Application Frequently Asked Questions
When it is time to begin your application, we can walk you through the process. It all starts by applying on our website or the Common Application.
What are the admissions criteria?
CMU applies the same admission criteria to all incoming freshmen, regardless of the number of college credits earned before high school graduation.
A solid academic background will help prepare you for success at the college level. To prepare for this challenge, we stress high academic achievement in several rigorous subjects. Central Michigan University and the President's Council of State Colleges and Universities strongly recommend the following high school background:
- 4 years of English
- 4 years of mathematics
- 4 years of biological and physical sciences
- 4 years of history and social sciences
In addition, high school students are strongly encouraged to complete two years of a foreign language, two years of electives in fine arts and one year of hands-on computer experience.
We also consider the trend in your grades. For example, if you did not do well in your freshman year, we hope to see an upward grade trend. By the end of your junior year, when you can apply for admission, you should have completed three years of English, mathematics, science and social science. Your senior year should include at least three classes in any of those four areas.
When should I apply to CMU?
You may apply as early as August 1 of your senior year. Priority consideration for first-come, first-served scholarship funds is given to applications completed by December 1.
What goes into an admissions decision?
Each application is carefully reviewed on its merit using a holistic approach. That means we consider your overall high school GPA, academic achievement in demanding subjects, the caliber of courses you elected to take, and trends in your academic progress.
What is required to apply to CMU?
For an application to be reviewed, each of the following items must be submitted:
- Application for admission
- Application fee
- High school transcript (official or unofficial)
Do I need a test score?
CMU currently has a test-optional admission policy, so you may choose whether or not to apply with an ACT/SAT score. Either option allows you to earn admission and a merit scholarship, but a test score may increase your scholarship.
Is an essay required?
An admissions essay is not required but you may submit additional information that you wish to be considered. You may want to include extracurricular and leadership activities, employment, or explanations of unique situations that impacted your academic record.
How do I apply for a scholarship?
When you apply for admission, you are automatically considered for a merit scholarship. No additional application is required. Incoming freshmen may choose to submit separate applications for competitive scholarships.
What is the average GPA of someone being admitted?
The incoming freshman class at CMU has an average high school grade point average of 3.5 and an average SAT score of 1095. Some students are admitted with higher scores and some have lower scores. Along with being strong students, successful CMU students tend to be well-rounded in activities, interests and involvement.
Where do I send my materials?
Transcripts can be emailed to apply@cmich.edu or mailed to:
Central Michigan University
Attn: Transcripts Department
802 Industrial Drive
Mount Pleasant, MI 48859
Other application materials can be emailed to apply@cmich.edu or mailed to:
Central Michigan University
Attn: Admission Processing
802 Industrial Drive
Mount Pleasant, MI 48859
What if I have questions about my application?
We would be happy to help you complete your application. Contact us at 989-774-3076 or apply@cmich.edu.