Freshman Admissions - Main Clifton Campus

Admission to the University of Cincinnati is selective. Freshman applications receive a comprehensive review in which both academic and non-academic factors are considered in determining admissibility to our academic programs. 

Academic factors in the review process include (but are not necessarily limited to):

1. Successful completion and overall strength in the college preparatory curriculum.
   
   Minimum requirements for the graduating class of 2013 

4 units of English
3 units of math (4 is highly recommended)
3 units of science
3 units of social studies 
5 units of electives*

*Electives can include any combination of foreign language, fine arts, business, career-technical education, family and consumer sciences, technology, agricultural education or additional core courses not required. 

Preference may be given for completion of foreign language (2 units of the same language) or additional core courses (English, math, science, social studies) not otherwise required for graduation. 

Note: 1 unit is defined as the equivalent to one full year of course instruction.

2. Cumulative grade point average (GPA) of all course work completed at the time of review. Core subject grades and grade trends will also be taken into consideration.
3. Performance on the ACT or SAT (see testing options for international freshman applications).

Non-academic factors considered during application review may include (in alpha order):

• Class rank (if applicable)
• Demonstrated commitment to service and/or volunteer activities
• Employment while in school
• Experiential learning (research, study abroad, service learning, etc.)
• Extra-curricular activities (such as clubs, sports, the arts, community organizations)
• Leadership roles
• Letter(s) of recommendation 
• Personal background and experiences
• Rigor of coursework (Honors, AP, post-secondary, dual-enrollment)
• Special abilities, talents, and other recognized achievements
• Strength of high school
• Writing ability, as demonstrated in the essay and personal statement

Transfer Admissions – Main Clifton Campus

Admission to UC as a transfer student varies greatly by academic program. Official transcripts from each previously attended institution must be received prior to the application deadline for credential review and evaluation of transferrable credit. For more information about transferring to UC, please visit the Transfer Student Information Page. 

UC Blue Ash and Clermont Colleges

Both of UC’s regional campuses maintain an open access admission policy. Students admitted to either campus must show proof of high school graduation or successful completion of the General Education Development (GED) exam. Submission of standardized test scores (ACT or SAT) is not required. Transfer students must also supply official transcripts from each previously attended institution. More information about each campus can be found on the UC Blue Ash and Clermont College websites.