Frequently Asked Questions
What is the academic profile of incoming freshmen?
The mid-range academic profile of the Fall 2023 entering class was ACT 30-33, SAT 1352-1490, and GPA 3.95-4.0. Some students in this class applied to Hillsdale without submitting a standardized test score.
Does a completed application require a standardized test?
While applicants may further demonstrate academic preparedness by supplementing their application file with an official ACT, CLT, or SAT score report, no such score is required. Application files with standardized test scores and those without will receive equal consideration for admission and scholarship.
How are applications reviewed?
The Admissions Office considers GPA, rigor of high school coursework, extracurricular involvement (with special attention to leadership and volunteerism), writing samples, and letters of recommendation. Standardized test scores and the admissions interview are strongly encouraged, but not required. Following final published deadlines, applications are reviewed as submitted.
When are applications reviewed?
Completed application files are reviewed according to associated application deadlines. Following final published deadlines, applications are reviewed as submitted.
How do I complete my application file?
A completed application file includes the application form, writing (one personal essay and three short answers), high school and any college transcripts, optional standardized test scores (if the applicant would like their test scores considered in the application review), letters of recommendation, activities résumé, and encouraged interview.
If I’m planning to interview with Hillsdale College, how and when should I do the interview?
Students interested in adding an interview to their application can either interview while visiting campus or by meeting with their admissions counselor when the admissions counselor is in their region. Applicants are welcome to interview as soon as they feel prepared, but to ensure sufficient time for consideration, are recommended to do so no later than two weeks before the chosen application deadline.
Where should I send application materials (those not submitted online)?
Transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other accompanying application paperwork should be emailed to [email protected] or mailed directly to:
Admissions Office
Hillsdale College
33 E College St.
Hillsdale, MI 49242
When should I apply to Hillsdale College?
Students applying for the fall term should apply by November 1 (Early Action I) to receive leadership scholarship consideration, and by December 15 (Early Action II) to receive priority merit scholarship consideration. Fall-term applicants should submit their application and all supporting documents no later than March 15, at which time applications are reviewed as submitted. Spring term candidates should apply by November 1.
When will I hear of my admissions decision?
Decision letters are mailed (and released online) according to the application plan chosen. Spring Term decisions are released mid-November, Fall Term Early Action I in early December, Fall Term Early Action II in early February, and Fall Term Regular Decision in early April.
What courses do you recommend I take in high school?
Above all, Hillsdale College encourages high school students to follow a college preparatory curriculum that demonstrates academic motivation, ambition, and achievement. An aggressive college preparatory curriculum should include:
- 4 years of English
- 4 years of math
- 3 years of biological and physical science
- 3 years of history/social science
- At least 2 years of a foreign language
Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate Program (IB) courses are given special attention in the selection process.
Does Hillsdale accept Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, or CLEP credit?
More information about transferring credit by exam is available on the Registrar’s pages.
How much is the deposit?
Should you decide to enroll at Hillsdale College, we require a non-refundable deposit of $300 to hold your place. This money is applied to your student account.
If I was homeschooled, do I need to apply differently?
Applicants who have been homeschooled through high school may submit a third letter of recommendation from their primary educator (even if your primary educator is a parent). The other letters should come from people who are not related to you, but can speak to your character, work ethic, and academic ability.
Any transcripts submitted by a student’s parent or homeschool co-op should include course titles, number of credits, and the grades received. Cumulative GPA should also be included.
Students may include additional course descriptions and/or reading lists, but any descriptions should be brief.
Is there an advantage to applying early?
Students who complete their Fall Term applications by Early Action deadlines can benefit in the scholarship consideration process, as well as demonstrate a greater interest and initiative in the consideration for admission, but our evaluation process is the same.
If admitted, may I defer my admission or take a gap year?
We do not allow applicants to defer their application or to take a gap year, though exceptions are made. A formal request must be made to your admissions counselor. The letter or email should explain why a student is taking a gap year, and how it will help prepare them for a liberal arts education.
Does Hillsdale offer study abroad programs?
Hillsdale offers established study abroad opportunities during the academic year in England, Scotland, France, Germany, Spain, and Argentina, as well as an internship/study program in Washington, D.C. (WHIP). Some opportunities are also available during the summer months. Though there is flexibility, junior year is typically the best time for off-campus study.
How much does it cost to attend Hillsdale?
Total cost for the 2023-2024 academic year (presuming a student lives on campus in a double room and takes advantage of the highest meal plan) is $45,272. Tuition for two semesters is $30,780, room and board $13,180, and general fees $1,312. Because of Hillsdale’s privately funded financial aid packages, most students do not pay full costs.
How do I apply for scholarship?
Scholarship consideration is granted to all applicants at all deadlines. No additional paperwork is required. Fall Term applicants should apply by November 1 for leadership scholarship consideration, and by December 15 to receive priority merit consideration. Letters of admission typically also include scholarship notifications. Strength of application is important for both admission and scholarship. Talent awards in art, music, theatre, and athletics have additional requirements from each department. Need-based aid awards require completing the Confidential Family Financial Statement at the time of admission.
When should I visit Hillsdale? Which visit option should I choose?
Admissions welcomes visitors throughout the year, with options including individual visit itineraries, group visit programs, and summer tours. Individual visits are best for seniors and those visiting from a great distance, as they offer a more personalized experience. Group visit programs are excellent introductions for sophomores and juniors, or for those who might especially enjoy meeting other prospective students during their time on campus.
What is there to do for fun?
With more than two-thirds of our students coming from outside of Michigan, Hillsdale is a lively place, and offers more than 100 social, academic, athletic, creative, spiritual, and service organizations. Explore some of these opportunities on the Campus Life pages of our website here: List of Clubs. The Student Activities Board also hosts campus-wide opportunities throughout the year to build community, including marquee events like Garden Party, Homecoming, President’s Ball, and Centralhallapalooza. Find SAB on Facebook at: @SABHillsdale and Instagram at: @hillsdale_sab.
Is Hillsdale an NCAA Division II College?
Hillsdale competes at the NCAA Division II level in the Great Midwest Athletic Conference. Read more about athletics on the Chargers website (Athletics Page) and fill out a recruit questionnaire for any varsity sports you may be interested in playing at Hillsdale.