Admissions

Every applicant to the University of Mary is reviewed on an individual basis. Admission is granted to applicants who will make positive contributions to the community life of the University and be able to progress satisfactorily toward the completion of all degree requirements.

In accordance with applicable laws, the University of Mary does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, or public assistance. The university will not tolerate any discrimination, and any such conduct is prohibited. The university also prohibits any form of discipline or retaliation for reporting incidents of discrimination. The non-discrimination policy and contact information for the persons designated to handle inquiries can be found at www.umary.edu/nondiscrimination. 

Undergraduate Admissions

Policy adjustments due to the COVID-19 pandemic:

Effective immediately, many of the UMary’s admissions policies have been adjusted to accommodate students impacted by COVID-19. The changes below supersede current admissions policies and apply to students applying for the 2020-21 & 2021-22 academic years. Applicants for 2022 and beyond will revert to our original policies.

• Students who were unable to take the ACT/SAT due to test cancellations are not required to provide these tests results as a condition of admissions. Instead, such students shall follow UMary’s admissions standards for adult learners applying for undergraduate study. Math and English placements for students unable to take these exams will be based on high school GPA, high school courses completed, any applicable dual credit coursework completed, and an assessment within the first five days of their Math/English class to verify the accuracy of the placement.
• Students who are applying for fall admission and are unable to provide an official transcript at the time of enrollment while be granted an extension to provide this documentation by October 31.
• Students unable to complete the TOEFL may take the Duolingo English Test as a replacement. Undergraduates must score a minimum of 95 on the exam to be considered for admission, and graduate students must score a minimum of 105 to be considered for admission to UMary.  Some programs may have higher English language placement standards than these minimums. Please consult the applicable program page in the Catalog for details.

Freshman Admissions

To be considered for admission, prospective freshman students must submit the following documents to the Office of Admissions, University of Mary, 7500 University Drive, Bismarck, ND 58504:

1. A formal application for admission (form can be found at www.umary.edu/apply);
2. A non-refundable $30 application fee;
3. Academic transcript(s) from high school(s)*, or GED transcript (if applicable), and any college(s) concurrently attended during high school;
4. An official score report from the American College Test (ACT) or the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) examination, or the Classical Learning Test (CLT). See additional information regarding these exam options below.
   
   * Please note: If a student graduates from a non-accredited high school or home school program, he/she may be required to submit additional information and/or other documentation about his/her educational program.

The University of Mary operates on a rolling admissions policy. Once the candidate’s file is complete, a decision concerning acceptance is made and the applicant is generally notified within two weeks.

Transcript

The applicant’s graduating high school must submit an official copy of his/her transcript. Please note that the University will require high school transcripts at two points in the admission/ enrollment process.

1. An “in progress” transcript is required before a preliminary admission decision can be made. The transcript must include all courses taken and the grades earned during the student’s freshman, sophomore and junior years.
2. A final, official transcript is required after the student has graduated from high school. No scholarships or federal financial aid will be disbursed to students who fail to submit all required final, official transcripts. In addition to not being eligible to receive aid, students who are still missing official transcripts after beginning courses will not be allowed to register for courses the following semester, nor will they be able to obtain their official University of Mary transcript until all required transcripts have been received. Final, official transcripts should include the following:
   • The names and grades for all courses completed during high school education along with the number of credits.
   • The date of graduation, which must be after the date of the completion of all courses.
   • The signature of the registrar or designated official at the high school.

While the University of Mary will extend an offer of admission to students based on an “in-progress” transcript, the University reserves the right to revoke that offer if the student fails to submit an official transcript following the completion of graduation requirements, or if a discrepancy exists between the “in-progress” transcript and the official transcript submitted following graduation.

Suggested High School Coursework for enrolling at UMary

Freshmen applicants are strongly encouraged to follow a college-preparatory curriculum. The University recommends that applicants complete these units of credit at the secondary level:

ACT, SAT, or CLT Score

Each applicant is responsible for applying for the examination, and candidates should schedule a test date during their junior year or one of the early test dates during their senior year. Scores for a prelminary admission decision may be included as part of the high school transcript. While the University of Mary may extend a preliminary offer of admission to students based on unofficial copies of test scores, the University reserves the right to revoke that offer if the student fails to submit an official score prior to beginning classes, or if a discrepancy exists between the unofficial and official versions of the test score report. No scholarships or federal financial aid will be disbursed to eligible students who fail to submit a required official test score. Students can submit their official scores by following the below procedures:

ACT Procedure: Arrange for the ACT scores to be sent to the University of Mary. The University of Mary’s code for the ACT is 3201. Scores can be ordered through the ACT’s web site at www.act.org.

