Navigating the college application process can be challenging, but we are here to help you! We’ve compiled some answers to 10 of the most common questions asked by our applicants to guide you through the application process.
How does Early Decision (I and II) differ from Regular Decision?
Early Decision applicants are those who, if admitted, will be bound to attend TCU and must withdraw applications to other universities. This route will provide a quicker decision for the applicant who knows they want to attend TCU.
Regular Decision is a non-binding decision, meaning that if you are admitted, you will have until May 1 to commit to TCU.
The Fall Early Action deadline for our Transfer applicants is a non-binding decision that gives students a quicker response on their application status.
When are application deadlines?
For first-year applicants, the Early Decision II and Regular Decision deadlines are February 1.
Transfer applicants who want to apply for the Fall Early Action deadline will need to submit by February 1.
Begin your application by clicking here!
What standardized tests are required for admission?
TCU is test-optional through 2026! This means that it is not required for you to submit an ACT or SAT score with your application.
We review your application holistically, looking at your academics and community involvement, rather than relying on test scores.
For more information about our test-optional policy, visit our Frog Blog.
What is a First-Generation (First-Gen) college student?
A first-gen college student is one whose parents did not graduate from a four-year university with a degree.
A student would also be considered first-gen if their parent(s) attended community college.
When will I know my admission decision?
The date you are notified with your admission decision depends on when you submit your application.
Applicants who submit by the February 1 deadline (Regular Decision for first-year or transfer Fall Early Action) are guaranteed a decision by April 1.
Early Decision II applicants (first-year) who apply by the February 1 deadline will be issued an admission decision by March 3.
Where do I send my official transcripts?
Official transcripts (from your high school and/or college) must come directly from the school. Transcripts can be mailed in a sealed envelope to:
TCU Office of Admission
TCU Box 297013
Fort Worth, Texas 76129
They can also be sent electronically by emailing them to frogmail@tcu.edu.
As a transfer student, what will I need to complete my application?
To complete your application as a transfer student, we will need several documents including:
- Official high school and college transcripts
- Disciplinary standing form from your current institution
- Financial aid applications
- Your essay
International transfer students will also need proof of English proficiency.
A detailed look at the transfer application process can be found on our recent Frog Blog post.
How can international students apply for financial aid?
International students seeking (need-based) financial aid must fill out the CSS Profile through the College Board.
When filling out this application, you must enter TCU’s CSS Profile code 6820.
For more information about the CSS Profile, visit TCU’s financial aid website.
Is there a separate application for merit-based scholarships?
At TCU, applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships! For first-year students, we factor in your GPA, strength of curriculum and, if provided, your test scores, ( to determine your eligibility for an academic scholarship.
Transfer applicants are awarded academic scholarships based on their GPA and transferable hours.
Check out our website for more information on the various merit-based scholarships TCU offers.
How can I make my application stand out?
It may sound cliché, but the best way to make your application stand out is to be yourself!
Especially in the essay portion of your application, you want to make sure that it is reflective of who you are, your values and how you see yourself contributing to TCU’s community.
Check out some application tips from our first-year, transfer, and international counselors! You can also read a few essays that helped some of our Class of 2026 students secure their spot at TCU!
If you have any additional questions, you can always reach out to our office or your admission counselor.
Sophia Vargas ’25 studies strategic communication at TCU with a minor in political science, and is from Northern California. She is a social media intern and operations intern for the Office of Admission. Sophia is also involved with her local church and the Turning Point USA chapter on campus.