What Counts?

The Admissions Process at Gettysburg College

The admissions process at Gettysburg is highly selective and the admissions staff gives careful consideration to each application. We expect students to make the most of the academic offerings of their high school. 

Participation in a solid college preparatory program with enriched, accelerated, and advance placement courses is expected. Grades in academic courses, quality and distribution of subjects, and rank in class (when applicable) are highly significant parts of the applicant's credentials.

The College is also very interested in individuals of character who will make positive contributions to the campus community and beyond. In estimating such qualities, we rely on what students say about themselves through essays, along with the recommendations from secondary school counselors and teachers. In-depth involvement in extracurricular and community service activities both inside and outside of school is favorably considered in the admissions process.

An admissions interview is strongly recommended, but not required. Interviews are available from April 1 of the junior year through mid-February of the senior year.

Standardized test scores from the SAT or ACT exams are reviewed in the overall context of a student's application and academic record. SAT II exams are not required. Strong students who believe that standardized test scores do not accurately reflect the strength of their academic achievements can choose to be considered as test optional in the admissions process.

Click here to read the Class of 2012 Profile.

Additional Considerations for International Students

We do require that international students take the TOEFL exam.  The SAT is also required for those students whose countries offer the exam.  International students are not expected to interview, and therefore are encouraged to talk about their life experiences through their application essay and personal statement.