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Your Journey Starts Here

First-time college student? We’re excited to welcome you. Learn freshman admission requirements, how to apply, what to submit, and explore student life as a future Bearkat.
Student making a Bearkat paw and smiling with Sammy.

Freshman Students

We offer automatic admission for students who meet one of the following criteria

  • GPA

    3.0+ Unweighted GPA (test scores not required)

  • Class Rank

    Top 10% of your graduating class

  • GPA / Test Score Combo

    2.5–2.99 GPA + 22 ACT or 1110 SAT

    2.25–2.49 GPA + 25 ACT or 1210 SAT

  • Dual Credits

    2.5 GPA and completion of 12+ college hours through dual credit coursework

Application Checklist

Send electronically using code 003606 
(No fax transcripts accepted)

  • SAT (code 6643) or ACT (code 4162)
  • Or mail to:
    Sam Houston State University
    Undergraduate Admissions Office
    Box 2418
    Huntsville, TX 77341-2418

Rise to Greater With Us

At SHSU, your college experience goes way beyond the books. From day one, you’ll find your people, your passion, and your place. Whether you’re into Friday night football, outdoor adventures, or campus concerts, there's something here just for you.

Trista Alvarado
Trista Alvarado is a first-generation Bearkat making bold strides toward her dream of helping others. In this Rise to Greater story, Trista shares how her upbringing, community, and time at SHSU have shaped her passion for social work. As a student driven by purpose and compassion, she’s committed to creating real change for families and children across Texas.

Know Your Deadlines

Don't miss your chance to become a part of the Bearkat community, apply before the deadlines below to start your journey at SHSU.

Fall                 Spring                 Summer

August 1                    December 15                          May 15

Support For Every Path

Worried about finances? Need accommodations?
Your journey is unique. We’re here to support you.

FAQs

  • ApplyTexas Application
    • Beginning Freshman
    • Former/Returning Student
    • Transfer Student
    • Graduate Student
    • International Student
  • Common App
    • Beginning Freshmen
  • TMDSAS Application
    • Osteopathic Medical Student
  • SamPoly Application
    • Students seeking polytechnic certificates and applied associate degrees.

Admission requirements for each student type are available here.

Yes, you can still apply! We’ll review your application holistically and may request a personal statement.

After submitting your online application through ApplyTexas or Common App, you will need to pay the $50 non-refundable fee and submit your official high school transcript and/or college transcripts.

If you are not accepted, consider reaching out to the admissions office or an admissions counselor for feedback on your application and exploring alternative options.

Admission requirements for each student type are available on the admissions home page here.

Our top three majors are Criminal Justice, Education, and Business. Additionally, we offer over 90 undergraduate degrees to help you find your perfect academic fit.

SHSU is home to over 21,000 Bearkats and spans 316 acres. At SHSU, you deserve a college education that aligns with your ambitions. No matter which degree path you choose, you'll gain hands-on experience in your field of study, equipping you for a successful future.

  • SHSU prospective students may find the Annual Security Report & Fire Safety Report on the University Police Department’s website.
  • The report contains information regarding crime statistics, a review of procedures and policies regarding campus safety, where more in-depth policies and procedures can be found, and fire statistics for SHSU.
  • Prior years' reports or current report hard copies can be requested from the University Police Department by calling 936-294-1065.

Still Have Questions?

Contact Us

Undergraduate Programs

Email: admissions@shsu.edu
Phone: 936.294.1828