How old do you have to be to apply to a university college?

Answer

Hi Phillipa,

The "traditional" age for students to attend an undergraduate program is 18, however there are students who attend earlier. And most institutions also have students who attend later.

Universities and colleges usually do not have an age requirement but base entrance requirements on meeting preparation requirements. You would need to check the entrance requirements of the individual institution in which you are interested.

If you come across a college or university with an age requirement, you might be able to argue that is discrimination.

Melanie

Answer

alot of student start applying there JR year of high school, after they get there SAT scored back. some do it there senior year. depending on what school you want to get into. if its a hard school to get into, you might think about applying early so you can find out if you need any extra courses or activities. thats just my opinion

Answer

I don't think there is a certain age but most come to college at 18, you do have your acceptions with early high school grads. For the most part I would say around 18.

Answer

Highly gifted students can need college very early; many attend as early as age 10. If you need to go to college this early, an SAT or ACT with scores better than average is extremely helpful. For more information about giftedness, look at http://www.hoagiesgifted.org/.

A Thought

If you are very much younger than the average age you may have problems interacting with other undergraduates. I'd suggest 17 as the minimum sensible age unless there are really compelling reasons for starting earlier. How about asking a college to give its opinion specifically in relation to your interests, wishes and needs?

First answer by Phillipa. Last edit by Joncey. Contributor trust: 1483 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 187 [recommend question]