Admissions Frequently Asked Questions
General FAQs
Below is a list of frequently asked questions we receive from students applying to Gettysburg.
What majors and minors does Gettysburg offer?
Gettysburg is a liberal arts college offering 90+ majors, minors, and programs, so most students build a personalized academic path — many double major or pair a major with a minor.
Is Gettysburg test-optional?
Yes. Applicants choose whether to submit SAT/ACT scores on the Common App's Gettysburg Member Screen. Students who submit scores are considered with their highest section scores across all test dates (superscored).
What is the acceptance rate?
Gettysburg is selective, admitting roughly 40% of applicants. We review every applicant individually — academic record, essay, and recommendations all matter.
What's the student-to-faculty ratio and class size?
About 9:1, with an average class size of 17 that keeps discussion-based learning and close faculty mentorship at the center of the Gettysburg experience.
Where is Gettysburg located, and how far is it from major cities?
Gettysburg, PA sits about 90 minutes from the Baltimore/DC area and roughly 2 hours from Philadelphia, on a 200+ acre campus adjacent to the Gettysburg National Military Park.
What is campus life like?
Students choose from 140+ clubs and organizations, Division III athletics, and a strong Greek life, all within a close-knit residential community.
Does Gettysburg require an interview?
Interviews are optional but recommended. They're a good way to learn more about Gettysburg and let us get to know you beyond the application.
What is the Eisenhower Institute?
It's Gettysburg's public policy institute, giving students direct access to Washington, D.C. through internships, seminars, and speaker series with policymakers.
Can I schedule a campus visit or tour?
Yes — we offer guided in-person tours, information sessions, open houses, class visits, and a virtual tour for those who can't make it to campus.
What financial aid and scholarships are available?
Gettysburg offers need-based aid and academic merit scholarships ranging from $32-50,000/year. Last year, Gettysburg awarded nearly $100 million in financial aid.
Does Gettysburg accept AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credit?
Yes, Gettysburg accepts AP credit and reviews IB coursework; specific credit awarded depends on exam scores and department policy.
Can homeschooled students apply?
Yes — homeschooled applicants follow the standard application process with some adjusted documentation (e.g., a parent-prepared transcript) in place of a school counselor recommendation.
Who is my admissions counselor?
Gettysburg assigns a regional admissions counselor by geographic territory — find and contact yours on the Meet Our Staff page.
What is the recruiting process like at Gettysburg?
Every sport has its own recruiting process, but a good first step is to connect with the coach for your sport. They can talk with you about the program, what they’re looking for, and what the next steps might look like.
Can I be a student-athlete and still explore other interests?
Absolutely. Gettysburg student-athletes are students first, and there’s room to explore interests beyond your sport through classes, research, internships, clubs, study abroad, and more. Your sport is an important part of your Gettysburg experience, but it doesn’t have to be the only part.
Will I have time for academics and athletics?
Yes. Balancing academics and athletics takes planning, but Gettysburg’s student-athletes do it every day. Your coaches, faculty, and campus support resources understand the demands of being a student-athlete and are here to help you succeed in both areas.
Can I study abroad if I play a sport?
Yes! Gettysburg student-athletes can and do study abroad. It takes some planning around your athletic schedule, but there are opportunities to pursue a semester or summer abroad while continuing to be an active member of your team.
What’s it like to be a student-athlete at Gettysburg?
You get to be part of a team while also being part of the larger Gettysburg community. Your teammates can become some of your closest friends, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get involved beyond your sport.
Do I have to be a music major to participate in the Sunderman Conservatory?
Not at all! The Sunderman Conservatory welcomes students from across campus. You can participate in ensembles, take music courses, and pursue applied lessons even if you’re majoring in something completely different.
What if I love music but don’t want to major in it?
Gettysburg gives you plenty of ways to keep music in your life without making it your major. You can perform in an ensemble, take lessons, explore music courses, or even pursue a music minor while majoring in another field.
