The path to college is a process that typically starts in high school. Our Undergraduate Admissions Office is devoted to helping students and their families through this important and exciting time by arranging visits, hosting events, and answering questions to help you meet future goals and craft a fulfilling life. And, we want you to experience the many ways that Alvernia can help you do this!


To aid those with questions, we offer this general timeline. Please feel free to email the Undergraduate Admissions Office or call us at 610-796-8269 with questions about attending Alvernia. Documents may also be faxed to us at 610-790-2873.

Parents & Families

Student working at laptop
Sophomore Year
All four years of high school are considered when students apply for college, so your student should maintain good grades, take challenging courses and get involved in extracurricular activities.

If the high school allows it, your student should consider taking the PSAT in October of sophomore year. The consequences of doing poorly are zero, and the practice can help your family figure out what type of test preparation may be needed before SAT time in the junior and senior years. The PSAT won't be part of your student's college application, but it can help with SAT preparations. If your student is planning on taking the ACT instead of the SAT, ask your school about taking the PLAN.
Sign Up For the PSAT
Students on Alvernia's campus in fall 2023.
Junior Year
In October, your student should plan to take the PSAT, if he or she hasn't already. A good score can translate into thousands of dollars in scholarship money. Also, the exam will give a good sense of the student's preparedness for the SAT.

In the spring, your student should take the SAT and/or ACT. If the exam goes poorly on the first attempt, retaking it is important. Alvernia considers only the highest scores; if students take the test multiple times, we recombine scores for the highest possible total score. At Alvernia, SAT and ACT scores are tied directly to scholarship amounts.

Before your student's senior year, begin making a list of prospective colleges and take advantage of every opportunity to visit them.
SAT Testing Dates

Senior Year

Campus in Fall
September
• Come up with a realistic wish list of colleges.
• Your student should meet with the guidance counselor to discuss colleges.
• Make sure your student is taking the necessary classes to meet any admissions requirements.
• Visit campuses and meet college admissions representatives. Alvernia hosts individual visits, information sessions and open houses year-round.
• Check application deadlines for all schools under consideration.
• Register for the SAT and consider taking the ACT exam.
Register for the ACT Test
Carved pumpkins
October
• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It impacts a student's financial aid.
• Alvernia begins sending letters of acceptance in early October. Apply early.
• Take the SAT and/or ACT.
• Continue to research schools.
• Take advantage of college fairs and virtual tours online.
• Research financial aid and scholarships. The high school guidance office and the internet are helpful.
Complete the FAFSA
Student Center in the evening
November
• Register for the December SAT or ACT.
• Maintain the best grades possible.
• File the FAFSA.
• Continue to research scholarships and make use of the high school guidance office.
SAT website
Campus Commons in winter
December & January
• Make sure your student has applied for admission via our Alvernia application or The Common Application.
• Make sure all SAT &/or ACT scores have been sent to Alvernia.
• Have midyear high school grades sent to Alvernia for review.
• Apply for any scholarships well ahead of any deadline.
Apply Now
A father and daughter in an Alvernia dorm room.
February through April
• Review your family's Student Aid Report from FAFSA to be sure it is accurate.
• Make sure Alvernia has your child's admission application.
• Continue to search and apply for scholarships.
• If your student is accepted, come to our Accepted Students Day and/or our Spring Open House.
Financial Aid Office
Volunteer fun on move in day
May through August
• Ensure your student's enrollment deposit is paid by May 1 (extension is available).
• Contact the Student Financial Planning Office with any questions about your aid package.
• Read Alvernia mailings carefully.
• Your student should log into the MyAlvernia Student Portal.
• Get ready to move in.
Student Portal Login