HOW TO APPLY
To make the process as easy as possible, we provide three 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.
Application process for: International students, Transfer students
Applications for Fall 2023 open now!
Test optional
Hanover has adopted a test-optional policy for the admissions and scholarship process. This policy allows you to decide whether or not your test results accurately reflect your academic abilities. You may choose whether or not to submit your SAT or ACT test scores as a part of your application.
ADMISSION DEADLINES
- November 1: Early Decision (Binding Process)*
- November 1: Early Action I
- December 1: Early Action II
- March 1: Regular Decision
- October 1: Winter/Spring (January start)
Early Decision and Early Action candidates should expect earlier decision notification as well as financial aid packaging. Candidates applying between December 1 and March 1 will receive decisions on a rolling basis, which means the sooner completed applications are submitted, the sooner decisions will be released. Once admitted, Early Decision candidates also receive preferred first-year housing and a reserved spot at our first LEAP (Learn, Engage and Prepare) Orientation date.
*This confirms that Hanover is your top choice. By signing the additional agreement, you will commit to attend if admitted, and cancel other applications upon submission of your deposit.
YOUR APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION IS COMPLETE WHEN THE FOLLOWING ITEMS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED
1. Complete application for admission (online or Common App).
2. Original or certified/attested true copies of transcripts from the applicant’s secondary school (high school) and any college or university attended. High school transcripts should include a senior year schedule.
Optional items include:
- Standardized test scores
- An essay or personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume
WHAT WE LOOK FOR

We are looking for well-rounded students so our admissions office evaluates candidates holistically.
Standardized test scores are considered but the weight of applicant evaluation focuses on curriculum and grade point average. Other factors included in our evaluation are the high school attended, 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.
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.
Hanover College has adopted a test-optional admission policy. If you choose to submit test scores as part of your application, there is no preference for either the SAT or ACT. Hanover College’s school code for the SAT is “1290” and our ACT code is “1200”. For international applicants, the TOEFL, IELTS or SAT-I score minimums must be met.
PROFILE FOR CLASS OF 2025
- Number applied: 3,556
- Number admitted: 2,329
- Percent accepted: 65%
- Average SAT score: 1125
- Average ACT score: 23
- Average GPA: 3.75
