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How to Apply

Thank you for taking the time to consider applying to Brandeis University.  Applications for the 2009-2010 school year will become available this summer.  Our admissions process is designed to find exceptional individuals that will enhance and enrich our campus community.  Brandeis looks for students from all backgrounds and walks of life, students who are intellectually curious, students interested in broadening their horizons and students committed to our founding mission of social justice.

First-year and transfer applicants may apply to Brandeis University using the Brandeis Application Online or the Common Application.

Brandeis Application Online

Brandeis University proudly supports its own online application for undergraduate admission, the Brandeis Application Online. This application may be completed through our online process, or may be printed and mailed directly to the Office of Admissions.

There is NO APPLICATION FEE when applying via the Brandeis Application Online.  Applicants are not required to complete a Supplement, since that information is embedded in the application.  Be sure to carefully review the admission requirements and the application deadlines prior to beginning the application.

Brandeis Application (paper version) 

Common Application

Brandeis University accepts the Common Application, which must be accompanied by the Brandeis Supplement.  Applicants can utilize this application to apply as a first-year, transfer, or Transitional Year Program (TYP) applicant.  This application may be completed online, or may be mailed directly to the Office of Admissions.

There is a non-refundable $55 application fee to apply to Brandeis using the Common Application.  Be sure to review carefully the admission requirements and the application deadlines prior to beginning the application.

Please note that the Office of Admissions at Brandeis University does not operate or maintain the Common Application Online website.  If you have questions or concerns regarding this site please contact Common Application directly.

Requirements for Admission

If you a U.S. citizen applying as a first-year student, the following are the required components of your Brandeis Application:

  • Completed Brandeis Application Online, or Common Application accompanied with the Brandeis Supplement
  • Official copies of all high school transcripts and/or GED certificate
  • Official copy of SAT I scores
  • Or the official ACT scores with writing in lieu of all SAT test scores
  • Official transcript(s) of any course(s) taken at the post-secondary school level
  • A letter of recommendation from a teacher who has instructed you in a core academic course
  • A school report and a letter of recommendation from a secondary school official
  • A personal statement as a part of the Brandeis Application Online or the Common Application
  • If you are applying as an Early Decision I or Early Decision II applicant you are also required to submit a completed Early Decision Agreement Form.

If you are an international applicant you should visit http://www.brandeis.edu/admissions/applying/international.html to review a list of specific requirements.  For additional questions and concerns please contact our office at admissions@brandeis.edu, or Katy West, at kwest@brandeis.edu.

If you are applying as a transfer student, the following are the required components of your Brandeis Application:
  • Completed Brandeis Application Online, or Common Application along with the Brandeis Supplement
  • Official copies of all high school transcripts and/or GED certificate
  • Official copy of SAT or ACT scores and TOEFL scores, if applicable
  • Official transcript(s) of any course(s) taken at the post-secondary level
  • A letter of recommendation from an academic professor
  • A Dean’s Evaluation
  • A personal statement as a part of the Brandeis Application Online or the Common Application
If you are applying to the Transitional Year Program (TYP), the following are the required application components.  For more information about the Transitional Year Program, please visit http://www.brandeis.edu/programs/typ/.
  • Completed Brandeis Application Online, or Common Application accompaniedwith the Brandeis Supplement
  • Official copies of all high school transcripts and/or GED certificate
  • Official copy of SAT or ACT scores and TOEFL scores, if applicable
  • Official transcript(s) for any course(s) taken at the post-secondary school level
  • (3) Three letters of recommendation, preferably from teachers, guidance counselors, employers, ministers, etc.
  • A 400-word essay on any experience that has had a significant impact on your life or a 400-word autobiographical statement (as a part of the Brandeis Application Online or the Common Application)
  • A copy of U.S. Permanent Resident Visa (Green Card) if you are not a U.S. citizen
*Please note: SAT Subject Test scores and an application fee are not necessary when applying to TYP.

Admissions Interviews

Interviews are recommended, but not required.  If you wish to schedule an interview, please follow these guidelines:
  • Prospective students may schedule interviews on campus any time after May 15 of their junior year
  • Candidates must schedule their interviews no later than the deadline date for their application (Nov. 15 for Early Decision I, Jan. 1 for Early Decision II, and Jan. 15 for Regular decision)
  • Alumni interviews may be requested between mid-September and Dec. 15 of the applicant's senior year
 Read more about the interview process