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January 31, 2025

School of Education

Applying for College Is Stress-Free at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Whether you’re about to be a high school graduate or an adult looking to go to college, you may think the college application process is complex and overwhelming. Fortunately, that’s not always the case. We make it easy to apply for college at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, a Lasallian Catholic University with an undergraduate campus in Winona, MN, an adult learning campus in Minneapolis, as well as online academic programs. Here, we discuss how to apply for college at our school whether you’re an undergraduate or adult learner.

How to Apply at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is unique because we welcome students of all ages and backgrounds, whether you’re a soon-to-be high school graduate or a working adult looking to finish or start a degree. We provide academic programs in various areas that lead to bachelor’s, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees, as well as certificates. The application processes for different types of students are below.

High School Students

If you’re in high school or have recently graduated, you will apply for an undergraduate degree. Our undergraduate residential campus in Winona accepts applications throughout the year, with classes beginning in the fall or spring.

To start the application process, high school students need to fill out either the Saint Mary’s Application for Undergraduate Admission or the Common Application. There is no fee for these applications. Along with the application form, students must forward the following items to the Office of Admission:

  • Official transcript of high school grades
  • Official scores from either the ACT or SAT (optional)
  • A personal essay (optional)
  • Letter of recommendation (optional)

By reviewing each applicant’s academic credentials, the Admission Committee decides on admission and notifies the student. If you are a first-time, fall applicant, make sure to apply by May 1, as it is the priority decision deadline for admission and scholarships. You can also visit our campus to learn more.

Adult Learners

Along with our undergraduate programs, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota has a School of Graduate and Professional Programs (SGPP). This school encompasses our bachelor completion programs, master’s and doctoral programs, and graduate certificates, many of which are offered online or on our Minneapolis or Rochester campuses. Most of the students in the SGPP are working adults who are completing degrees. The application process is slightly different depending on the type of program.

Bachelor Completion Program Application

For our bachelor completion programs, applicants can apply for admission at any time during the year, if they have a minimum of 30 transferable semester credits from a previous institution. Applicants must:

  • Demonstrate the language proficiency necessary for successful undergraduate coursework
  • Demonstrate an overall grade-point average of at least 2.00 on a 4.00 scale
  • Have completed one basic English composition course with a grade of C or better
  • Submit all official transcripts from all previous institutions attended. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota can order transcripts for applicants if we are given permission and the school allows third-party transcript ordering.
  • Submit a completed application form

Applicants may have to complete an interview with a program administrator as part of the admissions process.

Master’s Degree, Graduate Certification, and Doctoral Program Application

For our master’s degree and graduate certificate programs, applicants can apply for admission to most programs at any time during the year. Applicants must:

  • Have completed an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution and maintained an overall grade-point average of at least 2.75 on a 4.00 scale
  • Demonstrate the language proficiency necessary for successful graduate coursework
  • Submit a completed application form with the nonrefundable application feewhen applicable
  • Submit an official transcript from the institution posting the applicant’s completed bachelor’s degree and other relevant transcripts. We will order transcripts on behalf of the applicant with permission and if the school allows third-party transcript ordering.
  • Submit a personal statement that includes background information, career goals, strengths, personal information, etc.
  • Submit names and contact information for references or letters of recommendation that verify professional or volunteer experience and academic ability
  • Submit a current resume listing your educational background and work experience

An interview with a program administrator may be required as part of the admission process.

For our doctoral programs, applicants must follow similar requirements, except they must have a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and have maintained at least a 3.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale. Please check in with an enrollment counselor for specific information.  They must also complete an interview with a program administrator.

Apply for College at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Now that you know how to apply for college at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, are you ready to take the next step? Whether you’re applying for an undergraduate or a graduate program, the education you receive at Saint Mary’s, along with our Lasallian Catholic principles, will help prepare you to live as an ethical and compassionate leader. For more information about the application process, admissions, or financial aid for students who qualify, request more information today and connect with a counselor.