does ksu require an essay for admission

General Information

Admission to Kennesaw State University is made without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, or age. Admission to Kennesaw State University is based on a number of factors depending upon your admission type of entry and previous educational experience. The admission requirements for the University have been developed in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Board of Regents for the University System of Georgia.

How To Apply

Domestic Applicants:

Graduates holding a baccalaureate degree from colleges or universities accredited in a manner accepted by Kennesaw State University may apply for admission to The Graduate College. Applicants must submit the credentials deemed necessary by the chosen degree program. Applicants are accepted to a specific graduate program and must reapply in order to change programs.

• Completed online Graduate Application 
• $60 non-refundable application processing fee* 
• Official transcripts from each college or university attended. 
• Bachelor’s degree from a Regionally Accredited college or university. 
• Minimum 2.75 GPA from degree-granting institution. 
• Additional requirements by program 

*Application fee may vary by program  

All documents become the property of Kennesaw State University and cannot be forwarded or returned. Incomplete files and files of accepted applicants who never enroll in classes are destroyed after one year. Applicants wishing to apply again must file a new application and resubmit all documents, the application fee, and meet current admissions criteria for the desired program.

Once an applicant’s file is complete, the respective graduate program will review the file. The graduate program will recommend admission or denial to the Office of Graduate Admissions, The Graduate College. Upon receipt of the graduate program recommendation, the Office of Graduate Admissions will make an official determination of admission status and will notify the applicant.

International Applicants:

A student should apply as an International Applicant if they are:

• Not a U.S. Citizen.
• Currently in the U.S. on an F-1 (student) visa.
• Currently living outside the U.S., and will require an F-1 visa to study in the United States.
• Currently in the U.S. on any other class of visa.
• In the process of applying for Permanent Residency status but have not yet received the Permanent Residency card.

In addition to meeting specific requirements for each degree program, international students must meet the following additional requirements:

• U.S. Baccalaureate degree equivalent required. Official transcripts from each college or university attended. If the institution is outside of the U.S., an international credential evaluation is required.  Applicants must not send international transcripts directly to KSU. 
• Minimum 2.75 GPA (on a 4-point scale) from degree-granting institution. 
• Test of English Proficiency.
• Applicants from the following countries are exempt from the English Language Proficiency requirement: Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Canada, Dominica, Ghana, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Liberia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tobago, Trinidad, United Kingdom, United States or Zimbabwe.
• Applicants who have graduated from a college or university in the United States accredited in a manner accepted by Kennesaw State University are exempt from the English Language Proficiency requirement.
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Minimum required score: Internet version (iBT) - 80
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) * Minimum required score: 6.5

    6. Additional requirements by program 

Additional Documentation for International Applicants:

International applicants who are requesting an I-20 for an F-1 visa must submit all of the following in order to enroll at Kennesaw State University:

• an affidavit of support from the sponsor
• a certified financial statement from the sponsor’s bank showing that funds are available for one year of study
• a valid passport

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Admission Categories

Regular student.

Students who fully meet the admission criteria specified by the admissions requirements for the university and the specified graduate program are classified as regular admits to the degree program.

Conditional Student

A student is considered a Conditional Student if they meet any of the following conditions:

• Applicants whose records indicate they need additional coursework or other training prior to beginning their degree program, based upon the professional judgment of graduate program faculty and The Graduate College.
• Conditionally admitted students must meet any special conditions attached to their admission, by either The Graduate College or their major department, prior to enrolling in any graduate courses that will count towards the degree.
• Full graduate status is granted when these students complete the stated conditions.
• A graduate student admitted conditionally is not eligible for appointment to an assistantship, fellowship, or tuition waiver until full graduate status is achieved.
• Conditionally admitted students who do not meet the prescribed requirements will be dismissed.

Transient Student

Incoming graduate students.

Applicants who are currently enrolled in a recognized graduate program at another institution may seek temporary admission to graduate study at Kennesaw State University. Applicants must submit the following to the Office of Graduate Admissions:

• A completed Transient Application
• A letter of Good Standing from the home institution

Outgoing Graduate Students

Kennesaw State graduate students may attend another institution as a transient student. KSU students must seek written approval from their program director prior to applying to or enrolling in classes at another institution. Students must be in good academic standing and have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 Individual programs may have additional criteria. Transient work will be considered as transfer credit and an official transcript reflecting the credit must be received in order to grant the credit.

Graduate Admissions Appeals 

Process for graduate admissions appeals.

Appeals of graduate admissions decisions at Kennesaw State University are made to the Dean of The Graduate College. KSU Graduate Catalog, “Graduate Admissions.” This memorandum details the process such appeals will follow:

1. Notice to applicants:  Applicants will be apprised of their ability to appeal admissions decisions through postings on the University’s Office of Graduate Admissions and The Graduate College’s websites, as well as contemporaneously with admissions decisions

• Notification of Admissions Decisions. Contemporaneously with notifications of admissions decisions, applicants will be informed of their ability to appeal those decisions and directed to the University’s web resources detailing the appeals process.

​ 2. The Appeal:

A. Basis for appeal. Appeals of admissions decisions may follow different processes based on the grounds of the appeal:

• Discrimination. If the applicant believes her or his admissions decision is impermissibly based upon the applicant’s real or perceived gender identity, sexual orientation, veteran status, spiritual beliefs, physical abilities, racial and ethnic background, and economic status, the applicant may directly contact the University’s Office of Diversity & Inclusion at 470-578-2614.
• Other basis. If the applicant wishes to appeal his or her admissions decision based on other factors, the applicant needs to submit a written appeal to the Dean of The Graduate College.