SAT Procedure: Arrange for SAT scores to be sent to the University of Mary. The University of Mary’s code for the SAT is 6428. Scores can be ordered through the SAT’s web site at sat.collegeboard.org.

CLT Procedure: Arrange for CLT scores to be sent to the University of Mary. Scores can be ordered through the CLT’s web site at www.cltexam.com.

Special note regarding the CLT: because the CLT is a newer exam, data comparing it to the ACT and SAT are limited. Due to this, the University of Mary is not currently able to award merit-based academic scholarships based on CLT scores alone. While a student may be accepted for admission based on his/her CLT scores, an ACT or SAT score must also be submitted if a first-time college student wishes to be eligible to receive a merit-based academic scholarship from the University of Mary.

Upon receipt of all required materials listed above, the applicant will be evaluated for admission. Minimum standards for automatic acceptance include both of the following:

1. A standardized test score meeting the below criteria:

   • ACT composite score of 19 or higher

   • SAT score of 980 or higher (Evidence-Based Reading & Writing + Math), or a combined score of 900 or higher for Critical Reading and Math on the pre-2016 version of the SAT

   • CLT composite score of 58 or higher

2. High school cumulative GPA (unweighted) of 2.5 or higher, or if applicable, a GED battery average score of 450, with no scores lower than 410 in any one section.

Process for Reviewing Freshmen Applicants Not Automatically Admitted

Students who do not meet automatic admissions criteria will have their files reviewed by the Academic Standards and Admission Committee. The committee evaluates secondary school achievement and test scores. In evaluating applications, the Academic Standards and Admission Committee may request additional materials from the student, including but not limited to a recommendation from a counselor or faculty member, a résumé describing personal achievements, a personal statement, and/or a retake/resubmission of a standardized exam prior to making an admission decision. Students may be accepted upon recommendation by the Committee. Students admitted in this manner may have specific limitations or requirements put in place as part of their offer of admission, including but not limited to, requirements to enroll in academic skills development courses, to develop and follow an academic success plan, and/or to enroll in a limited number of credits their first semester.

Home School Applicants

The University of Mary welcomes applications for freshmen admission from home school students, and many homeschool students choose the University of Mary every year. We also understand that frustrating delays can diminish the excitement of the college search process, so please know that the homeschool application process has been specifically tailored to the unique characteristics of a home education. Federal law requires that we receive specific documentation in order to offer federal financial aid to all of our students. As a result, we have created specific instructions for homeschooled students below.

We look forward to working with you and wish you the best of luck in your college search!

Accredited Homeschool Curricula Application Checklist

If you use an accredited homeschool program, please complete the following items in order to be considered for admission to the University of Mary:

• Submit the application for the University of Mary, found at www.umary.edu/apply.
• Request a copy of your most recent high school transcript; transcripts must be sent directly from the institution(s).
• Request that your official ACT, SAT, and/or CLT score reports be sent directly to the University of Mary. Our ACT school code is 3201. Our SAT code is 6428.
• If you have taken college or university courses during high school, have an official copy of your final transcript sent directly to the University of Mary.
• Submit your $30 application fee. If completing an online application, you may submit payment electronically.

Please note that the University will require high school transcripts at two points in the admission/ enrollment process.

1. An official “in progress” homeschool transcript is required before an admission decision can be made. The transcript must include all courses taken and the grades earned during the student’s freshman, sophomore and junior years.
2. A final, official homeschool transcript is required after the student has graduated from high school. This transcript should include the following:
   • The names and grades for all courses completed during their high school education, along with the number of credits. One year of a high school course or one semester of a college course usually equals 1 credit.
   • The date of graduation, which must be after the date of the completion of all courses.
   • The signature of the registrar or designated official at the accredited homeschool program.

Common accredited programs include, but are not limited to: Kolbe Academy, Mother of Divine Grace (MODG), Seton Home Study and Coram Deo Academy - Homeschool division.

