First-year applicants
Apply with the Common Application (including the UMass questions), official high school transcripts for grades 9-11 or secondary school exams, a letter of recommendation and the USD 85 fee, which cannot be waived. Review is holistic.
Test-optional
SAT and ACT scores are optional for first-year applicants.
English proficiency
Non-native speakers need IELTS Academic 6.5 (no band below 6.0), TOEFL 80 with no section below 20 (4.5 on the new scale), Duolingo 115 or Cambridge English 176. Scores must be under two years old and are not superscored.
English-medium schooling
Four full years at a high school teaching mainly in English with a British or American curriculum may waive the test, at the Director's discretion.
Arts and architecture majors
Applicants to architecture, art, dance and music should apply early to allow time for a portfolio review or audition.
Guidance only: meeting a requirement does not guarantee an offer, and each course sets its own grades and English level. Checked October 2026.