B. Written Appeal. Within fourteen (14) days of the mailing date of the admissions decision, the applicant may file an appeal. The appeal should, at a minimum, contain the following:

• An explanation of the admissions decision;
• An explanation of why the applicant believes the decision was incorrect;
• Identification of any evidence the applicant believes supports her or his position. The applicant may be asked to provide this information to permit The Graduate College to process his or her appeal;
• Any other information the applicant believes is relevant to her or his appeal.

Effective appeals will typically involve information the applicant may not have provided in his or her original application, but which might have influenced the University’s decision regarding her or his application.

For example, following notification of an unsuccessful application, an applicant for the Master of Science in Criminal Justice might speak to a professor regarding his or her application. During that conversation, the applicant notes her or his five (5) years of successful service as a law enforcement officer. The professor notes this was not included in the original application and states the program faculty might believe it relevant to their consideration of the application. The professor then suggests the applicant file an appeal, providing specific evidence of his or her successful law enforcement record and an explanation of why the applicant believes it contributes to his or her strength as a graduate student in that discipline.

Please note: The Graduate College is unlikely to be influenced by arguments in which the applicant is challenging the judgment of a program’s faculty regarding particular aspects of the program’s application. This is particularly true regarding the faculty’s assessment of an applicant’s undergraduate grade point average or his or her scores on an admissions examination required by the program (e.g., GRE, MAT) or the weight to give such items in the faculty’s evaluation of the applicant.

C. Submission of Appeal. The appeal may be submitted electronically or in writing to The Graduate College. It should be submitted to:

Kennesaw State University Office of The Graduate College 3391 Town Point Drive, MD# 9109 Kennesaw, Georgia 30144-5591

The Graduate College will acknowledge receipt of the appeal electronically or through US Mail.

3. Review Process:

Upon receipt of the appeal, The Graduate College will identify an appropriate process for reviewing the appeal. This process may vary based upon the grounds of the appeal (such as a need to solicit input from the graduate program faculty). After identifying and receiving information and evidence relevant to the appeal, The Graduate College will empanel a group of at least three (3) members of the University’s Graduate Faculty to review the appeal. The Graduate Faculty members will make a recommendation regarding the appeal to the Dean of The Graduate College.

4. Decision:

In the absence of exceptional circumstances, within fourteen (14) of the receipt of the appeal, the Dean of The Graduate College will issue a decision regarding the appeal. It will be communicated to the applicant through U.S. or electronic mail.

5. Appeal of The Graduate College’s Decision: 

Within fourteen (14) days of the mailing date of the Dean’s decision, the applicant may appeal The Graduate College’s determination by sending a written appeal to the Provost of Kennesaw State University.

Statement of Competitive Admission

All qualified persons are equally welcome to seek admission to Kennesaw State University, and all persons may apply for and accept admission confident that the policy and regular practice of the University will not discriminate against them on the basis of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, veteran status, or national origin.

Projections of the number of graduate students to be admitted and enrolled in any year will be determined (a) by the capacity of the University, (b) by the capacity of the admitting program, and (c) by approved enrollment levels. If the number of eligible applicants for admission exceeds the number of applicants who can be admitted and enrolled, those to be offered admission will be selected on the program director’s recommendation of the applicant’s relative qualifications for satisfactory performance in the University/program/research area.

Verification of credentials and certification of compliance with University policies shall be the responsibility of the Office of Graduate Admissions. Policies and procedures that are approved by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, Office of the President, The Graduate College, and the Graduate Policies and Curriculum Committee shall be applied in determining eligibility for consideration for graduate study. From those eligible candidates, final admission recommendations will be the responsibility of the admitting program. Satisfying minimal standards, however, does not guarantee admission since the number of eligible applicants generally exceeds the number of places available. As a result, many qualified applicants may not be accommodated.

The criteria used in determining each applicant’s eligibility for consideration shall include:

• evidence of award of a baccalaureate degree or its equivalent (prior to matriculation) from a regionally accredited institution;
• evidence of preparation in their chosen field correlating to likely success in graduate study;
• other qualifications consistent with standards in their degree and discipline.

For international applicants, satisfactory completion of requirements can be found on our website . For eligible candidates, programs may make final admission recommendations based on a combination of factors, including academic degrees and records, the statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, test scores, and relevant work experience. Also considered is the appropriateness of the applicant’s goals to the degree program in which they are interested and to the research interests of the program’s faculty. In addition, consideration may be given to how the applicant’s background and life experience holistically contributes to creating a community of scholars.

Right of Refusal

The Graduate College maintains the Right of Refusal to applicants who meet any of the following conditions:

• is on probation, suspension, expulsion, or any other type of academic warning at any previously attended institution
• is ineligible to enroll at any previously attended institution
• is currently charged with, or has been found guilty of, any violation of academic honesty, honor code, or conduct regulations of a previously attended institution
• left a previous institution while there were pending charges of any violation of academic honesty, honor code, or conduct regulations
• is currently charged with or has been found guilty of any violation of a federal, state, or municipal law, regulation or ordinance other than minor traffic violations, including offenses for which any type of first offender status has been granted
• has ever entered a plea of guilty, no contest, nolo contendere, or an Alford plea, or has otherwise accepted responsibility for the commission of a crime
• has received any type of discharge from military service other than honorable discharge

If an applicant is refused on the basis of one of the above conditions, then the applicant may request that their case be reviewed in order to insure that the applicant meets the satisfactory academic performance, good character, and good conduct requirements as noted above. If, after a letter of acceptance has been issued, information comes to light that shows that an applicant did not meet all admission requirements, or that an applicant’s application contained omissions or misrepresentations, the applicants offer of admission will be automatically revoked. If this information comes to light after the student has enrolled, the applicant’s enrollment at Kennesaw State University will automatically be terminated and any earned credit may be revoked.

