Everything you need to be everything you are.

Does Valpo have an application fee?

• No, Valparaiso University’s application is free to submit.

Is it best to apply to Valparaiso University through the Common App or on valpo.edu/apply?

• It’s up to you! You submit the same information through both so one is not better than the other. We are happy to connect with students interested in the Valpo experience no matter how you choose to apply!

Does Valpo require SAT or ACT test scores when applying?

• Students are able to apply test optional, meaning SAT or ACT test scores are not required and not reporting test scores won’t hinder your application or financial aid award in any way. You may choose to submit test scores if you feel they help represent you as a student.

Does Valpo have an early action decision?

• No, we do not have an early action decision. We have rolling admissions throughout the year. However, applying as early as possible after our application opens is recommended to have the greatest number of scholarship opportunities.

How will you view my application if my grades or activities have been disrupted in the pandemic?

• Canceled opportunities will not affect your admission into Valparaiso University. We take a holistic approach to reviewing applicants to Valparaiso University and consider the many facets of you when reviewing your application: your strength of classes in high school, the trend in your grades, your personal essay, what kind of activities you have been involved in, and your test scores if you choose to submit them. The biggest question is: “Can this person be successful at Valpo?”  Students enroll at Valpo with a wide variety of GPAs, test scores, essays, and extra-curricular involvements.

Does Valpo accept dual credit and AP scores?

• Valpo accepts transfer or “dual” credits. The general rule of thumb is that (a) as long as you took the classes at an accredited school; (b) they were academic courses of at least 100-level; and (c) you received a “C” grade or better, they will typically transfer. We also accept AP tests; simply send a copy of your official score report sent to us. We require different minimum scores for different AP subjects, typically a score of 4 to receive credit from Valpo . Contact your admission counselor for the specific scores needed.

How do I access my student portal?

• You can access your student portal here. You will log in using the email address and password you created when you applied. If you forgot your email address and password, contact your admission counselor so that they can reset your account. You will have to create a new password.
• If you applied using the Common Application, you will receive an email after we receive your application with instructions to create your admission portal.

How will I know if my application materials have been received?

• After you submit your application, your admission portal will have a checklist of materials that we need in order to review your application. A green checkmark will appear next to an item when we have received it. You can also contact your admission counselor if you have questions.

Can I add awards/accolades/information to my application after it’s been submitted?

• Yes! You can email your admission counselor to update your application information. Anything that you send before you receive an admission decision will be used when considering your application for admission.

When will I receive a decision regarding my application?

• After your application is complete, you will typically find out your status about 4-6 weeks later.  We accept applications at any time on a rolling basis. A complete application typically includes the completed and signed application form, personal statement or essay, standardized test scores if you choose to submit them, and a high school or college transcript. We cannot process your application without all components.

Who can I contact for help with Valpo admissions questions?

• If this is your first time connecting with us, contact us in the Office of Undergraduate Admission by email at undergrad.admission@valpo.edu or by phone at 219.464.5011 and we will connect you with an available counselor or staff member.
• If you’ve already connected with your admission counselor, contact them and they would be happy to help answer any questions! Whether you have Valpo-specific questions or general college questions, they are there for you every step of the way.

What are our visit options?

• All current on-campus visit options are listed on valpo.edu/visit.
• Tour the campus from the comfort of your home via our student-led virtual tour.

Does Valpo offer financial aid and scholarships?

• Yes. 98% of Valpo students receive some form of financial assistance with $106 million awarded annually from all sources. All of our admitted students are considered for our academic merit-based scholarships based solely upon your high school weighted GPA. We also offer several departmental scholarships as well as scholarship opportunities based upon your academic interests and strengths.
• After you file the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), we will consider you for possible grants, loans, and work study. You don’t have to pay back grants. Although you repay loans, educational loans are not only low-interest (with favorable repayment options) but an important investment in your future.
• We also encourage students to apply for outside scholarships to help fund their college education. Our Office of Financial Aid has compiled this list of sources to discover other scholarship opportunities.
• Visit valpo.edu/student-financial-services/ to plan your funding and learn more.  Contact the Office of Financial Aid by booking an appointment here, email at finaid@valpo.edu, or by phone at 219.464.5015 if you have any further questions.

What happens to my deposit?

• Your deposit credits to your account in the fall semester and reduces your tuition.

What is work study and how does it work?

