Visit campus
The best way to get a sense for life at Bethel is to experience it for yourself. Meet professors and students, enjoy the beautiful lakeside campus, and feel the energy of our faith-filled community.
Admissions events
FEB 26 2026
FEB 27 2026
Unlock Your Future in Physics and Engineering: Explore Research and Design at Bethel University
5:15 p.m. CLC Lobby
Interested in Physics and Engineering at Bethel University? Register for our preview event today!
MAR 11 2026
9:15 a.m. CLC Lobby
Preview Day offers an inside look at campus life through tours, chapel, faculty connections, and more.
How to apply
Financial aid
Your college education is an investment, but you don’t need to pay for it alone. We’re committed to giving away millions in scholarships each year, and 90% of all incoming students receive aid.
Admitted students
You’ve been accepted! Congrats! Save your spot at Bethel by paying your enrollment deposit and moving ahead with next steps.
Questions? Ask your counselor
Your counselor is here every step of the way. They’ll answer your questions, connect you with professors—anything you need to make applying to Bethel as smooth as possible.
Frequently asked questions
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Your Bethel application is designed to be clear, supportive, and low-pressure. You’ll begin by completing a free online application—either through Bethel or the Common App—then submit your transcript and any required materials. Once your application is complete, our admissions team will review everything carefully. We’re looking for students who are ready to be challenged, supported, and engaged in Bethel’s Christ-centered community.
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Bethel uses rolling admissions for most traditional undergraduate programs, so there isn’t a single fixed deadline. We review applications as they come in and send decisions as soon as possible. We begin reviewing applications for the following fall and spring terms on August 1 and continue admitting qualified students throughout the year.
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Most students can complete the online application in one sitting. The full process often takes longer only because transcripts and supporting materials may need to be requested from your school.
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To complete your application, you’ll submit:
- A completed online application (Bethel application or Common App)
- Your high school transcript (and college transcripts, if applicable)
- Your admissions essay (responding to two short prompts about your faith journey and your interest in Bethel)
- Agreement to Bethel’s Covenant for Life Together
Bethel is test-optional—submitting ACT, SAT, or CLT scores is not required for admission. You’re welcome to include them if you believe they strengthen your application.
If you’re unsure if you need additional materials based on your area of study, your admissions counselor can help you understand exactly what’s required and what isn’t.
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No. You can start your application, save your progress, and return at any time.
You’ll be able to track which items you’ve completed—and what’s still needed—through the application portal. This allows you to complete each step on your timeline without having to finish everything at once.
And we’ll be in touch if any items are missing!
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Yes. You can upload an unofficial transcript as the final step before submitting your online application, or email it to undergrad-admissions@bethel.edu. We’ll use that to make an admissions decision. Official transcripts are required after you’re accepted to finalize your enrollment.
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If you’ve earned college credit through PSEO, dual enrollment, College in the Schools, or another institution, you’ll need to request a transcript from each school where credit was awarded. This allows Bethel to review your full academic record and evaluate transfer credits accurately.
Be sure to request transcripts from both your high school and any colleges you attended. If you’re unsure which transcripts to request, your admissions counselor can help you confirm exactly what’s needed.
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No. Submitting an application does not commit you to attending Bethel. It simply allows you to receive an admissions decision and explore your next steps. You can review your scholarship and financial aid information, learn more about our community, and decide whether Bethel is the right fit for you.
Your commitment comes later if you choose to enroll and submit your enrollment deposit.
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You don’t have to wait until the end of the process to understand your cost. You can estimate your scholarship and financial aid options at any time using Bethel’s net price calculator. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an important step, as it determines eligibility for federal, state, and Bethel-based aid.
After you apply—and especially after you’re admitted—you’ll receive clear information about your scholarships and financial aid package so you can see your estimated cost and next steps. If you have questions along the way, our financial aid team is available to walk through your options and timelines with you.
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A strong application shows that you’re ready for college-level work and that you’re thoughtful about why you want to be here.
We look at your academic preparation, your involvement and responsibilities, and how you’ve grown over time. Consistent effort, upward trends, meaningful activities, and clear motivation all matter. In your essay, focus on clarity and honesty. We’re not looking for a “perfect” answer—we’re looking for insight into what matters to you and why you’re interested in Bethel’s Christ-centered community.
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You don’t have to figure it out on your own. Your admissions counselor is your main point of contact and can help with starting your application, requesting transcripts, understanding requirements, and tracking next steps.
If you have questions about FAFSA, scholarships, or cost, our financial aid team can walk through your options and timelines with you.