Any changes in a student’s record prior to enrollment will necessitate a new review of the application. Any omissions or misrepresentations on a student’s application for admission will automatically invalidate consideration by, acceptance to, and continuation at Kennesaw State University.

Readmission to Graduate Study

Students who have not enrolled in three or more consecutive terms (including Summer) of matriculation at Kennesaw State University and who are not academically dismissed must apply for readmission to The Graduate College by completing the Graduate Application for Readmission . If the student has attended any other institution since last attending KSU, official transcripts from that institution are required.

KSU Graduate Students Applying for Additional Graduate Degrees

KSU students who have completed or are currently completing a graduate degree at KSU and wish to be considered for an additional graduate degree at KSU (e.g., doctorate, specialist, or masters) must complete a new application through the Online Graduate Application . This may include updating supporting documents and/or test scores. Please refer to the appropriate program’s section of the catalog for admission requirements.

Immunization Requirements

All students are required to satisfy immunization requirements of Kennesaw State University.

Verification of Lawful Presence

During the October 2010 meeting, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia approved 2 new policies: Policy 4.1.6, Admission of Persons Not Lawfully in the United States, and Policy 4.3.4, Verification of Lawful Presence

Policy 4.3.4, Verification of Lawful Presence

Each University System institution shall verify the lawful presence in the United States of every successfully admitted person applying for resident tuition status, as defined in the Section 7.3 of this Policy Manual, and of every person admitted to an institution referenced in Section 4.1.6 of this Policy Manual.

Students may provide any of the following to verify Lawful Presence:

• Certified Copy of a U.S. Birth Certificate showing the student was born in the U.S. or U.S. territory.
• U.S. Certificate of Naturalization (USCIS form N-550 or N-570)
• U.S. Certificate of Citizenship (USCIS from N-560 or N-561)
• U.S. Certificate of Birth Abroad issued by the Department of State (SD-1350) or Consular Report of Birth Abroad (FS-240)
• copy of current U.S. Passport
• copy of current Driver’s License (front and back) issued by the State of Georgia after Jan. 1, 2008
• copy of current ID issued by the State of Georgia after Jan. 1, 2008
• copy of current Military ID (service member only, not dependent)
• copy of current, valid Permanent Resident Card (USCIS form I-151 or I-55)

Special Accommodations

KSU does not discriminate on the basis of an individual’s disability and is committed to providing students with full and equal enjoyment of services, facilities and goods on campus as required by law. If you are a student with a qualified disability and are in need of a reasonable accommodation, you must contact the Office of Disability Services . That office will provide you the necessary information and assistance to make your accommodation request.

Kennesaw State University

Academic Programs

• Architecture
• Art & Design
• Communication
• Computer Science
• Construction Management
• Cybersecurity
• Engineering
• Entrepreneurship
• Finance/Accounting
• Government/Political Science
• Health Science
• Hospitality Management
• Information Systems
• Mechatronics Engineering
• Media and Entertainment
• Performing Arts
• Professional Sales
• Social Science
• Visual Arts

Student experience

• Co-op/Internship Opportunities
• Disability Services
• Distance/online learning
• Intramural/Club Sports
• LGBTQIA Services
• Military/Veteran Services
• Night Class Offerings
• On-Campus Housing
• ROTC Program
• Study Abroad
• Undergraduate Research

Application information

Find out about requirements, fees, and deadlines

• A graduating senior in high school and never attended another college or university
• Have graduated high school fewer than five years ago and never attended another college or university
• Have attended another college or university and have earned fewer than 30 transferrable credit hours.  

Whether you are planning to complete your bachelor’s degree or are seeking a new college with greater opportunities, KSU provides the tools and support you need to transfer and succeed. To be considered a transfer applicant at KSU, you must have graduated high school and and have attended another college or university and earned more than 30 transferrable credit hours.     To see all transfer requirements, visit our transfer admissions page .  

Additional Information

I can’t wait to be an Owl! I was walking around campus with my friend and I looked over to them and said, ‘I feel at home.’ I never thought I would feel this way about a college, but it is safe to say I have fallen in love with KSU! Rachel S, Student, Class of 2026

Admissions office

3391 Town Point Drive NW , Suite 1000, MD 9111 Kennesaw , GA 30144 , United States of America

Phone number

470-578-4636

For first-year students

Admissions website.

www.kennesaw.edu/admissions.php

Financial aid website

www.kennesaw.edu/financial-aid/index.php

Undocumented or DACA students

www.kennesaw.edu/tuition-classification/faqs.php

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Kennesaw State University Requirements for Admission

Choose your test.

What are Kennesaw State University's admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

• GPA requirements
• Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
• Application requirements

In this guide we'll cover what you need to get into Kennesaw State University and build a strong application.

School location: Kennesaw, GA

This school is also known as: KSU

Admissions Rate: 67.8%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at Kennesaw State University is 67.8% . For every 100 applicants, 68 are admitted.

This means the school is moderately selective . The school expects you to meet their requirements for GPA and SAT/ACT scores, but they're more flexible than other schools. If you exceed their requirements, you have an excellent chance of getting in. But if you don't, you might be one of the unlucky minority that gets a rejection letter.

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We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools.

Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in.

Kennesaw State University GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school's average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 3.5

The average GPA at Kennesaw State University is 3.5 .