Non-Accredited & Self-Designed Homeschool Curricula Application Checklist

If you use a non- accredited homeschool program, please complete the following items in order to be considered for admission to the University of Mary:

• Submit the application for the University of Mary.
• Submit a copy of a notarized homeschool transcript. While we provide a transcript template for your convenience, you may use a transcript of your own creation with equivalent information if you prefer.
• Transcripts for courses taken outside of the home are to be sent directly to the University of Mary from the institution. Grades from these courses are to be included on the comprehensive transcript and calculated in the cumulative GPA.
• Submit a notarized copy of the University of Mary Letter of Self-Certification indicating that the applicant was homeschooled in accordance with state law in his/her home state and that the student is above the compulsory age of school attendance in North Dakota, which is 16 years of age. We will provide a template for this self-certification for your convenience.
• Request that your official ACT, SAT, and/or CLT score reports be sent directly to the University of Mary. Our ACT school code is 3201. Our SAT code is 6428.
• If you have taken college or university courses during high school, have an official copy of your final transcript forwarded directly to the University of Mary.
• Submit your $30 application fee. If completing an online application, you may submit payment electronically.

*Please note that the University will require transcripts at two points in the admission/enrollment process.

1. An official “in progress” homeschool transcript is required before an admission decision can be made. The transcript must include all courses taken and the grades earned during the student’s freshman, sophomore and junior years.
2. A final, official homeschool transcript is required after the student has graduated from high school. This transcript should include the following:
   • The names and grades for all courses completed during their high school education, along with the number of credits. One year of a high school course or one semester of a college course usually equals 1 credit.
   • The date of graduation, which must be after the date of the completion of all courses.
   • The signature of the primary homeschool teacher AND the signature of an official from the school district OR a notary.

If you have questions about the above information or what your unique homeschool situation requires, please contact an admission representative at 800-288-6279 or admissions@umary.edu.

Transfer Admissions

The University of Mary welcomes transfer students from regionally accredited community and junior colleges and four-year colleges and universities. While students should refer to the Academic Life: Undergraduate  section of the catalog for information regarding transfer of credit, it is important to note that the Office of the Registrar evaluates transcripts and records transfer credits. Any preliminary reviews by other personnel are unofficial, not binding, and subject to change.

A student applying for admission to the University of Mary from another college must send to the Office of Admissions:

1. A formal application for admission (form can be found at www.umary.edu/apply);
2. A non-refundable $30 application fee;
3. Transcripts from every college previously attended;
4. If the student has fewer than 24 transfer hours to evaluate, then the University will also require the following to determine the applicant’s opportunity for success:
   1. Official academic transcript(s) from high school*, or GED transcript (if applicable), and any college(s) concurrently attended during high school;
   2. An official score report from the American College Test (ACT), the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), or the Classical Learning Test (CLT). (As denoted below in “Adult Student Admission,” transfer applicants over the age of 21 are eligible to apply without college placement test scores.)

The University of Mary operates on a rolling admissions policy. Once the candidate’s file is complete, a decision concerning acceptance is made and the applicant is generally notified within two weeks.

Transcript

The applicant’s college(s) or university(ies) must submit a copy of your transcript. Please note that the University may require transcripts at two points in the admission/enrollment process.

1. If currently enrolled in courses, an “in progress” transcript is required before a preliminary admission decision can be made. The transcript must include all courses taken and the grades earned during the student’s undergraduate education, as well as a listing of any courses in progress.
2. A final, official transcript is required after the student has completed his/her classes at the previous institution(s). No scholarships or federal financial aid will be disbursed to students who fail to submit all required final, official transcript(s). In addition to not being eligible to receive aid, students who are missing official transcripts after beginning courses will not be allowed to register courses the following semester, nor will they be able to obtain their official University of Mary transcript until all required transcripts have been received. Final, official transcripts should include the following:
   • The names and grades for all courses completed at the previous institution(s), along with the number of credits.
   • The signature of the registrar or designated official at the college/university.

Upon receipt of all required materials listed above, the applicant will be evaluated for admission. For transfer students with more than 24 transferable credits, the minimum standard for automatic admission is a cumulative GPA of 2.0 in all undergraduate level coursework. For those with fewer than 24 transferable credits, automatic admission criteria are the same as those for freshmen.

