Admission Requirements

At Thomas Edison State University (TESU), we're committed to helping adult learners achieve their higher education goals. We provide a distinctive college education for self-directed students through flexible, online learning and assessment opportunities.

Age Requirement

Applicants must be 20 years of age or older, or be at least 16 years of age and demonstrate self-direction in one of the following ways for admission to TESU*.

• Serving as an active member of the United States military (not applicable to military spouses, dependents or relations);
• Participating in an apprenticeship as recognized by the US Department of Labor or as evaluated by TESU for academic credit;
• Having at least 12 transferable college-level credits from a Professional Learning Review conducted by TESU, or 6 credits from an accredited institution recognized for transfer by TESU with a grade of C or higher, or 6 credits of Advanced Placement (AP) credit;

Applicants must also possess a high school diploma, GED, or a secondary home school diploma that meets the requirements of the applicant’s state of residency. To submit documentation demonstrating self-direction, please complete the Age Waiver Petition Request Form.

Applicants between 16 and 20 years of age and unable to meet any of the self-direction criteria indicated will be required to complete a no-cost online Orientation Course.

* All students between 16 and 20 years of age will be limited to 9 credits in their first semester.

Undergraduate Admissions

For New, Transfer and Visiting Students

As an undergraduate student at TESU, you can explore a variety of degree and certificate programs including associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, Bachelor’s to Master’s programs and undergraduate certificates. If you are a self-driven individual with a high school diploma, GED, or a secondary home school diploma that meets the requirements of the applicant’s state of residency, we encourage you to apply. Students between the ages of 16-20 will be limited to nine credits in their first semester.

Undergraduate Requirements

Graduate Admissions

Earn your master’s degree, doctoral degree or graduate certificate at TESU and take your higher education to the next level. Learn more about our graduate admission process and start your journey at TESU today.

Graduate Requirements

International Admissions

As an international student at TESU, you will have access to a variety of flexible, online undergraduate and graduate level degree and certificate programs. If you are a non-U.S. citizen, you can learn more about our international admissions requirements to start your university experience in the United States.

International Requirements

Military and Veteran Admissions

A college education is an important investment, and we can help active duty, Air/Army National Guard, and reserve service members, their families and Department of Defense employees navigate the landscape of transitioning from service to college. At TESU, we offer you flexible, online degree programs in a variety of areas so you can work toward your degree no matter where you’re stationed.

Military & Veteran Requirements