DEGREE-SEEKING ADMISSION
Philosophy
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology seeks to admit students from a variety of backgrounds. Many factors are considered in the review of applicant files. The student’s motivation and interest in science or technology and academic potential, which is generally assessed by the courses completed and grades earned in secondary and/or post-secondary school, are the key elements in considering the applicant for acceptance.
Admission Process
There is no application deadline. A high school student is encouraged to apply during the fall or early spring of the senior year in high school. An adult learner is encouraged to apply at least two months prior to the start of any semester. This application process allows ample time to be accepted, develop an academic schedule, and to process financial aid applications (if applicable).
Admission Requirements
Each applicant’s candidacy is evaluated once all admissions materials have been received. Offers of admission are made to qualified candidates on a rolling basis. The undergraduate admission process requires the applicant to:
- complete the application online at www.HarrisburgU.edu/Apply or via the Common App; or using a paper application;
- submit an official high school transcript or equivalent* (required of applicants transferring less than 30 semester hours; encouraged of applicants transferring more than 30 semester hours). A student who has successfully completed the General Educational Development (GED) test may submit an official copy of the scores in lieu of the high school transcript. Documentation of successful completion of high school must be received prior to the end of the first semester of enrollment;
- submit official college transcript(s), if applicable, for any and all college, university or career/trade schools attended (whether or not academic credit was earned); and,
- to respond to all portions of the application process honestly and accurately.
- High school students applying for admission to the University should have a minimum high school grade point average of 2.75 or higher while transfer students should have a minimum college grade point average of 2.00 or higher.
- All transfer applicants are required to submit HU’s Disciplinary Check Form to all previous institutions upon acceptance to HU. Evidence of academic dishonesty or misconduct may result in a request for more information, an interview or required statement, or the withdrawal of acceptance to HU.
- When the applicant’s native language is not English or the applicant has not completed prior education in English, they must submit scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or Duolingo English Test when the applicant’s native language is not English. Please see the HU website at https://www.harrisburgu.edu/admissions/international-admissions/ for a list of countries with English as their primary language and may be exempt from providing an English Proficiency exam. For specific score requirements, see TOEFL and IELTS sections at the end of this chapter.
- See programs for additional admission requirements, if any.
Optional materials:
- a personal essay or goal statement;
- be interviewed - preferably in person during a campus visit or by telephone/virtual meeting;
- submit results of standardized test scores from the SAT or ACT (optional, but recommended for those in high school); and,
- submit a letter of recommendation (preferably from someone who can attest to the student’s work ethic, motivation and strengths, or from a teacher in a subject area tied to the student’s academic field of interest).
*A copy of the official high school transcript must show the date when the diploma was awarded. To be considered official, the transcript must be provided to Harrisburg University from the high school (e.g., in a sealed envelope, through the Common Application, or by email directly from the high school). Home-schooled students will be required to provide a transcript from their local school district or a transcript certified by a parent. If Admissions determines that a diploma, GED, or high school transcript may have been tampered with or is otherwise invalid, Admissions will contact the high school to validate the document and confirm the graduation date.
Required Placement Testing
In order to give the student the best opportunity for success, completion of the University’s placement testing program is required of all new undergraduate students - degree-seeking, nondegree-seeking or dual enrollment, regardless of full-time or part-time status. Placement tests are not an entrance examination. The tests measure skills in English, mathematics, and reading.
At the sole discretion of the University, a student who has demonstrated satisfactory achievement via college transcripts or the equivalent is exempt from the placement tests. A non-native speaker of English must substitute the completion of the English placement test with the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Please see the HU website at https://www.harrisburgu.edu/admissions/international-admissions/ for a list of countries with English as their primary language and may be exempt from providing an English Proficiency exam.
NON-DEGREE ADMISSION
Philosophy
The University offers various non-degree programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, in the form of individual courses, a specialized series of courses, certificates, and advanced studies. Semester hours earned become part of the student’s academic record and can be applied to a degree as defined by the appropriate policy and program requirements.
The University also offers professional development experiences in the form of certificate options, workshops, and seminars, which can be taken on a non-credit or audit basis.
In some cases, courses may have prerequisites that must be met prior to registration.
Non-Degree Admission Process
There is no application deadline. An applicant is encouraged to apply at least two months prior to the start of a session or course to allow ample time to develop a finalized course registration. Each applicant’s candidacy is evaluated once all admissions materials have been received.
The undergraduate non-degree admission process requires the applicant to:
- complete the non-degree application online at www.HarrisburgU.edu/Apply; and
- when the applicant’s native language is not English or the applicant has not completed prior education in English, they must submit scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or Duolingo English Test Please see the HU website at https://www.harrisburgu.edu/admissions/international-admissions/ for a list of countries with English as their primary language and may be exempt from providing an English Proficiency exam. For specific score requirements, see TOEFL and IELTS sections at the end of this chapter.
