Emory University closes most academic and administrative offices for Winter Recess, the three days between the Christmas and New Year holidays. The Office of Undergraduate Admission will be closed from Dec. 24, 2024 to Jan. 1, 2025, reopening on Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025. Please check our FAQs Over Winter Break blog post for additional information and resources during this time.
Students experimenting

What We Look For

At Emory we believe that together we can achieve more. That's why we're on the lookout for students worldwide who share our collaborative spirit and are eager to join us to make the world—in ways big and small—a better place.


Students on Campus

At Emory we believe that together we can achieve more. That's why we're on the look out for students worldwide who share our collaborative spirit and are eager to join us to make the world—in ways big and small—a better place.


  • Academic Preparation

    The classes you take and the grades you receive in them matter. We value students who challenge themselves with more challenging classes and do well in them, adjusting our review based on each high school’s standards. Though optional, standardized test scores are considered, and strong grades in advanced courses can offset lower scores. However, high scores cannot compensate for poor grades.Learn more about Emory's test optional policy.

  • Recommendation Letters

    Teachers know you best in the classroom, and we want to know what they think about you. Consider asking for recommendations not only from teachers in courses where you excelled but also from those where you faced and overcame challenges. They can provide us with unique insights into your resilience and character. 

  • Personal Statements and Essays

    This is your place to show us who you are. We’re looking for students who have a voice, who are intellectually curious, and who have demonstrated an engagement with the world around them. Take time to pick the topic that suits you best and be sure to proofread your work before submitting it. 

  • Time Outside of Class

    We look for students who will contribute well to the life of the university and to Atlanta and beyond. What will you gain from our community and what will you give? Whether you’ve been involved in clubs, sports, a job, helping with family, research, or community service, we want to know more about those things. 

Getting Started

  • Student posing with Emory hat

    How to Apply

    Learn how to apply and what to submit. You can apply to Emory College, Oxford College, or both.

  • Students parading with Emory pennant

    Plans and Deadlines

    First-year applicants can choose: Early Decision I, Early Decision II and Regular Decision.

  • Students on Campus

    Application Tips

    Learn about college credit, testing requirements, and tips for essays and counselor recommendations.