Admissions FAQ

At Kent State Tuscarawas, we understand that preparing for and choosing a college can be an overwhelming endeavor for students and parents alike. We strive to make the processes of planning for and applying to college as simple as possible.

Below are some of the most common questions we are asked. If you can’t find what you are looking for, please reach out by phone- 330-308-3391, by text- 330-556-5549, or by email- infotusc@kent.edu.

Applying to Kent State Tuscarawas

Q. When can I visit Kent State Tuscarawas?

A. Campus visits are available throughout the year.  Personal campus visits are offered several times each week, and larger open-house style events are held in the fall, spring and summer. For more information, including upcoming dates and registration links, see our Visit Campus site.

Q. How do I apply online? 

A. You can apply online at www.kent.edu/tusc/apply. Choose the appropriate student type to be directed to the correct application.  Be sure to choose the Tuscarawas Campus when prompted on the application. There is no fee to apply to Kent State Tuscarawas.

Q. Do I need to request my transcripts? 

A. Yes, you must personally request your transcripts.  Official high school transcripts as well as official transcripts from all previous colleges, universities, trade schools or adult education programs you have attended are required. 

Official transcripts should be sent directly from the school to the Admissions Office: 

Kent State University
Attn: Admissions Office
PO Box 5190
Kent, OH 44242

 You cannot be admitted until all required transcripts have been received.

Q. Is there an admission application deadline? 

A. The preferred application deadline is February 1st, but you can apply for Fall admission through August 15 and Spring admission through December 15. 

Q. Is there a separate application for scholarships? 

A. Kent State Tuscarawas awards over 170 scholarships each year to deserving students! New freshmen are considered for our campus-based scholarships upon acceptance to the campus and should apply for admission before February 1 for maximum scholarship opportunities.  There is a separate scholarship application for returning students that is due May 1. 

Q. Is there a deadline for filing FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)? 

A. The priority deadline to submit your FAFSA is February 1.  You can continue to file your FAFSA after this date, but you may not qualify for certain grants after this date.  Visit our Financial Aid site for more information or contact tour Financial Aid office at 330-339-3391. 

Q. Is there a minimum GPA and/or ACT score needed to attend Kent State Tuscarawas? 

A. Kent State Tuscarawas is an open-enrollment campus.  This means that as long as you graduated from high school or earned your GED, you will be accepted.  Our campus does not require ACT scores. Selective majors may require a specific GPA as a condition of admission into that major.  

About Kent State Tuscarawas

Q.  How much does it cost to attend Kent State Tuscarawas?

A. Tuition and fees at Kent State Tuscarawas are more affordable than you'll find elsewhere! Tuition amounts are charged on either a full-time (11 or more credit hours) or part-time (1-10 credit hours) basis per semester and are also affected by whether you are taking lower- (freshman and sophomore) or upper-division (junior and senior) level courses. Additional fees apply for online courses. For complete information about tuition and fees, visit our Tuition site. 

Q. What majors are offered at Kent State Tuscarawas?

A. Kent State Tuscarawas offered 13 Bachelor’s (commonly known as “four-year”) and 16 associate (commonly known as "two-year") degrees as well as several certificate programs. These programs can be completed without the need to travel to other campuses. In addition, students who desire a major not offered in it's entirety at our campus may choose to begin their studies then transition later to another campus. Kent State University offers over 340 degree programs through it's eight-campuses. For more information about programs available at Tuscarawas or other campuses, visit our Majors & Degrees site.

Q. I applied to the Kent Campus and was deferred to Tuscarawas. Can I still attend the Kent Campus?

A. Yes, you may be able to transition to the Kent Campus following a successful start at Tuscarawas. The Kent Campus recommends that you complete the following minimum academic achievements before transitioning to the Kent Campus:

  • Successfully complete any developmental coursework as prescribed by an academic advisor.
  • Successfully complete 12 semester hours of coursework.
  • Achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00.

To locate helpful information and resources for transitioning to the Kent Campus visit their Undergraduate Admissions site.

Q. If I start at Kent State Tuscarawas and eventually want to go to Kent Campus, do I need to submit a new application?

A. Transitioning to the Kent Campus after beginning at Tuscarawas is simply that - a transition. There is no need to complete a new application for admission or request transcripts be sent to the Kent Campus. During the semester before you intend to transition to the Kent Campus, you should meet with an advisor there to plan your courses for your first semester there and learn how to make a smooth transition. If you will be living on campus, you might also want to make arrangements with Residence and Dining Services. Of course, when it is time to register for classes, you will need to be sure to choose courses delivered on the desired campus. Additionally, a unique scholarship is available for students transitioning from a regional campus to the Kent Campus, and the Kent Campus hosts a special visit event for transitioning students as well. For more information about transitioning to the Kent Campus, visit the Kent State Admissions page and be sure to look for information specifically prepared for Transitioning Students.

