Office of Admissions

You are considered a new first-year student at East Stroudsburg University if you are enrolling in college for the first time after graduating from high school, and ESU will be the first college or university you attend.

Even if you’ve earned college credits through dual enrollment or AP courses during high school, you are still classified as a first-year student.

You are considered a transfer student if you have attempted 12 or more college credits at a regionally accredited college or university after graduating from high school.

If you have completed fewer than 12 college credits at the time of your application, you will be considered a first-year student, and your application will be evaluated using both your college and high school academic records.

At East Stroudsburg University (ESU), a graduate student is someone who has already earned a bachelor’s degree and is pursuing advanced studies through one of ESU’s master’s or doctoral programs

Graduate students at ESU may be seeking:

• A master’s degree (e.g., M.Ed., M.S., M.A., M.P.H.)
• A doctoral degree (e.g., Ed.D., D.H.Sc.)
• A post-baccalaureate certification or professional development for career advancement or licensure

ESU welcomes graduate students who are intellectually curious, motivated, and ready to engage in a rigorous academic environment. The university offers over 20 graduate degree programs and numerous certification options across fields like education, health sciences, business, communication, and more.

An international student at East Stroudsburg University is someone who is not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and plans to study in the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa (such as an F-1 student visa).

International applicants must submit academic records, proof of English proficiency, financial documentation, and other required forms. ESU’s Office of International Programs is here to support you every step of the way—from application to arrival.

A returning student is someone who previously attended East Stroudsburg University and is looking to resume their studies after taking a break of at least one semester. Whether you stepped away for personal, academic, or professional reasons, we welcome you back to continue your journey toward earning your degree. To re-enroll, simply complete the Returning Student Application and we’ll help you get back on track.

A non-degree student at ESU is someone who is permitted to take courses at the university without being formally admitted into a degree program. This option is ideal for individuals seeking personal enrichment, professional development, or those looking to improve their academic record before applying to a degree program.

Non-degree students register on a space-available basis and may be subject to credit limits depending on their status.

If you are a visiting student currently enrolled at another college or university and wish to take a summer course with us, please complete this application to enroll.

A second degree student is someone who has already earned a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university and is now seeking to earn another undergraduate degree at ESU. These students must meet all requirements for the new major and complete a minimum number of additional credits, even if some coursework overlaps with their first degree.

This path is ideal for individuals looking to shift careers, deepen their expertise, or pursue a new academic interest.

A Lifelong Learner at East Stroudsburg University is a Pennsylvania resident aged 60 or older who is retired from full-time employment and wishes to continue learning by enrolling in undergraduate or graduate courses. Through ESU’s Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver Program, eligible individuals can take up to six credits per semester tuition-free in a non-degree status, on a space-available basis.

This program reflects ESU’s commitment to making education accessible at every stage of life.

At East Stroudsburg University, we proudly offer Merit-Based Scholarships to recognize and reward students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement. These scholarships are designed to support hardworking individuals who have earned their place in the Warrior Family through dedication and excellence.

At ESU, our students are always our top priority. Our mission is to help you reach your full potential and achieve your academic and personal goals. We understand that success requires focus, commitment, and hard work—and financial concerns shouldn’t stand in your way.

That’s why our Merit-Based Scholarships are here to make your ESU education more affordable and accessible, allowing you to concentrate on what matters most: your future.