Process for Reviewing Transfer Applicants Not Automatically Admitted

Students who do not meet automatic admissions criteria will have their files reviewed by the Academic Standards and Admission Committee. The committee evaluates secondary and postsecondary achievement. In evaluating applications, the Academic Standards and Admission Committee may request additional materials from the student, including but not limited to a recommendation from a counselor or faculty member, a résumé describing personal achievement, a personal statement, and/or a retake/resubmission of a standardized exam prior to making an admission decision. Students may be accepted upon recommendation by the Committee. Students admitted in this manner may have specific limitations or requirements put in place as part of their offer of admission, including but not limited to, requirements to enroll in academic skills development courses, to develop and follow an academic success plan, and/or to enroll in a limited number of credits their first semester.

Adult Learner Admission for Undergraduate Study

The University of Mary welcomes adult learners. An adult learner (one who is 21 years of age or older) must send to the Office of Admissions:

1. A formal application for admission (form can be found at www.umary.edu/apply);
2. A non-refundable $30 application fee;
3. For first-time college students:
   1. Academic transcript(s) from high school, or GED transcript (if applicable), and any college(s) concurrently attended during high school.

Note: Adult learners applying for first-time college studies are eligible to apply for first time college study without qualifying based on college placement test scores. Excepting the ACT/SAT/CLT test score requirement, adult first-time learners will follow all of the same admissions guidelines outlined under the freshmen admission policy.

  3. For students with previous college experience:

1. Academic transcript(s) from all colleges previously attended.

Note: Adult learners with previous college coursework will apply under the “Transfer Admission” guidelines listed above, but adult students (as defined above) will not be required to submit ACT/SAT/CLT test scores regardless of the number of credits being transferred.

Initial admissions decisions may be made based upon unofficial transcripts. Official, final transcripts must be received for final admissions review by the university prior to the student’s first class.

The university will request official University of Mary transcripts on the student’s behalf if they previously attended the University of Mary. At most other schools, transcripts may be requested by going to the National Student Clearinghouse or by contacting the Registrar’s Office.

Admissions materials may be mailed to:

Office of Admissions
University of Mary
7500 University Drive
Bismarck, ND 58504

Upon receipt of all required materials listed above, the applicant will be evaluated for admission. The minimum standard for automatic acceptance for first-time adult students is a high school cumulative GPA (unweighted) of 2.5 or higher, or if applicable, a GED battery average score of 450, with no scores lower than 410 in any one section. The minimum standard for adult transfer students with at least 24 transferable credits is a cumulative college GPA of 2.0.

Process for Reviewing Applications from Adult Learners Not Automatically Admitted

Adult learners who do not meet automatic admissions criteria will have their files reviewed by the Academic Standards and Admission Committee. The committee evaluates secondary and postsecondary achievement. In evaluating applications, the Academic Standards and Admission Committee may request additional materials from the student, including but not limited to a recommendation from a counselor or faculty member, a résumé describing personal achievements, a personal statement, and/or a retake/submission of a standardized placement exam prior to making an admission decision. Students may be accepted upon recommendation by the Committee. Students admitted in this manner may have specific limitations or requirements put in place as part of their offer of admission, including but not limited to, requirements to enroll in academic skills development courses, to develop and follow an academic success plan, and/or enroll in a limited number of credits their first semester.

Admission to a Major Area of Study

Acceptance at the University of Mary does not automatically qualify a student to pursue a program in one of the undergraduate major areas of study.

Application requirements are specific to each major. The student should consult his/her advisor for details. Applications to majors are reviewed by the faculty members of the program. Students are then notified that they have been admitted, admitted provisionally, or denied admission to the program.

Graduate Admissions

General Admissions Requirements

Graduate degree seeking students must apply for admission to graduate study and must hold the minimum academic credentials for admission, which are outlined on www.umary.edu under the Admissions page.  University of Mary’s graduate application process requires prospective students to, at a minimum, submit a general application form, application fee, and an official, final transcript from the institution of higher education granting the student’s highest degree earned.

Program-Specific Requirements

Each graduate program may establish admissions requirements beyond the university’s minimum standards as approved by university governance and subject to legal review. These standards will be published on www.umary.edu under the Admissions page and may include submission of additional documentation and completion of a program-specific application.

All programmatic graduate admissions decisions, including for students who do not meet minimum admissions requirements, shall be made by a chair or a committee within the program to which the graduate student is applying.