Q. How many hours will make me a full time student?

A. While the full-time tuition amount begins at 11 credit hours, a student must be enrolled in 12 or more credit hours to be considered a full-time student for financial aid and scholarship purposes. Additionally, in order to graduate in two years with an associate degree or four years with a bachelor's degree, students must pass no less than 15 credit hours per semester. You should review the Roadmap for your major and meet frequently with your academic advisor to create a plan for your graduation and make sure you are on track. Some majors require specific sequencing of courses and/or minimum grades in certain courses in order to make progress toward graduation.

Kent State Tuscarawas students who are recipients of campus-based scholarships for full-time students should be aware that they must enroll in at least 12 hours of Tuscarawas classes each semester in order to retain the scholarship funds. Online courses from other campuses do not count toward this minimum. Ask your advisor if you are concerned.

Q. Can I live on campus/do you have dorms?

A. Kent State Tuscarawas is a commuter campus. While our quality programs, friendly and active campus, and affordable tuition often attract students from outside our immediate area, we do not have on-campus housing. Students who will need living arrangements near campus are encouraged to contact local realtors for rental information. Our Off-Campus Housing Guide may be helpful to students beginning this process.

Q. Can I attend part-time and still receive financial aid?

A. Yes. Federal Pell grant funds, student loans and some scholarships are available to students who take less than 12 credit hours per semester. Student loans are available only to students who take at least six hours per semester; when students drop below this amount they will be expected to begin loan repayment. To determine your grant and loan amounts, you must complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) starting October 1 each year. If you'd like more information, visit our Financial Aid site.

Q. What can I do for fun as a student at Kent State Tuscarawas?

A. Kent State Tuscarawas offers a variety of activities for all students. Our Undergraduate Student Government oversees all clubs and organizations on campus, and we also field athletic teams in several sports. If you're looking for a way to get involved, build your resume, meet other students, challenge yourself or just have some fun, we've got plenty from which to choose! Check out the links below for more information:

College Planning

Q. What classes do I need to take in high school to be accepted into a college?

A. Most colleges require that students take 18 units of college prep coursework in high school. These units include:

  • 4 units of English
  • 4 units of Math (i.e. algebra, geometry, trigonometry)
  • 3 units of Social Sciences (i.e. history, psychology, sociology)
  • 3 units of Basic Science (i.e. biology, chemistry, physical science)
  • 2-3 units of a Foreign Language
  • 1-2 units of the Arts (i.e. art, music)

Kent State Tuscarawas is an open-enrollment campus. You can be admitted to our campus as long as you have earned a high school diploma or GED. Selective majors may require certain courses be taken at either the high school or college level as a condition for admission into that major.

Q. What GPA will I need to attain to be accepted into the college of my choice?

A. College admission requirements vary considerably. You will need to check with the colleges you are considering to ascertain their admissions requirements. It is important to also note requirements associated with your chosen program of study. Some major areas are selective and require a higher GPA than what's required for general admission to the university.

Kent State Tuscarawas is an open-enrollment campus. You can be admitted to our campus as long as you have earned a high school diploma or GED. Selective majors may require a specific GPA as a condition for admission into that major.

Q. Do I need to take the ACT and/or SAT?

A. Many colleges require students to report their ACT and/or SAT scores. Contact the schools you are interested in to find out which test they require you to take. You should check with your guidance office to find out when the ACT and/or SAT will be given and how you can register for the test. You can take the test several times, so you should register early. There is a section on the test registration form for you to indicate the schools you would like to send your results to. ACT/SAT will automatically send your results to the schools you list.

Kent State Tuscarawas does not require ACT or SAT scores.

Q. What do I have to do to apply to a college?

A. Many colleges require that you complete an application for admission and remit an admission fee (the amount of the fee varies by college). Different colleges may request different materials, but most will want your ACT/SAT scores and an official high school transcript. Some colleges may request reference letters and/or a personal essay. You should check with the admissions offices of the colleges you are considering to determine their requirements.

Kent State Tuscarawas requires and Application for Admission and an official high school transcript. Transfer students or students who took CCP coursework at another college must also submit official transcripts from all colleges previously attended. We do not require ACT or SAT scores and there is no application fee.

Q. Will I qualify for financial aid?

A. There are many factors considered in figuring financial aid awards. Regardless of your financial status, you and your parents should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each academic year. You can complete the FAFSA and find additional information online at www.studentaid.gov. Most colleges have their own financial aid officers to provide assistance with completing forms and to answer your questions.

Kent State Tuscarawas encourages all students to complete the FAFSA each year between October 1 and February 1. For a wealth of financial resources and financial aid information, visit our Financial Aid site.

Q. What kinds of scholarship opportunities are available?

A. There are MANY scholarships available to students. Some scholarships are sponsored by independent organizations, while others are supported by universities. You should contact the colleges you are considering to obtain a list of scholarships they offer and an application. You should also check with your guidance counselor and local organizations to discover scholarship opportunities in your area. Your local library will have books describing thousands of scholarship opportunities available to students nationwide as well.

