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How to Write the Indiana University Bloomington Essay 2023-2024

Located in Bloomington, Indiana, Indiana University Bloomington — often known as IU — is a large public research university with a reputation of being known as a “ Public Ivy .” Offering a more affordable, yet intensive education, IU is a popular choice among applicants who are looking for a rigorous environment. The school is consistently ranked in the top 100 national universities.

With programs such as the Kelley School of Business, the School of Education, and the School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering, IU provides students with a wide array of academic opportunity. Beyond coursework, however, the university also boasts an active social life, with a decent portion of its student body participating in Greek life.

IU’s supplemental essay is an important part of the college application process. There is no need to worry — CollegeVine has prepared the following guide to help you tackle this essay.

Indiana University Bloomington Supplemental Essay Prompt

Describe your academic and career plans and any special interests (e.g., undergraduate research, academic interests, leadership opportunities, etc.) that you are eager to pursue as an undergraduate at indiana university. if you encountered any unusual circumstances, challenges, or obstacles in completing your education, share those experiences and how you overcame them. (200-400 words).

This prompt is essentially a “ Why This Major ?” and “ Why This College? ” essay combined. Readers are looking to understand which of IU’s programs and opportunities you will take advantage of to further your career. First, discuss your academic and career interests and goals; second, explain how Indiana University specifically would help you reach these aspirations.

The first part of this essay should ideally answer the question: What do you want to be when you grow up? This part of the essay should present a cohesive picture of your passion in a specific academic field. Start off with a personal anecdote that showcases your interest in a single course of study or future career.

Keep this introduction concise, yet vivid, grasping the reader’s attention. For example, you could begin with a description of performing the oboe in a dark, packed auditorium on a bright stage at the state symphony, or the immense pride and relief you feel after distributing the school newspaper you and your staff worked on for countless hours.

Next, detail your accomplishments and experience in this field — remember to show more than tell. Provide evidence of your interest through your actions during a research project or an extracurricular activity. For example, instead of saying “I like both science and art,” illustrate the year you spent researching the brain’s ability to store memories through Dali’s paintings, and how this caused you to view the process of recollection as more of an art rather than a hard science, leading to your desire to study both neuroscience and art history. Not only does this show your interest in both fields, it also implies you are curious and innovative.

This paragraph is also a chance to portray your ability to grow and conquer challenges in your given field. So, rather than writing “I won state for Mock Trial,” describe the struggles you overcame and the growth you experienced in your role as president of your school’s mock trial team. By weaving narration throughout the paragraph, you will be able to portray a more authentic and unique story.

Lastly, connect your aspirations to IU. Specificity is key here. Avoid being vague and general with sweeping statements like “Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business is perfect for me” or “As a student at IU, I could study abroad.” Vague statements demonstrate a lack of interest and lack of effort. Research and learn about the qualities and programs that make Indiana University unique and special to your needs. What are unique programs or extracurriculars at Indiana University, and what will they teach you? What is a quality of IU that is important to you? Avoid generic responses that could apply to any other university.

If you want to be an investment banker through Kelley, describe the focused skillset you will gain from the school’s investment banking workshop, or the network you will create from the small classes and tight-knit community of the Kelley Business Honors Program. An aspiring global correspondent could describe the IU’s worldly approach towards learning and interning in London through the Media School’s “Summer in London” program.

Your primary goal is to connect your accomplishments and aspirations with the opportunities that await you at IU; however, avoid listing every possible activity you could participate in and stay focused.

• Start with a personal, vivid anecdote conveying your interest in a single field.
• Share a narrative of you overcoming an obstacle in this field; provide evidence of your experience in this interest.
• Describe the essence or quality of a program or activity at IU that would help you grow in this area.

Where to Get Your IU Essay Edited

Do you want feedback on your IU essay? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools.  Find the right advisor for you  to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Indiana University-Bloomington (IU) Supplemental Essay Guide: 2021-2022

Not sure how to write an Indiana University supplemental essay? CollegeAdvisor.com ’s guide to the Indiana University application essay will show you exactly how to write an engaging Indiana University supplemental essay and maximize your chances of admission. If you need help crafting your IU application essay, create your free account or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272 .

Indiana University Application Essay Guide Quick Facts:

• U.S. News considers Indiana University a more selective university.
• The IU acceptance rate is 80.4%.
• Indiana University is ranked #68 in the U.S. News list of National Universities.

Does Indiana University Require Essays?

Yes. In addition to the Personal Statement that you’ll write for the Common App or Coalition App , you’ll also complete one Indiana University supplement essay. Since there’s only one IU essay prompt, you should do everything you can to make sure your essay stands out. 

Need some help writing your Common App essay? Get great tips from our Common App essay guide .  

What is Indiana University’s Supplemental Essay?

There is only one school-specific IU essay prompt, which is required for all applicants. There are no additional IU supplemental essays for first-year applicants. Your Indiana University essay should be between 200 and 400 words. 

Indiana University application essays can cover a breadth of topics. Above all, the Indiana University application essay aims to help the admissions team get to know you. The IU essay prompt gives you the freedom to write about the topics that best illustrate who you are and how you will use an education from IU. Take advantage of the Indiana University application essay to maximize your admissions odds. 

How do I Write Indiana University’s Supplemental Essay: Question 1

Describe your academic and career plans and any special interest (for example, undergraduate research, academic interests, leadership opportunities, etc.) that you are eager to pursue as an undergraduate at Indiana University. Also, if you encountered any unusual circumstances, challenges, or obstacles in pursuit of your education, share those experiences and how you overcame them. This essay may be used in scholarship consideration. (400 word maximum)

This IU application essay is a combination of the classic “why college?” and “why major?” prompts. In 400 words, your Indiana University essay should clearly articulate your reasons for applying to Indiana University. It should also show your vision for your time as a Hoosier. 

The IU essay prompt also lets you discuss challenges that have impacted your education. Often, you can integrate these challenges into the narrative of your Indiana University essay since you overcame them in pursuit of your goals. Your IU application essay should focus on connecting your experiences to your future at Indiana University. 

When brainstorming for this IU essay prompt, ask yourself what you want to be when you grow up. Write down your dreams, goals, career interests, academic pursuits, and hobbies. When reading your IU supplemental essay, the admissions team should learn what is important to you and how you would spend your time on their campus.

An effective Why IU supplemental essay will think beyond the IU acceptance rate and Indiana University ranking. When answering this IU essay prompt, don’t just think about IU as a means to an end. Instead, think of this Indiana University application essay as a “why fit” essay. Your college experience is a two-way street; you will both contribute to and benefit from the IU community.

Tell a story

In your Indiana University application essay, try to tell a story. Your college essay shouldn’t read like a five-paragraph essay. To draw your reader in, try opening your IU supplemental essay with an anecdote. How can you immediately put the reader in your shoes? Establish an element of mystery? Dramatize your opening? Select a story that shows growth, curiosity, determination, or another positive trait that you’ll highlight in your Indiana University essay. 

In your IU application essay, make sure you include personal details. Whenever you make a claim about yourself in your Indiana University essay, provide examples to support it—show, don’t tell. If you write that you have an entrepreneurial spirit, back it up with a story from your life. If you include that you have a passion for mentoring others, provide a story from a time you mentored someone. IU does not expect that you will be involved in the same activities in college that you were in high school; still, your IU application essay should show the reader your character and skills. 

Be specific

As well as being personal, your Indiana University application essay should be specific. There are many great options for college, and you could succeed at many different schools. So, why do you want to attend IU? In your IU supplemental essay, strive to answer this question: How will the opportunities at IU make your goals a reality? There are countless majors and minors to choose from at Indiana University.  So, what will your educational path look like?

Do your research on reasons to attend IU. What specific classes, research opportunities, professors, clubs, and organizations will you take advantage of? When answering the IU essay prompt, clearly state how you would make the most of the specific opportunities you discuss. Don’t just name-drop professors. 

Writing a personal and specific Indiana University essay will help you stand out amidst thousands of other Indiana University application essays. Don’t write things in your Indiana University application essay that you could write about any other college. Conversely, avoid writing about topics that many students could also discuss in their Indiana University essays. 

Show don’t tell

Throughout your Indiana University essay, show instead of telling. This will help you convey the most interesting and effective story. When discussing a program that sparked your interest in your major when answering the IU essay prompt, paint the picture and help the reader understand your daily work. If you write about an extracurricular activity in your IU application essay, detail how it felt to accomplish something in that activity. Use vivid descriptions instead of just stating the facts.

When answering the IU essay prompt, make sure to clarify the stakes of your story. As you respond to the IU essay prompt, clarify why your interests matter. Why should the reader admit you? In your IU application essay, show the reader why accepting you would make IU a better place. Use your Indiana University application essay to highlight your potential!

Throughout your Indiana University application essay, use self-reflection to tell an authentic story. Discuss what matters to you and why. What values do you prioritize? Your IU supplement essay should emphasize your defining traits. 

In your Indiana University application essay, you should also avoid cliches. Don’t just name a program or extracurricular because it sounds impressive; authenticity will help your application the most. Also, avoid general statements about the school in your Indiana University essay as well as simple emotional appeals. Don’t just compliment the school—instead, discuss what you will bring to IU in your IU supplemental essay. 

