Applying to college is an exciting process! Learn about our test-optional path to admission under the Minimum Admission Requirements section. We’re here to help you through your college journey. If you have specific questions, please contact us at admissions@uca.edu or 1-800-243-8245.
When to Apply
Our applications are open! We encourage students to apply early to ensure consideration for academic scholarships and the opportunity to start the housing and financial aid processes. The application for admission for 2025 is open. The application for 2026 will open August 1, 2025.
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Admission Process
- Create an account and submit online Undergraduate Application*
- Request that your official high school transcript, showing a cumulative high school grade point average and coursework, be sent to the Office of Admissions
- Although we are not requiring you to submit ACT/SAT scores for admission consideration if you have a 3.0 GPA, you may submit scores so we can get to know you better. Send them to the University of Central Arkansas (ACT-0118/SAT-6012) or request for them to be sent to the Office of Admissions
*Submission of the application requires a $25 non-refundable fee. Application fee waivers are available to eligible students who submit supporting documentation. The fee waiver request and eligibility questions are included on the application for admission in the Application Information section.
Students seeking admission as a first-time freshman must meet minimum admission criterion as defined by unconditional or conditional standards within the Undergraduate Bulletin. Please note, ACT/SAT scores are super-scored for admissions purposes, as needed.
Minimum Admission Requirements
- Minimum 2.5 cumulative high school grade point average (GPA) on a 4.0 grading scale
- Minimum 17 ACT composite or 930 SAT
- Minimum 15 ACT or SAT equivalent in all individual subject sub-scores
- SAT 22 writing/language, 22 reading, and 400 math
- Completion of high school graduation or GED requirements
OR
Test Optional Admission Requirements
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative high school grade point average (GPA) on a 4.0 grading scale
Please note, students admitted without test scores must submit either ACT/SAT scores or Accuplacer test scores for placement purposes prior to registration.
Students who are seeking freshman admission and are 25 years or older are considered non-traditional freshman and may use alternative testing options.
Students who plan to attend the University of Central Arkansas as a first-time freshman must also submit proof of two MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) shots or proper exemptions from the Arkansas Department of Health to the Office of Admissions prior to registration. Students born before January 1, 1957 are exempt from this requirement.
Admission Decisions
Applications are processed on a rolling basis throughout the year. We estimate approximately three weeks to process your application. This estimation is based on complete applications (i.e., application, transcript(s), and test scores (as needed) are received). However, this estimation is dependent upon the volume of applications received by the Office of Admissions. During high volume times, we will correspond with students via email to expedite communication. Students may also stay up-to-date on their application status by using their application account.
Admission Appeals
Students who do not meet minimum admission requirements may appeal their decision through the University Admissions Committee using the formal appeal form and supplying all requested supplemental items, including:
- Personal Statement: The typed statement should include information explaining why the student should be considered for admission and the supplemental factor(s) that form the basis of the request. Personal statements should be one page in length.
- Two Letters of Support: Letters of support should come from school counselors, teachers, employers, and/or other personal references who can confirm there is reasonable evidence the student can succeed academically at UCA (please do not include letters from immediate family members). To upload this information with your appeal form, you must combine your letters into one PDF document.
- Updated Official High School Transcript: Please ask your high school counselor to send an updated transcript to UCA Admissions for appeal consideration. Transcripts uploaded by students will be considered unofficial and will not be used to determine admissibility.
- ACT/SAT Scores (or comparable assessment): Scores may be sent by your high school representative or electronically through ACT or College Board. If you previously submitted test scores, we’ll use those for your appeal consideration.
To access the form, use the email and password you created to apply for admission. Once your file has been reviewed, you will receive a letter with a final admission decision.
Helpful Freshman Links