First-Time Freshman Applicants
First-time college students are applicants enrolling after high school graduation who have never enrolled in college after graduating from high school.
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Take flight and apply to UofL today.
Are you ready to join the Cardinal community? The UofL application process makes it easy for you to take flight.
With more than 200 academic programs, the University of Louisville is committed to equipping students with the knowledge and resources to be successful and make their own unique contributions to the world. We'll do everything we can to help make your dream of attending UofL a reality.
You can apply with UofL's Take Flight Application or through the Common App.
- The 2026 application is still open. Students who would like to start classes in Fall 2026 should apply and submit all required materials as soon as possible.
- The 2027 application is open.
- The priority deadline to apply is Feb. 15, 2027.
Our application process is easy:
- No essays or letters of recommendation
- SAT/ACT scores are optional for admission and many automatic scholarships
- Quick admissions decision
First-Time Freshman Application Checklist
Please note: If you have enrolled in college after graduating from high school, even if you withdrew from those classes, you are considered a transfer applicant. Please view the transfer student checklist.
Rising seniors who visit campus between June 1 and Aug. 15 are not required to pay the application fee for Spring, Summer or Fall 2027.
- Students must apply to UofL for Spring, Summer or Fall 2027.
- Students must schedule a morning, afternoon or Saturday campus visit presentation and tour between June 1 and August 15. View calendar and schedule a visit.
- Students must apply with the SAME email address used to register for the campus visit.
- Students must apply with the Take Flight Application only.
- Subject to tour availability.