Admissions Office
 

---

Admission Policies

The Admissions Office processes  all requests for information and all applications for admission for new and re-entering undergraduate students, including international undergraduate students. Applications for admission and information regarding academic programs and scholarships will be sent upon request. Information and the application are also available on the Web at www.nmu.edu/prospect.

 

Applicant Status

Applicants for admission must first be aware of how NMU defines applicant status:

1. Freshman Applicants have not attended any college or university after high school.

2. Transfer Applicants are those who have attended a college or university after high school completion or GED attainment.  Those who have completed 12 or more college-level semester credits or 18 quarter hours of credit at another college or university after high school graduation will be considered for admission based on their college record only.  Those who have completed fewer college-level credits will be considered based on their college and high school record.

3. Dual Enrollment Applicants (Non-degree high school) are enrolled in high school (not yet graduated) who wish to be enrolled in NMU courses prior to high school graduation (regardless of who is providing payment).

4. Re-entry Applicants are previous Northern Michigan University undergraduate students who have not been enrolled at NMU for at least one semester (excluding summer).

5. Post-baccalaureate Applicants are those who hold a baccalaureate or higher degree and who wish to pursue another undergraduate degree or seek an initial secondary or elementary provisional teaching certificate. All courses are taught at the undergraduate level.

6. Non-degree Applicants (Personal/Professional Development) are those who intend to enroll in classes for “personal/professional development” or for purposes other than obtaining a degree, certificate, or diploma.

7. Guest Applicants are regularly enrolled at and eligible to return to another college or university, but wish to earn credit from Northern Michigan University.

8. Graduate Applicants are those who have completed at least a baccalaureate degree and whose intent it is to do one of the following: 1) complete a master's or higher degree; 2) pursue additional teaching endorsements; 3) obtain the professional teaching certification; or 4) take courses for personal or professional development. Individuals interested in pursuing graduate admission should contact the College of Graduate Studies at 906-227-2300.

Admissions Philosophy

Northern Michigan University seeks to admit students who can provide evidence of potential to succeed in the program of their choice.  The institution's comprehensive academic offerings provide opportunities for education and training to applicants from a broad range of ability levels and interests.  In addition to providing top quality baccalaureate level programs, as well as select graduate degree programs, Northern Michigan University is designated by the Michigan State Board of Education to serve the region as a community college.  To fulfill this role, NMU provides quality programs of general, technical and vocational nature at the diploma, certificate and associate degree levels.  Students enrolled in diploma, certificate or associate degree programs have the same privileges as other undergraduate students, and are eligible for financial aid in the form of loans, work study programs, grants and scholarships.  NMU also offers several (non-financial aid eligible) certification programs.

 

Applications for admission to Northern Michigan University are individually reviewed with strong emphasis given to grade point average in high school college preparatory subjects, standardized achievement test scores, strength of academic curriculum, and/or college academic record.  Students may be admitted to the university in good standing, admitted on probation, admitted with restriction to a specific program, or denied admission until the student can demonstrate potential for success at the college level.  When a student is admitted, the admission is to the university.  Academic departments may have additional requirements for admission to specific programs (such as nursing, business, education, etc.).  The academic departments inform students of these requirements.

 

Northern Michigan University has a long-standing policy of providing opportunity for students whose previous academic experiences were less than satisfactory, but who can show other evidence that they have the potential for success.  We provide this opportunity through the broad range of academic programs at various levels and through designated support programs.  However, the university retains the right to exercise judgment as to the eligibility of applicants for specific courses of study.

 

Applicants who do not meet all criteria for the program for which they are applying will be considered by the Admissions Review Committee.  Applicants may be asked to take a pre-admission test or supply further information.  A review of the applicant's academic background and potential for success may result in admission into the applicant's program of choice, admission on probation, or admission into the College Transitions Program.  The College Transitions Program is a pre-baccalaureate level program.  Students may be asked to agree to certain conditions as part of their enrollment.

 

Applicants denied admission to the university may appeal to the Admissions Review Committee.  The university also retains the right to withdraw an offer of admission or change the admission status if a student's academic record significantly changes between the date of admission and enrollment or if the applicant falsifies or withholds information requested on the application for admission.

 

Admission Requirements and Application Procedures

Admission requirements differ depending on the status of the applicant (freshman, transfer, etc.) and the level of the academic program.  The following sections describe the credentials considered, the admission requirements, and the application procedures for each applicant status and program level.

 

Secondary School Preparation

For students who have earned less than 12 college-level credits after high school graduation, the following secondary school curriculum is strongly recommended for regular admission to baccalaureate level programs:  four years of English, three years of college preparatory mathematics, two years of biological and physical sciences, three years of history and social sciences.  Academic units in these areas should total 12-16 by the end of the senior year.  Students are also strongly encouraged to complete three years of foreign language, two years of fine or performing arts, and one year of computer instruction that establishes computer literacy.

