Admission and Financial Aid

Campus

The Application Process Made Easy

Applying to an online degree program at Aurora University is simple. Our student engagement specialists are here every step of the way to assist you through the process. Whether you have transfer credits, are using military benefits, or are an international student, our simplified process will get you learning quickly so you can make your professional goals a reality.

Key Admissions Dates

Below, you will find a list of upcoming start dates. The application deadline for all programs is the Thursday before each start date.

  • Summer 2: 06/30/2025
  • Fall 1: 08/25/2025
  • Fall 2: 10/20/2025
  • Spring 1: 01/12/2026
  • Spring 2: 03/16/2026
  • Summer 1: 05/11/2026
  • Summer 2: 07/06/2026

The following programs have limited start dates:

  • Master of Science in Exercise Science: Summer 1, Summer 2, and Fall 1
  • Post-MSW PEL Endorsement: Spring 2 and Summer 2

How to Apply to AU Online

There are only a few simple steps to follow once you have found the online program that’s right for you. Upon completing the online application form, you will be contacted by a student engagement specialist who will assist with application documents and transfer credits.

If you have questions at any point in the process or if you need help, you can call (888) 570-5070 to speak with a student engagement specialist.

Get Started »

Continue Your Education, Wherever You Are on Your Journey

Aurora University’s online programs offer flexibility and benefits that make them perfect for all types of students. Admission requirements may differ depending on your particular circumstances, but we make it easy for anyone to apply.

Make the Most of Your Prior College Credits

If you have prior undergraduate credit from previous colleges or universities that you have attended, we can review those credits to determine what will transfer to AU towards your undergraduate program.

To apply, you will need to:

  • Complete the free online application for admission.
  • Submit your official transcripts.
    • 60+ Credits: official college transcripts
    • 30-59 Credits: official college transcripts and either your high school diploma or high school official transcripts
    • 15-29 Credits: official college transcripts and official high school transcripts
    • <15 Credits: official college transcripts (if applicable), official high school transcripts, and official SAT/ACT scores
  • Use the Transfer Evaluation System to see how your prior coursework may transfer to Aurora University.
  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
    • Federal School Code 001634
    • Once you are admitted to Aurora University and we have received your FAFSA application, we will determine your financial aid eligibility and send you an offer letter.

Transfer Students »

Military Application and Benefits

Aurora University is proud to welcome military service members and veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. We offer personalized support and help remove barriers for military-affiliated students through support services. We are here to help you every step of the way through your transition to university life.

Aurora University participates in all applicable federal programs for veterans, service persons, and their dependents, including:

  • Ch. 33 – Post 9/11 GI Bill® Benefits
  • Military Tuition Assistance
  • Ch. 30 – Montgomery GI Bill®
  • Ch. 31 – Veteran Readiness and Employment
  • Ch. 1606 – Reservist/National Guard

To determine your military benefit eligibility and apply for VA Educational Benefits, please follow the steps below:

  • Apply for VA benefits online
    • Applications for educational benefits typically take up to 30 days.
  • Once the VA has processed your request, please provide the following to the Financial Aid Office through the online secure portal:

*Please note that the Veteran Benefit Certification Request must be completed each term you wish to utilize your benefit.

Military Students

Welcoming International Students

Aurora University welcomes international students to apply for our online programs. To get started, you must:

  • Apply online.
  • Submit official transcripts from any schools attended in the United States.
    • First-year undergraduate applicants must request official transcripts from all secondary and/or post-secondary schools.
    • Transfer and graduate applicants must request official transcripts from all post-secondary schools.
    • Official certified evaluations of all academic transcripts of high school and college-level credit from schools attended outside of the United States must be evaluated by a NACES member evaluator. All evaluations must be sent directly to Aurora University.
    • High school transcripts must be a general evaluation that verifies the transcripts with GPA.
    • Graduate transcript evaluations must be course-by-course.

Below are the minimum English competency scores required for admission from one of the following:

  • TOEFL paper-based: 550 or higher
  • TOEFL computer-based: 213 or higher
  • TOEFL Internet-based: 79 or higher
  • IELTS: 6.5 or higher
  • Duolingo: 110 or higher

Students interested in an I-20 Visa will need to enroll in one of our campus-based programs. We do not offer I-20 Visas for students enrolled in our online programs.

Contact the Aurora University Office of Admission at 630-844-5533 or admission@aurora.edu for more information.

International Students »

Find Your Program

Aurora University offers a wide range of programs for different interests and professional goals. Get started today to find the program that’s right for you.

Undergraduate Programs

Our flexible, undergraduate programs are taught by expert faculty dedicated to your success. Undergraduate online programs include business administration, psychology, social work, healthcare administration and more. Discover all of our online undergraduate program options.

Explore Undergraduate Programs »

Graduate Programs

Our graduate programs will help expand employment opportunities and earning potential. Online graduate programs include business administration, exercise science, social work, and graduate education options. Discover all of our online graduate program options.

Explore Graduate Programs »

Doctorate Programs

Take your expertise and skill to the next level with our doctoral programs.

Explore Doctoral Programs »

Endorsement Programs

Our online endorsement programs will give you valuable credentials to help meet your career goals.

Explore Endorsement Programs »

Explore Tuition and Financial Aid Options

Earning a degree in higher education is an investment, but cost should not be a deterrence. Federal financial aid is available for those that qualify. Our financial aid team is here to assist you with the financial aid process.

Students can apply for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid using Federal School Code 001634. Other financial aid options include:

  • External grants and scholarships
  • Private loans

Financial Aid »

Open Resource Education (OER)

AU Online uses OER for many programs, providing you with significant savings on textbook costs. The OER library and network allow you to access your learning materials without the high price of traditional textbooks.

Learn about OER »

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora offers a variety of easily accessible resources to facilitate your academic journey. Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about our flexible and innovative online programs.

Explore FAQs »