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Application Instructions

Please read the following instructions carefully before completing the application form.
This form is available for an on line application or in a pdf file format here.
If you are a former University of Dubuque student and are returning to UD, please use this form available as a PDF file. For information on the application fee, click here.

Admission to the University of Dubuque

Freshman Admission
Students are admitted to the University on a "rolling" basis. When your application and all supporting materials (e.g., transcripts, 2 educator and 1 counselor recommendations) have been received, admission decisions will be made by the committee, and you will receive a letter advising you of the University's decision.

Transfer Admission
Students who are enrolled or who were previously enrolled at another college or university may apply to transfer to the University of Dubuque. The University considers transfer applications for fall and spring semesters.

In addition to completing the application materials required for first-year applicants, transfer applicants must submit the following:

• A complete official transcript for all college courses taken and grades received
• A complete official transcript for all secondary school courses taken and grades received

Please complete the enclosed application form as soon as possible. Your application must be signed and returned to the Office of Admission, accompanied by the nonrefundable $25 application fee. Please use the postage paid envelope.

Personal Essay
The personal essay question is a part of the application and is required of all candidates. Please write or type your essay on a separate sheet of paper and attach it to the application. The essay is your opportunity to tell us something about yourself, your chance to show your individuality.



Secondary School Report
Fill out the applicant's portion of this form and give it to your guidance counselor or college advisor. Ask your counselor to return the report to the Office of Admission and to enclose a complete transcript, including senior courses.

The written information your counselor provides will be kept in the strictest confidence.

This form is available in a pdf file format from our file download page


Teacher Evaluation
One reference from a teacher in a traditional academic subject (e.g., English, foreign language, mathematics, science, social studies) is required. A second reference may come from a teacher in any subject. Complete the top portion of the form before giving it to a teacher and include a stamped envelope addressed to:

The University of Dubuque
Office of Admission
2000 University Avenue
Dubuque, IA 52001-5099

The teachers you choose should know you well and be able to comment on your academic ability, achievements and motivation. References are confidential.

This form is available in a pdf file format from our file download page


Standardized Tests
The University of Dubuque requires either the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or the American College Test (ACT). When sitting for the test, specify in the appropriate section that the results of the test are to be sent to the University of Dubuque by writing the University's code number (the SAT number is 6869; the ACT number is 1358). If you sit for either test more than once, results of all test dates will be included in your file.

Achievement Tests
Submitting the results of the College Board's Achievement tests are optional. Many candidates elect to sit for these tests, and the Admissions Committee often finds the results helpful in evaluating the quality of a student's preparation in certain subjects.

Application Fee
All applications must be accompanied by a nonrefundable fee of $25. In cases where payment of the fee imposes an extraordinary burden on a family, a fee waiver may be requested. To pay this fee using our secure server, click here. You will have another opportunity to pay online once the application is submitted.

Admission Deposit
The University of Dubuque reqiures a $200 deposit to confirm admission from all applicants planning to be full-time students. To pay this fee using our secure server, click here.

Campus Visit
We strongly encourage you to plan a visit to the University of Dubuque. Students who have been on campus for a visit have found it to be helpful in making their decision to enroll. Because we understand your need to plan visits around school and family commitments, we will work with you to schedule your visit at a mutually convenient time. Just call, (800) 722-5583. We look forward to seeing you!

Financial Aid Awards Based on Need
To apply for financial aid based on need, it is necessary to check the line on the application indicating that you are a candidate for financial aid.

The University of Dubuque requires families to submit a complete and accurate Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). These forms are available in the office of your secondary school guidance counselor or college advisor.

The FAFSA must be mailed after January 1, but no later than February 15, in order to ensure prompt analysis.

The University of Dubuque must be listed as a recipient of the needs analysis of the FAFSA. The code number for the University of Dubuque is 001891.

Click here to continue with the application.