Do I need to audition to participate in the Sunderman Conservatory?
It depends on what you want to do. Students pursuing a music major or minor audition for admission to those programs, while ensemble requirements vary by group. There are also ensembles with no audition, so there are ways to make music at Gettysburg for a wide range of experience levels.
Can I study something completely different and still be involved in music?
Definitely. That’s one of the great things about music at a liberal arts college. You might major in biology, history, or business and still perform in an ensemble, take lessons, or explore music through your coursework.
What is it like to be a musician at Gettysburg?
You’ll find lots of ways to perform, learn, and make music with other students. With ensembles ranging from orchestra and choir to jazz, chamber music, percussion, and more, there’s room for musicians with all kinds of interests and experience levels.
Undergraduate Students
How do I get on Gettysburg's mailing list or request information?
Submit an inquiry form on our website and we'll add you to our mailing list for updates on deadlines, visit opportunities, and events in your area.
What should I look for on a Gettysburg campus visit?
Plan for a guided tour, an information session with an admissions counselor, and — if timing allows — a class visit or lunch with current students to get a feel for daily life.
Does Gettysburg offer virtual events for students who can't visit in person?
Yes — virtual info sessions, a virtual tour, and regional recruiting events bring Gettysburg to you
What should I look for on a Gettysburg campus visit?
Plan for a guided tour, an information session with an admissions counselor, and — if timing allows — a class visit or lunch with current students to get a feel for daily life.
Does Gettysburg offer virtual events for students who can't visit in person?
Yes — virtual info sessions, a virtual tour, and regional recruiting events bring Gettysburg to you.
What are the Early Decision, Early Action, and Regular Decision deadlines?
ED I: Nov 1 (decisions by Dec 1). ED II: Jan 20 (decisions by Feb 20). EA: Nov 15 (decisions by early January). RD: Jan 15 (decisions by mid-March).
What's the difference between Early Decision, Early Action, and Regular Decision?
ED is binding — apply only if Gettysburg is your clear first choice. EA is non-binding with an earlier decision. RD is our standard non-binding plan with a Jan 15 deadline.
What documents do I need to apply?
The Common Application, official high school transcript, counselor recommendation/secondary school report, one teacher recommendation, and (for RD) mid-year grades. ED also requires first-quarter senior grades and the ED Agreement.
If I'm test-optional, can I still submit scores?
Yes — students not selecting test-optional on the Common App's Gettysburg Member Screen may self-report SAT/ACT scores, which are then superscored across all test dates.
How do I apply for financial aid, and when is the deadline?
Submit the FAFSA and the CSS Profile. We ask you to submit these at the time of application, based on the deadline/application round of your choosing.
What are Sunderman Conservatory (music) audition requirements?
Prospective music majors/minors audition on their primary instrument or voice part, demonstrating both technical and aural skill — requirements are posted on the Conservatory's admissions page.
What's the application fee, and is a fee waiver available?
The application fee is $60; fee waivers are available to qualified students — reach out to your admissions counselor to request one.
When will I hear back about my admission decision?
ED I decisions post by Dec 1, ED II by Feb 20, EA by early January, and RD by mid-March — all released through your applicant portal.
What if I'm deferred from Early Decision/Action or waitlisted from Regular Decision?
Deferred ED/EA applicants are automatically reconsidered in the Regular Decision pool; you may send updated grades or test scores. Waitlisted students should confirm interest and can submit updates through their portal.
How do I compare financial aid offers between schools?
Line up each offer's grants/scholarships (money you don't repay) versus loans and work-study, then compare the resulting net price — reach out to Financial Aid with questions about your award.
What accepted-student events does Gettysburg offer?
Admitted students are invited to on-campus accepted-student events each spring, plus virtual programming, to meet faculty, current students, and fellow admits before deciding.
When is the enrollment deposit due, and how much is it?