Background Checks

University of Mary reserves the right to conduct background checks on prospective, admitted, and enrolled students in accordance with the university’s policies and program-specific standards.

Catalog Governing Graduate Student’s Program of Study

Students are to use and refer to the catalog that aligns with the year of their admissions to graduate studies and enrollment in courses. Changes to assigned catalog year with its associated program of study requirements must be requested by the advisor and approved by the Registrar.

Non-Degree Seeking Graduate Students

A non-degree seeking graduate student is someone who plans to take at least one graduate course for one or more of the following reasons:

1. Graduate School Preparation
   Students with an undergraduate degree and, in certain cases, students who are taking graduate courses pre-requisite to a graduate program may enroll as non-degree seeking students. In the latter case, students are to seek advisement from the graduate program director for specific information about enrolling in graduate courses as an undergraduate student. At minimum, the undergraduate student must hold senior status (greater than 90 semester credits earned).
2. Personal Interest
   Students in this category, who often take courses for personal or professional development and do not necessarily intend on enrolling in a degree-seeking program, may apply as non-degree seeking graduate students.
3. Certificate Preparation
   Students enrolled in graduate level certificate programs are non-degree seeking students.
4. Deciding on Degree-Seeking Program
   University of Mary offers several master’s and doctoral degrees with a wide array of areas of study to choose from. The non-degree seeking status offers students the opportunity to explore different courses in selected fields (e.g., business, nursing, education) before applying to a degree-seeking program. However, students who take courses under the non-degree seeking status are not guaranteed placement into a degree-seeking program and must adhere to regular admissions requirements. Students may take up to nine (9) credits in some major areas of study as a non-degree seeking student before declaring degree-seeking status.
5. Missed Degree-Seeking Program Deadline
   Although many programs at the University of Mary offer rolling admissions, some have specific application deadlines. Students who do not complete their application by the set deadline may apply as non-degree seeking students. However, students who take courses under the non-degree seeking status are not guaranteed placement into a degree-seeking program and must adhere to degree-seeking admissions requirements.

The minimum requirements to be admitted as a non-degree seeking graduate student are as follows:

• For graduate level academic certificate programs, a bachelor’s degree or higher conferred by a United States regionally accredited institution or an international school approved by the country’s Ministry of Education
• Academic achievement in undergraduate studies indicating a capacity to succeed in graduate coursework (minimum of 2.5/4.0)
• Students who are in the final phase of their undergraduate program of study may request approval to take up to nine semester credits of graduate coursework while an undergraduate student provided they are in good academic standing and that they have a minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Approval by the program director
• Note: Individuals completing graduate coursework as a non-degree student in summer 2020 and fall 2020 semesters as part of the university’s partnership with the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) are not required to submit official transcripts. Applicants for the FOCUS curriculum must be accepted by the university as a non-degree seeking student to participate.

International Student Admissions

The University of Mary welcomes applications from international students. An international student applying for admission to the University of Mary must send to the Office of Admissions:

1. A formal application for admission (form can be found at www.umary.edu/apply);
2. A non-refundable application fee;
3. Certified copies of all academic records are required, including certified copies of all transcripts or school certificates and subjects for which the applicant was enrolled or is presently enrolled. If the grading format is not common to the U.S. educational system, then the Office of Admissions will request that the records be evaluated by a transcript evaluation service. The University of Mary does not perform internal translations/evaluations of international transcripts for individuals. The University of Mary prefers that a course-by-course evaluations be completed by SpanTran, World Education Services (WES) or by Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE), or from an agency that is a current member of the National Associations of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). It is the responsibility of the student to arrange and pay for the evaluation through one of the third party evaluation agencies and have the official evaluation sent directly to the University of Mary from the agency. The University of Mary does not require the official international transcript, only the official copy of the evaluation.
4. For first-time freshmen applicants, an official score report from the American College Test (ACT), the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), or Classical Learning Test (CLT) is required. Students who have difficulty locating a test center that administers the ACT, SAT, or CLT should contact the American Embassy or an American school in their area.
5. Certification of Finances form showing evidence of student’s ability to meet expenses for the first year of study. Since international students do not qualify for Title IV funds (Federal Financial Aid), they must show they have the funds necessary to attend the University of Mary.
6. Student applicants from countries in which English is not the native language are required to submit test scores verifying their proficiency of the English language.

