Freshman Profile

Admission to Towson University is competitive. If you're wondering how your application will stack up, it might help to know a little bit about what we look for.

2019 Freshman Class 

Applications: 12,999
Admitted: 9,675
Enrolled: 2,795
Average Weighted GPA: 3.68
Average SAT(EBRW, Math): 1140
Average ACT composite score: 23
In State: 82.93%
Out-of-State: 17.07%
Minority: 47.59%

What We Look For

Your academic record is the most influential factor in our decision making, but we seek students who are also well-rounded and involved outside of the classroom. The following six criteria are the components of our admission decision.

  1. Course Work
    Required high school courses: 4 years of English, 4 years of Math, 3 years of Lab Science, 3 years of Social Science, and 2 years of the same Foreign Language. Your cumulative weighted high school GPA is one of the most important aspects of your application. Based on each school’s GPA calculations and grading scale, some GPAs are recalculated to equally compare applicants.  Course rigor and improvement are also considered when reviewing a student’s high school transcript.
  2. SAT or ACT Scores
    TU is test-optional, meaning test scores are not required. If you do submit test scores, we super score both the SAT and ACT (best score in each section from any test date).  The Writing section is not required for the SAT or ACT exam. If you have taken the SAT or ACT and have a 1000 SAT or higher (19 ACT or higher), you are encouraged to still submit your scores. 
  3. College Essay
    The essay allows you to show us what makes you exceptional. We enjoy reading essays that present an honest and thoughtful picture of you.  The essay is a topic of your choice ranging from 300-800 words.  If you apply to the Honors College, you will need to complete the Honors specific essay only. 
  4. Submit your ZeeMee link (optional).  TU partners with ZeeMee, a free service that lets you easily add short videos and photos to your college application. Create your free profile and paste your link into your application.
  5. Letters of Recommendation (optional)
    A student with a strong letter of recommendation can have an advantage in the final stages of the admission process.  We will accept a maximum of 2 letters of recommendation.
  6. Extracurricular Activities list (optional)
    We look for well-rounded students who will enhance the university both inside and outside the classroom. An individual who participates in clubs, sports and activities in high school demonstrates that he or she is just this type of student. Choose clubs wisely and don't try to do too much — we want you to remain focused on your academics. If you choose to submit an activities list or resume, you may upload the document within the admissions application.