Information Density: Ferris State University – Signal Evidence & AI Readability

[H1] Plan Your Visit

It's the perfect time to tour campus and see why you'll love it at Ferris State University.
Schedule Visit

[H2] Outstanding Graduates

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From creative innovation to service-driven leadership, these Ferris State University
graduates turn hands-on learning into meaningful careers that make an impact.
Read Their Stories

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Ferris State Stats

[H2] 9900+

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Students

[H2] 220+

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RSOs & Clubs

[H2] Top 20

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Best Colleges for Athletics

[H2] Ferris State Stats

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[H2] 9,900+

Students

[H2] 220+

RSOs & Clubs

[H2] TOP  20

Best Colleges for Athletics

[H2] 180+ In-Demand Degree Programs

Search for Your Program...

All Programs

Undergraduate

Graduate

Doctorate

More Programs

Show Less

View All Programs A - Z

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[H2] Bulldogs Earn more.

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Ferris State University has earned the prestigious Carnegie Classification, proving
you’ll gain access to career-focused programs that help you earn more throughout your
career.
learn more

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[H2] Opportunity in Action

Ferris State University has been recognized as an Opportunity Institution by the Carnegie
Foundation, highlighting its commitment to expanding access to education and supporting
student success.
Learn More

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Bulldog Athletics

[H2] Schedule

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[H2] Scores

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See all upcoming games

[H1] Apply Now

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[H2] NewApplicants

Start your free freshman, transfer, or graduate application. Most applications can
be finished in 15 minutes or less.
Start Application Now
Application Help
KCAD Portfolio Requirement

[H2] ReturningApplicants

Log in to check the status of your application, see missing requirements, or to start
a new application.
Log in to Application

[H2] GraduateApplicants

Start the graduate program application process by learning more about your program's
requirements.
Explore Requirements

[H2] DoctoralApplicants

To apply for one of our doctoral programs, follow the link for the program you plan
on applying for.

Doctor of Community College Leadership
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Doctor of Optometry
Doctor of Pharmacy

[H2] App Help

[H2] Application Process

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The application process includes three simple steps.

Submit your free application
Send your transcripts and test scores if required
Look for your decision letter

[H2] Creating Your Account

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In order to complete your application, you will first need to create an account. After
providing your name and email address, you will receive an email with a link to finish
setting up your account.
Make sure to check your spam folder if you do not see the email in your inbox.

[H2] Transcripts

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Do I need to send Ferris my transcripts?

If you have not completed 12 college credits or more, you must send in your official
high school transcript (or recognized equivalent, such as a GED).
In addition, you must send in a transcript from every college or university you have
attended, whether you earned credits or not.
You do not need to send a transcript for any previous coursework completed at Ferris.
How do I submit my transcripts?

The best place to start is your high school's or college's website. They should have
instructions for requesting a transcript.

[H3] Electronically

Transcripts can be sent electronically from the issuing school through a credentialing
service such as Parchment or National Student Clearinghouse.
Transcripts can also be emailed by the issuing institution to [email protected].

[H3] Mailed

Documents can be mailed to our Admissions office.
Admissions OfficeFerris State University1201 S. State Street, CSS 201Big Rapids MI 49307

[H3] In-Person

You may also deliver you transcript in-person to your nearest Ferris office. Make
sure to keep your transcript sealed in the original envelope it came in. If your transcript
is opened, we can no longer consider it official.
GED transcripts may be sent electronically using the GED website to [email protected].

[H2] Test Scores

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Do I need to send Ferris my test scores?

We are currently reviewing applications without test scores. We will process applications
without ACT or SAT scores once your high school transcript is received.

[H3] ACT & SAT Scores

You may need to send in your ACT or SAT scores if you do not meet one of the below
conditions.

You have completed 60 or more college credits
You have an associate degree or higher
You are an international student

If you have not completed college-level English or Math, you are strongly encouraged
to submit ACT or SAT scores for placement purposes.

[H3] CLEP & AP

In order to receive credit for CLEP and AP tests, you must send us your official score
reports. Reports may be used to place you into appropriate courses and determine equivalencies.
Some Ferris programs may have specific score requirements.
If you're still unsure whether or not you need to send in your test scores, give us
a call at (231) 591-2000.
How do I submit test scores?

