Apply earlier to get an admissions decision earlier. If you apply by Nov. 1, you’ll receive an admissions decision by Jan. 10, though using Early Action is not binding. 

Why apply early?

• We generally admit students at a higher rate who apply Early Action. 
• On-campus housing is guaranteed if you commit to Temple by May 1, though the selection is first come, first served. So, the sooner you get your decision, the sooner you can plan your housing. 
• You’ll be able to sign up for Orientation sooner, which is when you register for classes.

Apply by May 1 and you’ll receive an admissions decision in four to eight weeks after completing your application. 

NOTE: Early Action candidates receive priority review and can delay our review of Regular Decision candidates. During peak admissions (October through March), it might take more than eight weeks for a decision to be made on your application.

The average high school GPA for the fall 2024 incoming class was 3.42 on a weighted 4.0 scale. We look for a well-rounded academic background, with the following academic subject distribution.

• English: 4 units
• Mathematics (college preparatory): 4 units
• Foreign language (same language and culture): 2 units
• History/social studies: 3 units
• Science (two years of lab): 3 units
• The arts: 1 unit
• Other college preparatory courses: 3 units

Temple awards college credits for students who in high school participated in the Advanced Placement program or took college courses through a dual enrollment program. Check out our equivalencies.

Test-Optional

Temple is a test-optional school. First-year students can apply without submitting standardized test scores by selecting test-optional on the Common Application. Last year, more than 75% of applicants applied as test optional.

For students who want to send us their test scores, we accept both the SAT and the ACT. Of the students who submitted test scores the average SAT score was a 1280 and the average ACT score was a 28 for the fall 2024 incoming class.

Learn more about test-optional. 

As part of the Common Application, we have an optional essay where you can tell us more about yourself beyond your grades and/or test scores. We recommend that all students complete this section of the application. 

Tell us about what you do outside the classroom. Your outside interests help paint the full picture of who you are and can factor into the review process.

Letters of recommendation are optional but will be reviewed if you choose to send them. Please do not send more than two letters. Your letters should be submitted by individuals who can speak to your academic abilities and personal accomplishments, such as a high school advisor or teacher.