First Year Freshman

Step-by-Step Guide for First Year Students

2023 Applicants: 

Step 1: Complete the online application. 

Step 2: Submit your application fee ($35)
*Fee waivers available for students receiving free or reduced lunch, NACAC waivers, school counselor referral, or by visiting campus. Please contact your admissions counselor directly with any questions.

Step 3: Submit Your High School Transcript 
Students may upload an unofficial transcript before or after submitting the application. We will render decisions using unofficial transcripts; however, an official copy will be required prior to enrolling.

Step 3:  SAT/ACT and Test Optional*
All students are encouraged to submit test scores if they are available; however, our test optional policy has been extended for students seeking enrollment for the Fall 2023 entry term.

*SAT or ACT test scores are still required the Accelerated (3+2) Physician Assistant and Accelerated (3+3) Physical Therapy programs - those seeking admission to these programs will need to apply and be admitted to the Health Science: Pre-Physician Assistant or Health Science: Pre-Physical Therapy before November 1, 2022 to be considered for the accelerated pathway.

**Nursing applicants are required to submit a TEAS exam score - deadlines listed on the Nursing department webpage.

Launch Experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I consider Lock Haven University?

There are so many factors that go into selecting the college or university that is the right fit for you. You will need to consider academic offerings, location, size of the campus, and cost. LHU is a vibrant campus with an active and engaging student body. Our faculty and staff are supportive of our students, and one of our primary goals is to help students follow their passion and embrace all of their possibilities. Students are enrolled in academically rigorous coursework and participate in meaningful external and professional experiences that prepare them for their future. Our students find employment when they graduate, and they are prepared to be experts in their field.

It is also fun to be a student at LHU. We have over 100 active clubs and organizations and a variety of intramural sports. Our campus community enjoys the thrill of watching our student-athletes participate in NCAA Division I and II athletic competitions. There is always something happening on campus...our students are entertained by comedians, hypnotists, motivational speakers, and many other large-scale events. 

When should I apply for admission?

The Office of Admissions operates on a rolling admissions basis. Students are encouraged to apply for admission in the fall of their senior year. Typically, decisions are rendered within 10-12 business days after their application and all required documents are received by the Admissions Office. During our peak application times (November-January), the process may take longer.

Do any of your programs have special deadlines?

Students interested in the Accelerated 3+2 Physician Assistant Program or Accelerated (3+3) Physical Therapy must be accepted to LHU prior to November 1st.

Students interested in the Nursing (ASN) program should refer to the application deadlines listed on the Nursing Department's webpage.

What are the requirements for admission as an incoming freshman?

For regular admission, students are expected to have successfully completed a high school curriculum that includes college preparatory courses in English, social studies, math and science. Additional academic electives, including foreign language are recommended. While honors and advanced placement (AP) courses are not required for admission, they will be given extra consideration during application review.

HIGH SCHOOL CURRICULUM

Grades

To be considered for admission, a student needs to demonstrate academic achievement in the classroom. The Admissions Office will look closely at a student's academic performance in core subject areas throughout his/her high school career. First marking period grades from the senior year may also be requested.

SAT/ACT and Test Optional

All students are encouraged to submit a test score if they are available; however, we have extended our test optional policy for students seeking enrollment for the Fall 2023 entry term.

Do extracurricular activities play a role in the admissions decision?

It is not required that a student be involved in extracurricular activities, but the Admissions Office does look favorably upon students who have been active in clubs, organizations and athletics and/or worked throughout high school.

What if I am a home schooled student?

A transcript of all secondary level course work from a state/commonwealth recognized home education diploma program, your home school district or a General Equivalency Diploma (GED) and samples of all secondary level course work completed. For information on home school accrediting agencies, click on the following links Pennsylvania Department of Education or Pennsylvania Home Educators Association.

Can I take classes at LHU before I graduate from high school?

Yes, we offer high school students the opportunity to enroll in college courses through Dual Enrollment.

Can I receive credit for AP Courses I have taken?

Lock Haven University will accept any Advanced Placement (AP) courses for credit with a score of 3 or better on the College Board Advanced Placement examination. In most cases, courses will transfer either as a general education requirement or as elective credit.

For credit to be evaluated and awarded, official copies of AP credits and scores must be sent directly from the College Board testing service. For more specific information on the awarding of credit, please contact the Registrar's Office at 570-484-2006

Where is the Office of Admissions located?

The Office of Admissions is located on the first floor of the Durrwachter Alumni Conference Center (DACC). Admission visitors should obtain a visitor's parking pass from the Office of Admissions to display on the dashboard of their vehicle. Refer to our online campus map for more information.

When will I receive a schedule?

All first time LHU students will develop their schedule with their academic advisor during New Student Orientation. 

What is your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) code number?

Lock Haven University's code number is 003323.

What is Lock Haven's code for the SAT?

LHU's code number is 2654. Listing LHU's code on your SAT registration form will allow us to receive an official copy of your SAT scores directly from College Board.

How is the food at LHU?

Who doesn't love food? Lock Haven University currently utilizes Aramark Dining Services for all campus dining. A complete listing of all dining is available on our dining website. 

do i have to live on campus?

Students must live on campus for their freshman and sophomore years, unless they reside with their parents and live within 35 miles of campus. 

Can I choose my roommate?

Students wishing to room together must each select one another in our online housing system, called Housing & Dining Self-Service. Students who do not have a specific roommate request are encouraged to use the roommate search feature built into Housing & Dining Self-Service, to help find someone who will be compatible as your roommate/suitemate. A complete list of Housing-related FAQ's can be found here.

Can I have a car on campus?

Yes! Students are required to purchase a parking pass through Public Safety to avoid ticketing.