For standardized tests, including the SAT, CLEP, and AP, visit College Board for instructions. Ferris State University's school code is 1222.
If you need to submit your ACT scores, head to the ACT website. You'll find step-by-step instructions on sending in your scores. Our school code
is 1994.

[H2] KCAD Portfolio Submissions

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Your portfolio should include 8-10 pieces of your best, most recent completed work
that reflect your interests and creative potential. This collection of work could
include 2D or 3D artwork, such as drawings, paintings, design, photography, sketches,
animation, typography, videos, collages, ceramics, sculpture, sewn garments or other
forms of creativity. 
Our portfolio requirement isn't about proving you belong at KCAD. It's your opportunity
to show us where your strengths and interests are so we can help you reach your fullest
potential.
SUBMIT portfolio online
You'll receive feedback from KCAD faculty/staff via email prior to receiving an official
decision on your acceptance.
Applicants to the Art History program's Academic Track and Associate degrees are not
required to submit a portfolio.

[H2] Application Deadlines

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Freshmen

As a freshmen, you must submit your application 30 days before the first day of the
semester you are applying for.
You can find start dates on our academic calendar.
Academic Calendar
Transfer Students

If you are a transfer student planning to attend our main campus in Big Rapids, you
must submit your application by the following dates.
Fall Semester: July 1Spring Semester: December 1Summer Semester: April 1

[H2] Preferred Browser

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We recommend using the Chrome browser to complete your application. You may experience
technical difficulties when using Safari.

[H1] Visit Ferris State University

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[H2] Big Rapids Visits

Classic college vibes, 9,000+ students, 880 acres, and the home of seven of our academic
colleges.

[H2] Grand Rapids Visits

600+ students at the vibrant heart of downtown Grand Rapids, home to Kendall College
of Art and Design.

Explore Virtual Tours and Meetings

[H2] Big Rapids Visits

[H2] Daily Visit

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Get the full Ferris State experience with a campus visit that includes an expert-led
presentation from our admissions team and a guided walking tour of our Big Rapids
campus. After you soak it all in, grab lunch at the legendary Rock Cafe, a real Bulldog
favorite. Each student can bring up to two guests, so invite your biggest fans.
Register Now

[H2] Dawg Day

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Dawg Days are the ultimate campus visit experience. These special Saturday events
are your chance to meet with reps from the majors you're interested in, learn about
financial aid, chat with our student life team, and tour campus. Afterward you'll
grab lunch at one our dining halls and meet plenty of other Bulldogs.
See Upcoming Dates

[H2] Admitted Student Open House

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Let's go, admitted Bulldogs! If your application has been accepted than this is the
event for you. Learn what living the Bulldog life really means. Meet with your college,
speak with departments, get your Bulldog ID card, and take an optional campus tour.
Register for Feb. 21 Open House
Register for Mar. 21 Open House
Pro tip: You'll need your Ferris State login info to register for these events.

[H2] Group Visit

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Round up ten or more of your high school or college-aged crew and head to Ferris State’s
Big Rapids campus for an unforgettable visit. You’ll get a feel for the real Bulldog
life as you explore campus, learn about programs, and soak up that one-of-a-kind Ferris
State energy. Unforgettable memories? Guaranteed.
Register Your Group

[H2] Grand Rapids Visits

[H2] Daily Visit

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Get an insider’s look at Ferris State's Grand Rapids campus, including Kendall College
of Art and Design. Join one of our upcoming guided tours to explore campus, discover
student resources, and see why so many Bulldogs love our downtown vibe. Bring a friend,
bring a parent, or just bring yourself.
Register Now

[H2] Virtual Tours and Meetings

[H2] Virtual Tour - Big Rapids Campus

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Start getting a feel for our Big Rapids campus with a virtual tour. You'll see our
historic and brand-new buildings, take in the beautiful natural scenery, and meet
a few Bulldogs along the way.
Start Your Tour

[H2] Admissions Questions

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Chat with a Ferris State admissions expert to learn everything you need to know about
our programs, our campuses, and how to complete your free application.
Schedule Appointment