Remember to discuss both your skills and IU’s offerings in your Indiana University application essay. College is a two-way street and “fit” is extremely important. So, use your IU supplemental essay to show how you would fit into the IU community.  

Indiana University Application Essay Draft Key Questions:

• Is your Indiana University supplemental essay both specific and personal?
• When discussing challenges, do you explain how you overcame them?
• Do you tell a cohesive and interesting story in your Indiana University essay?
• Did you proofread your IU application essay for grammar and clarity?

Additional Tips for Writing the Indiana University Application Essay

Be sure to leave yourself time to edit and revise your IU application essay! Indiana University admissions has two deadlines : Early Action on November 1, 2021, and Regular Decision on February 1, 2022. 

Before submitting your application, think about how every aspect of it will be perceived by the IU admissions team. Do you tell them as much as you can about who you are? Make sure that your IU supplemental essay paints a clear picture of your goals, motivations, and future plans. Your IU application essay should be consistent with the rest of your application; it should also add details to your profile that the reader doesn’t glean from the rest of your application. 

What is the Acceptance Rate for IU?

The IU acceptance rate is approximately 80%. However, the IU acceptance rate for the Kelley School of Business as a freshman is around 40%. The median GPA for applicants accepted to IU for the fall 2021 class was 3.91, while the median SAT and ACT scores were 1300 and 29, respectively. Read the full list of admissions requirements here . 

Don’t focus too much on the IU acceptance rate. Instead, spend your energy making your Indiana University application essay the best it can be. Since so many factors impact the IU acceptance rate, focus on the ones within your control. 

Want more tips on how to use the IU acceptance rate (and any other school’s rate) to build your school list? Check out our expert’s guides on acceptance rates and rankings . 

Indiana University Application Essay – Final Thoughts

In your IU essay, be unique and original but also genuine and honest. Instead of trying to predict what the admissions team wants to hear, focus on telling your personal story. Do your research on your future major so you can connect yourself with opportunities at IU. Be clear, concise, and specific in your responses to the Indiana University essay prompt; you only get one chance! There is no cookie-cutter IU student, so highlight what makes you stand out. Good luck!

This guide was written by Caroline Marapese , Notre Dame ’22. For more CollegeAdvisor.com resources on Indiana University, click here . Want help crafting your IU University supplemental essay? Create your account or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272.

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Indiana University Bloomington | Indiana

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Indiana University Bloomington | Indiana’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Why this college short response.

Describe your academic and career plans and any special interests (e.g., undergraduate research, academic interests, leadership opportunities, etc.) that you are eager to pursue as an undergraduate at Indiana University. If you encountered any unusual circumstances, challenges, or obstacles in completing your education, share those experiences and how you overcame them.

Common App Personal Essay

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

Indiana University Bloomington 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Guide

Early Action: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Feb 1

You Have: 

Indiana University Bloomington 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanation

The Requirements: 1 essay of 200-400 words.

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why

Describe your academic and career plans and any special interest (for example, undergraduate research, academic interests, leadership opportunities, etc.) that you are eager to pursue as an undergraduate at Indiana University. Also, if you encountered any unusual circumstances, challenges, or obstacles in pursuit of your education, share those experiences and how you overcame them. (200-400 words) This essay may be used in scholarship consideration.

This supplemental essay prompt packs a punch. It’s a why essay combined with an optional additional info essay. Read it carefully and be sure to include each part they’re requesting, if applicable. Start by writing about your area of study and why you chose it. What sort of career is possible after you graduate? Are there offerings at IU Bloomington that will prepare you for your dream job? Get familiar with the IU Bloomington website to make sure admissions knows you’ve done your homework. 

The second part of this prompt is an additional info essay — and it’s only necessary if you’ve experienced extenuating circumstances that need to be explained (prolonged absences, a drop in GPA, etc.). Remember, it’s not how you fell down, but how you got up that’s important, so don’t be afraid to talk about what happened and what you learned from the experience.

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Indiana University Undergraduate College Application Essays

These Indiana University college application essays were written by students accepted at Indiana University. All of our sample college essays include the question prompt and the year written. Please use these sample admission essays responsibly.

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College Application Essays accepted by Indiana University

Nine mile nicole e. dipaolo, indiana university.

As is the case with many twelve-year-old sixth graders, I used to be a little self-centered. I was in the middle of puberty, with hormones raging and jumbling my mind in all kinds of ways, and the fact that I was slightly socially awkward and seen...

Willow Tree Anonymous

June 4th 2006

The volunteers in the red shirts direct us to enter our corrals. It's race time. Twenty-three thousand of us cram into our assigned areas and stand shoulder-to-shoulder, no room to move. I know what lies in wait—fifty-four...

A Keyboard in my Crib Anonymous

(Note: This was for an undergraduate transfer application.)

My musical journey began innocently enough, in my infancy, with a toy keyboard placed in my crib as a diversion. Though I would not begin formal instruction on an instrument for several...

Finding Your Animal Totem Brad Boyle

"On Thursday," announced my religion teacher, "we will be going to the zoo to find our animal totems." For those that don’t know, an animal totem represents the Native American belief that each person has a connection to a specific animal. I was...

My Life Jordan Williams

“Jooooorrrrddddannnnn,” my mom screamed with utter fear and panic in her voice. Surprisingly, amongst all of the chaos, her voice was all that I heard. I’m not sure if I was disoriented, bewildered or just in complete shock but at that particular...

Home Away From Home Laith Nasfat Shehadeh

For many of my friends, summer break means swimming at the local pool and hanging out at our downtown movie theater. Yet for me, summer means traveling 6,000 miles to a completely different country, where I speak a completely different language...

Hook, Line and thinker. Dan Schwarz

To many, it may seem farfetched to associate the feeling of being perfectly content with a sport as salty as fishing, but not to me. The way the cork grip of a fishing rod gingerly held between my fingers instills the feeling of being so...

Fingerprints Paris Silverman

Taking my spot in the third seat, I face the coxswain as she commands our boat. As we push off the dock, adrenaline runs through my veins. As my stomach leaps into my throat, hands sweating, I tenuously maintain my grip on the oar. As the “new...

Dealing with Failure in the Floral Business Anonymous

It was an ideal day for a wedding. The sun was shining and was seventy degrees on top of one of downtown Cleveland’s taller rooftops. The airshow was to my right, and the entire span of the Cleveland skyline to my left. The wind died down as we...

From America with Russian Love Fiona Jenna Blumin

A vivacious and carefree four-year-old, I dropped my paintbrush, splattering globs of blue paint all over my t-shirt and classmates nearby. Immediately, my thin lips transformed into an enormous grin. My grandpa, or as we say in Russian, my ...

97% Allegra Mendonsa

97%. That is the survival rate for thyroid cancer. It’s the first thing I looked up after my diagnosis. I felt like something inside me shattered. I told myself I could live with that because, statistically speaking, I would be okay.

However, my...

A Tale of Two Teeth Anonymous

Sweat droplets streamed down my cheeks. It was an odd, balmy April day and my friend Grant and I had just finished an amiable game of street hockey when boredom began to claw at our minds. As the sun started to sink below the horizon, I focused my...

Costumes Emma Sapp

My love for wearing costumes developed as a child. Even today, I’d have to say, I still enjoy wearing them. As the president of the DECA chapter at my school, I get to dress up in pant suits and pearls, while role-playing as a CEO. While my...

Only Time Will Tell Anonymous

I’ll always remember that drive; there was a crisp summer breeze sailing in through my window and the taste of early-morning dew still hung in the air. My heart was beating so fast, I could hardly hear my favorite song, “Sweet Caroline”, blasting...

Beauty Anonymous

Anyone can find beauty in ordinary things: the ivory snow falling outside a foggy window on a January morning, the rainbow that appears after a thunderstorm, or the almost formulaic pink and orange hues of a sunset over the horizon. But these...

More Than a Reflection Morgan Jankowski

There are times when I gaze out of the windows of the South Shore Train and see nothing more than the softened edges of verdant forests and the blurred outlines of monotonous buildings. I watch as the clouds move, change shape, and reform yet...

Camper to Counselor Anonymous

I stood on the platform above Corey Lake at Camp Eberhart, goosebumps slowly forming as my teeth chattered from the cold wind’s touch on my bare skin. My eyes fixated on the dark blue hues and the ripples forming in the water below me. My hands...

Last Place...? Stacy Park

My choir director points at me, whispering, “You’re next.” Those daunting words make me falter back to my chair. As I wait for my turn, my hands start trembling with fear. I immediately slap my wrist hard enough for the choir director to turn...

The Edge Jillian Konikow

A six-year-old girl stands at the edge, unsure about the leap she must take. She is nervous; very aware of the challenge at hand and the expectations she must meet. In the next moment, she finds herself suspended in the air, entering the watery...

Uninvent Your Camera Anonymous

Photos freeze the world in place for just a moment. In the rapidly moving world, it’s refreshing to look at a photo, stop the earth’s spin, and live in the past for a few minutes. Photos are sentiments—souvenirs of a time and place that has...

Packet of Tissue Anonymous

“You are going to a boarding school in Singapore,” said my parents one day.