Gettysburg follows the Candidate's Reply Date — admitted students have until May 1 to submit their $500 enrollment deposit through the accepted student portal.
How do I submit my enrollment deposit?
Pay online through your accepted student portal via the candidate reply form (Visa, Mastercard, Discover accepted), or call the Admissions Office at 717-337-6100.
Can I request specific housing or a roommate preference?
Yes — after depositing, incoming first-years complete housing preference forms through the First-Year Dashboard, sent in May.
When is New Student Orientation and move-in?
Orientation runs a multi-day welcome week in mid-to-late August; move-in for first-years is scheduled the week before fall classes begin. Exact dates are sent each spring.
What do I need to do before I arrive on campus?
Watch your email and the First-Year Dashboard (login sent in May) for pre-registration, health forms, and housing/dining setup steps.
What are the housing and meal plan requirements for first-years?
All full-time students live in College housing (unless commuting from home); first-years are placed in one of five first-year halls and are required to have the USA Meal Plan.
When is tuition payment due for the fall semester?
Fall semester tuition and fees are due by August 1 each year, ahead of the start of classes.
Who do I contact if my plans change after I've deposited?
Reach out to your admissions counselor or the Admissions Office directly — we're glad to help work through questions before the semester starts.
I've deposited but I'm having second thoughts — what should I do?
Talk to your admissions counselor before making any final decision — we can connect you with current students, faculty, or financial aid to address specific concerns.
What summer opportunities are available before I start as a first-year?
Incoming students can connect with Gettysburg through summer social media groups, regional send-off events, and pre-arrival programming highlighted on the accepted student portal.
Transfer Students
Does Gettysburg accept transfer students?
Yes. Transfer applicants are reviewed individually, and credit transfer is evaluated course-by-course once an official college transcript is received.
If I've applied to Gettysburg before and want to apply as a transfer student, what do I need to do?
If you have previously applied to Gettysburg College and would like to apply as a transfer student, you will need to submit a new application through the Transfer Common Application.
Will my prior credits transfer?
Transfer credits are granted provisionally for individual courses passed with a ‘C-’ or better at approved institutions, provided that these courses fit reasonably well into the Gettysburg curriculum. During the first semester, transfer students must review the graduation requirements with their academic advisor or the Registrar. Transfers are required to earn all additional credit at Gettysburg College or through a regular College-approved program of off-campus study. In order to complete the transfer of course credits, half of the degree requirements (16 units) must be completed at Gettysburg College. All transfer students must satisfy the course requirements in their major area of interest.
What advising programs are available to transfer students?
Each transfer student is assigned a faculty advisor who assists with academic questions, explains College policies, and helps set academic goals. Once you choose a major, you may select an advisor in the major area of study. In addition to your advisor and Gettysburg’s accessible professors, a number of personnel trained to counsel students regarding academic and personal matters are available to you through the Center for Student Success, academic advising office, college life office, residence life office, counseling services, health center, center for career development, and the intercultural resource center.
What financial assistance is available for transfer students?
Transfer students with a demonstrated financial need will be considered for financial assistance. We ask that you file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile by November 1 for spring admission and by April 15 for fall admission. Contact the Financial Aid Office for more detailed information.
Is there a special orientation program for transfer students?
Transfer orientation occurs before both the fall and the spring semesters and includes activities with other transfer students, meetings with your advisor, and sessions with your orientation leader. A variety of administrative offices play a cooperative role in making your transition to Gettysburg College a successful one.
I am an international student interested in transferring to Gettysburg. What do I need to do?
Gettysburg College welcomes transfer applications from international students. The dates and deadlines for admission are the same for international students, however you will need to submit the following additional documents:
- English language proficiency testing: Gettysburg College requires international applicants to submit English proficiency testing if English has not been the language of instruction in the classroom for at least two years, or if English is not the first language.