 

Computation of High School Grade Point Averages

For purposes of admission and scholarships, the grade point average of high school students is recomputed on a 4.0 scale by counting all grades received in college preparatory subjects (in the areas of English, social studies, science, foreign language and math at the algebra 1 level or higher) for a minimum of six semesters. Grades in courses designated by the school on the transcript as honors, International Baccalaureate (IB), or Advanced Placement (AP) receive added weight in the computation. If a student has earned a GED, the “score average” is equated to a grade point equivalent for admissions purposes.

 

Computation of College Grade Point Averages

For purposes of admission and scholarships, the grade point average of transfer students is computed in college level courses only, using credits attempted and honor points earned.  If a student has earned a G.E.D., the "score average" is equated to a grade point equivalent for admissions purposes.

 

Standardized Achievement Testing

All applicants for baccalaureate programs (and for some community college level programs) must take the ACT or SAT1.  Exceptions to this policy are granted to the following applicants:  those who will have earned 12 or more semester hours of college level credit taken after high school graduation; international students (other than Canadian); persons who have been out of high school for three years or more; and applicants to some community college level programs.

 

The Honors Program

Serves qualified students with special courses, academic advisement, and program opportunities.  Students interested in applying to the honors program should complete a separate application available by writing Director, Honors Program, Northern Michigan University, 1401 Presque Isle Avenue, Marquette, MI 49855; telephone 906-227-2380; or e-mail honors@nmu.edu.  Normal academic admission criteria for the program are a 3.5 recalculated high school grade point average and a 27 ACT composite (or 1210 SAT combined score).  There is no honors program application deadline, but students who would like to be considered for the Mary L. Campbell Scholarship should apply by early March.  The honors program also welcomes applications from transfer students.

 

Please find your applicant status among the choices below to understand the admissions requirements and application process you should follow.

 

Transcripts

Admission decisions are made on official documents.  Applicants should request that official transcripts be sent directly to the Northern Michigan University Admissions Office from each high school and college/university/trade school attended. Students who have earned a G.E.D. must have an official score report sent from the testing center to NMU.

 

---

Freshman Applicants

Baccalaureate Program Admission

Freshman applicants seeking admission to a baccalaureate degree program (including "undeclared") will be admitted if they meet the following requirements:

• Will graduate from high school with a recomputed academic grade point average of 2.25 or better in college preparatory subjects; and

• Attain a minimum ACT composite score of 19 or a minimum combined SAT score of 900; and

• Successfully complete course work as outlined by the Presidents' Council of the State Universities of Michigan (see Secondary School Academic Preparation). Students who have earned a GED are also considered for admission.

To apply:

1. Complete an Application for Admission (unless a student has previously applied; if so, notify the Admissions Office).

2. Submit $25 application fee (if not previously paid).

3. Request official high school transcripts (or GED score report) to be sent to the Admissions Office.

4. Request ACT or SAT scores to be sent to NMU.   These may be on the official high school transcript or directly from the testing agency. (See exceptions under Standardized Achievement Testing.)

Non-Baccalaureate Program Admission

(Community College Level Programs)

New freshman applicants seeking admission into associate, certificate, diploma level or certification programs will be admitted if they meet the following requirements:

• Applicants may submit records verifying the achievement of the admission standards for baccalaureate programs; or

• Applicants must submit records verifying that they meet the specific admission requirements for the program to which they are applying.  Some community college-level programs have specific minimum GPA and/or test score requirements; others do not.  Applicants should review the requirements listed in the Notes Regarding Admissions in the Academic Programs section of the Application For Admission.

To apply:

1. Complete an Application for Admission (unless a student has previously applied; if so, notify the Admissions Office).

2. Subbmit $25 application fee (if not previously paid).

3. Request official high school transcripts (or GED score report) to be sent to the Admissions Office.

4. Request ACT or SAT scores to be sent to NMU, if needed for the program to which you are applying.   These may be on the official high school transcript or directly from the testing agency. (See exceptions under Standardized Achievement Testing.)

---

Transfer Applicants

Transfer applicants seeking admission to baccalaureate degree, associate degree, certificate or diploma programs may be admitted in one of two ways:

• Applicants are admitted in good standing if they have a minimum 2.00 cumulative grade point average on a 4.00 scale for courses taken at all post-secondary institutions attended and are eligible to return to the last institution attended; or

• Applicants whose cumulative grade point average on a 4.00 scale for college-level courses taken at all post-secondary institutions attended is below 2.00 and who are eligible to return to the last institution attended may be considered for admission on probation.  Each applicant will be evaluated individually.  Admission will depend on the grade point average and credit hour total in respect to the Northern Michigan University Academic Proficiency Policy.  Supporting documentation and explanation for poor academic history is helpful and will be reviewed by the Admission Review Committee.  Students admitted on probation may be expected to agree to certain conditions as part of their enrollment.