If required by a specific advanced study or non-degree program, submit official college transcript(s) for any college, university, or career/trade schools attended (whether or not academic credit was earned). Some non-degree programs may require evidence of completion of an associate or bachelor’s degree program. A candidate who has not yet earned at least an associate degree may be asked to take and successfully pass the required placement tests.
Non-Degree Policies
A student may enroll in up to 21 semester hours under the non-degree status when taking individual courses. Beyond 21 semester hours, a student must apply for full degree status. Non-degree admission does not guarantee admission into a degree-seeking program.
A non-degree student must maintain a 2.00 grade point average to continue from semester to semester.
DUAL ENROLLMENT ADMISSION
A student may enroll in courses at the University to earn college credit while still in high school. This program provides the student with an opportunity to be introduced to the college environment, explore majors, and get a head start on a bachelor’s degree.
The University has a Secondary Schools Team to serve all prospective student applicants. The Dual Enrollment Program at the University offers diversified options for students to engage in college courses while they are in high school. Depending on the secondary school partnerships, students will have access to college courses at either of the University Campuses, which is a traditional On Campus Dual Enrollment Program, on-site at their high school through the College in the High School Program (CiHS).
Upon completion and submission of a dual enrollment application, the student will receive notification of receipt. Additional information regarding the courses available for registration will follow soon thereafter. Any questions regarding registration can be directed to the Dual Enrollment and Special Programs Coordinator at Records and Registration.
A dual-enrolled student may enroll in as many courses as the sending district approves; however, students are limited to 11 semester hours per semester or 23 semester hours in a year may be taken at a time. An applicant desiring to enroll full-time, 12 or more semester hours, must apply under the Early College Program policy.
A Parent Consent Form must be signed by the student and a parent or guardian, which provides various required releases protecting the University’s interests.
Dual Enrollment Requirements
Students must submit a current transcript for review when applying. The transcript will be reviewed to ensure the minimum GPA of 2.75 has been met and if necessary, the school counselor will be contacted. To give the student, the best opportunity for success, completion of the University’s placement testing program may be required for all on-campus dual enrollment. Placement tests are not an entrance examination. The tests measure skills in English, mathematics, and reading. This will allow for the placement in the appropriate course as well as serve as prerequisite for many courses.
For students attending dual enrollment courses at either of the University locations or online, students must follow all policies and procedures as outlined in the Undergraduate Catalog, including the University schedule, laptop requirements, textbooks, Campus ID Card, etc.
All applications must be completed online by going to Dual Enrollment and clicking Apply Now at harrisburgu.edu/dual-enrollment/.
Traditional On-Campus - Dual Enrollment Courses (at Harrisburg and/or Philadelphia Locations)
Courses in the on-campus Dual Enrollment program are offered at both the Harrisburg and Philadelphia University locations, as well as some select online courses. These courses follow the university semester schedule of 14 weeks in the Fall, Spring and Summer. When participating in the on campus dual enrollment program the high school student will attend classes taught by university faculty in the university setting, including the online teaching environment.
The applicant is encouraged to apply during the available application period and coordinate the application with the appropriate high school personnel (often the School Counselor) prior to high school course selection period for the appropriate semester.
Traditional Online - Dual Enrollment Courses
The University offers opportunities for students to take dual enrollment courses via online with a University instructor. All policies for taking courses at the University Campus apply when taking courses online.
All applications must be completed online by going to Dual Enrollment, harrisburgu.edu/dual-enrollment/, and clicking Apply Now.
The applicant is encouraged to apply as soon as possible and coordinate the application with the appropriate high school personnel (often the Guidance Office) prior to high school course selection for the appropriate semester.
An applicant wishing to enroll full-time, 12 or more semester hours, must apply under the Early College Program policy.
College in the High School - Dual Enrollment
The College in the High School Dual Enrollment Program is based on a formal agreement with the University and the participating School District that ensures the approved instructor and course align to the rigor and standards of the university level credit bearing course. Upon University approval, students enrolled in the College In the High School Dual Enrollment course at their high school with the approved CiHS Corporate Faculty are eligible to register for the University course.
The application deadline for the College in the High School Dual Enrollment is based on a high school schedule. Students will register for college credit with Harrisburg University once the school year has started and approval is granted by the CiHS Corporate Instructor. All current information will be provided to the participating School District by the Secondary Schools Team.
