First-Year Students
Your next big adventure starts here! Whether you’re dreaming of a 4-year or 3-year degree, picking up where you left off, or exploring without a set path, Manchester makes the admissions process simple. We’ll guide you step by step—from wondering where do I begin? to hitting “submit.”
Ready to get started?
Helpful Links
Is this page not quite what you’re looking for? Learn more about admissions if you are:
Need help? Just reach out!
Phone: 800-852-3648
Text: 260-960-5009
Email: admitinfo@manchester.edu
Steps to Enroll
Are you a non-degree-seeking student or applying for readmission after an absence? There are different processes to apply. See info on Non-Degree Programs and Readmission below.
Apply Online
- Complete the Manchester University application on our website
- You may also use the Common Application at www.commonapp.org
- You should apply as early as possible after finishing your junior year of high school. Apply at least 30 days before the semester you plan to enroll.
Send Your Official High School Transcript
- Include current coursework and the most recent grades available
Apply for Financial Aid
- Learn more on our Financial Aid page
Wait for Your Admission Decision
- You will be notified of your admission decision usually within two weeks after your application file is complete.
Pay Your Enrollment Fee
- A $100 enrollment fee is required to confirm your intention to enroll (refundable through May 1 for the fall semester).
Celebrate — You’re a Spartan!
- Once you’re accepted, you can register for classes as early as the spring if you’re enrolled for fall. You’ll receive your class schedule at summer orientation (Black & Gold Day).
- After you enroll, you’ll receive housing information. You must complete either a Housing Agreement (to live on campus) or a Request to Live Off Campus (if commuting).
- All full-time and part-time students must complete a health record form, which includes personal history, an immunization record, and an emergency contact card. These must be on file prior to starting classes.
Admission Requirements & Additional Information
All First-Year Students
To become a first-year student at Manchester University, you’ll need to:
- Graduate from an accredited high school (or equivalent: GED, HiSET, or TASC).
- Submit an official high school transcript.
- Have a satisfactory class rank in the high school graduating class.
- Provide personal reference contact information, such as your high school guidance counselor or principal. (Applicants 25+ years old may submit references from other appropriate sources.)
- Submit a final official transcript validating graduation or degree completion.
Although it’s not required, we also recommend that you complete a college-preparatory curriculum, which includes:
- 4 years of English (grammar, composition, literature)
- 2 years of a foreign language
- 3–4 years of college-preparatory math (algebra, plane geometry, advanced algebra)
- 2–3 years of laboratory science (at least two from biology, chemistry, physics)
- 2 years of social science (U.S., world, European history; government; sociology; psychology; geography; economics)
Degree in 3 Programs / Fast Forward
Degree in 3 reduced-credit programs are designed for motivated students who wish to complete a bachelor’s degree in three years. The curriculum focuses on courses from their major and CORE, eliminating electives. Apply by May 1 prior to beginning first-year classes (in addition to first-year requirements listed above).
Early College Experience
High school students with strong academic backgrounds may be admitted to take Manchester University courses for credit on campus or virtually through the Early College Experience Program. Interested students must submit the Early College Experience Application to the Admissions Office. The University reserves the right to limit course options for high school students.
Non-Degree Programs
These programs are intended for high school graduates who wish to take college courses for self-improvement, developing/maintaining job skills, transferring credit to another institution, or a teacher certification. Apply by completing a non-degree seeking application here. Those with a prior bachelor’s degree may enroll as a degree-seeking student if pursuing a new major, with the Office of the Registrar determining which prior courses satisfy new requirements.
Readmission
If you have previously attended Manchester but weren’t enrolled in the last regular semester (there was a gap), you can apply for readmission. Submit a readmission application to the Office of Admissions in advance of your intended return. (Contact the Office of Admissions to request a Readmission application. See contact info above where it says “Need help?”) Apply for reinstatement by submitting a readmission application plus a letter explaining how you will now meet minimum academic standards.