Some scholarships are based solely on academic performance, while others consider community involvement and extracurricular activities. Some scholarships are awarded on the basis of financial need, while others are not. You should take the time to fully investigate all sources of money for which you might qualify!

Kent State Tuscarawas awards over 170 scholarships annually to deserving students. New freshmen are considered for scholarships upon acceptance and need not submit a separate application for campus-based scholarships. New freshmen should apply for admission by February 1 to be considered for the greatest amount of scholarship funds. Returning students must complete an application for campus-based scholarships each year by May 1. For more information about Kent State Tuscarawas' scholarships, visit our Scholarships site.

Q. Where can I get information to help me make wise financial decisions for college and my future?

A. While you will be faced with a multitude of financial decisions in the near future, there are resources to help you make informed decisions. We now offer access to a free, nonprofit money management website that can provide the answers and resources you need to make smart choices with your money. It's called CashCourse.

Q. What things should I consider when trying to choose a college?

A. There are many things to consider when choosing a college. Below are some things to take into consideration:

  • Location – Do you want to live on a college campus for your entire college career, for a couple of years, or not at all? What type of atmosphere are you looking for – quiet, rural, collegial, green, bustling or a big-city? How far will you have to drive? Is the campus safe? What is the parking arrangement on campus?
  • Cost – What is important here is not necessarily the cost of tuition, but the out-of-pocket costs that you will have to pay. Look carefully at the total cost of attendance (including room and board, meals, etc.) and the financial aid available. Who will be paying for your education? How much can you afford? What scholarship programs does the college offer?
  • Program Offerings – What colleges offer the degree program you are interested in? What is the reputation of your intended program at the college you are considering? Are graduates of your intended program finding employment? Are graduates of your intended program passing licensure exams, state boards, etc. (if required for your career choice)?
  • Faculty – What are the credentials of the faculty at the schools you are considering? What kinds of research are faculty members involved in? What do faculty focus on – research or teaching? Do faculty maintain office hours?
  • Services – What services are offered to students at the colleges you are considering? Do students have access to such things as tutoring, career guidance, disability accommodations, library services, childcare, financial aid assistance, computers, academic advising, placement services, etc.?
  • Activities – What activities could you become involved in at the colleges you are considering? Does the college have active clubs and organizations? Does the college sponsor cultural events? Is there a student government on campus? Does the college offer athletic activities you are interested in? Does the college interact with local businesses and community groups?
  • Facilities – Do the colleges you are interested in offer modern technologies? Are the campuses well maintained, clean, and safe? Are you comfortable with the way the campus is arranged? Will you have access to state-of-the-art equipment used in your area of study?
  • Size – Are you looking for a small school with the opportunity for a high level of involvement and personal attention, or do you prefer a larger campus with a more city-like environment? What is the average class size at the universities you are considering? What is the student to faculty ratio?

These are just a few of the things you should consider as you are looking at your college choices. Remember to consider your own personal needs and wants as well.

Q. What things should I do during a college visit?

A. You should take full advantage of your opportunity to visit the college campus. Take a notebook so you can jot down important points and questions that arise. During your college visit, you should meet with Admissions staff; talk about the admission, course and graduation requirements of your chosen program; meet with faculty from your major area; take a tour of the campus; observe a class in progress; talk with a financial aid officer and maybe even talk with current students of the campus. Do not be afraid to ask questions or ask that particular activities be included in your campus visit. A campus visit is one of the best ways to get a feel for the campus environment and explore your program – work with admissions staff to design a visit that meets your needs!

Kent State Tuscarawas has created informative visit events for students of all ages. To explore opportunities to visit our campus, see our Visit Campus site.

Q. What can I do in high school to prepare myself for college?

A. One of the most important things that you should do in high school to get yourself ready for college is to develop good study habits. College is much less structured than high school and students must discipline themselves for study. Your college schedule will not include "study halls", so it is important to discover your strengths (and weaknesses) and arrange your free time to include the right amount of study time. You should get used to taking good notes in class and studying them carefully after class. Just as everyone looks differently, everyone learns differently. It is important that you consider how you learn most effectively and how you study most effectively. Knowing how to prepare for tests, research projects, paper writing and classroom participation is essential!

Kent State Tuscarawas' Tutoring Services, Math lab and Writing lab are available to assist students in developing good study skills and receiving the support they need to be successful. For more information, visit our Tutoring Services site.

Q. Do I have to know what career I want to pursue before I enter college?

A. No! Even students who enter college with a declared major often change their minds several times during their college years. College is actually a great place to discover your personal interests and areas of strength. Some universities have an on-site career center to help you explore careers and the coming job market. Most career centers use personality and interest inventories to match you with jobs that might interest you.

If you think you might be interested in a particular career, find someone in your community who is in that profession and "shadow" them. Many people would be happy to show you what a "typical" day on the job is like. Also, consider attending a local career fair or talking with your guidance counselor about your career options. 

Kent State Tuscarawas offers career exploration services for enrolled students. Students who are undecided on major are encouraged to meet with a Career Counselor during their first or second semester of enrollment.