Gettysburg accepts the following English proficiency tests. While Gettysburg does not have a minimum score to apply, the minimum scores of competitive applicants are indicated below.
- TOEFL: 90
- IELTS: 7.0
- Duolingo English Test: 120
The institutional code for Gettysburg College is 2275 (for TOEFL and IELTS only). Official scores should be sent from the respective testing agencies or a school official. We do not super score English proficiency tests.
- International Student Financial Statement: All international applicants–regardless of their interest in being considered for financial assistance–must submit the International Student Financial Statement, available in the applicant portal, by the application deadline.
- Financial Aid Application for International Students: International applicants who wish to be considered for financial assistance are required to submit the Financial Aid Application for International Students by the application deadline.
- Interviews: While interviews are not required, Gettysburg College does value the opportunity to learn more about you, beyond your application. Interviews are offered virtually, on campus, and in select locations around the globe. It is strongly recommended that international students whose first language is not English complete an interview.
- Passport information: United States law now requires international students to have a passport in order to issue a Form I-20 for your student visa application. Applicants to Gettysburg College are welcome–but not required–to submit passport information. Please note, however, that we will request passport information from all enrolled students in order to issue the Form I-20.
What housing options are available for transfer students?
Transfer students are guaranteed on-campus housing, an important aspect of helping you to have a successful transition into our community. More than 95% of students at Gettysburg live in college-owned dorms, apartments, and houses.
How many courses must I complete at Gettysburg in order to receive a degree from Gettysburg College?
A full-time course load at Gettysburg College consists of 8 courses per year, with four courses in one semester and four in the other. A minimum of 16 courses must be taken at Gettysburg College or through a regular College-approved program of off-campus study.
Will AP or IB exam scores be considered as transfer credits?
All entering students who submit a score of ‘4’ or ‘5’ on Advanced Placement (AP) tests may receive one course credit for each tested area towards the 32-course graduation requirement. The College awards one course credit in each subject area for Higher Level International Baccalaureate (IB) examination scores of ‘5’ or higher. Credit for a Higher Level score of ‘4’ will be given at the discretion of the department. Official AP or IB exam score reports must be submitted in order to be considered for course credit.
International Students
What do international applicants need to submit?
International first-year applicants follow the same Common App process as domestic students, plus TOEFL/English proficiency (if applicable) and, after enrolling, visa/I-20 documentation.
I am an international student interested in transferring to Gettysburg. What do I need to do?
Gettysburg College welcomes transfer applications from international students. The dates and deadlines for admission are the same for international students, however you will need to submit the following additional documents:
- English language proficiency testing: Gettysburg College requires international applicants to submit English proficiency testing if English has not been the language of instruction in the classroom for at least two years, or if English is not the first language.
Gettysburg accepts the following English proficiency tests. While Gettysburg does not have a minimum score to apply, the minimum scores of competitive applicants are indicated below.
- TOEFL: 90
- IELTS: 7.0
- Duolingo English Test: 120
The institutional code for Gettysburg College is 2275 (for TOEFL and IELTS only). Official scores should be sent from the respective testing agencies or a school official. We do not super score English proficiency tests.
- International Student Financial Statement: All international applicants–regardless of their interest in being considered for financial assistance–must submit the International Student Financial Statement, available in the applicant portal, by the application deadline.
- Financial Aid Application for International Students: International applicants who wish to be considered for financial assistance are required to submit the Financial Aid Application for International Students by the application deadline.
- Interviews: While interviews are not required, Gettysburg College does value the opportunity to learn more about you, beyond your application. Interviews are offered virtually, on campus, and in select locations around the globe. It is strongly recommended that international students whose first language is not English complete an interview.
- Passport information: United States law now requires international students to have a passport in order to issue a Form I-20 for your student visa application. Applicants to Gettysburg College are welcome–but not required–to submit passport information. Please note, however, that we will request passport information from all enrolled students in order to issue the Form I-20.
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