Advice for Parents of High School Seniors Applying to College
Once your student has a shortlist of schools, it’s time to take the next big step: applying.
Turning the dream of college into reality can feel overwhelming — especially for first-generation families new to the process. At UB, we’re here to make the college application process as smooth and stress-free as possible for both students and their families.
Here’s a quick snapshot of the key information you’ll need to get started.
While exams like the SAT and ACT were once essential for admission at most colleges, many schools — including UB — have adopted a test-optional approach to foster a more equitable and holistic application process.
UB remains test-optional for undergraduate admissions.
- Students who do NOT submit test scores must include a personal essay with their application.
- Students who DO submit test scores may choose whether or not to include a personal essay.
This flexible approach helps ensure every applicant has the opportunity to shine in their own way.
Rolling admission offers you and your child flexibility as you make post-secondary plans. Your student can apply to UB at any time — meaning if they apply early in their senior year, they won’t have to wait until after an application deadline to find out whether they’ve been accepted.
Dates to remember:
- Early Action I deadline: December 1
- Action II deadline: February 1
- Rolling admissions after February 1
When considering the cost of college attendance, it’s important to look beyond just tuition. The overall price of a post-secondary education typically includes:
- Tuition and fees
- Food and housing
- Health insurance
- Miscellaneous fees and deposits
To help your family plan ahead, we’ve created a convenient tool: the Net Price Calculator. This will give you an estimate of what it may cost to attend UB based on your unique circumstances.
The first step toward receiving financial aid is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
This essential form helps UB’s Financial Aid team better understand your family’s financial picture — and recommend the best options to support your student’s journey.
Types of financial aid may include:
- Grants - Gifted funds that don’t need to be repaid
- Scholarships - Merit- or need-based awards, also repayment-free
- Student loans - Flexible repayment options available
- Work-Study - On-campus jobs that provide a steady paycheck
Want to boost your student’s chances of receiving funds they won’t need to pay back? Explore Scholarship Universe, UB’s scholarship-matching platform with access to a wide range of funding opportunities.
When it comes to financial aid, keeping track of key deadlines can make all the difference.
- October 1: FAFSA application opens
- March 1: Final deadline to submit FAFSA to be considered for aid at UB
- March 15: Deadline for Connecticut residents to qualify for state funding for 2025-26
- April 1: UB’s priority FAFSA deadline for 2025-26
Remember: Submitting the FAFSA early can open the door to more financial aid opportunities — so it’s worth getting a head start!
Payment arrangements must be made at least two weeks before classes start each term. Your student’s acceptance package will include additional deadlines such as UB undergraduate admissions deposit day — usually in the spring before your student’s fall semester.
“University of Bridgeport offered me a very competitive and affordable award package, even taking into consideration that my major of interest (Nursing) tends to be an especially expensive program. A generous transfer scholarship, as well as others that were included in my financial aid package, gave me the chance to attend a private four-year institution without having to break my pockets.”
Contact Admissions
Request More Information- Phone203‑576‑4552
- Emailadmit@bridgeport.edu
- ApplicationApply Now