Are you thinking of becoming an Argo? The University of Providence (UP) offers a personalized, tight-knit community where students can deepen their faith, find their calling, and pursue a well-rounded liberal arts education.
UP’s two academic divisions, the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences and School of Health Professions, provide opportunities to study either general disciplines in various industries or specialized healthcare pathways.
Each academic division has its own requirements and deadlines, and these may also vary by program. To help you navigate the process, here’s a step-by-step guide to apply for undergraduate admissions at UP.
University of Providence’s Undergraduate Admissions Process
The admissions process at any college and university is a multi-step pathway that takes you from: applying to receiving an admission decision to accepting your offer and enrolling. That said, UP’s admissions process also follows a structured approach to help you apply with confidence and successfully begin your academic endeavors.
To make the process easier to understand, we have outlined six key steps that will help you navigate UP’s undergraduate admissions process.
Step 1: The UP Undergraduate Application
Typically, universities have an application fee ranging from $25 to $90. However, UP does not require an application fee and waives this cost entirely. Students can apply to any program (this excludes the nursing programs) within the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the School of Health Professions for FREE.
To begin an application, students must create a UP applicant profile. This account allows the student to submit personal information, upload required documents, track one’s application status, and stay informed about scholarship opportunities.
Step 2: Know Which Type of Applicant You Are
The first thing to understand in the general college admissions process is that each applicant is unique, which makes each person’s admissions process unique to them. Whether you are applying from another country, transitioning from military service, or pursuing a degree in nursing, your application steps will vary. This is the reason it’s important to understand which category you fall into before starting your application.
At the University of Providence, undergraduate applicants typically fit into one of four categories.
1.General Admissions
This category includes most students applying to programs in the School of Liberal Arts & Sciences and the School of Health Professions (excluding nursing programs). These applicants follow the standard undergraduate requirements and application process.
2.Military Admissions
Active-duty service members, guard and reservists, and military veterans may need to submit additional documentation, such as military transcripts (e.g., CCAF or Joint Services Transcripts) and paperwork verifying military tuition benefits. UP honors some military courses for college credit and offers a dedicated support process.
3.International Admissions
Students seeking to study in the United States and at the University of Providence should begin their admissions process earlier than general admissions applicants. International applicants have earlier deadlines and must submit additional information and documents, such as:
- Financial documentation and an I-20 visa
- Proof of English proficiency by one of UP’s accepted assessments,
- Color copy of a valid passport
Again, it is highly recommended to begin UP’s admissions process with plenty of time and to contact an admissions counselor to review the process.
4.Nursing Admissions
Applicants seeking a nursing degree must complete an application through NursingCAS, and not UP’s standard application system. The NursingCAS application does require an application fee. All other health professions-related programs must use the general UP application.
At any point, if you are not sure which category you fall into, you can contact UP’s Admissions Office via phone or email. You will be connected with the admissions counselor assigned to your state of residency to guide you through the next steps.
Step 3:. Submit Your Transcripts & Required Documents
It’s important to stay organized when applying to college, so you can effectively complete your application on time. While each university may ask for slightly different materials, there are some common documents you will need.
At the University of Providence, all undergraduate applicants are required to submit:
- A completed application for admission
- Official high school transcripts and/or college transcripts
- An admissions essay only if your cumulative GPA is below 2.7; your application will also undergo a detailed academic review
However, if you are active-duty military/veteran, an international student or a nursing applicant, UP’s application may require additional steps to support your application. Some programs within the School of Health Professions also have their own specific requirements. That said, be sure to check your program’s admissions page or speak with your admissions counselor to ensure you have covered everything in your application.
Step 4: Ask the Big Questions
Throughout the admissions process, don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you ever feel uncertain or overwhelmed, call your admissions counselor to gain clarity and confidence.
Not sure what to ask? Below are some questions admissions counselors might ask you during your conversation. These prompts are meant to help admissions counselors better understand your background and ensure you have everything you need for a complete and accurate application. These questions can also help you think through your own questions or concerns before connecting with the admissions office.
- Have you completed any dual credit or dual enrollment courses as a high school student?
- Are you a first-generation student whose parents did not attend college and need assistance navigating the admissions process?
- Do you currently hold a bachelor’s degree, and are also considering a nursing degree?
- Do you fall into more than one applicant category, and are not sure how to proceed with your application?
- Do you know where to begin in the international admissions process?
- Did you submit your military transcripts?
If any of these questions apply to you, or raise others, contact University of Providence’s Admissions Office. UP’s Admissions Counselors offer a very personalized experience, and they ensure you have all the resources you need to: complete your application, have a smooth enrollment process, and begin your journey as an Argo.
Step 5:. Reply to Your Offer & Finalize Your Admission
Once you are admitted to the University of Providence, there are a few important steps to officially secure your spot.
First, you will need to reply to your “Offer of Admission,” to confirm that you plan to attend UP. After that, you will need to submit your $100 tuition deposit and a $250 housing deposit (if you plan to live on campus). These deposits can be submitted through your personal application portal.
Once you have completed these steps, this signals that you are ready to become part of the UP community.
Step 6: Become An Argo
After submitting the non-refundable $100 deposit, you are officially an Argo, and it’s time to start preparing for your first semester at UP.
This last stretch of the admissions process is known as the enrollment phase. Here’s what to expect as you finalize your enrollment at UP:
- Submit Immunization Records
If you are an on-campus student, you will need to provide immunization records showing dates of MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) 1 and 2 vaccinations per Montana state law.
- Complete the STARTUP Online Orientation
Every new incoming student enrolling in the fall and spring semesters is required to complete the STARTUP Online Orientation course. It is critical to finish the online orientation course, as this will allow you to register for classes. In addition to STARTUP, on-campus students are highly encouraged to attend the in-person new student orientation information sessions and activities.
- Register for Classes
Upon completion of the STARTUP Online Orientation course, one of UP’s academic advisors will reach out to help you register for classes based on your intended major(s).
- Send Final Transcripts
The final step is to send your official high school transcript with your graduation date. If you are a transferring from another college, you will also need to submit your most recent official college transcript verifying completed credits.
Throughout this phase, UP’s Admissions and Academic Advising Offices are available to support you. They are committed to providing a personalized and welcoming experience, and ensuring your transition into college is as smooth as possible.
Start Your Journey As An Argo Today!
Applying to college is a big step, and the University of Providence is ready to walk with you every step of the way!
Visit the University of Providence Campus in Great Falls, Montana to learn more about what it’s like to be an Argo, meet UP faculty one-on-one, and discuss the application process with an admissions counselor. Virtual visits and tours are also available for those who are not able to physically attend an in-person visit.
Have questions or ready to take the next step? Contact the UP Admissions Office via phone or email to start your journey as an Argo.
Schedule your campus visit, or apply today!
