Oregon College Applications

Navigate the college application process for Oregon universities with key deadlines, requirements, and strategies for success.

Key Application Deadlines

Stay on track with important application deadlines for Oregon colleges and universities.

November 1-15
Early Decision/Action

Binding or priority consideration with earlier notification

Common Schools:

  • University of Oregon
  • Reed College
  • Lewis & Clark College
January 15 - February 1
Regular Decision

Standard application deadline for most Oregon universities

Common Schools:

  • Oregon State University
  • Portland State University
  • Willamette University
Ongoing
Rolling Admission

Applications reviewed as received until class is filled

Common Schools:

  • Southern Oregon University
  • Eastern Oregon University
  • Many community colleges
October 1 - November 15
Spring Admission

Mid-year entry for students starting in January

Common Schools:

  • Most Oregon universities
  • Community colleges
  • Transfer students

Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum GPA (varies by school, typically 2.75-3.5+)
  • Core academic courses (English, Math, Science, Social Studies)
  • Two years of same world language (recommended)
Standardized Tests
  • SAT or ACT scores (many schools now test-optional)
  • TOEFL/IELTS for international students
  • Subject tests (for competitive programs)
  • AP/IB scores (for college credit)
Application Components
  • Completed application (Common App or school-specific)
  • Official transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation (1-3)
  • Personal statement or essays
Additional Materials
  • Activity list/resume
  • Portfolio (for arts programs)
  • Interview (select programs)
  • Application fee or fee waiver

Application Platforms

Common Application

Used by many private colleges and some public universities in Oregon

Example Schools:

  • Lewis & Clark College
  • Reed College
  • University of Portland

Key Features:

  • Single application for multiple schools
  • Standardized essays
  • Activity tracking
School-Specific Systems

Individual application portals used by Oregon public universities

Example Schools:

  • University of Oregon
  • Oregon State University
  • Portland State University

Key Features:

  • Customized for each institution
  • Direct admission consideration
  • School-specific requirements

Application Timeline

Junior Year (11th Grade)

  • • Take SAT/ACT and subject tests
  • • Research colleges and build preliminary list
  • • Visit college campuses and attend information sessions
  • • Begin scholarship research

Senior Year Fall

  • • Finalize college list and application strategy
  • • Request transcripts and letters of recommendation
  • • Complete and submit applications by deadlines
  • • Complete FAFSA starting October 1

Senior Year Spring

  • • Receive admission decisions and financial aid offers
  • • Compare offers and visit admitted student days
  • • Submit enrollment deposit by May 1
  • • Complete housing and orientation registration

Continue Your Oregon College Planning Journey

Next, let's explore academic preparation strategies to ensure college readiness.

Next: Academic PreparationBack to Oregon Guide