How do I know if my application is complete?
An application is considered complete once we have received a student’s application, writing sample, official high school transcript and official test scores. Submitting letters of recommendation is optional. Please feel free at any time to check with your admissions counselor to see if you are missing any pieces to your application. In addition, if you are applying as an incoming freshman, you can check the status of your application by logging into our online application. You will need to use the login ID and PIN that you provided when you completed your application or that you were sent in the mail with a paper application.
Does the campus tour include all of the residence halls?
The traditional campus tour includes seeing one residence hall. We do offer tours of just the residence halls during the spring semester. For more information, please call our Visit Office at (651) 962-6154 or (800) 328-6819, Ext. 2-6154.
What is the average ACT, SAT and GPA?
The average ACT of our current freshman class is 26, the average SAT is 1157 and the average high school GPA is 3.6. If a student takes more than one test, we encourage him/her to submit all scores so we can consider his/her best score for admission and scholarships.
Do you accept AP/IB/PSEO/CIS credits?
Yes, students can receive St. Thomas credit for most Advanced Placement (AP) exams with a score of at least three or four. View our list of accepted exams and scores or check with a UST admissions counselor to find out which scores we recognize and how they transfer into UST.
Students who pass a higher level International Baccalaureate (IB) exam with a score of four or higher may receive St. Thomas credit. To earn credit in a specific department a higher score may be needed. An admissions counselor can help students find out how a score will be recognized at UST.
Most Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) and College in the Schools (CIS) courses will transfer into St. Thomas, as well. Contact an admissions counselor with the name of the school and the class code number(s) for assistance. You also can learn how credits will transfer into UST by using the transfer credit tool.
What classes should I take in high school to be admitted?
We require that students take at least three years of math in high school. We recommend taking four units of English and of a foreign language and two units of natural sciences and social sciences. Of course, the more challenging the classes taken in high school, the easier the transition to college will be.
Are there religious requirements?
As part of our core liberal arts requirements, students will participate in three theology classes. The first is The Christian Theological Tradition (the history of Christianity). The other two courses are chosen by the student. We have a wide variety of classes ranging from morality, Old Testament studies, social justice, and world religions. These classes are purely academic classes and are not considered faith formation. Students of all backgrounds are encouraged to discuss and debate different viewpoints in all classes.
Will St. Thomas pay for my flight, gas, hotel or other travel expenses?
No. We do not reimburse students for their travel expenses.
Do you have early decision?
No. UST reviews applications on a rolling admissions basis. Therefore, we do not have a deadline to apply or early decision or early action process. We accept students until the class fills, so applying in the fall of a student’s senior year is encouraged. We start reviewing applications Oct. 1 for the following fall semester.
What should I write about in my writing sample?
We have two suggested topics on our application. However, students can choose to submit a two-page paper they have written for a class.
Are letters of recommendation required?
Letters of recommendation are optional on our application. Letters can be a great addition to your application to help our admissions committee get to know you better. Teachers and guidance counselors give excellent recommendations.
Do you offer application fee waivers?
There is no fee to apply to St. Thomas. Students can
apply online or by mail free of charge.
Can I submit multiple test scores?
Yes, students can submit multiple test scores. The admissions committee will consider all of the scores in the admissions process.
Do you have to be Catholic to attend?
No, students do not need to be Catholic to attend St. Thomas. About 54% of our students are Catholic, however our student body consists of numerous religious affiliations. All programs and services are open to all students.
Do I need to take the writing portion of the ACT?
We do not look at the writing portion of the ACT, but students are still required to submit a one- to two-page writing sample.
Do I need to notify anyone if I plan to drop courses my senior year?
It is a good idea to let us know of any changes to your schedule. Before you drop any of your senior year courses, please call your admissions counselor to see if it will affect your admissions decision.
Can I apply to St. Thomas using the Common Application?
St. Thomas is not affiliated with the Common Application. We have our own separate application that students are required to submit. To apply online, please
click here.
