Supporting Your Students Exploring Arcadia University
You play a critical role in helping students find the right college fit. Arcadia University values its partnerships with high school counselors and provides clear pathways, dedicated contacts, and supportive resources to help you guide your students from exploration through enrollment.
High school counselors can support students interested in Arcadia University by encouraging them to:
- Connect early with their admissions counselor
- Visit campus or attend virtual events
- Explore Direct Admissions if eligible
- Apply early under rolling admissions
Additionally, you are invited to complete the Counselor Contact Form to receive an invitation to Arcadia’s annual Counselor Workshop and to receive periodic updates from Arcadia (usually once a quarter).
The following information is provided to help you and your students navigate the application process. For any additional questions, please contact the Admissions team for further assistance.
Applying to Arcadia University
Arcadia uses a holistic review process and aims to keep applications accessible and student-centered.
Helpful points to share with students:
- Transcripts can be submitted by mail or electronically through platforms such as Naviance, Parchment, and Send.edu
- Unofficial credentials may be emailed or faxed directly to an admissions counselor Unofficial credentials may be emailed to an admissions counselor or uploaded through our applicant portal – MyKnight Portal
- Standardized test scores are optional, but may be submitted
- Some programs (such as visual and performing arts) may have additional requirements such as a portfolio review or acting audition
Students who are ready to apply may do so using the Arcadia Application, and will be contacted upon completion by an admissions counselor to ensure all materials are submitted.
Additionally, Arcadia partners with third-party platforms to help prospective students discover the university, explore admissions information, receive application guidance, and submit their applications through accessible, centralized tools. Students can select their preferred platform below to visit Arcadia University’s profile and start exploring application options.
Direct Admissions Option
Arcadia offers a Direct Admissions pathway for students who meet specific academic criteria. Eligible students may receive an admissions decision earlier with fewer steps.
This option can help:
- Reduce application stress
- Provide early clarity for college planning
- Allow students to focus sooner on financial aid and next steps
* This option can also be offered through the application platforms mentioned above.
College Credits for Prior Learning
To ensure students are recognized for the knowledge and skills they have gained through past coursework, professional training, and work experience, Arcadia offers credits for prior learning.
This allows students to earn academic credit for prior learning, helping them reduce the number of courses they need to take and save time and money as they work toward their degree. Common credits we accept from high school students include AP, IB, and Dual Enrollment.
Dual Enrollment Opportunities
Taught by Arcadia faculty, the Dual Enrollment Program offers experientially rich learning opportunities for high school students. Participants gain access to campus facilities, benefit from reduced tuition, and receive personalized academic advising throughout their experience.
This option is ideal for students seeking early exposure to college-level coursework or exploring potential academic interests.
Helping Students Understand Financial Aid Options
The cost of college may be overwhelming to high school students and their families. Arcadia offers scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study to help make college more affordable. Students will also be assigned a personal financial aid counselor to help them navigate the process.
Encourage students to explore their options and complete the FAFSA for maximum consideration.
Guaranteed Admissions
Arcadia’s Guaranteed Admission Program celebrates exceptional high school students from across the region and beyond. Through partnerships with select high schools, students who meet established academic and admission criteria are assured admission to Arcadia with merit and partner scholarships that celebrate their academic accomplishments and help fund their education.
- Allentown Central Catholic High School
- Berks Catholic High School
- Delone Catholic High School
- Merion Mercy Academy
- Padua Academy
- Pope John Paul II High School
- York Catholic High School
Don’t see your high school listed here, or want to learn more about how Guaranteed Admission partnerships work? Contact Erica Pulaski, Director of Undergraduate Admissions, to find out how your school can partner with Arcadia.
Visit Opportunities & Events
Campus visits can be a powerful tool for students considering Arcadia. Throughout the year, students may participate in:
- Individual campus visits
- Open houses and admitted student days
- Program-specific events (STEM, business, first-generation student programming, and more)
School counselors are also encouraged to visit campus. Experiencing Arcadia firsthand can be a valuable way to better support students exploring their college options. Counselors are welcome to attend a daily campus tour and information session, or participate in our annual Counselor Workshop designed specifically for high school counseling professionals.
For more information about counselor visits or partnership opportunities, please reach out to Devon Miller, Senior Associate Director of Admissions.
Find Your School’s Admissions Counselor
Arcadia’s admissions team is ready to partner with you and provide the guidance and support needed to help students move confidently from exploration to enrollment. Click the button below to meet the team and get in contact with a counselor to support your students’ college goals and aspirations.
