This is an archived copy of the 2016-17 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.mtmercy.edu.

First Year Student

Freshman Admissions - Process and Standards

Admission to Mount Mercy University is selective, competitive, and based upon a full review process. Admissions files are reviewed on a rolling admission basis prior to the first day of classes. Applications may be obtained from the Office of Admissions, Mount Mercy University, 1330 Elmhurst Drive NE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52402-4797, 319-368-6460 or 800-248-4504, or online at www.mtmercy.edu . A completed admissions file includes:

  • Application for undergraduate admission
  • Official standardized test scores - Mount Mercy’s ACT code is 1340 and SAT code is 6417
  • Official high school transcripts
  • An official transcript of any collegiate coursework taken

Mount Mercy evaluates all files on an individual basis. Each entering student needs to be a graduate of an accredited secondary school or its equivalent.  While specific courses are not required for admission, a student’s transcript will be evaluated to ensure that a well-rounded college preparatory curriculum has been taken. Students applying to Mount Mercy are encouraged to complete the following coursework in high school:

  • Four years of English
  • Three years of Mathematics
  • Three years of Social Studies
  • Three years of Science

Strong consideration will be given to applicants who have a:

  • Cumulative grade point average of 2.75 (on a 4.00 scale) or higher
  • Composite score of at least 20 on the ACT (1020 SAT) with sub-scores of 17 or higher
  • Class rank in the top half of graduating class

A variety of additional factors are also considered (the quality and nature of the courses taken, the sub-scores earned on the standardized test, extracurricular and community involvement, strength of the personal statement, motivation, personal circumstances, etc.) to ensure that the students admitted to the institution are those who are the best fit for Mount Mercy and whose preparation and experiences suggest that they have the best likelihood of succeeding here.

Home Schooled Students

In lieu of high school transcripts, applicants must submit records of high school or college-level studies, either in a transcript form (if available) or a detailed account of the subjects studied and materials used. Standardized test scores (ACT or SAT) also are required and must be submitted directly to the Office of Admissions.

Admissions Committee

The Admissions Committee will review files for students who do not meet the minimum admission standards. Students, who demonstrate strong potential and motivation for undergraduate success, may be admitted to Mount Mercy by providing additional information to the Admissions Committee for use in the evaluation process (additional grades, personal statement, letters of recommendation, personal interview, etc.). Some students may be admitted to Mount Mercy with conditions, which must be satisfied during their freshman year in order to remain an enrolled student of Mount Mercy. Specific conditions and recommendations will be determined on an individual basis by the Admissions Committee.

Offer and Acceptance of Admission

An offer of admission to Mount Mercy University is contingent upon the student maintaining a satisfactory record and completing graduation requirements – as noted on the final high school transcript (official transcript to be sent upon completion of the diploma). Mount Mercy reserves the right to withdraw its offer of admission when information received after the original admission decision indicates the student no longer meets the minimum admission standards.

A $200 deposit will be required to confirm attendance at Mount Mercy. The deposit will be used to reserve the student’s place at course registration and will be credited toward the student’s tuition and housing accounts.

Residency Requirements

Mount Mercy has a two-year residency expectation. Students must live in campus housing during their first four semesters of full-time university attendance. Students may be exempt from this requirement if: living with parents; if “independent” status with regard to federal financial aid regulations; or if they turned 21 years old before July 1st preceding their second year. An exemption request must be filed with the institution, and approved, in order for the exemption to be made.