The decision to send me off to boarding school came as a surprise for my family’s acquaintances. It came as a shock to me --- especially since I did not even know what the...

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Beginning Freshmen

Start your journey as a freshman.

We’re so excited about your interest in Indiana University Indianapolis. As one of the nation's premier urban research universities, IU Indianapolis has everything you want in a college experience—an affordable, world-class education with countless opportunities to gain hands-on experience and get involved in Indy and surrounding communities.

We're here to help you navigate the entire application process, from preparing your application , to submitting your application , to knowing what to expect  after your application is submitted . 

Ready to apply?

We offer two ways to submit your application for admission: our Apply IU application and the Common Application. You only need to submit one, and we do not give preference to one application over the other.

The Apply IU application allows you to apply to IU Indianapolis, as well as other IU campuses with just one application.

The Common Application

The Common Application allows you to apply to IU Indianapolis, as well as 900+ other colleges and universities.

What we look for in applicants

At IU Indianapolis, we believe that no matter where you're from, there's nowhere you can't go. We take several things into account when determining your eligibility for admission, which includes reviewing academic factors and your personal experiences.

GPA expectations

No single GPA determines if you are admissible to IU Indianapolis. Instead, we take a holistic approach to your application, reviewing academic factors as well as your personal experiences and attributes as we consider what you can contribute to our community. 

The average freshman is admitted to IU Indianapolis with about a 3.5 cumulative GPA; however, many students are admitted with either higher or lower GPAs. In fact, the middle 50% of our applicant pool carry GPAs that range between 3.21 and 3.92, and for those who submit test scores, those tend to be between 990-1160 for the SAT and 21-27 for the ACT.

View our student profile for our most recent freshmen class

SAT or ACT scores and test-optional admission

Maybe you do great on standardized tests. Maybe they’re not your thing. We want to see the best of you, so we let you choose whether or not to include the SAT or ACT in your application. Admission consideration is the same either way — we give the same consideration to students who apply with or without their test scores.

If you decide for your admission to include your SAT and/or ACT scores, the average incoming freshman scores 1120 on the SAT and 22 on the ACT. IUPUI does super score, meaning we'll take the highest components from each time you take the exam and review your highest combined results.

When applying with your scores, we recommend having them sent to us directly from the agency. Our code for the SAT is 1325, and our code for the ACT is 1214.

High school or secondary school graduation

IU Indianapolis applicants are required to have graduated from high school or secondary school or have received comparable results from an equivalency exam.

US applicants

If you attend or have attended high school in Indiana, you are expected to earn a Core 40 diploma and are encouraged to earn a Core 40 with Academic Honors diploma. If you attend or have attended high school in another state, you are expected to complete a high school curriculum equivalent to Indiana’s Core 40.

International applicants

You'll need to graduate from an accredited secondary school or provide examination results that show an equivalent level of academic achievement, such as O levels or a general equivalency diploma (GED).

Homeschool or alternative school applicants

If you are homeschooled or attend an alternative school, regardless if you are a US or international applicant, you should submit credentials that demonstrate equivalent levels of achievement and ability.

How to apply for admission

The first step towards your admission to IU Indianapolis is to submit your application by our posted deadlines for the term you are applying . You can usually apply for admission as a beginning freshman as early as one year before your semester starts.

• The application for fall admissions is usually available on or around August 1
• The applications for spring and summer admission are usually available on or around February 1

When you're ready to apply, you'll want to make sure to follow the steps below to make sure you are submitting a complete application.

Review our programs and identify your intended major

With more than 100 undergraduate majors across 15 undergraduate degree-granting schools , chances are we have the major you are looking for at IU Indianapolis. And if you still aren't sure of your major, no problem. You can check out options in our 12 areas of academic interest , or apply as an exploratory student to find the right fit for you. 

Start and submit your application

You have two choices when you're ready to apply for beginning freshman admission to IU Indianapolis: the Apply IU application or the Common Application. Which one you use is completely up to you — we do not give preference or special consideration to one over the other. 

If you are planning to apply to more than one Indiana University campus, you can do this through the Apply IU application and pay only one application fee. The Common Application will allow you to apply to IU Indianapolis, as well as any of the other 900+ schools also using the application.

Do you have a fee waiver code? Fee waiver codes are only valid on the Apply IU application and will not work on the Common Application.

• Start the Apply IU Application
• Start the Common Application  

Pay the $65 application fee or request a waiver

When you submit your application, you must pay a $65 nonrefundable application fee. If you apply online, you can pay the fee with a credit card at the time you submit your application. 

We'll waive the application fee for students who demonstrate financial need. 

If you're an Indiana 21st Century Scholar, your application fee will automatically be waived by indicating this on your application. 

You can request a fee waiver by: 

• Submitting an ACT, College Board, or NACAC fee waiver request form through your high school counselor. 
• Having your high school counselor submit a request on school letterhead or from their official school email account. 

If you apply online and request a fee waiver, the form must arrive by the date you designate on your application. 

Send your high school transcripts (US applicants)

The quickest way for us to make a decision on your application is to have your high school send us your transcripts electronically through a delivery service like Parchment or Naviance.  

You can also have your high school send us a sealed official transcript through the mail. Transcripts should be mailed to:

Please note, we cannot accept PDFs of transcripts.

If applicable, send your SAT or ACT scores

If you are applying to IU Indianapolis through a test-inclusive review, you'll need to submit your SAT or ACT scores to complete your application. When you take either of these tests, you’ll be asked to choose the universities to which you want your scores sent. Use our school codes below to have your scores sent to IU Indianapolis directly from the testing agency:

• SAT code: 1325
• ACT code: 1214

Self-report SAT or ACT scores

You can also choose to apply with self-reported SAT or ACT scores; however, you will need to send official scores to us after you are admitted, and before you register for your summer orientation session. We recommend submitting official scores at the same time you commit to IU Indianapolis with your enrollment deposit.

Provide your self-reported test scores

Sending transcripts and scores as an international applicant

If you are applying for admission to IU Indianapolis as an international applicant on a non-immigrant visa, the process for you to submit your documents to IU Indianapolis International Admissions is different from students who reside in the US. 

Review what materials we need and how to submit them

Applicants who are US citizens, permanent residents, refugees, asylees, or undocumented immigrant with education outside the US

If you are a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, refugee, asylee, or undocumented immigrant who has completed secondary and/or postsecondary education outside the U.S., you will apply through the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. U.S. citizens who attend American, international, or U.S. Department of Defense schools that hold U.S. accreditation also apply through the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

To apply, you will follow the admission process for freshman applicants. After the Office of Undergraduate Admissions receives your application for admission, we will submit a request for   Educational Credentials Evaluators (ECE)   to review your credentials for any secondary and/or postsecondary education you completed outside the U.S. The Office of Undergraduate Admissions submits the evaluation request directly to ECE on your behalf and pays the evaluation fee—you do not have to make the request or pay the fee yourself.

You can view the required documents for your country of education on the ECE website. Use the dropdown menu in step 2 under   “5 Easy Steps to Apply”   to select your country of education. You do not have to complete any of the other steps in the checklist; the Office of Undergraduate Admissions will handle those for you.

We will send instructions for submitting the required documents to ECE to the email address you provided on your application for admission. All documents must be sent directly to ECE, not to IU Indianapolis. Documents submitted to IU Indianapolis will not be returned or forwarded to ECE. Documents must be received by ECE by the priority application deadline.

The Office of Undergraduate Admissions will make an admission decision after we have received notification that ECE has evaluated your credentials. We use ECE’s evaluation to determine your level of prior education and whether you qualify as a freshman, transfer, second degree, or nondegree student. We will accept only an evaluation that we request directly from ECE.

After your application is submitted

Once you have successfully submitted your application, all transcripts, and other documentation, you will receive an admissions decision in about 3 to 5 weeks for U.S. applicants and 6 to 8 weeks for international applicants. Your decision will be sent via email to the address you listed on your application. You can also complete the following steps as you are waiting for your decision.

Create your IU Indianapolis computing account

Approximately one week after you apply, you will be able to look up  your University ID number . You’ll use this ID number to create your IU Indianapolis computing account, which you’ll use to check the status of your application.

Please note that your IU Indianapolis computing account is different than the guest computing account you created when you applied online. The guest computing account was solely for the purpose of submitting your application online.

Setting up your account

Go to   One.IU , search for “create my first IU account” and select that task. You’ll then be able to create your username and passphrase, passphrase reset questions, and email address. 

Please note, it can take up to 24 hours for your account to fully activate.

Do you already have an account?

If you have previously created an account at IU Indianapolis or for another Indiana University campus, you do not need to create a new one. If needed, you can follow these steps to reset your passphrase . You can also contact the University Information Technology Services help desk at (317) 274-HELP for additional assistance. 

Checking the status of your application

After you’ve created your IU Indianapolis computing account, you’ll be able to check the status of your application in One.IU .

U.S. Applicants

To check your status, go to  Application Status  in  One.IU  and select "Start." Log in using your IU Indianapolis username and passphrase (not your guest account information) to see the status of your application. 

