Parent’s Guide to Hamline University Admission

A group of prospective Hamline students and their parents on a campus tour

Learn what Hamline has to offer

We would like to welcome parents of prospective students to learn more about us in this parent’s guide to undergraduate admission to Hamline. We have included links and information we hope you will find helpful. A Hamline education is an investment that will change your student’s life. Pipers graduate prepared to make a living and a difference in the world, having participated in internships, collaborative and independent research, and volunteer service. And as the #1 ranked "Best Value" university in its class in Minnesota (ranked by U.S. News & World Report), Hamline is not only a sound investment but a great school at a great price.

We have more than 125 program areas to choose from, a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, and a powerful career-oriented education. Our financial aid services are competitive and comprehensive, our student life boasts 70+ clubs and organizations, and our housing options are wide-ranging and community-oriented, all within a safe and secure environment.

Hamline is proudly test-optional. We believe students are more than their test scores, and we evaluate your application holistically, whether or not you submit standardized test scores from the SAT or ACT. (If you opt for test-optional admission, you’ll still be eligible for merit scholarships.) Please refer to the student types below to see required application materials and deadlines:

What makes Hamline right for your child?

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Move-in day, parent with new student

Top-tier education

1st

U.S. News & World Report ranked Hamline Minnesota's Best Regional University

Learning by doing

100%

of undergrads complete a paid internship, an apprenticeship, field-based research, or service-learning

Affordable investment

95%

of undergrads receive financial aid, with an average $40,000 award package for incoming students

Hamline is committed to student success

There’s a reason that Hamline was rated the best regional university Minnesota and the best value for a regional university in Minnesota by US News & World Report.

A select group of applicants to Hamline University are invited to be Early Admit University Honors students. By joining the University Honors program, students gain the opportunity to make the most of their undergraduate careers by pursuing academic excellence, undergraduate research, community involvement, and individual development.

From academics to career readiness

We produce leaders across diverse fields who excel both academically and professionally. Our curriculum, The Hamline Plan, was specially crafted to give students a strong foundation of skills and real-world experiences that apply to future career paths. With access to our Career Development Center, all students receive comprehensive career search support during their four years at Hamline and for two years after graduation. Lifetime support services include access to the university’s extensive alumni network.

Admission resources

Get a feel for Hamline: Visit our campus, talk to an admission counselor, attend an info session.

Parent resources

Connect with other parents, attend family events, and stay informed about Hamline every step of the way.

Hamline makes college affordable

An education at Hamline is a worthwhile investment in your student’s future. We’re proud to provide competitive financial aid and scholarship opportunities for first-year, transfer, and international undergraduate students. These funding options will give you the confidence of knowing that a Hamline education is a smart, affordable choice for your incoming college student.

Supportive financial aid

Our commitment to affordability is unwavering. More than 90% of students receive some form of aid, with the average financial aid package reaching $40K. Both domestic and international students have access to a wide range of scholarships, including merit-based awards and Talent Scholarships in various fields. Academic scholarships are renewable annually. 

In addition, Hamline’s graduation assurance guarantees that first-year students will earn their bachelor’s degree in four years—or we’ll pay the difference. This means savings of up to $40,000 to $60,000 in tuition.

Our admission counselors and financial aid team will work with you to ensure your student gets the most out of of their college experience without sacrificing peace of mind.

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Headshot of Hamline chemistry student Lue Her

The chemistry department at Hamline is amazing program. I learned so much from my hands-on experience in labs. If you're determined to find a career in chemistry or anything related, Hamline will definitely get you ready and prepare you for what post-graduation, grad school, and the industry has to offer.

Lue Her '22, chemistry