• Applicants who have completed some college-level credit, but less than 12 semester hours of college-level credit, are governed by both the freshman and transfer admissions policies.

To apply:

1. Complete an Application for Admission (unless a student has previously applied; if so, notify the Admissions Office).

2. Submit $25 application fee (if not previously paid).

3. Request official transcripts from all previously attended post-secondary institutions be sent to the Northern Michigan University Admissions Office.

4. Request official high school transcripts (or GED score report) to be sent to the Admissions Office.  (This is not required if the student has earned an associate degree.

---

Dual Enrollment Applicants

Dual Enrollment Admission-Since students admitted in this status enroll in college courses prior to completing/graduating from high school, this status is reserved for high school students who have demonstrated consistent, excellent academic achievement.

• In order to be admitted as a dual enrolled student at NMU, a student must have completed the 10th grade of high school and have achieved a minimum 3.00 academic GPA (recalculated in academic, college-preparatory classes).

• Local school districts have their own requirements regarding approval of students to pursue dual enrollment.  Students should contact their school counselor or principal.

• Students are limited to taking 8 credits per semester and must meet course prerequisites.

• Dual enrollment students wishing to attend NMU as a degree-seeking student after high school graduation do not need to reapply for admission.  Write or call the Admissions Office to let us know you'd like to continue at NMU.  We will require a final high school transcript showing proof of graduation and ACT/SAT scores if not previously received.

To apply:

1. Complete an Application for Admission (unless a student has previously applied; if so, notify Admission Office of desire to dual enroll).

2. Submit $25 application fee (if not previously paid).

3. Request official high school transcripts be sent to the Admissions Office.

4. Request ACT or SAT score be sent (if taken).  This may be on an official high school transcript.

5. Complete the "Dual Enrollment-Permission to Enroll Form" available from the Admissions Office.

---

Re-Entry Applicants

Re-entry applicants will be re-admitted to NMU provided they are eligible to do so under the NMU Academic Proficiency Policy.

• If suspended or dismissed from NMU following their last enrollment, re-entry student applicants must submit appeals to the Admission and Academic Policies Committee as outlined on the Application for Admission.

• All debts to the university must be paid before course registration.

To apply:

1. Complete an Application for Admission.

2. Request official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended since last attendance at NMU be sent to the Northern Michigan  University, Admissions Office, 1401 Presque Isle Ave.,  Marquette, MI 49855.

---

Post-Baccalaureate Applicants

Post-baccalaureate degree applicants will be admitted providing they have graduated from an accredited college or university.

 

To apply:

1. Complete an Application for Admission.

2. Submit $25 application fee.

3. Request official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended be sent to the Northern Michigan University, Admissions Office, 1401 Presque Isle Ave., Marquette, MI 49855.

---

Non-Degree Applicants

Non-Degree (Personal/Professional Development) Admission-Individuals who have earned a high school diploma or GED (and who are eligible to return to the last institution attended--if applicable) and intend to enroll in classes for personal or professional development or for purposes other than obtaining a diploma, certificate or degree can be admitted as non-degree students. Non-degree students:

• Are limited to a maximum enrollment of eight semester credit hours during any enrollment period;

• Must meet prerequisites;

• Must meet all provisions of NMU's Academic Proficiency Policy in order to be eligible for continued enrollment;

• May enroll under non-degree status for a maximum of 16 attempted credits without going through freshman/transfer admission process; and

• Are not eligible for financial aid.

• Any subsequent enrollment requires regular admission to the university.

• Credit earned as a non-degree student may be applied toward degree programs.  To do so, the non-degree student must complete a Change to Degree Form supply all required documentation, meet the same minimum grade point average and credit hours criteria as transfer applicants, and be formally admitted to a specific academic program.

To apply:

1. Complete an Application for Admission.

2. Submit $25 application fee.

---

Guest Applicants

Guest students at Northern Michigan University:

• Will be admitted if regularly enrolled at another institution and are eligibile to return to that institution;

• May not register as degree candidates at NMU;

• Must have the NMU courses they wish to take approved in advance by the registrar of their "home" institution

• Must understand that falsification of any part of a guest application may result in cancellation of admission or registration at NMU;

• Must arrange to have any credit earned as guest students sent from NMU (which determines transcript fee) to their home institutions; and

• Are limited to a maximum to two regular semesters or 32 credit hours and must submit a new guest application for the second semester.

To apply:

1. Complete a Michigan Uniform Undergraduate Guest Application.

2. Submit $25 application fee.

NMU Students Who are Guests at Other Institutions

Northern Michigan University students who wish to attend another institution as guests must complete a guest student application available in the Registrar's Office, 305 Cohodas Administrative Center. Students must complete this form prior to enrollment at another institution. Students who fail to follow this procedure assume full responsibility for the transferability of courses.

