Carlow University
Carlow traces its roots to 1843, when seven determined Sisters of Mercy boarded a ship in Ireland, carrying with them the twin values of academic excellence and compassionate service to others. They arrived in Pittsburgh in 1844, and in 1929 they established Mount Mercy College (later Carlow University). Since then, the Sisters' simple yet boundless mission has touched countless lives and continues to inspire our future leaders today.
Here, we strive to create an experience that is not only life-changing, but world-changing. Carlow graduates are prepared to be pioneers in workforce development, healthcare, education, business, the arts, and more. They are part of a nearly 100-year tradition of ethical leaders with the empathy and spirit to create meaningful societal change. Rooted in unity and led by compassion, we are redefining what a leader looks like —and it looks like a Carlow graduate.
Academic programs
- Science
- Liberal Arts
- Business
- Education
- Nursing
- Communication
- Art & Design
- Health Science
- Social Science
- Visual Arts
- Psychology
- Computer Science
Student experience
- Athletics
- Co-op/Internship Opportunities
- Disability Services
- On-Campus Housing
- Religious Affiliation
- ROTC Program
- Study Abroad
- Undergraduate Research
- Distance/online learning
Application information
First-year
If you are currently enrolled in high school, you will be applying as a first-year student. It’s fast, easy, and free to apply to Carlow. Submit your Common App and then request that your high school send us your official transcript. SAT, ACT, and/or CLT scores are optional for most programs but may be required for direct entry to some programs. You will be asked to apply for a specific academic program on the application. Carlow's Early Action application deadline is December 1, with rolling admission thereafter. Decisions are typically released weekly.
Transfer
If you have attempted any coursework after graduating from high school at a four-year college, community college, or trade/vocational school, you will be applying as a transfer student. You must create a free account and apply through Carlow’s application portal, Bridge to Carlow, at carlow.edu/apply. You will need to submit transcripts from each institution you’ve attended before an admissions decision can be made. Carlow operates on a rolling admission basis, with decisions released weekly.
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Additional information
Students are evaluated for merit-based scholarships at the time of application review and are notified at the time of acceptance. Please note that merit scholarships are based on your academic performance through the end of your junior year. Standardized test scores are not factored into scholarship decisions.
Additionally, Carlow offers financial awards to students who:- Visit Carlow's campus.
- Graduate from a Catholic high school.
- Successfully complete a College in High School course through Carlow.
- Are selected for a place in the university’s Honors Program after a competitive application process (note: living on campus is required for honors students).
Students seeking additional financial assistance should be sure to file the FAFSA using Carlow's school code, 003303.
Carlow fields 15 women’s, men’s, and coed athletic teams. Those interested in competing as a varsity athlete should complete our recruiting form.
Visit us
We encourage you to set up an individual visit and campus tour during the week or take advantage of one of our admissions events to experience our unique location and amazing community. We also host shadowing opportunities throughout the academic year to spend time with a current student, observe a class, grab lunch in our dining hall or cafe, and more. To view current visit offerings, go to carlow.edu/visit.
"I chose Carlow because I loved the area and how small it is. I wanted to be in a lively city while also experiencing a smaller community and Carlow checked both of those boxes entirely!"