First-Year Requirements and Deadlines

See instructions below for the application fee waiver

Here’s what we need from you:

  • A completed SPU Application or the Common ApplicationThe Common Application is helpful if you're applying to other schools using the common application. The SPU-specific application is shorter if you're not applying to as many Common Application schools. We do not have a preference between applications, but please only apply with ONE application.
  • $50 application fee waiver. Here's how to get your $50 fee waiver.
    • If applying via the SPU Application
      • Go to the "Program Information" tab.
      • Within the fee waiver question, the SPUGift waiver code will automatically load if you apply by December 1.
    • If applying via the Common Application
      • Go to the "My Colleges" section.
      • Navigate to Seattle Pacific University and click on "Questions."
      • Within the fee waiver question, select "Institutional Fee Waiver" from the drop-down menu.
      • Type in the code SPUGift.
  • Essays. You’ll submit this with your application. This is where we get to meet you! Have fun and be authentic.
  • Test scores: We are test optional. That means applicants for Autumn Quarter 2024 can choose whether or not to submit ACT or SAT scores. Please see the test score policy.
    • SPU can review updated test scores post-application, but they must be received by March 1. Please contact our office if you will submit new scores for review.
    • We will superscore your SAT and ACT (combining the highest scores received for the evidence-based reading and writing + math sections).
  • Official high school transcript. Your high school counselor can mail an official transcript in a sealed envelope to our office. They can submit electronically through the application or they can email the official copy directly to admissions@spu.edu. You can forward a sealed envelope to us as well, as long as you receive it from your high school.
Optional
  • Recommendations. Although letters of recommendation are not required to complete your application, they are strongly recommended. Your recommenders can write a short, free-form letter of recommendation and send it to us via the application, email, or mail. We consider the opinions of your teachers, mentors, and youth leaders. (If your teacher is a parent, please send us a recommendation from a non-family member as well.)

  • Interview. This is optional, but allows us to connect a face and personality with your admission file. A phone interview is also an option.

Application Deadlines

Apply by:

December 1

Extended Early Action Deadline if you want to start

Autumn Quarter

When you apply by Dec. 1, you will receive priority financial aid consideration, an application fee waiver, and a fast admissions decision.

November 15

If you want to start

Winter Quarter

February 1

If you want to start

Spring Quarter

February 15

Extended Deadline if you want to start

Autumn Quarter

May 1
(Extended to June 1)

Decision Deadline if you want to start

Autumn Quarter