 

---

International Applicants

International and Canadian student applicants (non-U. S. citizens; non-permanent residents) must provide additional credentials to satisfy U. S. Immigration regulations.

 

Canadian students should complete the "Application for Admission" and submit a "Declaration and Certification of Finances" form (available from the Admissions Office). Other required credentials are the same as listed in the applicable applicant categories above (application fee, official transcripts, test scores).

 

International students (non-Canadian) must provide:

1. Complete International Student Application for Admission.

2. Application fee through bank draft or money order made payable in U. S. funds for $25.

3. Official, original transcripts of all secondary school work (non-U. S. and U. S.), official certificates showing results of any standardized examinations taken in the home country ("O" levels, "A" levels, etc.) and official transcripts of any colleges, universities or trade schools attended.  These must be sent directly from the issuing institution to Northern Michigan University.  Certified translations are required for any documents not originally in English.

4. Students must submit all non-U.S., non-Canadian academic records to Education Credential Evaluators, Inc (ECE).  A form for doing so is included in the International Student Application for Admission.

5. Proof of English Proficiency-If student is not a native speaker of English, proof of an adequate level of English language proficiency must be provided.  Generally, proof of English proficiency is a minimum TOEFL score of 500 (paper-based test) or 173 (computer-based test).  Test results must be sent directly from the testing agency to the university.  Other proof of English proficiency will be considered on an individual basis.

6. Proof of Financial Support-Applicants must provide documentation that they have the ability to finance their education at Northern Michigan University.  This is accomplished by completing the Certification of Finances section of the International Student Application for Admission and providing either the bank official's signature on that section or providing a separate letter from a bank official or a bank account statement.

Admission to Northern Michigan University requires completion of the steps above and meeting the requirements as specified under the applicable applicant status (freshman, transfer, etc.).  Once a student is admitted, NMU will issue an I-20AB form to the student.  Application deadlines for international students are June 1 for the fall semester and October 1 for the winter semester.

---

Home School Policy

Students who have been home schooled at any time during grades 9-12, and who have not earned an associate degree or higher, should submit their ACT/SAT results and an official transcript of courses taken and grades earned while home schooled.  The official transcript may be from a school district, home school/curriculum agency, or the parent (if the parent was the educator).  If the transcript is parent-produced, it should be signed ad notarized indicating that the information is accurate.  A final transcript signifying high school graduation/completion is required.  If a transcript is not available, the student should furnish an official GED score report.

 

Senior Citizen Applicants

Senior citizen applicants, aged 62 or older, are provided a full tuition scholarship by Northern Michigan University.  This scholarship covers tuition only; it does not provide for books or other fees.  To be eligible for this program, the senior citizen should submit an "Application for Admission" (no application fee) to the Office of Admissions.  Students should then register for courses in the Student Service Center, where students will be asked to provide proof of age.

 

Orientation and Initial Course Registration

New student orientation programs are provided prior to each semester.  All newly admitted freshman students, undergraduate transfer students and guest students who will be enrolling for classes on the Marquette campus are required to participate in an orientation session.  At the orientation session, students receive academic advising, are oriented to university policies and requirements, learn about the campus community, and complete their course registration.  Questions regarding orientation should be directed to the new student orientation program, Academic and Career Advisement Center, 1401 Presque Isle Avenue, Marquette, MI  49855-5310, 906-227-1707 or 800-682-9797.

 

Civil Rights Policy

Northern Michigan University does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, height, weight, marital status, familial status, handicap/disability, sexual orientation, or veteran status in employment or the provision of services and provides, upon request, reasonable accommodation including auxiliary aids and services necessary to afford individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to participate in all programs and activities.

 

The university has a grievance procedure designed to afford an opportunity for students and employees to exercise or protect the rights guaranteed them under the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI and VII prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, and national origin), Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (prohibiting discrimination in educational programs where federal financial aid is distributed), Executive Order 11246 of 1965 as amended by Executive Order 11375 of 1973 (prohibiting discrimination by educational institutions that have federal contracts), and the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Sections 503 and 504 prohibiting discrimination on the basis of handicap and requiring reasonable accommodations for handicapped persons).

 

Individuals with civil rights concerns should contact the Dean of Students Office, room 1104 of the University Center.  For more information on university policies, student rights and responsibilities, and the student code, see the NMU Student Handbook.

 

Jeanne Clery Act

Northern Michigan University’s annual security report includes statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus; in certain off-campus buildings owned or controlled by Northern Michigan University; and on public property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus.  The report also includes institutional policies concerning campus security, such as policies concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters.  You can obtain a copy of this report by contacting Public Safety and Police Services at 906-227-2151 or by accessing the following Web site: publicsafety.nmu.edu/clery.htm.