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2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog

2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog > Admissions > Admissions Requirements and Classifications

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Admissions Requirements and Classifications

All new freshman applicants to Ball State University are individually reviewed and evaluated. Admission is based on the following:

Strength of curriculum (including the senior year)—Students should pursue the best college preparatory curriculum available. For Indiana applicants, Ball State requires completion of the academic component of the Core 40 curriculum as the minimum preparation for students who are college bound; however, completion of the Academic Honors Diploma is strongly encouraged. Students from other states should pursue strong college prep curricula.

Performance as measured by grades in English, mathematics (Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II are minimum requirements), laboratory sciences, social sciences, and foreign languages and overall high school gpa.

Curriculum patterns and grade trends —The Office of Admissions expects a balanced academic program with at least four college preparatory classes each semester and grades that reflect a steady or upward trend in academic performance.

Standardized test scores—SAT and/or ACT scores are not required for admissions to Ball State. Students who believe that their SAT and/or ACT scores are a positive addition to their academic record should submit their test scores.

Indiana applicants who earn Academic Honors Diplomas and out-of-state applicants who pursue comparable curricula may be reviewed for Honors College admission. Performance in academic course work will be evaluated. (See the Ball State University Honors College website for details, bsu.edu/honors .)

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Apply to Ball State

Have you decided Ball State is right for you? Then it's time to apply! Please make sure you've reviewed our admission criteria and application instructions. Then complete the online application below that applies to you.

Already Admitted?

You're about to become a Ball State Cardinal! If you're going to be an undergraduate student, you have a few things to do before you start your classes: confirm your enrollment, sign up for housing, and more. Follow our guide through this transition. We'll provide the resources and support you need to succeed from day one.

Confirm Enrollment Formally accept your admission offer to Ball State.
Apply for Financial Aid Search for financial aid opportunities and file your FAFSA.
Reserve Housing Explore our residence halls and apply for a room.
Attend Orientation Register for classes, get your ID card, explore campus, and prepare to be a Cardinal.

Where's My Application?

If you've already applied to Ball State and want to check on the status, log in to our application portal.

Instructions and Criteria

Regardless of whether you plan to take class on campus, online, or a hybrid of both, you will need to meet the university's admission requirements. Please select the category below that applies to you to review instructions and requirements. Admission to Ball State is competitive, so apply early!