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 3.5, Kennesaw State University requires you to be around average in your high school class. You'll need a mix of A's and B's, and very few C's. If you have a lower GPA, you can compensate with harder courses like AP or IB classes. This will help boost your weighted GPA and show your ability to take college classes.

If you're currently a junior or senior, your GPA is hard to change in time for college applications. If your GPA is at or below the school average of 3.5, you'll need a higher SAT or ACT score to compensate . This will help you compete effectively against other applicants who have higher GPAs than you.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them.

Kennesaw State University SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school's average score.

Average SAT: 1175

The average SAT score composite at Kennesaw State University is a 1175 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes Kennesaw State University Competitive for SAT test scores.

Kennesaw State University SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 1030, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1200. In other words, a 1030 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1200 will move you up to above average .

Here's the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

Kennesaw State University has the Score Choice policy of "Highest Section."

This is also known as "superscoring." This means that you can choose which SAT tests you want to send to the school. Of all the scores they receive, your application readers will consider your highest section scores across all SAT test dates you submit .

Click below to learn more about how superscoring critically affects your test strategy.

For example, say you submit the following 3 test scores:

Even though the highest total you scored on any one test date was 1000, Kennesaw State University will take your highest section score from all your test dates, then combine them to form your Superscore. You can raise your composite score from 1000 to 1400 in this example.

This is important for your testing strategy. Because you can choose which tests to send in, and Kennesaw State University forms your Superscore, you can take the SAT as many times as you want, then submit only the tests that give you the highest Superscore. Your application readers will only see that one score.

Therefore, if your SAT superscore is currently below a 1175, we strongly recommend that you consider prepping for the SAT and retaking it . You have a very good chance of raising your score, which will significantly boost your chances of getting in.

Even better, because of the Superscore, you can focus all your energy on a single section at a time. If your Reading score is lower than your other sections, prep only for the Reading section, then take the SAT. Then focus on Math for the next test, and so on. This will give you the highest Superscore possible.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

Kennesaw State University ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, Kennesaw State University likely doesn't have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 24

The average ACT score at Kennesaw State University is 24. This score makes Kennesaw State University Moderately Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 19, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 25.

Even though Kennesaw State University likely says they have no minimum ACT requirement, if you apply with a 19 or below, you'll have a harder time getting in, unless you have something else impressive in your application.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you're taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school's ACT requirement of 24 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you're happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

We weren't able to find the school's exact ACT policy, which most likely means that it does not Superscore. Regardless, you can choose your single best ACT score to send in to Kennesaw State University, so you should prep until you reach our recommended target ACT score of 24.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Currently, only the ACT has an optional essay section that all students can take. The SAT used to also have an optional Essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. Because of this, no school requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing section, but some schools do recommend certain students submit their results if they have them.

Kennesaw State University considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don't need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you're applying to may require it.

Final Admissions Verdict

Because this school is moderately selective, strong academic performance will almost guarantee you admission . Scoring a 1200 SAT or a 25 ACT or above will nearly guarantee you admission. Because the school admits 67.8% of all applicants, being far above average raises the admission rate for you to nearly 100%.

If you can achieve a high SAT/ACT score, the rest of your application essentially doesn't matter. You still need to meet the rest of the application requirements, and your GPA shouldn't be too far off from the school average of 3.5. But you won't need dazzling extracurriculars and breathtaking letters of recommendation to get in. You can get in based on the merits of your score alone.

But if your score is a 1030 SAT or a 19 ACT and below, you have a good chance of being one of the unlucky few to be rejected.

Admissions Calculator

Here's our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are. Pick your test: SAT ACT

• 80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
• 50-80%: More likely than not getting in
• 20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
• 5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
• 0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

How would your chances improve with a better score?

Take your current SAT score and add 160 points (or take your ACT score and add 4 points) to the calculator above. See how much your chances improve?

At PrepScholar, we've created the leading online SAT/ACT prep program . We guarantee an improvement of 160 SAT points or 4 ACT points on your score, or your money back.

Here's a summary of why we're so much more effective than other prep programs:

• PrepScholar customizes your prep to your strengths and weaknesses . You don't waste time working on areas you already know, so you get more results in less time.
• We guide you through your program step-by-step so that you're never confused about what you should be studying. Focus all your time learning, not worrying about what to learn.
• Our team is made of national SAT/ACT experts . PrepScholar's founders are Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers . You'll be studying using the strategies that actually worked for them.
• We've gotten tremendous results with thousands of students across the country. Read about our score results and reviews from our happy customers .

There's a lot more to PrepScholar that makes it the best SAT/ACT prep program. Click to learn more about our program , or sign up for our 5-day free trial to check out PrepScholar for yourself:

Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials - high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We'll cover the exact requirements of Kennesaw State University here.

Application Requirements Overview

• Common Application Not accepted
• Electronic Application Available
• Essay or Personal Statement
• Letters of Recommendation
• Interview Not required
• Application Fee $40
• Fee Waiver Available? Available
• Other Notes Proof of immunization required for freshmen

Testing Requirements

• SAT or ACT Required
• SAT Essay or ACT Writing Optional
• SAT Subject Tests Optional
• Scores Due in Office July 14

Coursework Requirements

• Subject Required Years
• Foreign Language 2
• Social Studies 3

Deadlines and Early Admissions

• Offered? Deadline Notification
• Yes June 30 June 30

Admissions Office Information

• Address: 1000 Kennesaw, GA 30144
• Phone: (470) 578-4636
• Fax: (470) 578-9169
• Email: [email protected]

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in Kennesaw State University, you'll probably be interested in these schools as well. We've divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to Kennesaw State University.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than Kennesaw State University. If you improve your SAT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you're competitive for Kennesaw State University, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for Kennesaw State University, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If Kennesaw State University is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

Data on this page is sourced from Peterson's Databases © 2023 (Peterson's LLC. All rights reserved.) as well as additional publicly available sources.