• Work study is money a student can earn through an on or off campus job. The University offers both Federal Work Study (need-based) and Valparaiso University Work Study (non need-based) opportunities. Actual earnings are usually based on the number of hours worked per week and paid directly to the student through direct deposit into their banking account. Please visit valpo.joinhandshake.com/login and use your DataVU username and password to log into Handshake for available jobs. Search “work study” for a list of on- and off-campus jobs.

What if there are financial circumstances affecting my ability to pay for school?

• Please refer to our special circumstances form.  This form includes any changes to income since the FAFSA has been filed or extraordinary expenses that the family is paying.

Do I need to submit a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)?

• We strongly encourage all students to file the FAFSA to ensure you are receiving the maximum aid offer available.
• Even if you don’t qualify for federal or state grants, you may qualify for additional grants from Valpo.
• You can submit this application online here.  Our school code is 001842.

What is the difference between the direct subsidized loan and direct unsubsidized loan?

• The federal direct subsidized loan is based on demonstrated need as determined by the results of your FAFSA. The federal government pays the interest for direct subsidized loans while the student is in college or while the loan is in deferment. Interest begins accruing for direct unsubsidized loans as soon as the loan is taken out.

How do I contact the Office of Financial Aid?

• You can book an appointment here.
• Email us at finaid@valpo.edu or call 219.464.5015 and dial “0.”

Where can I learn about Valpo’s different academic programs?

• Click here to learn about our 48 majors in our five academic colleges, the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business, College of Engineering, College of Nursing and Health Professions, and Christ College – The Honors College.

What pre-professional programs do you have?

• Valparaiso University offers pre-law, pre-medical arts, and pre-seminary tracks.

What does “liberal arts” mean?

• No matter which degree you pursue, you’ll be challenged to broaden your understanding and tackle problems with creative solutions, and you’ll gain a solid foundation in the liberal arts. With Latin roots, liberal means being free, and art means a way of doing something or an ability. The liberal arts include the humanities, the sciences, and the social sciences.

How easy is it to change my major?

• Valpo students can change their major by working directly with their academic advisor to submit a change of major form and planning their path to completing their degree.

Are there any required classes at Valpo?

• All first-year students will take either VUE (The Valparaiso University Experience) or be part of the Christ College – The Honors College First-Year Program. These courses are designed to welcome and initiate new students into the Valparaiso University community, and into academic life generally, and give students a strong foundation to set them up for success. All students will also take Theology-200: The Christian Tradition. There are general education requirements that all students will complete based on their degree program.

Does Valparaiso University accept dual-credit courses?

• Credit earned for dual enrollment courses completed at an accredited institution with a grade of C- or better can be applied toward your degree requirements.
• Transfer equivalencies vary by degree program. For specific information, contact your admission counselor or visit our transfer database.
• An official transcript is required for credits to apply.

Does Valparaiso University accept Advancement Placement credit?

• Students who submit results of Advanced Placement examinations are eligible to receive credit in accordance with this table.
• AP examinations must be taken before enrollment as a full-time student at Valparaiso University.

Are there research opportunities for undergraduate students?

• Yes, our Office of Undergraduate Research provides research opportunities for all undergraduate students in several disciplines, meaning you can begin research as early as your freshman year!
• You’ll also gain experience presenting your research at campus research symposia, our annual research conference, and even national conferences in your field of study.

What sort of Study Abroad programs are available?

• Valparaiso University sponsors more than 25 semester and year-long programs throughout Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Africa, with several short-term, faculty-led programs running over spring break, summer, or other recess periods.
• Valparaiso University has four study centers across the globe in England, Germany, China, and Costa Rica with programs led by Valpo faculty.
• Learn more about our Study Abroad programs here.

What percentage of Valpo faculty teach undergraduate students?

• 100% of classes at Valparaiso University are taught by professors, not TAs.

Is it possible to get to know my professors?

• Absolutely! Valpo faculty know what you’re capable of and help connect you with the opportunities that close the distance to your personal goals. They hold office hours for students to stop by to chat or ask questions, they conduct research projects with students, many are mentors to students, and several are advisors for student organizations on campus.

What is the average class size?

• The average class size is 19 students with a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1.

Quick Link to Valpo’s Student Life Website

What extracurricular opportunities are available?