International Applicants

To check your status, go to Atlas in One.IU . Select "Login" if you have already created your IU Indianapolis computing account with a username and passphrase. If you have not yet created your IU Indianapolis computing account, you can go to "New Student/Scholar Login" near the bottom of the page, and log in using your PIN number sent to you via email. Atlas will be your hub for submitting requested documents and information.

Start exploring IU Indianapolis scholarships

IU Indianapolis offers a wide variety of scholarships to incoming students. These awards can be based on academic merit, as well as other activities, such as community service, an interest in particular disciplines, and more.

You usually won't be able to apply for institutional awards until you are officially admitted to IU Indianapolis; however, starting your search after your application is completed will give you a good head start on applying for them. 

Explore scholarship opportunities

Selecting a new major, intended start term, or other changes to your application

If you need to make a change to the application you have submitted, you can do so at any time that applications are being accepted for the term for which you have applied. To do so, you'll need to complete our update form , which will send your application to be re-reviewed with the new information. 

You can also withdraw your application  if you are no longer planning to enroll at IU Indianapolis. Please be aware that if canceled, your application can only be reactivated if the deadlines for the term you are applying have not passed.  

Information for students with prior behavioral or academic conduct

As part of IU Indianapolis' commitment to maintaining a safe campus community, you must disclose on your application prior conduct that resulted in legal or academic disciplinary measures.   

Types of prior conduct that need to be reported

• Have been subject to formal disciplinary action (including, but not limited to, suspension or expulsion) for academic or nonacademic reasons at any high school, postsecondary institution, college, or university.
• Have been charged or convicted of a crime (or a foreign legal equivalent) that has not been expunged by a court.
• Have any currently pending criminal charges (or a foreign legal equivalent) against you.
• Have engaged in any behavior that caused injury to any person(s) or property (including, but not limited to, vandalism or behavior that led to a restraining order against you) that resulted in some form of discipline or intervention.

Impacts of these prior conduct activities have on admissibility

You will not automatically be denied admission to IU Indianapolis if you have a previous conviction or disciplinary action, but your application must be reviewed by the Admissions Committee before an admission decision is made. It can take up to four to six weeks for the Admissions Committee to review applicants with disclosures.

How to disclose prior conduct and approving the release of your information to IU Indianapolis

If you meet the criteria above, you will need to provide IU Indianapolis with a detailed statement of your prior conduct and, if applicable, grant us consent to access any legal records associated with your disclosure.  

Learn more and disclose your information

Campus safety and security reports

The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report, containing policy statements, crime and fire statistics for all Indiana University campuses, is  available online . You may also request a physical copy by emailing IU Public Safety at  [email protected]  or by visiting IUPD.

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Office of Scholarships

• Future Scholars

Selective Scholarship Application

What is the selective scholarship application (ssa).

The Selective Scholarship Application (SSA) is an invitation-only application utilized by a number of departments across the Indiana University Bloomington campus. upon submitting their SSA. To be considered for invitation to the SSA, the student must submit their complete application for admission by the November 1st Early Action deadline.

Upon submitting their SSA, the student's application will be reviewed for select departmental scholarship opportunities by the department that invited the student. Listed below are the participating departments on the Bloomington campus:

• College of Arts + Sciences
• Eskenazi School of Art, Architecture + Design
• Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies
• Kelley School of Business
• Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering Scholarship Programs
• O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs
• The Media School

FAQs about the Selective Scholarship Application (SSA)

We know the process of submitting multiple applications at one time can get confusing, so we have gathered some common questions and with answers to help you navigate the SSA from start to finish. 

What is the SSA?

The Selective Scholarship Application is an invitation-only application shared by a number of schools and programs at Indiana University Bloomington to award selective scholarship opportunities to incoming students. Incoming students must have a complete application for admission on file by November 1st in order to be considered for an invitation to complete the SSA. 

How do I access and submit the SSA?

How to access and complete your SSA:

• Create your IU computing account . You will need your 10-digit university ID number provided in your admission email to create this account. Please note that it may take up to 24 hours to activate your account. Do not log in using your guest account.
• Complete the General (Scholarship) Application in the IU Scholarships task in One.IU. The General Application is used to determine eligibility for many scholarships at IU.. It includes a series of questions and one essay, which should take 60–90 minutes to complete. Log in using your IU computing account (IU credentials), then fill out the application and click "Finish and Submit." Please ensure that you answer all questions thoroughly.
• Complete the Selective Scholarship Application in the IU Scholarships task.  Once you have submitted the General Application, you should select "IU Bloomington SSA", fill out the application, then click "Finish and Submit." You must submit the General Application before you can complete your SSA.

Do I need to have my IU computing account before submitting the SSA?

Yes. To access both the General Scholarship Application and SSA, you must first create your IU computing account . 

Please note that you must also submit your General Scholarship Application before you will be able to access and submit your IU Bloomington SSA in the IU Scholarships task in One.IU .

Do I have to be admitted before being considered for SSA eligibility?

Yes. You must be admitted to Indiana University Bloomington before you will be considered for eligibility to apply for scholarships through the SSA. We do not provide SSA materials to students who have not yet been assigned the SSA.

What is the deadline for submitting the SSA?

The Selective Scholarship Application (SSA) has a submission deadline of February 1st at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. This is a hard deadline, so late submissions will not be accepted. 

Who will review my SSA?

If you are selected by a participating school and/or program, you will receive an official invitation to submit the SSA from the Office of Scholarships. The school and/or program you have been invited by and that will be reviewing your application will be listed in this invitation.

How do I upload my file(s) to my SSA?

To submit files to your SSA, you must follow these instructions: 

• Your file must be in either a .pdf or .docx form.
• Commas, apostrophes, and non-alphanumeric characters outside of a-z, A-Z, and 0-9

If your files's name contains any prohibited characters, or it is not in an accepted form, your document will be rejected for uploading. Once you have ensured that your file meets the requirements above, you will be able to upload your file and submit your application.

Can I use the same essay used in my admission application for my SSA essay?

Can i receive invitation to the ssa if i apply test-optional.

Yes. Many of the schools and programs utilizing the SSA plan to offer potential direct admission and scholarship opportunities to students who apply test-optional. For any additional questions or information on SSA invitation and/or selection criteria, students should contact the participating department directly.

I was not invited to the SSA, but my test scores have improved. Can SSA invitation be reconsidered?

All students who meet the November 1 early action (non-binding) deadline will continue to be assessed for additional SSA opportunities based on updated test scores through January 15, at which time all SSA eligibility review stops to ensure adequate time for SSA completion.

Will my SSA be updated with my new higher test scores that I submitted to the Office of Admissions?

Your SSA will contain the most recent admission application information we have on file for you. If you submit updated test scores, your SSA will be updated to reflect the new scores. Once you submit your SSA, your application will continue to update with new test scores; however, we cannot guarantee that the reviewing department will consider any information that is updated after you submit your SSA.

Who do I contact for technical support?

For questions or technical issues related to the SSA, please email the Office of Scholarships at  [email protected] . P lease include your full name, University ID, and a brief description of what technical issue you are experiencing.

*Your 10-digit University ID number can be found in your Admission notification letter and begins with 000 or 200.

Want to be invited to complete the SSA? Students must submit their complete application for admission to IU Bloomington no later than November 1st to be considered for invitation.

Description of the video:

[Upbeat music plays]

[Video: The iconic IU Sample Gates are shown, with landscaped beds or red and white flowers in front. People walk both towards campus and away from the Sample Gates. The IU trident appears over the top of the video image]

[Words appear: What is the Selective Scholarship Application (SSA)?]

[Video: Cut to aerial footage of the IU Fine Arts Plaza with Showalter Fountain shown at center and the IU Auditorium in the background. Students are grouped around the area attending an outdoor event]

Voiceover: The Selective Scholarship Application, or SSA,

[Video: The screen turns white, then red as the video Zooms out to show an image of a laptop computer. The letters SSA appear with a typing indicator on the laptop screen]

Voiceover: is a straightforward application that is used to determine scholarship awards

[Video: The laptop moves to the left. An arrow appears pointing from the laptop to an image of a money sign in a circle over a diploma before disappearing]

Voiceover: offered by specific schools and academic programs at IU.

[Video: The images zoom backwards and disappear. An outline of 3 people’s heads and shoulder appears on the red screen. The IU trident appears on their shirts.]

[Words appear: Admitted students]

Voiceover: Admitted students who meet certain qualifications are invited to complete the SSA.

[Video: The images and words blur and disappear.]

[Words appear: 3 steps]

The SSA doesn't take long to complete in three simple steps.

[Words disappear]

[Words appear: 1 Create your IU computing account]

Voiceover: 1: Create your IU computing account in One.IU.

[Video: The words slide up and a screenshot of the One.IU task “Create My First IU Account” appears below. Cascading white and red bars wipe diagonally from up left to down right. The words and icon disappear. The screen turns red.]

[Words appear: 2 Complete the General Application]

Voiceover: 2: Complete the general application in the IU Scholarships task in One.IU.

[Video: The words slide up and a screenshot of the One.IU task “IU Scholarships: Blackbaud Award Management” appears below.]

Voiceover: Bonus: The general application is also used to find other IU scholarships you might be eligible for.