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Study In Usa > Colleges In Usa > KSU > Admission

Kennesaw State University Admissions: Programs, Deadlines, Requirements & FAQs

Collegedunia Team

Content Curator

Kennesaw State University Admissions 2022

• Programs: Kennesaw State University offers over 150 undergraduate and graduate programs. The best paying degree at Kennesaw State University is Bachelor of Science, with alumni earning an average salary of USD 74,000.
• Acceptance Rate: With an acceptance rate of 83.1%, Kennesaw State University is considered to be a very linently competitive university. In the recent academic year, the institute saw an enrollment of 41,181 students. Check: Student Reviews of Kennesaw .
• Admission Requirements: To secure admission at Kennesaw State University, international student requires a GPA of minimum 2.5 with ACT/SAT or minimum 2.6 without SAT/ACT. Additionally a TOEFL iBt score of 79 is also required to prove proficiency in english.

Kennesaw State University Application Deadlines

Applicants must apply by the given deadlines to be eligible for admissions-

*May vary for some programs.

Kennesaw State University International Student Admissions

Kennesaw State University students represent over 140 countries. The application process is quite similar to that of domestic students, however, international applicants must submit some additional documents to be eligible for admissions.

Application Portal:  UG-  KSU Undergraduate Application  | PG-  Graduate Application Application Fee:  UG- 40 USD | PG- 60 USD Application Requirements:  

• Official transcripts
• Minimum required GPA is 2.50.
• Letter of Recommendation from a college counselor
• SAT or ACT scores
• Statement of Purpose
• GRE or GMAT scores
• Official Scorecard of English Proficiency Test
• Proof of Financial Support
• Health immunization Certificate

Also Check: 

English Language Proficiency Scores

International applicants with a native language other than English need to demonstrate English Language Proficiency. The minimum required English Language Test scores by the university are:

There are various other exams that a student can submit as proof of English language proficiency. Also in case, the minimum score requirement is not fulfilled, students may enroll in KSU English Language Program and get a conditional admission.

Visa Process for International Students

International students are required to apply for a student visa to study in the USA after they have received an official letter of acceptance from Kennesaw State University. All students whose applications have been accepted and approved will receive an I-20 form. The documents required to apply for a student visa are as follows:

• Valid Passport
• Letter of Acceptance
• Academic Transcripts and Educational Qualifications.
• Valid English Proficiency test scores
• Proof of financial support
• Receipt of SEVIS Fee

You will then be called for a scheduled visa interview.

Kennesaw State University Undergraduate Admissions

It offers more than 52 Bachelor’s Degrees. Management, Communication, Psychology, Nursing, Biology, and Computer Science are its most popular majors. Programs in Architecture require higher scores to be eligible for admissions.

Application Portal: KSU Undergraduate Application Application Fee: 40 USD Application Requirements:  

• Completed Application
• Official High School Transcripts
• Must be sent directly to the university
• Minimum GPA - 2.17

Kennesaw State University Graduate Admissions

It offers about 80 graduate programs across a wide variety of subjects. Students should check the program-specific eligibility criteria and course deadlines before submitting an application.

Application Portal:  Graduate Application Application Fee: 60 USD Application Requirements:

• Official College or University Transcripts
• Letters of Recommendation
• GRE/GMAT Scores
• Program-specific requirements.

Here are program-specific admission requirements for some of the popular master’s degrees at Kennesaw State University:

Applicants can check the application status once they have submitted the application through the application portal. Admission decisions will be communicated to the students by email or mail. It may take 2 to 3 weeks before the final decision.

Ques. What is the deadline to provide the test score?

Ans. Test scores must be submitted by November 20 for the spring semester and June 1 for the fall semester.

Ques. Can I get advice on which course to take?

Ans. KSU offers advisors who will be specifically assigned to you based on your major. They can guide on course selection.

Ques. When will I receive my admission decision and I‐20 document?

Ans. Applications will be reviewed after all application materials are received, and students will be notified as soon as the decision is available.

Ques. Can I send a photocopy of the SAT or ACT test score?

Ans. No. The official test result must be sent directly from the appropriate test provider.

Ques. Apart from degree programs, what other programs are offered?

Ans. KSU offers doctoral programs, online, certificate, and hybrid programs.

Ques. What are the application fees of Kennesaw state university?

Ans. Application fees of Kennesaw state university for undergraduation program is $40 and for post-graduation is $60.

Ques. What is acceptance rate of Kennesaw state university?

Ans. In fall 2019 Kennesaw state university had acceptance rate of 75%.

Ques. Can I get my application fees back if I cancel my application?

Ans. No, application fees are non-refundable.

Ques. Which English proficiency test is accepted by Kennesaw state university?

Ans. Kennesaw state university accepts TOEFL, IELTS, Duo lingo English test (only for 2021), Cambridge CAE (Certificate of Advanced English), Cambridge CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English) and Pearson PTE Academic as proof of English proficiency.

Ques. What ACT score do you need to get into Kennesaw?

Ans. If you have GPA between 2.5 and 2.9 then you will require ACT English or Reading sub score of 18 AND ACT Math sub score of 18 but you won’t need ACT/SAT if your GPA is above a 2.6 after evaluation.

Ques.   How can an international applicant pay application fees?

Ans. You can pay your application fees through credit/debit card.