Undergraduate

Applicants are required to take one of the following exams:

TOEFL: the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) (school code 6428), and achieve a minimum score of 71 on the Internet-Based Test (iBT), 527-530 on the Paper- Based Test (PBT), or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic version, and score a minimum of 6.0.

ELS: Qualified undergraduate applicants may also complete the ELS English for Academic Purposes; successful completion of Level 112 in that program will meet the University’s English proficiency requirement.

GTEC: Applicants from Japan may also complete the GTEC. Students must achieve a minimum score of 1140-1165, and official test scores must be sent directly from the testing center to the university.

Duolingo English Test (DET): 95

Scores for any applicant that are more than two years old are not valid and will not be considered.

Graduate

Applicants from countries in which English is not the native language are required to prove a minimum level of English proficiency. The University of Mary will accept scores from

1. The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and student must achieve a minimum score of an 80 on the Internet Based Test (iBT) or 550 on the Paper-Based Test, (PBT), or
2. The International English Language Test System (IELTS) Academic version, and students must achieve a minimum score of a 6.5.
3. The GTEC, and students must achieve a minimum score of 1204-1226.
4. The Duolingo English Test (DET): 105

Exemptions to Testing Requirements:

• Applicants who within the past two years have successfully completed a minimum of one year of full-time, post-secondary education (college-level) study in a country where English is the native language may have the TOEFL/IELTS requirement waived. One year of full-time enrollment is defined as completing the equivalent of at least 24 credit hours over 2 semesters at the undergraduate level or 18 credit hours over 2 semesters at the graduate level. English as a second language, intensive English, and/or remedial English courses cannot be included in the credit hour count.
• The TOEFL or IELTS score may be waived for students from countries where English is the only official language.  The University’s International Services Office has a list of countries adopted from AACRAO.
• Graduate students who have evidence of successful completion of an undergraduate degree or another graduate degree from another regionally accredited institution of higher learning within the United States within the prior five years may be accepted without the TOEFL or IELTS scores.
• Applicants who have been employed in the United States a minimum of two years, may submit proof of successful completion of the ACT Compass ESL test with a score of 94-99 as an alternative to the TOEFL or IELTS.
• If the applicant can demonstrate that he or she meets the admission standards at the University of -Mary, through an institution or organization officially recognized by the University of Mary (e.g., NCAA Eligibility Center), he or she may be accepted based on that documentation.

Graduate applicants should be aware that these score requirements represent standards for admission to the University of Mary but do not necessarily represent standards for admission to programs within the University that may impose a higher standard of English competency. Students applying to a program that has its own admission criteria (i.e. health sciences, education, etc.), must contact the program representative for required TOEFL of IELTS scores. There may also be higher score requirements for accelerated programs.

Documentation Requirements:

Admission of international students will not be granted until all required documentation has been received and verified.

Official TOEFL scores, IELTS scores, or documentation verifying one of the above exemptions must be submitted along with the necessary application materials when students are applying for admission to the a University of Mary graduate program at the time of application and prior to any applicable application deadline.  Official scores must be sent directly to:

Graduate Admissions
University of Mary
7500 University Drive
Bismarck, ND 58504

Academic & Foreign Transcript Evaluation:

Certified copies of all academic records are required at the time of application and prior to any applicable application deadline. Certified copies include transcripts or school certificates and subjects for which the applicant was enrolled or is presently enrolled. If the applicant has attended a university outside of the United States, the University requires the applicant to provide a course-by-course transcript evaluation. The evaluation must include transcript authenticity, GPA calculation, U.S. degree equivalency, and is sent directly from the evaluation service. Transcript evaluation must be performed by World Education Services (WES) or International Academic Credential Evaluators, Inc. (IACEI). 

Official transcripts must be sent directly to:

Graduate Admissions
University of Mary
7500 University Drive
Bismarck, ND 58504

General Admission Policies

Deferred Admission

Students accepted to the University may request that their matriculation be postponed for one year without repeating the admissions process, as long as another college or university has not been attended.

