How to Apply

International students are an important part of our community at Hollins. Below are instructions to begin the process of applying to Hollins: 

Start by completing the Horizon application. After submitting your application, the Horizon Program director will reach out via email to advise you on next steps.

After submitting your application for admission, you may continue to monitor the progress of your application and receipt of supporting documents by accessing your myHollins portalA username and password will be generated once you begin your application for admission.

There is no cost to submit your application for admission to Hollins. 

Required Supporting Application Documents

Official high school transcript or proof of GED completion (provide full name listed on transcript).

Official copies of academic records (transcript) which must:

  • list the courses taken and grades received in each grading period during the secondary school years.
  • be sent to Hollins’ Office of Admission by the school official directly (documents may be sent to huadm@hollins.edu, the Common Application, or through a custom link provided in their email).
  • include your secondary school’s official stamp or seal.
  • Hollins University recommends the following companies

College Official’s Report from the most recent college you attended.

Required if you are transferring directly from another institution

Two letters of recommendation

  • Required for anyone applying who is not transferring directly from a college or university.
  • Letters should be from people who are familiar with your academic ability or potential.
  • If your native language isn’t English, you must submit a recommendation from your most recent English instructor.
  • The recommendation should state the content of your English course work and the level of proficiency you have achieved.

(TOEFL) Test of English as a Foreign Language or (IELTS) International English Language Testing System 

Hollins University requires all non-native English speakers to complete the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or IELTS. Students can request consideration to waive this requirement by proving their English proficiency in several ways, including one of the following:

  • Obtaining a 6.5 or higher on the IELTS
  • Obtaining a TOEFL score of 550 (paper-based total), 213 (computer-based total), or 80 (Internet-based total)
  • Having been enrolled and attended a school with all instruction in English for three or more years at the secondary school level
  • Obtaining a score of 610 of the SAT evidence-based reading and writing section
  • Obtaining a score of 26 or higher on the ACT English Section
  • Obtain a 105 or higher on the Duolingo English Test

Please note that satisfaction of the admission requirement for English proficiency may not equal satisfaction of the general education language requirement (LAN) as described on page 33 of the Undergraduate Catalog.

Required informational interview to discuss your goals and the program in more detail. Email the director of the Horizon Program to schedule. 

An additional writing exercise may be requested after additional materials are submitted.

Scholarship info

Academic merit scholarshipat least $23,000Students will be evaluated based on their academic profile at the time of admission.
International friendship awardamount variesA limited amount of additional funds are available to international students.

More information about the Horizon program at Hollins.

Have more questions about scholarship opportunities at Hollins? Contact horizon@hollins.edu.