Ques.  Is their financial support available in Kennesaw State University?

Ans. Yes, they have financial aid available for students in form of scholarship and waivers.

Ques. What GPA is required for out of state waiver?

Ans. Student must have 3.0 or higher GPA to have higher chances of getting out of state waiver.

Ques.   What are the extra documents required for out of state waiver?

Ans. You will have to provide essay and recommendation letter to the university with all the basic documents.

Ques.  What GPA are requirements to get into Kennesaw State University?

Ans. GPA Required to get into Kennesaw State University is minimum 2.5 with ACT/SAT or minimum 2.6 without SAT/ACT.

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It wasn't too far from home. It isn't a huge school but it still has a huge school feel. There is a lot to do in the Kennesaw area. It is close to downtown Atlanta. Greek life at Kennesaw is very nice.

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• Acceptance Rate 69%
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Acceptance Rate 69 % Less Selective

• Total Applicants 23,138
• Admitted 16,008
• Enrolled 8,234

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If you do not meet these assured requirements, you are still encouraged to apply. Your application will be reviewed individually.

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Students completing home-schooling in 2015 or after must:

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• Obtain a 21 or higher ACT composite (1060 or higher SAT ERW+M) AND
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GED or HiSET scores are also accepted and can be reviewed. See below for High School Equivalency/GED students.

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Most homeschool transcripts provide all the details we need to assess completion of the precollege curriculum. However, if you are concerned your transcript may not have the required detail, please use this fillable homeschool transcript form (pdf) . Print, sign and submit this form through the mail: Kansas State University 119 Anderson Hall Manhattan, KS 66506-0102

If you have encountered unusual situations that keep you from meeting the university requirements, please contact the Office of Recruitment and Admissions at 785-532-1521.

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• An overall score of 600 and a minimum score of 150 on each subtest if you took the GED after Jan. 1, 2014
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• An average score of 50 or higher if you took the GED before 2002

HiSET test takers who took the exam after Jan. 1, 2014 must obtain an overall score of 75 and a minimum score of 8 on each subtest.

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Articles & Advice > College Admission > Blog

3 Tips for Writing the Best College Admission Essay Possible

Writing your college admission essays can be overwhelming, but you can simplify the process and do your best work by remembering these three key tips.

by Maddy A-C CollegeXpress Student Writer

Last Updated: Jun 25, 2024

Originally Posted: Jun 25, 2024

When it comes to writing a great college admission essay, it can be tough to sum up your life in a way that will impress others. Some college applications ask you to write about a significant event that changed your life and how you dealt with it. But it's hard to put all that into an essay; you want to grab the admission officers' attention without being too dramatic. The key to writing a standout college admission essay is to not stress too much about writing about a major event—instead, just write from your heart. I know that sounds like a major cliché, but I’m here to tell you it's true! Here are three main tips I recommend to help you write an effective college admission essay.

1. Start early

One of the main reasons students stress about writing an amazing college admission essay is because they wait until the last minute. Can you believe that? Unfortunately, I can. I hate to admit it, but I have procrastinated a few times on articles and essays. But I always find it would’ve been better to plan and write my work in advance—I wouldn't have been so stressed! I recommend writing a due date for your college essays on a calendar that is clearly visible to you. If you’re a really bad procrastinator, trick yourself into thinking the essay is due earlier and write it down on a closer date. The best advice is to just start early—and to submit your whole application early so you don't have to deal with looming deadlines. You will be calm and done with it, which is a great feeling!

Related: Now Is the Time to Start Your College Essay

2. Tell a story

You might think it's obvious, but you don't want your college essays to sound robotic. Admission officers want you to tell a descriptive story that draws them in. For example, "I was 10 years old at the time, and I was super excited." No—that’s boring. Tell a story instead : "I was just 10 years old at the time, but I was beyond excited and I could not wait. It was a gloomy day, but I didn't care." It doesn't have to be so dramatic—just tell a story as yourself, not like a robot. Paint a picture and make sure it doesn't sound as if it's just another school assignment you were forced to write that you're not interested in. Your college essay is your story, so do it justice.

3. Show your real personality

Showing your true self beyond grades, test scores, and other numbers is the reason you are writing this essay. So be yourself. Your essay doesn't have to feature big, flowery words and phrases that you think sound smart but don't even know the meaning of. For example, "The day was rich and tender. I was questioning what I was doing in that serene place at that compelling time of this generation." That's a lot of words, making it hard to read. I’m not saying you can't be poetic, but don't try to be something you're not. For example, "The day was perfectly exquisite, but I was thinking to myself, why today?" That sounds so much better. Put your own personality and words into your work. It doesn't have to sound so academic to impress the adults who are reading it.

Related: What NOT to Do in Your College Application Essay

I hope you find these tips helpful! I haven't written my college essays yet, but I know this will give me a good starting point. Just remember these three key tips: Start early, tell a story, and be yourself! College essays are nerve-wracking, but if you have a plan in place, you're sure to ace them. I am rooting for you!

Find admission essay examples, tips for specific Common App questions, and much more with Our Best Advice for Writing Your College Application Essays .

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Tags: admission advice admission essays college admission college essays student advice writing tips

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About Maddy A-C

Maddy A-C is a high school student residing in California. She enjoys spending quality time with her loved ones at the beach. Additionally, she has undertaken a few college courses and consistently excels in writing assignments. Writing is one of her passions, which stems from her love of reading; you can always find her with a book in hand. Maddy has only worked with CollegeXpress so far, but she is eager to find out what the future holds.

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More From Forbes

How not to write your college essay.

