Six students holding up the J sign outside on campus.

Apply to USA

Application Process

The following steps apply to first time freshmen, but generally the process flows the same no matter your status. See below to find out which admit type you are. Current students should register for classes in PAWS.

▼   How to Apply

The easiest way to apply is online through the application portal. You will be asked to create an account, and this login will allow you to fill out an application and check back to see what your status is.

You may also apply using Common App

If you prefer to mail in your application, print out the application form, fill it out and mail it to:

USA Office of Admissions
2500 Meisler Hall
390 Student Center Circle
Mobile, AL 36688-0002

▼   Submit Transcript and Scores

USA will be offering spring, summer, and fall 2023 applicants a test-optional path for admission to USA. Students with high school GPA's with a 3.4 or better will be automatically admitted to South. Students with GPA's below a 3.4 will enter a review process for admission. These students could be asked to supply additional materials. Students who choose the test optional track will also be eligible for scholarships. Scholarships for test-optional students will be awarded based on strength of curriculum, grades, and a variety of other factors. 

Students are able to select test-optional on their applications. We do recommend that students with ACT 21 or better and/or SAT 1060 or better submit their scores for best scholarship consideration.

Request your official high school transcript be sent to the University of South Alabama Office of Admissions.

Request that your ACT or SAT scores be sent to the University of South Alabama.

▼   Notification of Acceptance
The Office of Admissions notifies all prospective students by U.S. mail. Notification generally takes five business days. During times of high volume, a longer processing time can be expected. You can also view your admission status by logging into the application portal.
▼   Check out PAWS
When you receive your notification of acceptance, you will receive your J# (student ID number). You will need this to log into PAWS (USA’s Personal Access Web System) and JagMail. PAWS is used by students to register for classes. Here you can find information about your account, housing, transcripts, and personal information. Set up your JagMail as soon as possible to receive important University communications.
▼   Fill Out Housing Contracts
Once you are admitted to South, you will use your Jag number and JagMail password to login to My USAHousing and begin your housing contract. Those who complete their contract early will have the largest selection of campus housing locations and types.
▼   Pre-Orientation and Orientation
Only admitted undergraduate students may sign up for orientation. Prior to orientation, you will need to submit immunization information and records through the Student Health Web Portal. You will also be asked to complete a brief on-line alcohol prevention program. Pre-orientation information can be found here.
▼   Academic Advising
If you are a first-time freshman, you will receive academic advising during summer orientation. If you have general questions, ask an advisor.
▼   Register for Classes
If you are a first-time freshman, you will register for classes during summer orientation. Advisors will be on hand to guide you through the process.