[Video: Cascading white and red bars wipe diagonally up from down left to up right. The words and icon disappear. The screen turns read]

[Words appear: 3 Submit the IU Bloomington SSA Essay. The words slide up and the laptop computer image appears below. The letters SSA and a typing indicator appear on the laptop screen]

Voiceover: 3: Submit the IU Bloomington SSA essay in the IU Scholarships task in One.IU.

[Video: Cascading circles appear in white and red. The words and icon disappear. The screen turns red. An image of a checklist on a clipboard appears]

Voiceover: Some scholarships require additional materials.

[Vide: A hand holding a pen appears on screen and the video zooms in slightly on the checklist]

Voiceover: Be sure to check your invitation to see if you need to submit anything else.

[Video: White and red bars wipe across screen from right to left. The screen turns red. A white outline of an analog clock appears. The hour and minute hands swipe around the clock]

Voiceover: And that's it.

[Video: The clock blurs and disappears. An image of a dollar sign in a circle behind a diploma appears. White sparkles appear intermittently around it]

Voiceover: It only takes a little time to complete, and then you will be considered for IU scholarships.

[Video: The dollar sign and diploma fly off screen to the right. A calendar icon and clock outline fly on screen from the left and land at center]

Voiceover: The deadline for the SSA is February 1st,

[Words appear: February 1]

Voiceover: but you should complete it as early as possible.

[Video: The words and icon blur and disappear.]

[Words appear: Learn more at scholarships dot Indiana dot e d u]

Voiceover: Learn more about the SSA and other scholarship opportunities on the IU Office of Scholarships website.

[Video: The words break up into letters. Each letter changes size and moves in a different direction before disappearing. The IU trident appears on a white tab at the top of the screen]

[Words appear: Office of Scholarships scholarships dot Indiana dot e d u]

[End of video]

[End of transcript]

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Writing Tutorial Services

Personal statements & application letters, personal statements and application letters.

The process of applying for jobs, internships, and graduate/professional programs often requires a personal statement or application letter. This type of writing asks writers to outline their strengths confidently and concisely, which can be challenging.

Though the requirements differ from application to application, the purpose of this type of writing is to represent your goals, experiences and qualifications in the best possible light, and to demonstrate your writing ability. Your personal statement or application letter introduces you to your potential employer or program director, so it is essential that you allow yourself enough time to craft a polished piece of writing.

1) PREPARE YOUR MATERIALS

Before you sit down to write, do some preparation in order to avoid frustration during the actual writing process. Obtain copies of documents such as transcripts, resumes and the application form itself; keeping them in front of you will make your job of writing much easier. Make a list of important information, in particular names and exact titles of former employers and supervisors, titles of jobs you have held, companies you have worked for, dates of appropriate work or volunteer experiences, the duties involved etc. In this way, you will be able to refer to these materials while writing in order to include as much specific detail as possible.

2) WRITE A FIRST DRAFT

After you have collected and reviewed these materials, it is time to start writing. The following is a list of concerns that writers should keep in mind when writing a personal statement/application letter.

Answer the Question: A major problem for all writers can be the issue of actually answering the question being asked. For example, an application might want you to discuss the reason you are applying to a particular program or company. If you spend your entire essay or letter detailing your qualifications with no mention of what attracted you to the company or department, your statement will probably not be successful. To avoid this problem, read the question or assignment carefully both as you prepare and again just prior to writing. Keep the question in front of you as you write, and refer to it often. Consider The "I" Problem: This is a personal statement; using the first person pronoun "I" is acceptable. Writers often feel rather self-conscious about using first person excessively, either because they are modest or because they have learned to avoid first and second person ("you") in any type of formal writing. Yet in this type of writing using first person is essential because it makes your prose more lively. Using third person can result in a vague and overly wordy essay. While starting every sentence with "I" is not advisable, remember that you and your experiences are the subject of the essay. Avoid Unnecessary Duplication: Sometimes a writer has a tendency to repeat information in his or her personal statement that is already included in other parts of the application packet (resume, transcript, application form, etc.). For example, it is not necessary to mention your exact GPA or specific grades and course titles in your personal statement or application letter. It is more efficient and more effective to simply mention academic progress briefly ("I was on the Dean's List"; or "I have taken numerous courses in the field of nutrition") and then move on to discuss appropriate work or volunteer experiences in more detail. Make Your Statement Distinctive: Many writers want to make their personal statements unique or distinctive in some way as a means of distinguishing their application from the many others received by the company or program. One way to do this is to include at least one detailed example or anecdote that is specific to your own experience—perhaps a description of an important family member or personal moment that influenced your decision to pursue a particular career or degree. This strategy makes your statement distinctive and memorable. Keep It Brief: Usually, personal statements are limited to 250–500 words or one typed page, so write concisely while still being detailed. Making sure that each paragraph is tightly focused on a single idea (one paragraph on the strengths of the program, one on your research experience, one on your extracurricular activities, etc.) helps keep the essay from becoming too long. Also, spending a little time working on word choice by utilizing a dictionary and a thesaurus and by including adjectives should result in less repetition and more precise writing.

Personal Statement Format

As mentioned before, the requirements for personal statements differ, but generally a personal statement includes certain information and can follow this format (see following model).

Introduction Many personal statements begin with a catchy opening, often the distinctive personal example mentioned earlier, as a way of gaining the reader’s attention. From there you can connect the example to the actual program/position for which you are applying. Mention the specific name of the program or company, as well as the title of the position or degree you are seeking, in the first paragraph. Detailed Supporting Paragraphs Subsequent paragraphs should address any specific questions from the application, which might deal with the strengths of the program/position, your own qualifications, your compatibility with the program/position, your long-term goals or some combination thereof. Each paragraph should be focused and should have a topic sentence that informs the reader of the paragraph’s emphasis. You need to remember, however, that the examples from your experience must be relevant and should support your argument about your qualifications. Conclusion Tie together the various issues that you have raised in the essay, and reiterate your interest in this specific program or position. You might also mention how this job or degree is a step towards a long-term goal in a closing paragraph. An application letter contains many of the same elements as a personal statement, but it is presented in a business letter format and can sometimes be even shorter and more specific than a personal statement. An application letter may not contain the catchy opening of the personal statement but instead includes detailed information about the program or position and how you found out about it. Your application letter usually refers to your resume at some point. Another difference between a personal statement and an application letter is in the conclusion, which in an application letter asks for an interview.

3) REVISING THE PERSONAL STATEMENT/APPLICATION LETTER

Because this piece of writing is designed to either get you an interview or a place in a graduate school program, it is vital that you allow yourself enough time to revise your piece of writing thoroughly. This revision needs to occur on both the content level (did you address the question? is there enough detail?) and the sentence level (is the writing clear? are the mechanics and punctuation correct?). While tools such as spell-checks and grammar-checks are helpful during revision, they should not be used exclusively; you should read over your draft yourself and/or have others do so.

As a child I often accompanied my father to his small coin shop and spent hours watching him work. When I was older, I sometimes set up displays, waited on customers, and even balanced the books. This experience instilled in me the desire to own and manage my own business someday, yet I understand that the business world today is more complex. This complexity requires more education, and with that in mind, I am applying to the Master's of Business Administration program at Indiana University Bloomington (IUB). In addition to my helping out in my father’s business, I have had numerous other work experiences that further enhance my qualifications for this program. My resume enumerates the various positions I have held at Kerasotes Theaters, Chili's restaurants, and Indiana University's new Student Recreational Sports Center (SRSC), and what all of these positions have in common is an emphasis on serving the public effectively. Further, as an assistant manager at the Showplace 11 and a staff coordinator at the SRSC, I have gained valuable expertise in managing employees and creating work schedules. Both of these positions have allowed me to develop my sales and people skills, which are extremely important in an increasingly service-driven marketplace. Not all of my work experience has been as a paid employee. Part of my volunteering experience at Middleway House, the local battered women's shelter, involved extensive work on computers, including word processing, organizing databases and creating spreadsheets. Also, I recently participated in an internship program for academic credit with the Eli Lilly corporation in the personnel division. As a management intern, I was able to watch the workings of a major corporation up close and would like the opportunity to combine my experiences with the theoretical background available in the MBA program at IUB, with its emphasis on computers, marketing and human resources. My successful internship is one element of my overall academic success as an undergraduate here at IUB, yet I have also made time for a variety of extracurricular activities, including working for my sorority and competing in intramural basketball. My positive experiences here have resulted in my desire to stay in Bloomington to continue my academic endeavors; furthermore, continuing my education here would allow me to make important business contacts, with the career goal of opening my own computer consulting firm in the Midwest.

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The College of Arts & Sciences

• Department of Theatre, Drama, and Contemporary Dance
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• Musical Theatre

How to Audition & Apply

Learn how to apply & audition, audition dates for the 23/24 season.

Sunday, November 12, 2023 Saturday, January 13, 2024 Saturday, February 3, 2024 Saturday, February 10, 2024

All students are admitted into the B.F.A. in Musical Theatre by a prescreen audition and an in person audition. Entrance into the program is contingent upon acceptance into Indiana University. Application for admittance into Indiana University is separate from the audition process. If you plan to apply/audition for our program, and you wish to be considered for financial assistance of any kind, you MUST apply to the university by NOVEMBER 1, 2023 .