[H2] Financial Aid Support

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There are so many opportunities for financial aid at Ferris State that it's sometimes
overwhelming. Schedule an appointment with one of our financial aid experts to understand
all of your options and how to make it happen.
Schedule Appointment

[H2] International Admissions Guidance

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If you're an international student, this is your first stop on your journey toward
studying in the United States. Meet an international admissions expert to explore
the application process, programs, tuition, scholarships, and more.
Schedule Appointment

[H2] Statewide and Online Program Advising

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Ferris State's Statewide programs give you the chance to earn your degree without
leaving home. Whether you're pursuing your degree online or at one of our hubs across
Michigan, our program advisors will help you make smart decisions about your next
step forward.
Schedule Appointment

Back to All Options

[H1] Give to Ferris

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[H2] Make an Impact

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When you give to Ferris State University, you're making an investment in the future
of our students, our state and our world. Give now to the Fund for Ferris to support
the most critical needs at our university.
Give Now

[H2] Support the Future of Ferris State Athletics
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We don’t just compete — we build champions. Now, we're taking the next bold step:
the construction of a state-of-the-art Indoor Athletics Complex that will transform
the student-athlete experience at Ferris State so we can continue to build champions
for generations to come. We need your help to make it a reality.
Explore the IAC

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[H2] Giving Opportunities

Scholarships
Athletics
Jim Crow Museum

Scholarships

[H2] Remove Barriers for Students

Build on the legacy of Ferris as an institution that knocks down barriers for students.
Support our scholarship funds and keep an education in reach for every Bulldog.
Support Scholarships

Athletics

[H2] Support our Champions

With your support, our student athletes can continue to deliver on the field, ice,
court and in the classroom. Help Ferris be the home of champions for years to come.
Support Athletics

Jim Crow Museum

[H2] Move our World Forward

Support the Jim Crow Museum of Racist Imagery as it expands its mission of teaching
tolerance through objects of intolerance.
Support the Museum

[H2] More Ways to Give

Search for your cause

[H3] Alumni Association

Give to the Alumni Association

[H3] Athletics

Give to Athletics

[H3] Card / Riley Conservation and Wildlife Education Center

Give to Card / Riley

[H3] Hispanic/Latino Cultural Center

Give to the CLS

[H3] College of Arts, Sciences and Education

Support CASE

[H3] College of Business

Support COB

[H3] College of Engineering Technology

Support CET

[H3] College of Health Professions

Support CHP

[H3] College of Pharmacy

Support Pharmacy

[H3] Delta Tau Epsilon - Lambda Chi Alumni Scholarship Endowment

Support DTE-LXA

[H3] Doctorate in Community College Leadership

Support DCCL

[H3] Employer Partner in Success Program

Become a Partner

[H3] First Generation Student Endowed Scholarship

Give to Ferris Cares

[H3] Ferris Cares Opportunity

Give to Ferris Cares

[H3] Honorarium or Memorial Gift

Make a Honorarium or Memorial Gift

[H3] Honors Program

Support the Honors Program

[H3] Jim Crow Museum

Support the JCM

[H3] Kendall College of Art and Design

Support KCAD

[H3] Latino Business & Economic Development Center

Support the LBEDC

[H3] LGBTQ+ Resource Center

Support the LGBTQ+ Resource Center

[H3] Library (FLITE)

Support FLITE

[H3] Michigan College of Optometry

Support MCO

[H3] Office of International Education

Support OIE

[H3] Office of Multicultural Student Services

Support OMSS

[H3] Scholarships & Endowments

Give to Scholarships & Endowments

[H3] University College

Support University College

[H3] University Fund for Excellence

Support University Fund for Excellence

[H2] Board of Directors

Board members are community, business and industry leaders, along with a Board of
Trustee liaison, alumni and current faculty and staff.
Meet the Foundation Board

[H2] Athletics

Support Ferris Athletics by making a gift to a team, joining a booster club, or attending
one of the events put on by our teams.
Explore Athletics

[H2] Planned Giving

Leave a legacy that will impact current and future students. Explore different ways
to give and support scholarships and programs.
DISCOVER Ways to Give