McDaniel College 

Apply as a Freshman
At McDaniel, we try to make the application process as stress-free as possible. There are two possible deadlines: early action, Dec. 1; and regular decision, Feb.1. In addition, you may qualify for an invitation to join the honors program. 
  1. Visit us.  While we don’t require campus visits, we recommend them — you’ll love what you see — and we recommend that you have an interview. As a bonus, the application fee of $50 is waived if you visit prior to applying. Can’t make it to campus? McDaniel may be in your area soon.

  2. Complete the application online through the Common Application program. We don't require a supplement to the Common Application. A $50 nonrefundable fee is required (unless you visited campus prior to submitting this application). If you file your application electronically, you must send the $50 fee to the admissions office by mail. We can’t process your application until we receive your payment.

    Also remember to submit the essay, as indicated on the application.

  3. Ask your guidance counselor to forward your official high school transcript and at least 2 letters of recommendation to the admissions office.

  4. Have your SAT or ACT scores sent directly to the admissions office. The SAT school code is 5898 and the ACT school code is 1756.  We will not use the writing score on the SAT as part of our admissions evaluation, but instead will continue to require an essay. Scores will be considered official if they are sent by the high school guidance office or testing service. Or you may choose to use our SAT Optional program...
  5. Submit copies of Advanced Placement and College Level Examination Program scores or your International Baccalaureate diploma if applicable. More about advanced placement...

  6. Explore financial assistance. Once we have your completed admission application, we’ll mail you an application for financial aid. In the meantime, you can begin planning by reviewing the costs of attendance and the financial aid process.  
Information For:  
Undergraduate Deadlines
aerial view of library atrium
Undergraduate Deadlines
Dec. 1: Early-action applications are due. Review includes scholarship and Honors decisions for these applicants.

Jan. 1: FAFSA — the federal form for financial aid — is available. We recommend that families complete the FAFSA as soon as they can.

Jan. 15: If you submitted an early-action application, you will be notified of a decision most likely by Dec. 31, but no later than Jan. 15.

Feb. 1: Regular-decision applications — and applications from applicants who wish to be considered for merit-based scholarships and/or the honors program — are due. (Note: We will continue to review completed applications after the February deadline on an individual basis. But we recommend students apply as early as possible.)

March 1: FAFSA is due

March 15: McDaniel College financial aid application is due.

March 30: Expect notification regarding regular-decision applications

May 1: Deposits are due.