| Shimer admits students for both the fall and spring semesters. Students are usually informed of admission decisions within four weeks of completion of all admission requirements. There is no minimum grade-point average or minimum test score required for admission to Shimer College. Rather, the writing samples and other personal contact will be used by the Admission Committee to make its evaluation. A visit to the College is encouraged and an interview with an Admission counselor is highly recommended and in some cases required. Applicants are strongly advised to take either the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or the examination sponsored by the American College Test Program (ACT). Early Entrants who do not have standardized test scores, and who are too young to take the GED, should speak directly with the Director of Admission regarding special admission requirements. The essay portion of the Shimer application asks the applicant to provide an analysis of his or her academic experience and offers the opportunity to demonstrate creative talent. These essays are major criteria in determining candidacy for admission. Students for whom English is a second language may be required to submit TOEFL scores as part of their application for admission to Shimer. | 
