Passaic Today

During the fall season, Montclair State University's Admissions staff are busy visiting high schools and attending college fairs. After Thanksgiving, their focus shifts to reviewing applications, particularly those submitted by the December 1 Early Action deadline. The admissions team evaluates each application holistically, considering various factors.

Montclair accepts both its own application through the Undergraduate portal and the Common App. For students applying to multiple schools, the Common App can streamline the process by consolidating transcripts, extracurriculars, recommendations, and essays.

The university looks at several key components when reviewing applications. High school transcripts provide insight into a student's academic achievements over time. The cumulative GPA is assessed alongside academic trends throughout high school years. Course rigor is also important; taking advanced courses like honors or AP classes in junior and senior years can positively impact an application.

Montclair is test-optional for standardized test scores such as SAT or ACT. Students may submit these scores if they believe it strengthens their application but are not required to do so.

Essays are read with attention to a student's personality and interests beyond grades. They offer an opportunity to explain any academic struggles or achievements.

Some programs have additional requirements. For example, nursing requires a specific essay and additional recommendations while certain College of the Arts programs require a portfolio or audition after submitting the main application.

Montclair offers various scholarships including merit-based awards for students who meet the March 1 priority deadline without needing a separate application. Talent-based scholarships for arts students are awarded based on faculty assessments and can be combined with merit scholarships for more financial support.

Presidential Scholarships are competitive merit-based awards for high-achieving first-time freshmen automatically reviewed upon application submission. The Red Hawk Advantage Award provides eligible New Jersey freshmen and sophomores up to four semesters of tuition-free enrollment at Montclair while the Garden State Guarantee offers up to four semesters of free tuition for New Jersey students in their third and fourth years at in-state public universities.

ScholarshipUniverse helps connect Red Hawks with millions of dollars in external scholarship opportunities.

Admissions counselors at Montclair are available to answer questions even when traveling. Each student is assigned a dedicated counselor who guides them through the application process. School counselors can attend workshops hosted by Montclair throughout the year for detailed information about admissions criteria and scholarships with an upcoming workshop scheduled on Friday, December 6 focusing on campus partners from various departments including Educational Opportunity Fund and Career Services.

Prospective transfer students can refer to Montclair's Transfer Admissions FAQ for more information about transferring processes.