• Valparaiso University offers several extracurricular opportunities through student organizations, intramural sports, philanthropy and service, faith life, and fraternity and sorority life. You can find a list of our 100+ student orgs here.

What are your dining facilities?

• We have two main dining locations located in the Harre Union including Founders Table, our all-you-care-to-eat resident dining location that offers a wide variety of craveable stations, and the Bell & Beacon Cafe, offering quick bites and Starbucks beverages.
• In the Christopher Center Library we have Grinders Cafe, a Starbucks Café offering a full array of Starbucks beverages supplemented with On-The-Go packaged products.
• Gelley’s Grab & Go is located in our engineering and mathematics building and offers Starbucks beverages and on-the-go packaged products.

Is on-campus housing guaranteed?

• On-campus housing is guaranteed for your first three years with many students choosing to live on campus for additional years. Our seven residence halls and two apartment complexes are home to 1,400 students. Our Sorority Housing Complex is home to Valpo’s six national sororities.

Must I live on campus?

• All first-year, sophomore, and junior students are required to live in approved University housing unless they qualify for an exemption.

What will my room look like?

• First-year students will find themselves living in Alumni or Brandt Halls. You can find floor plans, photos, and more information about these residence halls here.

What academic resources are available to Valpo students?

• Valparaiso University has four learning centers that support student learning including the Academic Success Center, the Hesse Learning Resource Center, the Judith L. Beumer Writing Center, and the Language Resource Center. Learn more about these four resources here.
• Beyond these learning centers, we have several student resources dedicated to student success. You can explore the full list of student resources available to students here.

What fitness facilities does Valpo offer?

• Our Fitness Center has a vast array of cardio equipment and strength machines and offers various fitness classes throughout the week to keep Valpo students strong and fit.
• Our Athletics-Recreation Center (ARC) offers open play times for swimming, basketball, racquetball, and track running.
• Our athletics spaces also offer students space for intramural sports competition coordinated by Valpo Rec Sports.

Does Valpo have a health center?

• Yes, our Student Health Center is a primary care clinic that treats the majority of injuries and illnesses and specializes in areas that are in high demand for our students.

Does Valpo have counseling services?

• Yes, our Counseling Center seeks to provide a space for you to explore freely any personal concerns you may have and offers a range of both in-person and online services to support your overall mental health.

Does Valpo provide resources if I have a documented disability?

• Yes, our Access and Accommodations Resource Center provides accommodations, support services and special programs that are individualized to work toward student success.

How successful are Valpo students in finding employment or being accepted into graduate school after graduation?

• Valparaiso University has a 97.5% outcomes rate within nine months of graduation for students entering into the workforce or graduate studies after graduation. Our Career and Alumni Network offers several resources help students secure both undergraduate and postgraduate career opportunities.
• View our graduate outcomes here.

What opportunities are there for undergraduate students to work toward their graduate degree from Valparaiso University?

• We have several early-entry programs that offer an incredible and affordable way for students to enroll into graduate studies during their final undergraduate year, saving up to $8,000 on tuition. Valpo students who complete enough graduate course credits as a senior could potentially earn their master’s degree in one additional year. View all early-entry programs here.
• Our unique 5-year physician assistant program can be viewed here.

What is Valparaiso University’s graduation rate?

• 67% of Valpo freshman students graduate within five years, compared to the national average of 61.8%.

How many Valpo alumni are there worldwide?

• There are more than 60,000 Valparaiso University alumni making an impact in their communities around the globe.
• Alumni stay connected to the University through events held by our Career and Alumni Network, serving as career mentors to current students, speaking at campus events, and reuniting with friends at Valpo during our annual Homecoming and Family Weekend.

How do I access my student portal?

• You can access your student portal here. You will log in using the email address and password you created when you applied. If you forgot your email address and password, contact your admission counselor so that they can reset your account. You will have to create a new password.
• If you applied using the Common Application, you will receive an email after we receive your application with instructions to create your admission portal.

Where do I submit my deposit to attend Valpo?

• Click here to submit your deposit. Welcome to the Valpo family!

Do I need to submit the FAFSA?

• We encourage all students to file the FAFSA to ensure you are getting the best financial aid package possible – don’t leave money sitting on the table! You can submit the FAFSA at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa.

What is FOCUS orientation and where do I sign up?