Students applying to the B.F.A. program should submit an application to the Indiana University Admissions Office concurrently with their application to the B.F.A. Program in Musical Theatre. While acceptance into the B.F.A. ultimately depends on university admission, auditions may occur while the applicant's admission status is still pending.

When prompted to declare a major for the General Admissions application, please enter Musical Theatre from the list of majors. 

If you plan to pursue a major in voice through the Jacobs School of Music, but have a strong interest in musical theatre, you might consider pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Music and an Outside Field (B.S.O.F.) degree.

Learn about the B.S.O.F.

Three steps to the audition & application process

To be invited to an audition day, you must first submit a prescreen audition through acceptd.com .

Please open an Acceptd account and apply following the instructions on acceptd.com . Your application will include a headshot and resume, high school transcript, an essay, and the prescreen videos.

Prescreen Submission Criteria

Indiana University Musical Theatre is a participant in the 2023-2024 Musical Theatre Common Prescreen

Each piece should be filmed/uploaded as a separate piece of media. No continuous videos. Students are encouraged to use standard technology/recording devices that are available to them (i.e. smartphones, tablets, etc).

There should not be a separate introduction or “slate” video. Instead, “slates” are to appear at the beginning of each piece and included as part of the time allotment.

The proper slate for a song is to state  your name , the song title , and show in which it appears.

The proper slate for a monologue is to state your name , the title of the play , and the playwright .

Students should prepare two contrasting pieces.

• One song should be a ballad and one song should be an uptempo
• Each song file should be 60-90 seconds (This time limit includes the slate at the beginning of the piece and is strictly adhered to; please do not upload media files longer than 90 seconds)
• Songs should be filmed in a 3/4 shot, which means the top of the head to the knees should be visible in the frame.
• One song should be written prior to 1970. This song can be either the uptempo or the ballad (student’s choice).
• One song should be written after 1970 and contrast in style from the first.

Please use Option A from the 2022-2023 Musical Theatre Common Prescreen .

The monologue must be from a published play. It cannot be from a musical, television show, or movie.

• Monologue must be contemporary (written after 1950) 60-90 seconds in length (this time limit includes the slate at the beginning of the piece and is strictly adhered to; please do not upload media files longer than 90 seconds)
• Monologue should be filmed in a “close-up” shot, which means the top of the head to the chest should be visible in the frame.

Dance Video

• All dance media should be filmed in a “full body” shot taking care to keep the student’s entire body in the frame at all times.
• Applicants do not need to slate in any dance media.
• Regardless of which style of dance you execute, the choreography and the movement should be story-driven and connected to the music with a sense of purpose.

Dance Option

• 30-60 seconds of dance in whatever dance discipline you feel most confident. This may include, but is not limited to jazz, ballet, tap, modern, cultural dance styles, hip hop, lyrical, or contemporary.
• Please do not submit “barre work.” 
• Please use steps, movement, and physical vocabulary that you are familiar with and can execute well.
• Dance media can be self-choreographed, but must be a solo video of you. This can include a show, competition, or other performance so long as you are clearly featured on your own.
• All choreography must be performed to music; please no “a cappella” dance media.

Wild Card Video

Submissions should be no more than 60 seconds.

This media can be anything you like: a special skill, an interesting story about yourself, a passion speech, an instrument that you play, etc. “What would you like us to know about you?” and “What makes you unique?”.

Essay Question (*this is in addition to the university admissions essay)

Please answer the following questions in a one-page essay:

What work of literature, piece of art, real-life event or person, or movie do you think would make a good original musical, and what might this new musical have to say? What role might you see yourself playing in this production?

For this essay, please observe the following guidelines:

• The essay must be a minimum of one page, double-spaced
• an existing musical (nor may any soundtrack music be used in the “new musical” version)
• an animated movie featuring any songs that forward the story (Disney, etc.)
• Be creative!

You must complete your General Admissions application to Indiana University. In order to be considered for merit scholarships, you should submit your application by November 1 .

Early application is helpful in the audition process.

You can direct questions to Scott Hogsed, Musical Theatre B.F.A. Liaison ([email protected])

It is our intention to hold in-person auditions during the 2023-2024 season.

Audition Dates for 2023-2024 :

The audition day is both morning and afternoon. Upon the passing of the prescreen audition, specific audition times will be sent via an audition invitation. 

Audition day activities:

• Check in will take place at 8:30 a.m. in the lobb y  of the Lee Norvelle Theatre and Drama Center.
• Dance class (1 hour)
• Acting class (1 hour)
• 7-minute individual audition
• Meeting with Professors
• Discussion of program requirements and opportunities
• Reconnect with students following individual auditions

Prospective students will begin the day with a dance workshop. This is an opportunity to demonstrate proficiency and potential. Please wear comfortable stretch clothing. There will be opportunity to change for the afternoon auditions.

An acting class will follow, in which basic ensemble work and improvisation will be explored. After lunch, individual auditions will commence.

Please prepare two contrasting songs 60-90 seconds each. Material should be chosen that best demonstrates vocal and acting ability. Treat the song as a monologue with a strong sense of character, wants, and desires. To whom are you singing, why and what do you hope to achieve?

Your music should be clearly marked and in the correct key for our accompanist. We prefer you sing with a piano. CD, cassette tape, or a cappella is not allowed.

Please bring your sheet music to the audition in a looseleaf binder with your chosen songs easily accessible.

You are free to leave after your individual audition.

Contact our Musical Theatre B.F.A. liaison

You can direct questions to Scott Hogsed, Musical Theatre B.F.A. Liaison, [email protected] .

Application Fee and Financial Aid Information

Visit IU's FAQ page to learn more about University application fee waivers. 

For more information about Financial Aid, visit IU's Student Central.

November 1:  To be considered for IU Academic Scholarships, you must submit a complete  application for admission  by the early action (non-binding) deadline of November 1. Electronically submitted materials must be received by November 1, and hard copy materials must be postmarked on or before November 1.  More dates to know. 

The IU Theatre & Dance B.F.A. Musical Theatre Program does not charge an additional fee for students to audition. We use the platform Acceptd to process submissions.  Click here for more information about Acceptd fee waivers.

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Freshman requirements

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Personal insight questions

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• You will have 8 questions to choose from. You must respond to only 4 of the 8 questions.
• Each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words.
• Which questions you choose to answer is entirely up to you. However, you should select questions that are most relevant to your experience and that best reflect your individual circumstances.

Keep in mind

• All questions are equal. All are given equal consideration in the application review process, which means there is no advantage or disadvantage to choosing certain questions over others.
• There is no right or wrong way to answer these questions. It’s about getting to know your personality, background, interests and achievements in your own unique voice.  
• Use the additional comments field if there are issues you'd like to address that you didn't have the opportunity to discuss elsewhere on the application. This shouldn't be an essay, but rather a place to note unusual circumstances or anything that might be unclear in other parts of the application. You may use the additional comments field to note extraordinary circumstances related to COVID-19, if necessary. 

Questions & guidance

Remember, the personal insight questions are just that—personal. Which means you should use our guidance for each question just as a suggestion in case you need help. The important thing is expressing who you are, what matters to you and what you want to share with UC. 

1. Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time. Things to consider: A leadership role can mean more than just a title. It can mean being a mentor to others, acting as the person in charge of a specific task, or taking the lead role in organizing an event or project. Think about what you accomplished and what you learned from the experience. What were your responsibilities?

Did you lead a team? How did your experience change your perspective on leading others? Did you help to resolve an important dispute at your school, church, in your community or an organization? And your leadership role doesn't necessarily have to be limited to school activities. For example, do you help out or take care of your family? 2. Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side. Things to consider: What does creativity mean to you? Do you have a creative skill that is important to you? What have you been able to do with that skill? If you used creativity to solve a problem, what was your solution? What are the steps you took to solve the problem?

How does your creativity influence your decisions inside or outside the classroom? Does your creativity relate to your major or a future career? 3. What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time? Things to consider: If there is a talent or skill that you're proud of, this is the time to share it.You don't necessarily have to be recognized or have received awards for your talent (although if you did and you want to talk about it, feel free to do so). Why is this talent or skill meaningful to you?

Does the talent come naturally or have you worked hard to develop this skill or talent? Does your talent or skill allow you opportunities in or outside the classroom? If so, what are they and how do they fit into your schedule? 4. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced. Things to consider: An educational opportunity can be anything that has added value to your educational experience and better prepared you for college. For example, participation in an honors or academic enrichment program, or enrollment in an academy that's geared toward an occupation or a major, or taking advanced courses that interest you; just to name a few.

If you choose to write about educational barriers you've faced, how did you overcome or strive to overcome them? What personal characteristics or skills did you call on to overcome this challenge? How did overcoming this barrier help shape who you are today? 5. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement? Things to consider: A challenge could be personal, or something you have faced in your community or school. Why was the challenge significant to you? This is a good opportunity to talk about any obstacles you've faced and what you've learned from the experience. Did you have support from someone else or did you handle it alone?

If you're currently working your way through a challenge, what are you doing now, and does that affect different aspects of your life? For example, ask yourself, How has my life changed at home, at my school, with my friends or with my family? 6. Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom. Things to consider:  Many students have a passion for one specific academic subject area, something that they just can't get enough of. If that applies to you, what have you done to further that interest? Discuss how your interest in the subject developed and describe any experience you have had inside and outside the classroom such as volunteer work, internships, employment, summer programs, participation in student organizations and/or clubs and what you have gained from your involvement.