EARLY COLLEGE PROGRAM (ECP)
A high school student who wishes to attend college on a full-time basis prior to receiving a high school diploma must be admitted under the Early College Program policy. The applicant must show strong academic preparation and personal maturity as exhibited by the high school transcript, placement test scores, and a personal interview to qualify for the Early College Program.
Any questions regarding the Early College Program can be directed to the Director of Secondary School Services.
Early College Program Requirements
The Early College Program admission process requires the applicant to:
- complete the early college program application;
- provide documentation as requested by the University for eligibility to the Early College Program;
- submit an official high school transcript showing a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.30 on a 4.00 scale;
- successfully complete the placement examination administered by the University;
- submit written approval from the school district or diploma program describing the remaining courses required for high school graduation; and
- schedule an interview for admission.
Early College Program Policies
Participation in the Early College Program is contingent upon the results of the placement test and the availability of the course(s) in which the applicant plans to enroll.
Early College Program students are eligible for merit-based scholarships only. Students that have attained 6 college credits prior to applying for the ECP are eligible for additional financial aid. If they have not acquired college credits, they may take the Ability to Benefit Test to determine their status for financial aid. Please contact the Director of Secondary School Services or the Director of Financial Aid for additional information about financial aid.
Students must maintain at least 12 semester hours per semester to remain in the Early College Program.
Early College Program students must review and adhere to all other undergraduate policies and procedures; therefore, you must review the Undergraduate Catalog as a part of your enrollment in the Program.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
An international student planning to attend the University on a student (F-1) visa must satisfy the appropriate undergraduate admissions requirements and procedures, demonstrate proficiency in the English language, and provide an affidavit of financial support (bank statement of $39,006 USD or affidavit of support if applicable; applicants with dependents and children must show additional financial support of $5,000 for the first dependent, and $2,500 for each additional dependent).
Academic records should include courses studied, grades earned, diplomas, certificates, and results of comprehensive national examinations. International students must request an evaluation of their international transcripts through the World Education Services (WES), Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE), or AACRAO’s Electronic Database for Global Education (EDGE) to determine authenticity and degree equivalency.
A demonstration of English language proficiency is required of any student who is not a United States citizen. Acceptable demonstrations would include one of the following:
- completion of a college degree program from a regionally accredited United States institution of higher education;
- 4 years of attendance in a United States secondary education system;
- earned a score of 4.0 or higher on the Analytical Writing section of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE);
- earned a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 80 or higher on the web-based version, 200 on the computer version, or 550 on the paper version;
- earned an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.5 or higher;
- earned an overall score of 105 or higher on the Duolingo English Test; or
- earned a score of 59 or higher on the Pearson Test of English (PTE).
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology is authorized under Federal law to enroll nonimmigrant alien students.
This approval allows an international student to apply for entry into the United States for study on an F-1 visa only after financial documents are deemed sufficient by the University. A tuition deposit payment of at least $1,000 toward the first semester’s tuition is required by HU before an I-20 will be issued. The SEVIS I-901 fee of $350 is then paid by the student directly to SEVIS prior to attending a Consulate visit for the F-1 visa.
Following entry into the United States and arrival at the University, the student will be required to provide HU with a copy of the passport, F-1 visa, the I-20, and the I-94 arrival/departure record to confirm all identification information in SEVIS. An international student is obligated to notify HU should their status change during enrollment from F-1 to any other immigration status. HU will terminate a student’s SEVIS record for failure to remain eligible as required by the terms of the F-1 visa.
An international student does not qualify for Federal or State aid awards. Private education loans through participating lenders may be available, if eligible.
ADMISSION OF UNDOCUMENTED STUDENTS
Undocumented students* who meet HU’s academic qualifications are eligible for admission to HU. HU will maintain the confidentiality of student citizenship and immigration status, in accordance with the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). HU will not voluntarily share a student’s citizenship or immigration status unless compelled to do so by court order.
* International students admitted to HU from foreign countries must obtain a visa from the U.S. State Department before they can travel to this country. Accordingly, this policy statement relates exclusively to domestic students at HU who are entirely undocumented, who have been temporarily paroled under a Federal program or are in pending asylum status.
DISCIPLINARY APPLICATION QUESTIONS
Harrisburg University is committed to maintaining a healthy and safe learning environment. As part of supporting a safe campus, HU requires all applicants who have been convicted of a felony or have pending felony charges to provide a letter of explanation and official court documentation to the nature of the crime. The University must understand any conditions or probation or parole and any restrictions or obligations placed on the applicant before making an admissions decision. Applications will not be denied admission based solely on their disclosure of conviction.
Committee will review all pertinent information on applicants with felony convictions or pending felony charges. The Committee will make a recommendation on the applicant’s suitability for enrollment and conditions that might apply to that enrollment decision.
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