• FOCUS is our new-student orientation program and occurs in the summer before your first year at Valpo. FOCUS helps you feel more comfortable, learn more about your academic program, find your way around campus, and explore campus resources. Plus, you get to meet your fellow classmates before starting classes in the fall! FOCUS is required of all new students and is highly recommended for parents/guardians of first-year students.
• You can sign up for FOCUS orientation at valpo.edu/focus.

What materials do I need to submit?

• Submit your deposit. Welcome to the Valpo family!
• If you plan to file the FAFSA make sure to do so before the deadline. Valpo’s code is 001842.
• Sign up for and attend FOCUS orientation.
• Submit your Health Form
• Final official high school transcript
• Official AP/IB test scores
• Any dual credit transcripts you may have from the college or university that you took courses at
• Official ACT or SAT scores if you did not apply test optional and if you self-reported your scores on your application

Connect with your admission counselor if you have any questions about submitting your materials – they are happy to help!

What do I need to turn in with my transfer application?

• We will need all official transcripts from all of your colleges that you have attended.  If you have completed less than 15 credits at a college or university, we will also need your official high school transcript.

Where do I send my official transcripts?

• You will send your official transcripts electronically to transcripts@valpo.edu or send them via mail to 1620 Chapel Dr. Valparaiso, IN 46383.

Do you award scholarships and financial aid for transfer students?

• Absolutely. Transfer students are eligible for scholarships based on previous college work. Scholarship amounts vary depending on the cumulative grade point average at the previous institution(s) and range from $22,000 to $25,000.
• Phi Theta Kappa members are also eligible for a scholarship of $4,000 in addition to the transfer scholarship.
• Students with a previous bachelor’s degree may be eligible for a $20,000 scholarship (available fall and spring semesters only). Valpo also offers an associate’s degree completion scholarship of $4,000.
• Transfer students also may be eligible for the Alumni Heritage Scholarship and the Martin Luther Award. See the following links for more information:
  • Lutheran Scholarships and Awards
  • Other Scholarships and Awards
• Students who are recipients of the Ivy Tech Northwest Chancellor’s Scholarship may be eligible to receive the Ivy Beacon Scholarship from Valparaiso University. These students will be guaranteed admission to Valpo with a full scholarship to cover any undergraduate tuition and fees not already met with state or federal grant assistance. (Student must have received the Chancellor Scholarship within two years of enrolling at Valparaiso University & provide documentation. Some restrictions apply.)
• Financial Aid
  • Depending on your family’s financial circumstances, you may be eligible for need-based grants and loans that make your Valpo education even more affordable.
  • Learn more about financial aid

How do I apply for scholarships and financial aid?

• To maximize your scholarship and financial aid opportunities, do two things:
• Apply for admission as soon as possible, as most scholarships are dependent on academic details included in your application.
• Complete the FAFSA as soon as possible after it opens (December 1, 2024). The FAFSA determines your eligibility for different kinds of need-based financial aid.

Who is my transfer counselor?

• Visit our transfer counselor page.

How do you award transfer credits?

• Transfer credit is awarded on a course-by-course basis:
  • Most university, college, or community college courses that are equivalent to corresponding Valpo courses are applied toward the general education requirement or as an elective credit.
  • Courses in a student’s major may fulfill major requirements upon approval of the appropriate college dean or department chair.
  • If transferring from a quarter system, three quarter hours usually equal two semester hours of credit. Courses comparable to those offered at Valparaiso University will be accepted for transfer with minimum grades of C-minus. Grades are not transferable; only credits transfer. Nursing prerequisite courses must have a grade of C or better to be considered.
  • Credits earned more than 15 years ago are accepted toward graduation requirements on a provisional basis; students must then complete 30 semester hours at Valpo with a minimum 2.0 grade-point average or better.

Where is your transfer database?

• You may be able to look up transfer equivalencies for your previous course work. Our goal is to list all possible transfer credits from other higher education institutions and the database is being updated daily.
• Instructions
  • Link to the Transfer Equivalency database »
  • Choose the college or university you are currently attending or have attended in the past.
  • Choose the subject area you are looking for, or “ALL SUBJECTS.”

On the left side, you will see the course as it is titled at your current institution. The left is the name of the Valpo course that it is equal to or it is listed as UND, which means it is undistributed credit and your advisor will decide how to place that course in your degree audit.

