Freshman Application Review
The admission evaluation at Loyola is primarily an academic review. We attempt to make informed judgments about a student’s record, taking individual circumstances into account. The following policies and guidelines refer to the evaluation of freshman applicants. For transfer students and international applications, the Admission Committee reviews all elements of a student’s high school background using the policies described here and then reviews the additional materials submitted by transfer and international students. Here is a summary of the main factors that we consider:
Grades
In general, high school grades count more than the SATs/ACTs. Grades are the best single indicator of a student’s potential for academic success in college. To meet Loyola’s guideline, a student should have grades of B or higher in academic courses in grades 9 through 12. Last year, about 90% of students with at least a B+ average were offered acceptance. Students with a grade average between B and B+ are also good candidates. Last year, the acceptance rate for this group was 60%.
Class Rank
Rank in the upper 25% of the high school class is the guideline (if the high school reports rank).
Course Selection
Students who take more challenging programs (more difficult subjects, honors courses, AP courses, IB courses) are given extra consideration. When a high school sends a school profile with a transcript, the information provided is considered.
Recent Grades
Loyola’s Admission Committee evaluates all grades earned, beginning with the 9th grade work. Since the most recent grades reflect a student’s current level of performance, we give extra weight to achievement in the junior and senior years.
Standardized Tests
The SAT-I Reasoning Test: Critical Reading/Math scores or the ACT Assessment Test is required for admission.
The SAT scores are considered in conjunction with a student’s grades. We suggest that students try the SAT twice. We count the highest reading and the highest math score. We will collect results of writing section in order to validate performance of students enrolling at Loyola College with the new writing section before determining how it will be utilized in the admission evaluation. Only the SAT-I Reasoning Test is required.
Last year, the middle 50% of enrolling students scored between 1130 and 1290 (combined reading and math score).
We also accept the ACT Exam. The optional essay section of the ACT is not required.
Interview
The interview at Loyola is designed as an exchange of information and does not formally count in the admission decision. The interview is recommended but not required. We welcome you to come in for an interview or to attend a group information program - whichever best suits your needs.
Recommendations
We consider recommendations submitted for applicants. Any type of recommendation may be submitted, but since Loyola’s admission evaluation is primarily an academic review, teacher recommendations are often considered the most. If there are special circumstances (for example, a period of illness, personal difficulties, etc.) that an applicant wishes to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee, a letter from a counselor, teacher or other party can be submitted.
Extracurricular Activities
The admission evaluation at Loyola is primarily an academic review. However, at the end of the process, we often find many applicants with similar academic records, and then extracurricular activities, service, special talents and evidence of leadership are considered. Applicants should indicate all activities, achievements and honors when filling out the admission application.
Non-discrimination
Loyola College strongly believes in the principle of equal opportunity. The College admits students of any race, sex, religion, color, age, national and ethnic origin, to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, any of its programs and activities.