You have questions. We're here to help.
What factors are considered when you evaluate a student’s application?
- The most important criterion for admission is your transcript. Not only do we look at your grades, but also your course selection. We consider the quality of your course load and prefer to see that you have challenged yourself with the strongest program that you can handle. We do look at grades and courses in your senior year, so give thought to your coursework and schedule for your final year.
- As of August 2020, in an effort to create more opportunities for students to complete applications to Trinity, we require only one academic recommendation as part of the application file. Our goal is to learn more from this letter of recommendation about who a student is in the classroom. Any insight that can be shared related to classroom engagement will be helpful. We will accept additional recommendations (up to 3 total recommendations), but we will not penalize students who do not submit additional recommendations.
- Your extracurricular activities are also important, but remember that it is the quality, not the quantity, of your involvement that is considered.
- When writing your essay, you should write about a topic of personal significance. It’s helpful to write in a style that you’re comfortable with (for example, creative writing) and have a teacher or parent review it for grammatical and style errors.
- While we do not require an interview, it is strongly encouraged. Click here to schedule an interview.
Which standardized tests are required for admission?
As of fall 2015, Trinity College does not require the SAT or ACT for all students applying for admission, including transfer applicants. In keeping with its commitment to a student-centered and thoughtful approach to admissions evaluation, Trinity College has developed a highly personalized process that allows the readers of your file to get to know you not just for your grades and curriculum, but for who you really are. The admissions committee will personally review your application to determine your academic preparation, the level and quality of your extracurricular activities and your potential fit with our community. The college uses a holistic approach to student admissions with emphasis placed on high school transcripts, recommendation letters, leadership positions, work history, involvement in school and community activities, and other characteristics that predict success. The college is test-optional, providing students the opportunity to present application material that accurately reflects their diverse academic talents and potential. Students can submit either the SAT or the ACT if they feel their results best represent their academic potential. The admission committee makes no assumptions as to why some students choose to submit scores while others don’t. All students are given equal consideration in the admission process.
International Applicants
Can I submit scores from more than one test date?
Yes. If you decide to submit standardized test scores, Trinity will accept the highest scores on all tests (they need not be from the same exam date).
What is the average G.P.A. of admitted students?
It is important to realize that not all secondary schools have the same grading scale or methodology. The average admitted student has a high school G.P.A. of A-.
How important is the interview? Is it required?
Interviews are not required, but they are strongly encouraged. The interview is an opportunity for us to learn more about a prospective student and for the student to learn more about Trinity. We also offer alumni interviews in most parts of the country. Contact the Office of Admissions at 860-297-2180 to schedule an interview.
How are admission decisions made?
There is no single determining factor in whether an applicant is admitted or not. The admissions committee rates a candidate’s potential for success at Trinity based on the evaluation and consideration of ALL submitted application materials. Remember, although many students who apply to Trinity are capable of handling the college’s academic rigor, they may not necessarily be offered admission due to the limited number of available places in the first-year class.
Any advice on what I can do in the admissions process to maximize my chances of being admitted to Trinity?
Our advice is to continue to work very hard throughout your senior year and to excel in academic as well as extracurricular activities. Highlight any special awards or recognition that might distinguish you as a candidate for admission — your college application is not a time to be modest. Enlist the support of any individuals who can document the unique skills or talents that you possess.
Does Trinity give credit for Advanced Placement exams?
Yes. If you achieve a score of 4 or 5 on an Advanced Placement exam, you may be granted academic credit and/or place out of certain lower level courses within a given department. Each department handles Advanced Placement in a different manner. All requests and applications for Advanced Placement should be made to the Registrar before September 1 of the year of entrance. If you are seeking more specific information on how credits are accepted by academic department, please refer to our transfer credit page.
How does Trinity handle IB and A-Level credits?
Students who wish to receive credit for International Baccalaureate examinations must have the official results sent through the mail to the Registrar. Here’s the mailing address:
Course credit, not to exceed two per subject, may be granted. Students with IB scores of 5, 6, or 7 are eligible. An academic department may require students to submit additional information (copies of syllabi, exam questions, etc.), in the process of determining whether to grant credit and how much credit to grant. A maximum of one year’s credit (nine course credits) may be awarded. If you are seeking more specific information on how credits are accepted by academic department, please refer to our transfer credit page.
What is the application procedure for homeschooled applicants?
We welcome application although other requirements such as the counselor and teacher recommendations may be adapted to accommodate an applicant’s specific situation.
In addition to completing the application we ask that applicants submit:
- Documentation to confirm and specify curriculum, including the following:
- an explanation of the curriculum followed, including a list of completed reading. This may be submitted by a parent or the person who oversees the curriculum
- transcript of any college courses taken
- Academic letter of recommendation from any of the following (if possible):
- teachers of academic curriculum
- adults who have supervised the applicant in an internship or volunteer position
- teachers or directors of any non-academic endeavors such as art, dance, music, or theater
- supplemental recommendations can be written by adults who have worked with the applicant as part of an athletic team, faith-based community, or employment
- A resume of all extracurricular and co-curricular activities (such as field trips or attending a lecture series) in which an applicant has participated.
- Interviews are recommended, but not required.
What is the application procedure for international students (non-U.S. citizens)?
How much does it cost to attend Trinity?
A college education is one of the most important investments you will ever make. Here is the current breakdown of the undergraduate tuition costs and associated fees for an academic year. Remember, Trinity meets the calculated financial aid need of every student, so apply early.
Is it possible to defer enrollment to Trinity College for one year if I am admitted?
Yes, each year a number of students request a deferred enrollment and receive approval. In order to secure enrollment, the non-refundable $500 admission deposit must first be paid. In order to obtain approval, students must submit a plan for their “gap year” through the Gap Year Request Form by the June 1 priority deadline. Should students decide to apply to other colleges during a gap period, they must reapply to Trinity as well. Once the student’s request for deferment is received and approved, a formal letter acknowledging the deferred status will be sent to the student’s home address on file. An essay briefly describing deferral activities and reaffirming intention to enroll at Trinity is required by February 1 of the deferral year. Please direct any questions about deferred enrollment to Senior Assistant Director of Admissions Kate Henchy at [email protected].
Trinity College Admissions Office
Hartford, CT 06106