Has your interest in the subject influenced you in choosing a major and/or future career? Have you been able to pursue coursework at a higher level in this subject (honors, AP, IB, college or university work)? Are you inspired to pursue this subject further at UC, and how might you do that?

7. What have you done to make your school or your community a better place? Things to consider: Think of community as a term that can encompass a group, team or a place like your high school, hometown or home. You can define community as you see fit, just make sure you talk about your role in that community. Was there a problem that you wanted to fix in your community?

Why were you inspired to act? What did you learn from your effort? How did your actions benefit others, the wider community or both? Did you work alone or with others to initiate change in your community? 8. Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California? Things to consider:  If there's anything you want us to know about you but didn't find a question or place in the application to tell us, now's your chance. What have you not shared with us that will highlight a skill, talent, challenge or opportunity that you think will help us know you better?

From your point of view, what do you feel makes you an excellent choice for UC? Don't be afraid to brag a little.

Writing tips

Start early..

Give yourself plenty of time for preparation, careful composition and revisions.

Write persuasively.

Making a list of accomplishments, activities, awards or work will lessen the impact of your words. Expand on a topic by using specific, concrete examples to support the points you want to make.

Use “I” statements.

Talk about yourself so that we can get to know your personality, talents, accomplishments and potential for success on a UC campus. Use “I” and “my” statements in your responses.

Proofread and edit.

Although you will not be evaluated on grammar, spelling or sentence structure, you should proofread your work and make sure your writing is clear. Grammatical and spelling errors can be distracting to the reader and get in the way of what you’re trying to communicate.

Solicit feedback.

Your answers should reflect your own ideas and be written by you alone, but others — family, teachers and friends can offer valuable suggestions. Ask advice of whomever you like, but do not plagiarize from sources in print or online and do not use anyone's words, published or unpublished, but your own.

Copy and paste.

Once you are satisfied with your answers, save them in plain text (ASCII) and paste them into the space provided in the application. Proofread once more to make sure no odd characters or line breaks have appeared.

This is one of many pieces of information we consider in reviewing your application. Your responses can only add value to the application. An admission decision will not be based on this section alone.

Need more help?

Download our worksheets:

• English [PDF]
• Spanish [PDF]

Undergraduate Admissions

Application Essays

Below are essay prompts for the 2024-2025 Common Application. First-time college students (future freshmen) will use the Common Application to  apply to Purdue .  

When applying to Purdue you should use the Common Application.

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Purdue's own  Online Writing Lab  offers advice on  writing essays for college applications .

The Common Application Freshman Essay Prompts 

Required minimum-maximum word count: 250-650

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design. 

Purdue Questions 

Respond in 250 words or fewer.

• How will opportunities at Purdue support your interests, both in and out of the classroom?
• Briefly discuss your reasons for pursuing the major you have selected.

Cornell Office of Undergraduate Admissions

Search cornell admissions, cornell first-year writing supplement prompts.

In the online Common Application Writing Supplement, please respond to both the Cornell University essay question and the essay prompt that corresponds to the undergraduate college or school to which you are applying.  

Cornell University Essay Question

In the aftermath of the U.S. Civil War, Ezra Cornell wrote, "I would found an institution where any person can find instruction in any study." For over 150 years, Cornell University has remained deeply committed to Ezra’s vision. Explain how your life experiences will help inform your contributions to a learning community devoted to “... any person … any study.” We encourage you to think broadly about your life experiences, including how local (e.g., family, school, neighborhood) or global communities you’ve been part of have helped shape your perspective. (350 word limit)

College- and School-Specific Essay Questions

College of agriculture and life sciences.

Required: Why are you drawn to studying the major you have selected? Please discuss how your interests and related experiences have influenced your choice. How will an education from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at Cornell University specifically serve to support your learning, growth, and the pursuit of your goals? (650-word limit)  

Instructions: The optional short-answer questions invite you to share additional information about your background, interests, and experiences as they relate to aspects of the Cornell CALS mission. The content of any responses submitted will be included in the holistic review of your application (which is also the case for any optional additional information submitted as part of your Common Application or uploaded through your Cornell Application Portal once you've applied).

Optional: At Cornell CALS, we aim to leave the world better than we found it, so we seek out those who are not simply driven to master their discipline, but who are also passionate about doing so to serve the public good. Please elaborate on an experience where you had a meaningful impact on people, a community, and/or an environment of importance to you. (200-word limit)

Optional: Cornell CALS is dedicated to purpose-driven study of the agricultural, life, environmental, and social sciences and welcomes students with interests that span a wide variety of disciplines. Given our agricultural history and commitment to educating the next generation of agriculturalists, please share if you have a background or interest in agriculture, regardless of your intended major. An "agricultural entity" for the purpose of this question is defined as cultivating soil, growing crops, and raising livestock (e.g., farm, ranch, greenhouse, vineyard, etc.). 

Select all that apply:

• A primary source of income for my parent/guardian(s) comes from ownership of or employment by an agricultural entity.
• My extended family owns or operates an agricultural entity.
• I have experience working in an agricultural entity.
• I have interest in pursuing a career in an agricultural entity.                                           

Please feel free to share additional details (optional). (100-word limit)

College of Architecture, Art, and Planning

How do your interests directly connect with your intended major at the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning (AAP)? Why architecture (B.Arch), art (BFA), or urban and regional studies (URS)? B. Arch applicants, please provide an example of how a creative project or passion sparks your motivation to pursue a 5-year professional degree program. BFA applicants may want to to consider how they could integrate a range of interests and available resources at Cornell into a coherent art practice. URS students may want to emphasize their enthusiasm and depth of interest in the study of urban and regional issues. (650 word limit)

College of Arts & Sciences

At the College of Arts and Sciences, curiosity will be your guide. Discuss how your passion for learning is shaping your academic journey, and what areas of study or majors excite you and why. Your response should convey how your interests align with the College, and how you would take advantage of the opportunities and curriculum in Arts and Sciences. (650 word limit)

Cornell Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy

Why are you drawn to studying public policy? Drawing on your experiences, tell us about why you are interested in your chosen major and how attending the Brooks School will help you achieve your life goals. (650 word limit)

Cornell SC Johnson College of Business

What kind of a business student are you? Using your personal, academic, or volunteer/work experiences, describe the topics or issues that you care about and why they are important to you. Your response should convey how your interests align with the school to which you are applying within the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business (Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management or the Peter and Stephanie Nolan School of Hotel Administration). (650 word limit)

College of Engineering

Instructions: All applicants are required to write two supplemental essays. Each has a limit of 250 words. Essay 1 is required of all applicants. For Essay 2, you must choose between Question A and Question B.

Essay 1: Required response. (250-word limit)

How do your interests directly connect with Cornell Engineering? If you have an intended major, what draws you to that department at Cornell Engineering? If you are unsure what specific engineering field you would like to study, describe how your general interest in engineering most directly connects with Cornell Engineering. It may be helpful to concentrate on one or two things that you are most excited about.

Essay 2: Choose either Question A and Question B. (250-word limit)

Question A: Describe an engineering problem that impacts your local community. This could be your school, neighborhood, town, region, or a group you identify with. Describe one to three things you might do as an engineer to solve the problem.

Question B: Diversity in all forms is intrinsic to excellence in engineering. Engineering the best solutions to complex problems is often achieved by drawing from the diverse ingenuity of people from different backgrounds, lived experiences, and identities. How do you see yourself contributing to the diversity and/or the inclusion of the Cornell Engineering community? What is the unique voice you would bring to the Cornell Engineering community?

College of Human Ecology

How have your related experiences influenced your decision to apply to the College of Human Ecology (CHE)? How will your choice of major impact your goals and plans for the future? Your response should show us that your interests and aspirations align with CHE and your choice of major. (Refer to our essay application tips before you begin.) (650 word limit)

School of Industrial and Labor Relations

Using your personal, academic, or volunteer/work experiences, describe the topics or issues that you care about and why they are important to you. Your response should show us that your interests align with the ILR School. (650 word limit)

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What We Look For

we want to understand who you’ll be in our community.

Our students celebrate the exchange of perspectives, build on their experiences, and get inspired to try new things. As we review your application, we want to understand how you’ve thrived academically and contributed to your school environment, extracurricular activities, and community. Each part of the application gives us a sense of how your achievements and values align with Hopkins.

Find out more about our review process and what we look for in applicants, so you can craft your strongest application.

How We Review Your Application

We consider many different aspects of your experience, academic achievement, involvements, and personal qualities when deciding if you’re a match for Hopkins.

Your Hopkins Application: What We Consider

Academic character.

How you pursue your academics, contribute to the learning environment, and engage with your interests beyond the classroom. We typically find this in your transcripts, activities list, recommendations, and test scores (optional).

Impact & Initiative

The roles and impact you’ve had in clubs, organizations, jobs and internships, or within your own family and community. We typically find this in your activities list, recommendations, and essays.

