Applying to Hanover College

We're happy that you're considering applying to Hanover College. To make the process as easy as possible, we provide you with four different methods of applying. We consider all these application methods equally and give them the same consideration, so please choose the method that is most convenient for you.

Ways to apply

Admission Requirements

As a selective liberal arts college, Hanover is looking for those students who have completed a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum. To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have completed the following high school courses:

  • Four years of English (literature and composition)
  • At least two years of foreign language
  • At least two years of mathematics, including Algebra II
  • The following courses are recommended as part of a well-rounded college-preparatory curriculum:
  • At least three years of laboratory science
  • At least three years of social studies
  • At least one year of fine or performing arts

Students who have taken AP, IB and dual-credit courses may be eligible for Hanover College credits. Learn more about these credits.

Hanover College also requires a standardized test score from applicants. There is no preference for either SAT-I (Critical Reading and Math only) or ACT. Hanover College’s school code for the SAT is “1290” and our ACT code is “1200”.  For international applicants, the TOEFL or SAT-I score minimums must be met.

Applicant Evaluation

While standardized test scores are included, Hanover’s review process is holistic, and the weight of applicant evaluation focuses on curriculum, grade point average and class rank. Other factors included in our evaluation are the high school, letter of recommendation, participation in extracurricular and community activities, and the submitted writing sample.  In addition to achievement and participation, Hanover College values cultural, ethnic, and geographic diversity in its student body.

Application Components

Your application for admission will be complete and ready for review by our Admission Committee when the following items have been received:

  1. Submitted application
  2. Secondary School Report Form
    Transfer students are not required to submit a Secondary School Report, but must instead submit the Transfer Student Information Form through their college or university
  3. All SAT-I and/or ACT results (Scores present on a high school transcript or from the SAT/ACT testing service are acceptable)
  4. Essay

Early Admission and Scholarship Priority Date

Please note that all materials required for admission and scholarships must be postmarked by the priority date in order for consideration to be guaranteed.

Candidates must submit their application for admission by December 1 in order to be considered for Hanover College's nonbinding Early Admission. Students who apply during this Early Admission period are considered for all available scholarships. In addition, students may apply to  participate in the Global Scholars Program and the Benjamin Templeton Scholarship program for the opportunity to be awarded scholarships worth up to full tuition.

(Some applicants may be deferred to the Regular Decision period in order for the College to receive additional academic information.)

After the Early Admission period, the College will begin reviewing completed applications and mailing admission decisions on a rolling basis. This Regular Decision period will continue until April 1. After April 1, applications will be considered on a "space available" basis only.

Priority Consideration For Housing and Class Registration

Students who have been admitted to the College and submit a $250 enrollment deposit (refundable until May 1) will have priority consideration in registering for LEAP (Learn Engage and Prepare). During LEAP, students register for fall classes, preference their housing, and receive their Hanover College e-mail address and student I.D. Students will have the opportunity to register for LEAP on a first-come, first-served basis once the College has received their enrollment deposit.