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If you are looking for the “secret formula” for writing a “winning” college essay, you have come to the wrong place. The reality is there is no silver bullet or strategy to write your way to an acceptance. There is not one topic or approach that will guarantee a favorable outcome.

At the end of the day, every admission office just wants to know more about you, what you value, and what excites you. They want to hear about your experiences through your own words and in your own voice. As you set out to write your essay, you will no doubt get input (both sought-after and unsolicited) on what to write. But how about what NOT Notcoin to write? There are avoidable blunders that applicants frequently make in drafting their essays. I asked college admission leaders, who have read thousands of submissions, to share their thoughts.

Don’t Go In There

There is wide consensus on this first one, so before you call on your Jedi mind tricks or predictive analytics, listen to the voices of a diverse range of admission deans. Peter Hagan, executive director of admissions at Syracuse University, sums it up best, saying, “I would recommend that students try not to get inside of our heads. He adds, “Too often the focus is on what they think we want.”

Andy Strickler, dean of admission and financial aid at Connecticut College agrees, warning, “Do NOT get caught in the trap of trying to figure out what is going to impress the admission committee. You have NO idea who is going to read your essay and what is going to connect with them. So, don't try to guess that.” Victoria Romero, vice president for enrollment, at Scripps College adds, “Do not write about something you don’t care about.” She says, “I think students try to figure out what an admission officer wants to read, and the reality is the reader begins every next essay with no expectations about the content THEY want to read.” Chrystal Russell, dean of admission at Hampden-Sydney College, agrees, saying, “If you're not interested in writing it, we will not be interested when reading it.” Jay Jacobs, vice provost for enrollment management at the University of Vermont elaborates, advising. “Don’t try to make yourself sound any different than you are.” He says, “The number one goal for admission officers is to better understand the applicant, what they like to do, what they want to do, where they spend the majority of their time, and what makes them tick. If a student stays genuine to that, it will shine through and make an engaging and successful essay.”

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Don’t Be Artificial

The headlines about college admission are dominated by stories about artificial intelligence and the college essay. Let’s set some ground rules–to allow ChatGPT or some other tool to do your work is not only unethical, it is also unintelligent. The only worse mistake you could make is to let another human write your essay for you. Instead of preoccupying yourself with whether or not colleges are using AI detection software (most are not), spend your time focused on how best to express yourself authentically. Rick Clark is the executive director of strategic student success at Georgia Institute of Technology, one of the first institutions to clearly outline their AI policy for applicants. He says, “Much of a college application is devoted to lines, boxes, and numbers. Essays and supplements are the one place to establish connection, personality, and distinction. AI, in its current state, is terrible at all three.” He adds, “My hope is that students will use ChatGPT or other tools for brainstorming and to get started, but then move quickly into crafting an essay that will provide insight and value.”

Don’t Overdo It

Michael Stefanowicz, vice president for enrollment management at Landmark College says, “You can only cover so much detail about yourself in an admission essay, and a lot of students feel pressure to tell their life story or choose their most defining experience to date as an essay topic. Admission professionals know that you’re sharing just one part of your lived experience in the essay.” He adds, “Some of the favorite essays I’ve read have been episodic, reflecting on the way you’ve found meaning in a seemingly ordinary experience, advice you’ve lived out, a mistake you’ve learned from, or a special tradition in your life.” Gary Ross, vice president for admission and financial aid at Colgate University adds, “More than a few applicants each year craft essays that talk about the frustration and struggles they have experienced in identifying a topic for their college application essay. Presenting your college application essay as a smorgasbord of topics that ultimately landed on the cutting room floor does not give us much insight into an applicant.”

Don’t Believe In Magic

Jason Nevinger, senior director of admission at the University of Rochester warns, “Be skeptical of anyone or any company telling you, ‘This is the essay that got me into _____.’ There is no magic topic, approach, sentence structure, or prose that got any student into any institution ever.” Social media is littered with advertisements promising strategic essay help. Don’t waste your time, energy, or money trying to emulate a certain style, topic, or tone. Liz Cheron is chief executive officer for the Coalition for College and former assistant vice president of enrollment & dean of admissions at Northeastern University. She agrees with Nevinger, saying “Don't put pressure on yourself to find the perfect, slam dunk topic. The vast majority of college essays do exactly what they're supposed to do–they are well-written and tell the admission officer more about the student in that student's voice–and that can take many different forms.”

Don’t Over Recycle

Beatrice Atkinson-Myers, associate director of global recruitment at the University of California at Santa Cruz tells students, “Do not use the same response for each university; research and craft your essay to match the program at the university you are interested in studying. Don't waste time telling me things I can read elsewhere in your application. Use your essay to give the admissions officer insights into your motivations, interests, and thinking. Don't make your essay the kitchen sink, focus on one or two examples which demonstrate your depth and creativity.” Her UC colleague, Jim Rawlins, associate vice chancellor of enrollment management at the University of California at San Diego agrees, saying “Answer the question. Not doing so is the surest way we can tell you are simply giving us a snippet of something you actually wrote for a different purpose.”

Don’t Overedit

Emily Roper-Doten, vice president for undergraduate admissions and financial assistance at Clark University warns against “Too many editors!” She says, “Pick a couple of trusted folks to be your sounding board when considering topics and as readers once you have drafts. You don’t want too many voices in your essay to drown you out!” Scripps’ Romero agrees, suggesting, “Ask a good friend, someone you trust and knows you well, to read your essays.” She adds, “The goal is for the admission committee to get to know a little about you and who better to help you create that framework, than a good friend. This may not work for all students because of content but helps them understand it’s important to be themselves.” Whitney Soule, vice provost and dean of admissions at The University of Pennsylvania adds, “Avoid well-meaning editorial interference that might seem to polish your writing but actually takes your own personal ‘shine’ right out of the message.” She says, “As readers, we connect to applicants through their genuine tone and style. Considering editorial advice for flow and message is OK but hold on to the 'you' for what you want to say and how you want to say it.”

