Get ready for Skidmore
You've learned about Skidmore and think it may be the place for you. Now it's our
turn to learn more about you. Follow the steps below to prepare your application.
Choose your path
Below you will find the baseline information for all admission applicationprograms — Early Decision, Regular Decision, and Transfer for both domestic and international students. However, each program may also have additional requirements so, no matter your path to Skidmore, please carefully review all steps and don't hesitate to reach out if you have questions.
READY TO APPLY?
Review the steps and materials required using the application checklist below. Then, apply directly through the Common Application or Coalition Application websites.
Application Checklist
As a first-year applicant, you must submit the following. Early Decision and international applicants should review this list, as well as specific needs for your applications.
- The application: You must apply directly through the Common Application or the Coalition Application websites.
- Secondary School Report filled out by secondary school guidance counselor (includes official high school transcript)
- Two academic Teacher Evaluation Reports
- Midyear Report filled out by secondary school guidance counselor
- $65 application fee (check or credit card). No application can be processed until the fee is received or a request for a waiver has been made through the Common Application or Coalition Application.
- If you are applying for financial aid, complete the College Scholarship Service Financial Aid profile (CSS) by November 15 for ED I and January 15 for ED II and Regular Decision.
If you are sending any application-related materials by regular mail, please include your name and Common Application or Coalition Application ID on all materials.
Additional info
Interviews are not required, but they are encouraged as an opportunity for you to discuss your interests and ask questions about Skidmore and our application process. Please contact our office to sign up for an interview. All interview requests must be submitted by December 1.
Skidmore College is test-optional for all students seeking fall 2023 admissions.
However, students may submit either the SAT or ACT if they feel their standardized testing results best represent their academic potential. We will not make any assumptions as to why some students choose to submit scores while others do not; all applicants will be given equal consideration in our holistic evaluation approach.
Self-reported scores
Those students who choose to submit standardized testing as part of their application may self-report their scores in any of the following ways at the time of application:
- Included on the Common Application or the Coalition Application
- Sending a screen shot or PDF of the Student Score Report to admissions@skidmore.edu (Name must be visible.)
If admitted and subsequently enrolled based on self-reported scores, applicants must submit official test scores and can do so in the following ways:
- Official report from the testing agency
- High school transcript
- Your school counselor (Please note, admission could be at risk if official scores are not consistent with self-reported scores.)
Prospective studio art majors are not required to submit a portfolio. However, if you choose to submit an art portfolio, please submit electronically via Slideroom, in partnership with the Common Application as follows:
- Include Skidmore College on the “My Colleges” page in your Common App. Click on “Art Supplement,” which will connect you to www.slideroom.com. Create an account on Slideroom and submit your work.
Keep in mind: Due to the number of portfolio submissions, applicants should adhere to the following guidelines to ensure that their portfolios are reviewed:
- At least four works must be drawings from direct observation.
- Artwork should demonstrate a command of elements of visual language, including composition, line, form and color.
- Portfolios should reflect the abilities and experience of the applicants.
Prospective dance majors are not required to submit a portfolio. However, if you choose to submit a dance portfolio, please submit electronically by January 15 via Slideroom, in partnership with the Common Application as follows:
- Include Skidmore College on the “My Colleges” page in your Common App. Click on “Art Supplement,” which will connect you to www.slideroom.com. Create an account on Slideroom and submit your work.
Keep in mind: Due to the number of portfolio submissions, applicants should adhere to the following guidelines to ensure that their portfolios are reviewed:
- Video portfolios should be no longer than three minutes in length.
- Portfolios may demonstrate any dance discipline(s) or style(s) that best exemplify the dancer's strengths and command of their physicality and practice.
- Portfolios should include at least one longer clip, at least 30 seconds, that demonstrates the dancer's ability to execute more complex choreography.
Skidmore's financial aid model is virtually all need-based. However, we do accept applications for two merit awards and both require unique application steps.
The Filene Music Scholarship ($20,000 each of four years) is awarded to 4 to 6 student classical musicians through a performance competition coordinated by Skidmore's Music Department. The Porter/Wachenheim Scholarship in Science and Mathematics ($20,000 each of four years) is awarded to 12 to 14 students who demonstrate superior accomplishment and considerable promise in science and mathematics.
You can learn more about each award and how to apply by visiting Financial Aid.
Hungry for adventure? Want to start exploring the world on day one of your Skidmore experience? Consider applying for the First-Year Experience in London, an opportunity to spend your first semester immersed in the historical and cultural riches of England's capital city.
Regular Decision checklist
Ready to apply Regular Decision? Download a copy of your application checklist to
keep handy as you prepare your materials.
Grab your copy
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
Once you have submitted your application, you will receive a confirmation email that your application was received by Skidmore.
When your application has been processed, the Office of Admissions will send an email to the address on your application with a Personal Identification Number (PIN), which you can use to check on your application status. Our office will contact you if any application items are missing.
Have Questions?
We may have answers for you in our Admissions FAQs. If not, or if you'd prefer to chat with one of us, you are always welcome to connect with us directly.