Freshman Admissions

Start Your Path to Greatness

Are you ready to join Bowie State University and embark on a new chapter of greatness? Our undergraduate admissions page outlines every bit of information you need to easily make the transition from high school senior to college freshman. Apply for admission, learn about financial aid and keep track of important dates. 

As you consider your next bold move, explore our 29 in-demand majors.

Find Your Program >

Visit the Online Bowie State University Undergraduate Catalog >

How to Apply as a Freshman

Create your online account and easily keep track of all admission requirements. Once you log in, you can complete your freshman application and submit your test scores and official transcripts. The sooner you begin the application process, the sooner you take control of your future, so get started today!

Open Freshman Application

1. Review Bowie State University's test-optional policy.
2. Create an online application. It’s quick, and test scores are optional for most programs!
3. Send your transcripts through Parchment, or have your counselors email all official transcripts to admissionsdocs@bowiestate.edu.
4. Start your FAFSA application. Visit the FAFSA website for more information. Our school code is 002062.
5. Accept your offer and finish the newly admitted students checklist.

How to Apply for Financial Aid

Financial aid is money to help cover the costs of your education. It can come in various forms, including scholarships, grants, loans and work-study programs. Watch our quick video tutorial on how to apply for financial aid, and make note of all relevant deadlines.

• Application
• Financial Aid

Application

Important Dates & Deadlines

• Dec. 1: Early Admission Decision — Fall Semester Entrance
• Feb. 15: Priority Admission — Fall Semester Entrance
• March 1: Housing application opens
• June 1: Regular Decision — Fall Semester Entrance
• Aug. 16: Re-admit admission deadline
• Nov. 1: Priority Admission — Spring Semester Entrance
• Dec. 1: Regular Admission — Spring Semester Entrance

Financial Aid

Important Dates & Deadlines

You can receive financial aid from the federal government, the state of Maryland and Bowie State University. Review all aid deadlines below.

• Oct. 1: FAFSA — This typically opens in early fall. The FAFSA is the federal application you submit to receive financial aid. 
• Dec. 1-Feb. 15: Private Scholarships and Grants — By completing one application, you have access to an array of scholarships, each with its own set of criteria for consideration.
• March 1: Institutional Need-Based Funds — You may be eligible for additional aid if your application demonstrates financial need. Bowie State provides “in-house” — or “institutional” — need-based financial aid for eligible applicants.
• March 1: Maryland State Programs — If you’re applying to colleges as a resident of the state of Maryland, your aid application is due by March 1.

What’s Next for You?

We are here to support you as you explore the possibilities for your future. Explore our dual enrollment programs, learn more about attending an HBCU and gather information to aid you in the decision-making process.

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  Dual Enrollment

  Learn about our dual enrollment programs, external programs and other continuing education options with Prince George's County Public School and the Office of the State Superintendent of Education.

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  Why Choose HBCUs?

  Did you know HBCUs produce the vast majority of graduate degrees for Black Americans and boost local and regional economies? As the first HBCU in the state of Maryland, Bowie State has a proud heritage of academic excellence, diversity and community set on a foundation of accessibility.   Learn more about the benefits of enrolling at an HBCU. 

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  Resources for Families

  Discover our family resources to help you make the best decision for the future. Learn how your support system can be a part of your journey to Bowie State.

Admitted Students - Next Steps

Congratulations on being admitted into the Bulldog community! If you’re ready to make things official, go to our Admitted Students page and complete the enrollment process. Once you enroll, you can complete a housing application and sign up for orientation. 

• Enrollment: Once you’re ready to enroll, visit our Admitted Students page. From there, you’ll see our new-student checklist that will help you complete the enrollment process. 
• Housing: Whether you want to live in a traditional residence hall or a specialized community, you must submit your housing application by the stated due date.  
• Orientation: New Student Orientation is vital to getting your college experience off to the right start. Let us help you make the transition smoothly! 
• More Resources: Review all resources available for admitted students. 

Get Answers, Fast

Need answers ASAP about admissions or aid? Check out our FAQs page, which covers the most commonly asked questions.