Admission Requirements

Requirements for First-time Freshmen:

Application:

Prospective undergraduate students may apply to Duquesne University directly through our website, or through Common App.

Fee:

There is no fee to apply to Duquesne University, either through our website or through Common App.

Transcript:

  • Applicants must submit all official high school transcripts and college transcripts, if applicable.
  • All high school students should request that their current senior year grades and coursework be included on their official transcripts.
  • Transcripts marked “Issued to Student” are not official.
  • Acceptance and any scholarship/s awarded are contingent upon the successful completion of applicants' high school program and our receipt of a final, official high school transcript, which will be used to verify graduation

Test Scores:

Submit all official SAT and/or ACT scores. Duquesne University considers your highest section scores across all test dates that you submit. Only your highest section scores will be considered. Each time you submit scores, your record is updated with any new high scores. The admissions office encourages you to submit your scores each time you take the SAT and/or ACT. 

Scores can be sent via

  • College Board
  • Postal Mail
  • Official High School Transcript

Tests or scores not accepted or required by Duquesne University Admissions office:

  • TOEFL Exam
  • SAT Subject Tests
  • SAT Writing section - We, like the majority of private institutions, do not use the Writing SAT score for admissions decisions.
  • ACT Writing Section

Test Optional Admission: If you do not have SAT or ACT scores, or believe your scores do not reflect your academic achievement and ability to be successful at Duquesne, you may choose to apply as a Test Optional candidate. We'll consider factors like high school curriculum, academic achievement, demonstrated leadership ability, extracurricular involvement and volunteer experience when determining who will benefit from a Duquesne education and contribute to our vibrant community of learners. Applicants considered for test optional admission generally have a minimum 3.0 GPA at time of enrollment.

Recommendations:

One recommendation from an academic source required for certain health professions (Athletic Training, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant Studies, and Speech-Language Pathology) applicants. Recommendations optional for applicants to other programs.

Recommendations must be completed by a teacher or counselor. You may choose one or both of the following to serve as recommendations:

  • Letter of Recommendation - A standard letter from a teacher or guidance counselor
  • Recommendation form - A printable PDF checklist serves as an alternative to a letter of recommendation.

Recommendations can be submitted via our application portal (after you've applied), mailed to the Office of Admissions or emailed to recommendations@duq.edu.

Personal Essay:

Personal Essay required for certain health professions (Athletic Training, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant Studies, and Speech-Language Pathology) applicants. Essay optional for applicants to other programs.

  • Please discuss the following: Tell us something about yourself, why you chose your desired major, and why you would like to attend Duquesne University. You may also include any shadowing or volunteer opportunities that you have experienced.
  • If you choose to apply via Common App, we will accept the Common App essay for all programs listed above -- with the exception of Physician Assistant Studies.
  • Health Science Transfer applicants: Please refer to the Health Science web site for your specific essay requirements.

Submit your essay via our application portal (after you've applied).

Home Schooled Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Submit a written verification from school district stating that the student has been excused from compulsory public education for home schooling.
  • Submit the results of the SAT or ACT exam.
  • Provide transcripts and academic curriculum.
  • Completed Duquesne University Application for Undergraduate Admission.

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