Freshman Requirements

Freshman Requirements

Minimum Unit Requirements

Course CategoryNumber of Units
English4 units.
Mathematics3 units (UA recommends algebra I, algebra II, AND 1 unit of either geometry, trigonometry OR calculus).
Natural Sciences3 units, should include two courses with lab components.
Other Academic Courses10 units, UA recommends courses in social sciences, history, fine arts or computer literacy, with additional courses in mathematics, natural sciences and world language.

Test Scores

UA is updating its holistic admissions review process for students applying as first-year undergraduate students for the 2027 and 2028 academic years. Students applying for a 2027 entry term will be required to submit standardized test score (ACT or SAT) if their cumulative high school GPA is below 3.0.

All students applying to enroll in 2028 will be required to submit test scores. Learn more about these updates and the holistic admissions process on the Testing Requirements page.

The presence of a score will not create an unfair advantage or disadvantage to students applying for admission. If you are unsure whether or not to submit a standardized test score, contact your high school counselor or UA admissions advisor.

For students who do not wish to submit a score:

  • If you indicate that you do not want your test scores included in the review of your application for admission, you may still submit test scores for automatic merit scholarship consideration.

For students who wish to submit a score:

  • If you choose to self-report your standardized test score, your admission decision is contingent upon the submission of your official test scores prior to enrollment. Students who self-report test scores will need to send official score reports from ACT/SAT as soon as possible after admission.
  • Visit the ACT or College Board (SAT) website to have your test scores sent to UA. Our ACT code is 0052 and our SAT code is 1830.
  • For admission consideration UA will use the highest section score from any test dates of the same exam. 
  • For automatic merit scholarship consideration UA will use composite scores only from official score reports. 

Transcript

We accept transcripts electronically through the following providers: Parchment/Naviance, E-Scripts, Scribbles, Overgrad, NeedMyTranscript, SCOIR and National Student Clearinghouse. Your transcript(s) may also be emailed to our office at hstranscripts@ua.edu. Please note that emailed transcripts must be in a PDF format and sent directly from the school/counselor to be considered official.

Nursing

For first-time freshmen, beginning with the 2027 admissions cycle, the University will implement a new process for admitting students into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program at entry. Please review information about this new process on the Nursing page regarding updates.

Academic Lapse Time

If you have had a lapse between graduating from high school and applying for admission as a first-time freshman that lasted six or more months, additional information may be required. You may be asked within your application portal to provide a brief statement listing any academic activities since graduation. 

Statement on Admission

The University of Alabama reserves the right to refuse admission or re-enrollment or to place conditions on admission or re-enrollment of applicants and former students who it determines represent a safety risk to University students, employees and University property. Applicants have the right to appeal any such decision to the Undergraduate Admissions Advisory Committee within seven business days of the date the notice was received.

Withholding information or giving false information may make you ineligible for admission to, or continuation at, the University. Therefore, by submitting this information, you certify that it is true, correct and complete. Also, by submitting this application, you give permission for the University to obtain additional information from others pertinent to your record prior to attending the University.