If you don’t see your courses or college listed, don’t worry – it may still be eligible for transfer credit. This is a database in progress and we are still working on uploading all transfer equivalencies.

What is the maximum amount of credits that you will accept?

• Maximum number of advanced standing credits that can transfer:
• College of Arts and Sciences: 94 credits
• College of Business: 94 credits
• College of Engineering: 100 credits
• College of Nursing and Health Professions: 94 credits

How do I apply to Valparaiso University?

• Please follow the steps listed here.

What semesters are international students allowed to be admitted to?

• Fall term starting in August
• Spring term starting in January
• Summer for accelerated nursing students and visiting students only

Is it best to apply to Valparaiso University through the Common App or on valpo.edu/apply?

• It’s up to you! You submit the same information through both so one is not better than the other. We are happy to connect with students interested in the Valpo experience no matter how you choose to apply!

Do you require official transcripts for international students to apply and to be considered for scholarships?

• We will accept unofficial transcripts to make preliminary decisions. Enrollment at Valparaiso University is contingent upon receipt of a final official transcript.

What is an I-20 form?

• The I-20 form is an immigration document needed to obtain your student visa.

Do I need to submit Proof of Financial Support to be admitted to Valpo?

• We don’t require Proof of Financial Support until after a student has been accepted and want their I-20 form sent to them.

What is Proof of Financial Support?

• It is a requirement to issue an I-20 and proof that you have funds to support yourself for one year of education after scholarships. The proof covers spending money, travel, housing, food, health insurance, fees and tuition. At no time will you be required to give us the full amount of money.

Does Valpo accept dual credit and AP, IB, and A levels scores?

• We award university credit for certain scores on college-level examinations such as Advanced Placement (AP) exams and Cambridge International A-Level. Students can also have a weighted GPA with the advanced courses. Learn more at valpo.edu/registrar/credit-by-examination/undergrad-credit-by-examination.

How will you view my application if my grades or activities have been disrupted in the pandemic?

• Canceled opportunities will not affect your admission into Valparaiso University. We take a holistic approach to reviewing applicants to Valparaiso University and consider the many facets of you when reviewing your application: your strength of classes in high school, the trend in your grades, your personal essay, what kind of activities you have been involved in, and your test scores if you choose to submit them. The biggest question is: “Can this person be successful at Valpo?”  Students enroll at Valpo with a wide variety of GPAs, test scores, essays, and extra-curricular involvements.

Do you award scholarships for international students?

• Absolutely. 98% of international students receive scholarships. International students are eligible for merit-based scholarships based on holistic review of your application and range from $5,000-$30,000.
• We only offer merit-based scholarships and do not have need-based scholarships for international students.
• There is not separate application for scholarships. You will received any scholarship information the same time you are offered your admission decision.

Where do I submit my deposit to attend Valpo?

• Click here to submit your deposit. Welcome to the Valpo family!
• Most students deposit after they receive their visa.

How do I get my visa?

• Please look at the Valparaiso University international student website to find information about getting a visa.

Must I live on campus?

• All first-year, sophomore, and junior students are required to live in approved University housing unless they qualify for an exemption. Students 22 years of age and above are not required to live on campus.

What is international FOCUS orientation and where do I sign up?

• FOCUS is our new-student orientation program and occurs the week before your first year at Valpo. It helps you feel more comfortable, learn more about your academic program, find your way around campus, and discover resources you didn’t even know existed before coming to FOCUS. Plus, you get to meet your fellow classmates before starting classes in the fall! FOCUS is required of all new students.
• You can sign up for FOCUS orientation at valpo.edu/focus.

How do I talk to an international admission counselor or have additional questions answered?

• See our international admission counselor page.

Where can I go to find more information on Valparaiso University?

• Access our school counselor webpage for more information about Valparaiso University and how we can connect with your students.

How can we request materials or a virtual visit with a Valparaiso University admission counselor for our students?

• We’d be happy to answer your questions, send you printed information to share with your students, or reach out directly to individual students. Just contact Undergraduate Admission at:
  • Email undergrad.admission@valpo.edu
  • Phone 219.464.5011

Will Valparaiso University representatives be at any virtual college fairs?

• Yes! Valparaiso University will be attending NACAC virtual college fairs as well as several regional college fairs. Please reach out to us if you have any questions regarding our attendance at a virtual college fair.

How do I learn more about the Valparaiso Regional College Fair?