Don’t Get Showy

Palmer Muntz, senior regional admissions counselor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks cautions applicants, “Don’t be fancier than you are. You don’t need to put on airs.” He adds, “Yes, proofread your work for grammar and spelling, but be natural. Craft something you’d want to read yourself, which probably means keeping your paragraphs short, using familiar words, and writing in an active voice.” Connecticut College’s Strickler agrees, warning, “Don't try to be someone you are not. If you are not funny, don't try to write a funny essay. If you are not an intellectual, trying to write an intellectual essay is a bad idea.”

Anthony Jones, the vice president of enrollment management at Loyola University New Orleans offers a unique metaphor for thinking about the essay. He says, “In the new world of the hyper-fast college admission process, it's become easy to overlook the essential meaning of the college application. It's meant to reveal Y...O...U, the real you, not some phony digital avatar. Think of the essay as the essence of that voice but in analog. Like the completeness and authenticity captured in a vinyl record, the few lines you're given to explain your view should be a slow walk through unrestrained expression chock full of unapologetic nuances, crevices of emotion, and exactness about how you feel in the moment. Then, and only then, can you give the admissions officer an experience that makes them want to tune in and listen for more.”

Don’t Be A Downer

James Nondorf, vice president and dean of admissions and financial aid at The University of Chicago says, “Don’t be negative about other people, be appreciative of those who have supported you, and be excited about who you are and what you will bring to our campus!” He adds, “While admissions offices want smart students for our classrooms, we also want kind-hearted, caring, and joyous students who will add to our campus communities too.”

Don’t Pattern Match

Alan Ramirez is the dean of admission and financial aid at Sewanee, The University of the South. He explains, “A big concern I have is when students find themselves comparing their writing to other students or past applicants and transform their writing to be more like those individuals as a way to better their chances of offering a more-compelling essay.” He emphasizes that the result is that the “essay is no longer authentic nor the best representation of themselves and the whole point of the essay is lost. Their distinctive voice and viewpoint contribute to the range of voices in the incoming class, enhancing the diversity of perspectives we aim to achieve.” Ramirez simple tells students, “Be yourself, that’s what we want to see, plus there's no one else who can do it better than you!”

Don’t Feel Tied To A Topic

Jessica Ricker is the vice president for enrollment and dean of admissions and financial aid at Skidmore College. She says, “Sometimes students feel they must tell a story of grief or hardship, and then end up reliving that during the essay-writing process in ways that are emotionally detrimental. I encourage students to choose a topic they can reflect upon positively but recommend that if they choose a more challenging experience to write about, they avoid belaboring the details and instead focus on the outcome of that journey.” She adds, "They simply need to name it, frame its impact, and then help us as the reader understand how it has shaped their lens on life and their approach moving forward.”

Landmark College’s Stefanowicz adds, “A lot of students worry about how personal to get in sharing a part of their identity like your race or heritage (recalling last year’s Supreme Court case about race-conscious admissions), a learning difference or other disability, your religious values, LGBTQ identity…the list goes on.” He emphasizes, “This is always your choice, and your essay doesn’t have to be about a defining identity. But I encourage you to be fully yourself as you present yourself to colleges—because the college admission process is about finding a school where your whole self is welcome and you find a setting to flourish!”

Don’t Be Redundant

Hillen Grason Jr., dean of admission at Franklin & Marshall College, advises, “Don't repeat academic or co-curricular information that is easily identifiable within other parts of your application unless the topic is a core tenant of you as an individual.” He adds, “Use your essay, and other parts of your application, wisely. Your essay is the best way to convey who your authentic self is to the schools you apply. If you navigated a situation that led to a dip in your grades or co-curricular involvement, leverage the ‘additional information’ section of the application.

Thomas Marr is a regional manager of admissions for the Americas at The University of St Andrews in Scotland and points out that “Not all international schools use the main college essay as part of their assessment when reviewing student applications.” He says, “At the University of St Andrews, we focus on the supplemental essay and students should avoid the mistake of making the supplemental a repeat of their other essay. The supplemental (called the Personal Statement if using the UCAS application process) is to show the extent of their passion and enthusiasm for the subject/s to which they are applying and we expect about 75% of the content to cover this. They can use the remaining space to mention their interests outside of the classroom. Some students confuse passion for the school with passion for their subject; do not fall into that trap.”

A Few Final Don’ts

Don’t delay. Every college applicant I have ever worked with has wished they had started earlier. You can best avoid the pitfalls above if you give yourself the time and space to write a thoughtful essay and welcome feedback openly but cautiously. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to be perfect . Do your best, share your voice, and stay true to who you are.

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Undergraduate Admissions

Admission Requirements

• Freshman or Transfer Freshman
• Transfer Students
• Dual Enrollment
• International Students
• Additional Student Groups
• Transfer Next Steps
• International Next Steps
• Check your Application Status

We are glad you are considering transferring to the Owl Nation. As a transfer student, your smooth transition to Kennesaw State is our top priority. Whether you’re planning to complete your bachelor’s degree or are seeking a new college with greater opportunities, Kennesaw State provides the tools and support you need to transfer and succeed.

You should apply as a Transfer Student if you:

• graduated from high school
• have earned 30 semester hours or 50 quarter hours of transferable college credit

Transfer Deadlines