Frequently Asked Questions - Undergraduate Admission

How do I apply to the School of Journalism?
Pick up an application in the main Journalism office (5115 Vilas) or download a copy.

When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is printed on the form itself – roughly the first week of December for spring admission or the first week of May for fall admission.

How many students apply each semester? And how many are admitted?
We expect that about 200-250 students will apply for admission this semester. Approximately 100 of those applicants will be admitted.

Is it easier to gain admission in the fall or in the spring?
The admissions process is equally competitive both semesters.

What GPA do you need to get admitted? How do they make decisions?
The admission application has changed to include more elements – writing samples, resume, personal statement, etc along with a transcript and application form. Admissions decisions are based on all of these materials together, and students have been admitted into the program with as low as a 2.2 GPA and as high as a 4.0. Conversely, students with GPAs as high as 3.8 have been rejected from admission because of weak elements in other areas. Students who present an application with some academic success, strong writing skills, evidence of commitment to the field of communication (through student activities or internships) and a compelling personal statement stand the best chances for admission.

When will I be notified of my acceptance or rejection?
The School of Journalism will admit students in January, after fall grades are reported, for spring admission and in June, after spring grades are reported, for fall admission. You will be notified by mail then. A projected mail date is included on the application.

I am enrolled in J201 now, and I want to apply during this semester — is that OK?
Yes, J201 can be in progress at the time you apply.

I really want to be a journalism major, and I'm already a junior (or even a senior). Can’t the School make an exception to its admission requirements on the basis of that?
With so many students applying each semester, it’s difficult for the School to make exceptions to its admissions requirements. They are made only in truly exceptional cases — and simply being a junior or senior doesn't qualify as exceptional.

If I am not accepted, can I apply again?
Yes, you may reapply as many times as you wish.

If I am admitted, which journalism classes can I take next semester?
All incoming majors are required to take J202 (Mass Communication Practices) in their first semester. If you have junior standing, you also can enroll in theories and topics courses such as J559 (Law of Mass Communication) or J560 (History of Mass Communication).