn a merit scholarship.* However, you may be able to earn a higher scholarship by submitting one. There’s no real downside to including a score because it can only increase your scholarship. We’ll never lower it. You may submit your test score with your application or any time before July 1.
Sending Your Scores:
If you do choose to submit a test score, you can mark CMU as a recipient on your exam or have your official score report sent to us at apply@cmich.edu.
• SAT code: 1106
• ACT code: 1972
*Please note, an ACT or SAT score is required if you are homeschooled or attend a school that does not provide grades.
What's next?
Once you've submitted your application we will immediately begin reviewing it. Admission decisions and merit scholarships are communicated by email as early as September of your senior year.
Learn more about CMU, our academic programs and how we can help you achieve your career goals.
Scholarships and financial aid
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