Admission - Frequently Asked Questions
Admission Process
Does Fairfield accept the Common Application?
Fairfield University uses the Common Application as its only application. A supplement to the Common Application is also required.
What are the application deadlines?
The application deadline for Early Action consideration is November 15, and for regular decision January 15.
Does Fairfield University offer an Early Action admission program?
Yes. Students who consider Fairfield University to be among their top choices for their undergraduate education and who would like to have their application reviewed early may submit their application under our Early Action program. Applicants for Early Action must submit a completed application by November 15.
How competitive is admission?
Fairfield University received 8,734 applications for undergraduate admission for the Class of 2012. Fifty-nine percent of those students were admitted to reach an incoming class of 938.
What are the criteria for admission?
A competitive applicant has a solid A-/B+ average in a strong college preparatory program which includes some honors and/or advanced placement classes. For the Class of 2012, the middle 50% of admitted students scored between 1140 (1740) and 1300 (1940) on the SAT, and between 26 and 29 on the ACT.
Test Optional Policy
Why did Fairfield adopt a test optional policy?
Fairfield University already uses a holistic review process in the evaluation of our prospective students, looking at all aspects of a student's record in making our admission assessment. This process reflects our educational mission as a Jesuit institution. We believe strongly in the education of the whole person and look for signs of academic and community engagement, factors not well measured by test scores.
Based on our research, we know that a student's academic record in high school - including the strength of curriculum and the student's performance in that curriculum - provides the best information about his/her potential success at Fairfield.
How will Fairfield evaluate applicants who do not send their scores?
Our application review process for students who do not submit scores and those who do submit scores will be very similar. We review all applications holistically. The most important aspect of any application is the student's academic record over four years in high school. We look carefully at the quality of the academic program the student has pursued, as well as their performance throughout high school. We also consider all of the subjective aspects of a student's application, including the personal statement, recommendations from teachers and counselors, and the student's interests and extra curricular activities.
Is the application process any different for students who choose not to submit their scores?
Students who have chosen not to submit their scores must indicate on the Fairfield University Supplement to the Common Application that they have chosen that option. In addition, students will be asked to respond to a question on the Common Application Supplement which reflects on Fairfield's mission as a Jesuit, Catholic institution. All students are encouraged to schedule an interview with us, but this is especially recommended for students who have chosen not to submit their scores.
How will I know whether to submit my scores?
Students should reflect on their standardized test scores and their overall academic performance in high school. If a student feels that the scores are an accurate reflection of his/her academic ability and potential and would like them to be considered by the admission committee, the scores should be included. If a student does not feel the scores accurately reflect his/her ability and potential, the scores do not need to be submitted.
Is there any disadvantage in not submitting test scores?
No. Students who do not submit their test scores will have the same opportunities for admission as those who do.
Are there any exceptions to this policy?
Yes. Students who have been homeschooled during high school are still required to submit their SAT or ACT results. International students whose English is not their native language must submit the results of the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language.)
When does this policy take effect?
This policy takes effect for first year students applying for the fall of 2010, and for transfer students applying for admission for the spring of 2010.
Can I be considered for a merit scholarship if I do not submit test scores?
Yes. All applicants, regardless of whether or not they have submitted SAT or ACT results, will be eligible for merit scholarship consideration.
Financial Aid Process
What Financial Aid forms are required?
Only students applying for need-based financial assistance are required to complete financial aid forms. Students are required to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and the CSS PROFILE form. Both forms must be completed between January 1 and February 15. Early Action candidates should file the CSS PROFILE form by November 15 and the FAFSA between January 1 and February 15. Students who are applying under the Early Action guidelines and would like an early estimate of their financial aid award should complete the CSS PROFILE form by November 15.
Does Fairfield University offer merit scholarships?
Fairfield University offers the Magis Scholarship. Titled from the Jesuit term meaning "more," all undergraduate admission applicants will be reviewed for a $20,000 annual award. Recipients of the scholarship will have excelled academically in addition to being contributing members of their communities. To find out more about this scholarship opportunity please visit our scholarship page.
What percentage of students receive financial aid?
Approximately 73% of students receive some type of financial aid at Fairfield University.
General Questions
Is housing guaranteed?
Housing is guaranteed for four years to all incoming freshmen. Approximately 80% of all students live on campus in a traditional residence hall, suite-style residence hall, an apartment or townhouse.