Policies and Procedures

Family Communication Statement

We look forward to communicating with the parents and families of prospective students about the admissions process. However, the Lewis & Clark Admissions Office expects that the applicant will serve as primary author and contact throughout the admission process. Accordingly, we will primarily communicate with the student about their application via the email submitted on the application. Please make certain that the student email address provided is accurate and be sure to check that email account frequently.  Upon receipt of an application, we will send the student an email with information on how to check the status of their file online. 

Gap or Bridge Years

Lewis & Clark College fully supports the choice of many admitted students to take a year off between high school and college via taking a gap year. An increasingly popular option, taking a gap year allows students to pursue an array of activities and experiences during their time off. Admitted students seeking to defer their enrollment for a year must submit a plan for approval by the Admissions Office.

High school students with college credit

Learn more about college credit earned prior to high school graduation (i.e. Running Start, Dual-Enrollment, College in the High School).

AP/IB Examination Advanced Standing Credit Policy

Review our Advanced Standing credit awarding policy for AP/IB Exams.

Home-Schooled Applicants

Lewis & Clark College welcomes applications from students who have been home-schooled for some or all of their education.  We consider you to be a home-schooled student if the majority of your high school career has taken place, or if your high school career will conclude, outside of a traditional academic setting.

Privacy Statement

The Office of Admissions at Lewis & Clark College is committed to respecting and protecting your privacy and the information you share with us.

Standardized Test Scores

As a leader in test-optional admissions since 1991, we will be adopting a test-free admissions policy beginning with the fall 2025 entering class.

Transfer Students

Our office will consider you a transfer applicant if you complete 12 or more semester credits (18 quarter credits) of college coursework after graduating from high school (or earning a GED) and before your enrollment at Lewis & Clark.  See our transfer page for more information.

Verification of High School Diplomas

The Office of Admissions at Lewis & Clark College will confirm all students’ transcripts that arrive from a high school with a CEEB code, high school seal and/or signature. If a transcript is from a high school that lacks a CEEB code or seal/signature, the Office of Admissions will investigate to confirm that the school is recognized by the state department of education or home school association. The Office of Admissions may request a copy of the student’s diploma at any point in the admission process to verify enrollment and graduation. If a diploma is determined invalid, a GED may be required for admission consideration.