Readmission

After An Extended Absence

Students in good academic standing who have unofficially withdrawn from the University for greater than one calendar year must re-apply to the University of Mary and, if applicable, to the student’s program of study. A student seeking readmission who was not in good academic standing at the time of leaving must submit their application for review by the Academic Standards and Admission Committee (undergraduate students) or the program director (graduate students). Conditions for reinstatement may be imposed upon returning students.

The student who re-applies, if readmitted, enters under the current program of study and tuition structure for the degree sought. Course credits earned prior to the extended leave of absence are considered current if they have been earned within a seven (7) consecutive year time frame and if they remain required for the program of study. Official transcripts for college coursework undertaken during the period of absence must be submitted as part of the application process.

After Formal Withdrawal

Students who have formally withdrawn from, or been dismissed from, the University must re-apply to the University of Mary and, if applicable, to the student’s program of study. The student who re-applies, if readmitted, enters under the current program of study and tuition structure for the degree sought. Course credits earned prior to the extended leave of absence are considered current if they have been earned within a seven (7) consecutive year time frame and if they remain required for the program of study. Official transcripts for college coursework undertaken during the period of absence must be submitted as part of the application process.

Students who have withdrawn from the University for disciplinary reasons and who wish to be readmitted must apply to the Vice President for Student Development. Conditions for reinstatement may be imposed upon returning students.

Non-Degree Seeking Admission

A student not interested in obtaining a degree or one who has already completed work toward a degree may enroll at the University of Mary as a non-degree seeking student. Such persons may take courses for credit or arrange to audit courses. A non-degree seeking student is not considered a degree candidate and is not eligible for financial assistance. Students in this category must complete a non-degree seeking application, available online at www.umary.edu/apply. If the student chooses to pursue a degree at the University of Mary, he or she will be asked to submit a degree-seeking application form and follow the requirements as described under the appropriate Admissions section of the catalog.

Required Documents and Deposits

If an applicant is granted an offer of admission on the main campus, the applicant will be requested to send an enrollment fee of $150. Payment of this fee completes the acceptance and pre-registration process. Accepted applicants are encouraged to pay the $150 fee as soon as possible. This fee is refundable until May 1 for fall semester applicants, and September 15 for spring semester applicants.

In addition to the enrollment fee, all on-campus students are required to place a $150 housing deposit with the University. This fee will be held in escrow until the room is vacated with a satisfactory clearance report from the residence hall director. Any assessments for damage will be deducted from the deposit.

Before the beginning of a student’s academic career at the University of Mary, he or she must complete a current medical history form provided by the Office of Admissions. Housing information is mailed only after a student has been accepted into the University of Mary community.

Consideration of Applicants with a Prior Criminal History

Admission decisions for prospective students to the University who: 1. have a prior criminal history, 2. those currently under a violence protection order, and/or 3. those currently under investigation for or charged with criminal activity who otherwise satisfy the University’s admission criteria will be made by the Academic Standards and Admission Committee for undergraduate students and by the applicable adjudicator for graduate programs as designated by each graduate program (hereafter decision maker).

Having a criminal record will not necessarily prevent a prospective student from being admitted to a course of study at the University of Mary. The decision will depend upon the circumstances and background of the offenses as well as the requirements and nature of the prospective student’s course of study. Deliberation, at a minimum, will be conducted as to whether the offense(s) may indicate a future risk to other members of the community and the prospective student’s suitability for any applicable licensure.

In order to initiate the criminal history record review process, prospective students with a prior criminal history, those under a violence protection order, and those under current investigation for criminal activity must submit prepayment and authorization for the University to conduct a background check to be conducted by a vendor selected by the University. The University also reserves the right to require, at the prospective student’s expense, any court documents deemed relevant, a current psychological evaluation, letters of progress from parole/probation officers or other correction professionals, or additional documents or assessments as deemed necessary by the University.

The results of said evaluations and information in the documents may be used by the decision maker to determine continued eligibility for enrollment within the University on a term-by-term basis. The decision maker reserves the right to consult with other University officials, legal counsel, and independent experts in evaluating any or all information regarding a prospective student.

The University reserves the right to delay a determination with regard to the admission of any prospective student currently under investigation for criminal activity until such time as all criminal proceedings have been fully resolved. Prospective students under a current violence protection order are not eligible for admission to the University until such time as the violence protection order has expired.

Prospective students convicted of violent crimes as defined by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation Uniform Crime Report shall be barred from consideration as full-time or residential students.

