Cadet Application for Class of 2028
For admission to the South Carolina Corps of Cadets, The Citadel has partnered with Common App to provide the primary application. The Citadel is a test optional school, no personal essay and no teacher recommendation are required to apply.
Students may also choose to use our secondary application method: The Citadel Application.
We have three distinct academic programs for intellectually motivated students to explore as a possible fit. Each has their own distinctive qualities. Learn more »
Checklist | When Should I Apply? | What Happens After I Apply?
Ranked the #1 Public College in the South, The Citadel shapes future leaders and heroes to be able to embrace the opportunities and challenges presented in society. The design of The Citadel is to instill each cadet with the lifelong core values of honor, duty and respect. Fill out the Corps of Cadets application today to join the one of a kind experience at The Citadel!
This online Corps of Cadets application is only for first-time applicants to the Corps of Cadets. Cadets seeking readmission after completing one semester (or more) in the Corps must re-apply through the Office of the Registrar. Please reach out if you have any questions. We will be happy to assist you in the application process.
Cadet Application Checklist
- Completed application (with $40 application fee)
- Official high school transcript
- Any official transcripts showing all coursework attempted after high school
- Official ACT and/or SAT score report (if applicable)
- International Students:
International Undergraduate Student Enrollment Checklist
Undergraduate International Student Immigration Supplement
Important date:
If you are applying for full scholarship consideration, the deadline is March 1.
Understanding the Admission Process
Timing: When Should I Apply?
The Citadel usually begins accepting applications in the summer following the student’s junior year of high school. The Admissions Committee continuously evaluate admissions portfolios, with decisions (acceptances and denials) made on a rolling admission basis. Admissions decisions are usually made within ten-to-fifteen days after the completion of an applicant’s portfolio. Expect to hear back in writing via U.S. mail.
The Citadel’s incoming class frequently fills up each year. As the incoming class approaches its capacity, space availability issues can impact the timing of admission decisions and notifications. As a result, students should begin the application process in a timely fashion.
Admission Phases: What Happens After I Apply?
Admission to The Citadel occurs in two basic phases. The first phase, described above, involves an initial evaluation of academic credentials. Then the student will receive an email with the result of this evaluation is an academic acceptance or denial.
The second phase leads to final acceptance and obligates the applicant to submit, among other requirements, medical history and physical examination forms for evaluation by The Citadel Surgeon. Standards of medical fitness are very strict. Medical approval must be received in order to secure final acceptance. Academically-accepted applicants must also submit updated, final transcripts for evaluation. Granting final acceptance occurs after satisfactory completion of all coursework. Final acceptance notifications usually begin going out in late-June or early-July communicated in writing.
Additional Information
In some cases, the Office of Admissions may request additional information (e.g., an updated transcript, another ACT or SAT score, a statement addressing some other aspect of the applicant’s portfolio, etc.) after the portfolio becomes complete and before rendering the official admission decision. Additional medical information may also be requested as part of the medical evaluation process. Requests such as these are also made in writing.
