Admissions & Aid

Application Requirements

To ensure that your application is given the utmost consideration, we recommend that you apply no later than March 1 for fall enrollment and November 1 for spring enrollment. You are required to submit a completed application for admission and the required fee ($30 for all applicants). Salem State College will honor application fee waivers for students who meet the financial eligibility guidelines. Please select the following link to access our online application. If you do not have the access or ability to complete an application online, please email Admissions at admissions@salemstate.edu .

High school seniors:

The student must submit a completed online admissions application and the required fee ($30 for all applicants), an official transcript of the high school record through at least the first marking period of the senior year, and SAT and/or ACT scores.

High school seniors with a documented learning disability:

In lieu of test scores, the student may claim an SAT/ACT exemption if he or she is learning disabled. The student must submit an individualized education plan (IEP).

GED recipients:

GED scores will be considered for admission if the student's graduating class has been out of high school for at least three years. Additionally, the student must submit a resume or work history letter. An interview may also be required.

Adult learners:

The student must be graduated from high school three or more years. The student must supply proof of high school graduation and submit a resume or work history letter.  An interview may be required.

Permanent residents:
The student must submit the same required documents as high school seniors. The student must also submit a copy of the front and back of the resident alien card.

Art applicants:
The student must submit the same required documents as high school seniors.  The student must also submit to the Admissions Office 10 to 15 slides of original artwork or arrange for a personal interview with the Art Department. Slides should be placed in a clear plastic folder designed to hold slides. A self-addressed stamped envelope should also be enclosed for return of slides. For more information regarding the art portfolio, please contact the Art Department at 978.542.6222 or e-mail art@salemstate.edu. The student will not be considered for admission until the portfolio has been approved.

Music applicants:
The student must submit the same required documents as high school seniors. An audition is required. Please contact the Music department at 978.542.6296 to schedule an audition. The student will not be considered for admission until the audition has been approved.

Interviews:
An interview is not required of applicants as a formal part of the admissions evaluation process. However, for some applicants, an interview may be requested.