Overall Match

Your values, goals, and how they align with the opportunities available at Hopkins. We typically find this in your supplemental essay, personal statement, and overall application.

Preparing for College as a High School Student

Check out our recommendations to make the most of your high school experience and start your journey toward higher education.

PREPARE FOR COLLEGE

Breaking Down Each Part of the Application

Our admissions counselors explain the role of each application section and how we review them in our video series.

WATCH OUR APPLICATION TIP VIDEOS

ESSAYS THAT WORKED

We share essays from previously admitted students—along with feedback from our admissions committee—so you can understand what made them effective and how to start crafting your own.

Sign Up for an Application Workshop

Our interactive application workshops—led by a member of our admissions committee—are designed to lead you through exercises so you can understand how to best tell your story in your application.

REGISTER FOR A WORKSHOP

Admissions Blog Insider

How to Stay Organized in the College Search

5 important questions to ask during your college visit, how to pick teachers for your letters of recommendation, don’t sweat the supp stuff: advice for crafting your supplemental essay, quick links:.

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Admissions , Full-Time MBA

13 June 2024

Essays and Deadlines Announced for 2024-25 Full-Time MBA Application

T he University of Virginia Darden School of Business is thrilled to announce the essays and deadlines for the 2024-25 Full-Time MBA application. While the full application is not yet available, we share these aspects early to give you the most time possible to prepare your submission.

Our admissions committee looks forward to reading your essays and the wonderful opportunity to learn more about you! We also look forward to interacting with you in the weeks and months ahead at one of our many virtual, on-grounds and off-grounds events. Additionally, we will be providing application tip webinars for each deadline to provide more guidance and encouraging tips as you navigate your applications. - Senior Assistant Dean of Admissions Dawna Clarke

APPLICATION DEADLINES

Prospective applicants are encouraged to apply during whichever round they can deliver the strongest application.   

• Early Action: Thursday, 5 September 2024  
• Round 1: Wednesday, 2 October 2024  
• Round 2: Tuesday, 7 January 2025  
• Round 3: Wednesday, 2 April 2025  

SHORT ANSWER ESSAY PROMPTS

The Admissions Team is excited to launch the 2024-25 application process with the release of our short answer questions and application deadlines. Our short answer essay questions are an opportunity for you to share various facets of your background and aspirations.

Community of Belonging   

What would you want your classmates to know about you that is not on your resume? (100 words)  

Inclusive Impact 

Please describe a tangible example that illuminates your experience promoting an inclusive environment and what you would bring to creating a welcoming, global community at Darden. (300 words)  

Careers with Purpose 

At this time how would you describe your short-term, post-MBA goal in terms of industry, function, geography, company size and/or mission , and how does it align with the the long-term vision you have for your career? (200 words)

VISIT CHARLOTTESVILLE

The best way to get to know Darden’s Full-Time MBA program is to visit us in Charlottesville! We have a full schedule of upcoming tours and coffee chats, where members of Darden Admissions will be happy to answer your application questions. View the event calendar here .  

We cannot wait to see the Class of 2027 take shape!  

Application Updates

The discover darden blog is the best way to receive future application news, related posts.

30 May 2024

Admissions , ExecMBA Application Tips , Executive MBA , Part-Time MBA

15 May 2024

Academics , Career , Darden Community , Full-Time MBA

10 May 2024

Admissions , Part-Time MBA

Academics , Admissions , Darden Community , Diversity, Equity and Inclusion , Executive MBA , Executive Student Profile

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Office of Admissions

Test Optional

About test-optional admissions.

IU Bloomington has a test-optional admissions policy, which allows students to choose at the point of application whether to have SAT and/or ACT test scores considered as part of their application review. Please see below for additional information and FAQs.

1. Why does IU Bloomington make standardized test scores optional?

The goal of test-optional admissions is to provide students who do not feel that their standardized test scores accurately reflect their academic potential the opportunity to choose to not have those test scores considered as part of the admissions review.

Research indicates that for many students, high school GPA paired with test scores provides the best prediction of academic success at Indiana University. However, for some students, a standardized test score may not be as predictive of their success or tell the full story of their potential.

SAT and/or ACT scores are not required for transfer students. However, transfer applicants may submit test scores if they would like to have them considered as a part of their admissions review.

2. How will IU Bloomington evaluate students who do not choose to have their test scores considered as part of their application?

You will be given full admission consideration in the absence of test scores. We will continue to look at all factors of your application, with the greatest emphasis placed on your grades earned in academic coursework; as well as performance in honors, dual-credit, International Baccalaureate, and Advanced Placement courses; your essay; extracurricular activities; and other achievements.

3. What is the deadline to apply as a test-optional student?

If you are a freshman applicant , you can decide whether to have your test scores considered as part of your admission review. See the timeline for admission below and learn more on our deadlines page.

If you are a transfer applicant , SAT and/or ACT scores are not required. However, transfer applicants may submit test scores if they would like to have them considered as a part of their admissions review. See the timeline for admission below and learn more on our deadlines page.

4. How do I choose whether or not to have my scores considered as part of my admissions review?

We evaluate each application holistically and individually and do not have a formula for whether or not you should choose to have your test scores considered.

The following table provides a summary of the high school records and test scores of students admitted for the fall 2023 cohort. See where your test score and GPA may fall in order to help you decide whether or not to apply test-optional. These ranges represent the middle 50 percent of admitted students meaning that 25 percent of admitted students had scores below this range and 25 percent of admitted students had scores above this range. For all applicants, the greatest emphasis will be placed on their performance in academic coursework, along with the other factors referenced in Question 2 above.

Please note : Only update your test-optional selection if you have already submitted your application and need to change your selection regarding whether or not you want to have your test scores considered as a part of your admission review. If you don't want to change the selection you made on your application, do not complete this form. If you use this form to update your selection to have your test scores considered and have not submitted test scores, you will also need to self-report or send your official scores .

5. Can I change my test-optional selection after I apply?

Yes, you can change your test-optional selection after you apply. To do so, please complete the following form.

Update your test-optional selection

Please note: We offer applicants the opportunity to update or change their test-optional selection. However, you should only update your test-optional selection if you have already submitted your application and need to change your selection regarding whether or not you want to have your test scores considered as a part of your admission review. If you don't want to change the selection you made on your application, do not complete the change your selection form. If you use this form to update your selection to have your test scores considered and have not submitted test scores, you will also need to self-report or send your official scores.

6. If I choose to have my test scores considered as part of my admissions review, how do I report my scores to IU?

If you are offered admission and have self-reported test scores in your application, you must have your official test scores sent from the testing agencies before you can enroll at IU. Your offer of admission and any awarded scholarships that referenced your self-reported scores are contingent on us receiving your official test scores. Additionally, the scores we receive from the official testing agencies must match or be higher than the scores you self-reported during the application process.

Please note:  Self-reporting your scores will  not change your selection  regarding whether or not you want to have your test scores considered as a part of your admission review. If you originally applied without test scores and would now like to have them considered, you will need to change your preference using the instructions under " Change your test-optional selection ."

Self-report your scores

7. Are there any students who must include test scores as part of their application?

Currently, all undergraduate students applying for the 2024-25 academic year are eligible to apply test-optional.

For future terms, some students may be required to provide SAT and/or ACT scores. Homeschooled students, students who have attended a school with non-traditional evaluation methods where traditional alpha or numerical grades are not assigned, and student-athletes subject to NCAA eligibility standards may be required to submit a standardized test score.

International students also have separate requirements for English language proficiency. Visit the Office of International Services website to learn more.

8. How do I let IU know that I am applying without test scores?

When you complete your application for admission, you will have the opportunity to select whether or not your test scores will be considered as a part of your admission review.

Please note: We offer applicants the opportunity to change their test-optional selection after they apply . If you have submitted your application and would like to change your test-optional selection, complete the form below. If you don't want to change the selection you made on your application, do not complete the form . If you use this form to update your selection to have your test scores considered, you will also need to self-report or send your official scores .

9. What if my scores have already been sent from a testing agency or included on my transcripts?

If you indicate on your application that you do not want your test scores considered on your application, your test scores will not be included as part of your admission review even if we receive scores from a testing agency or on your high school transcript.

10. If I apply without test scores, can I still be considered for merit-based scholarships?

Yes. IU Bloomington is committed to making scholarship opportunities available to students who qualify, whether they apply with or without test scores. Visit our Scholarships Test-Optional FAQ to learn more about the scholarship processes for students who choose not to have their test scores considered.

11. Will I be eligible to be considered for direct admission to my preferred school/College if I apply test-optional?

Yes. Each academic school/college offering direct admission for new students will consider test-optional students.

Since each school/college has different direct admission requirements, we encourage you to carefully review each of the academic unit's websites for more details.

• College of Arts + Sciences
• Eskenazi School of Art, Architecture + Design
• Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies
• Jacobs School of Music (Direct admission for the Jacobs School of Music is based upon a successful audition and/or interview.)
• Kelley School of Business
• Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering
• The Media School
• O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs
• School of Education
• School of Nursing
• School of Public Health-Bloomington
• School of Social Work

12. Who can I talk to about this process?

We invite you to reach out to your personal admission counselor , to contact the Office of Admissions at 812-855-0661 or [email protected] with any questions regarding the application process.

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