Violent crimes under this system include murder and non-negligent manslaughter, forcible rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. Prospective students convicted of statutory sex crimes, domestic violence, or felony offenses of any type may be barred from consideration as full-time or residential students.

Prospective students’ eligibility for participation in student life activities may be restricted at the discretion of the decision maker due to a criminal history disclosed on the application or findings of the criminal background check. If restrictions are imposed, the decision maker will notify the prospective student in writing.

Prospective, admitted, and enrolled students with a prior criminal history may be excluded from consideration for certain programs of study at the University of Mary in which students are exposed to children or vulnerable adults. The University reserves the right to exclude a candidate who is considered by the decision maker to be unsuitable for a particular course or for attendance at the University in general. The University’s appeal process does not apply to nonstudents.

The University of Mary does not guarantee placement for students with a prior criminal history who are accepted to the institution during any professional learning experiences. The institutions who receive our students and graduates may have their own standards for acceptance, including a clear criminal history.

All students with a prior criminal history are hereby advised that a criminal background check is required for admission to many professional schools including schools of medicine, law, pharmacy, and education. Some criminal offenses preclude students from participating in on-site professional experiences. In addition, some professional licensure boards include specific offenses that constitute those crimes for which licensure is prohibited. Students in these situations are subject to statutory or regulatory requirements independently imposed by law, or as required by affiliating entities. Ex-offenders are responsible for researching regulatory restrictions imposed on them by law or statute and making informed program choices.

The decision maker shall not consider the effect of an admission or denial decision on any candidate. For example, if admission or enrollment to a college or university is a condition of a candidate’s parole or probation, the decision maker will not consider that information as part of the review process.

Students with a prior criminal history who are granted admission may be ineligible for certain work study opportunities.

Withdrawal of Offers of Admission

The University of Mary requires all applicants for admission to provide complete and accurate information and to disclose any prior criminal history. The University reserves the right to withdraw offers of admission under the following circumstances:

1. the conduct of an applicant is not consistent with the goals, purposes, values, and philosophy of the University as stated in the university catalog and the student handbook;
2. the misrepresentation of facts to the University by an applicant during the application; or
3. the failure of an applicant to provide complete information as requested in the application process.

Campus Visits

All prospective students are encouraged to visit the University of Mary campus for an interview with an admissions representative, a tour of the campus and facilities, and contact with students and faculty. The Office of Admissions provides student assistance and some meals for visitors during the school year. Visits or appointments at times other than during the regular working day can be arranged in advance by calling or writing the Office of Admissions:

1-800-AT U-MARY (1-800-288-6279)
Office of Admissions
University of Mary
7500 University Drive
Bismarck, ND 58504-9652

Our website is www.umary.edu/admissions
Our email address is enroll@umary.edu

Immunization Policy

The Immunization Policy at the University of Mary is intended to protect the campus community from illness and disease such as measles, mumps, and rubella. All degree seeking students are required to comply with the Immunization Policy.

Statement of the Policy

The Immunization Policy at the University of Mary is intended to protect the campus community from illness and disease. Students are required to comply with the Immunization Policy.

• Any student enrolled at the University of Mary must provide documentation of immunity against measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
• Effective January of 2019, newly admitted students ages 21 and younger must provide documentation of immunity against meningococcal disease in accordance with this policy.
• Visa-bearing international students are required to be screened for tuberculosis. This requirement is further outlined in the International Student Admission section of the academic catalog.
• Students not in compliance with this policy may have their registration cancelled. In the event of an outbreak, students who have not previously submitted proof of immunity may be removed from residence halls or barred from classes and other activities until university officials determine that there is no likely significant risk to the student or to others within the community.

Exemptions: Students not living campus residence halls and who are also enrolled only in online or dual-credit courses are not required to submit immunization records. Additionally, students enrolled in continuing education or non-credit courses, and camps and/or workshops, as well as faculty and staff, are not required to submit immunization records. In certain events, however, those who do not submit proof of immunization may be barred from classes and other activities, as outlined above in paragraph #4.

Students who do not meet an exemption may request one by application, specifically when:

• a. immunization is contraindicated by a medical condition that is certified by a licensed provider
• b. the student’s beliefs preclude participation in an immunization program
• c. instances when the student has had one MMR immunization and agrees to have a second one no less than 28 days later