Apply today Visit campus
Apply today Visit campus

First-Year Students

No application fee. No application deadline. But, we do encourage you to apply by early spring of your senior year in high school.

Application Steps

Applications are open for the 2024-25 academic year.

Apply today

  1. Create your application.
    • You’ll create an account and password for your application portal where you can complete your application without losing any information you’ve already provided. It’ll take just minutes to complete—and it’s free.
    • Hold onto your account information. With the application portal you'll be able to upload materials, check on the status of your application, and see your next steps!

  2. Mount Mercy is test-optional.
    • ACT and SAT scores aren't required for admission. These scores only impact eligibility for certain scholarships, the honors program, and athletic eligibility. If you are a student-athlete, please check with NAIA regarding your eligibility for test-optional.
    • If you choose to submit your scores, Mount Mercy's codes are:
      • ACT: 1340
      • SAT: 6417

  3. Send your official high school transcripts.
    • Send official copies of your sixth semester transcripts (or higher) to Mount Mercy.

  4. Send your transcript of any college coursework (if applicable).
    • Send official transcripts of any college coursework you’ve completed from any community college, university, trade school, or any other school from which you've taken classes.

First-year admission video

Questions about your application?
Warde Hall overlooking Cedar Rapids
Contact us

Admissions Criteria

The Admission Committee evaluates all applications on an individual basis. Strong consideration will be given to applicants with the following:

  • Cumulative grade point average of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) 
  • Class rank in the top half of graduating class (if provided)

Students who do not meet posted criteria may be required to submit a personal statement and transcripts. If you are required to submit a personal statement, information will be sent to you by email. If you have questions, please contact your counselor or the admission office at admission@mtmercy.edu.

Specific courses are not required for admission, but you’re encouraged to complete the following high school coursework:

  • Four years of English
  • Three years of social studies
  • Three years of mathematics*
  • Three years of science*

The Admission Committee will review admission files for students who do not meet the minimum admission standards or whose application materials warrant closer examination. Any admission conditions and/or course recommendations will be determined on an individual basis by the Committee.

*The following science and math courses are recommended for students interested in nursing or pre-health majors: Science courses should include biology, chemistry, physics, and any AP-level science courses offered. Math courses should advance at least through algebra II (nursing majors) and at least through pre-calculus (pre-health majors).

AP, CLEP, IB, and A Levels

Mount Mercy University offers credit for: 

  • Advanced Placement (AP)
  • College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
  • International Baccalaureate (IB)
  • Cambridge AS and A level exams
You must earn a score of 3 or higher on the AP exam to receive college credit. Information about these and other credit-earning alternatives can be found in the Mount Mercy Catalog or the Registrar's Office.

Join our welcoming, supportive community.

Visit campus Apply today