Admission & Enrollment

General Admission Policy

www.doane.edu/admission-and-aid/apply

The overarching goal of Doane University is to attract engaged students who can benefit from our superior educational program, graduate, and use their education to serve and lead in the state, the nation, and the world. We seek students who want to be actively involved in the intellectual enterprise and the community and who embrace the ideals of high expectations, personal responsibility, leadership, and free inquiry.

High School Seniors and First-year Students

Full-time students and part-time students requesting financial assistance must apply for admission.

Must submit an unofficial high school transcript, students can gain admittance if they meet admission requirements. If a student does not meet the admission requirements, they follow a different process.

An official transcript of credits from the high school (and/or other educational institution). 

The Doane University Office of Admission must receive a new student’s official FINAL high school transcripts prior to registering for the semester following the offer of admission.

Doane University’s selective admission program is based on the following criteria:

1. Rank in high school graduating class, college preparatory coursework, high school grade point average (GPA), ACT/SAT and
2. Individual character and personal abilities.

Every applicant is considered equally without reference to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, age, marital status, or sexual orientation. Successful applicants to Doane will:

• complete a strong college preparatory program. Preference is given to applicants who have taken four years of English, and three years of each mathematics, science, and social studies. Two years of a foreign language is also encouraged.

Students may be admitted on the basis of a GED score.

Students who wish to enter Doane University from a home-schooling environment must complete the application for admission and submit the following:

1. Satisfactory transcript documentation or GED certificate. In lieu of a transcript, a completed “Home School Credit Evaluation Form” is accepted (contact the Office of Admission to obtain a form).

High school students are encouraged to submit an application for admission during the first semester of their senior year. Applicants must have at least six semesters of completed coursework evident on their high school (secondary) transcript. Incomplete or false information is grounds for denial of admission or subsequent dismissal from the university. The steps for applying for admission are to:

1. complete an application for admission online and submit it to the Office of Admission, and
2. provide official academic transcripts and financial aid information from all secondary (high schools) and post-secondary (colleges and/or universities) institutions from whom you have received college credit

Upon receipt of all application materials, the Admissions Representatives will review the application file and notify the applicant of a decision within two to three weeks. If accepted, Crete applicants must send a $200 enrollment deposit–refundable through May 1–to confirm placement in the incoming class.

Transfer Students

Doane University is committed to making your transfer experience seamless, transparent, and focused on helping you graduate on time. Whether you are continuing your academic journey or seeking a new direction, our team works closely with you to maximize your previously earned credits and create a clear, personalized path to your degree.
At Doane, transfer students are valued for the experiences they bring-and supported every step of the way from application through enrollment.

What You Can Expect as a Transfer Student

• Maximized Transfer Credits - We work to apply as many of your previously earned credits as possible toward your degree.
• Clear Path to Graduation - Degree planning focused on efficiency and completion.
• Personalized Advising - Guidance from admission through enrollment and beyond.
• Flexible Learning Options - Programs available in Lincoln and Online formats.

Who is Considered a Transfer Student?

• A transfer student is any applicant who has enrolled in coursework at a post-secondary institution (college or university) after graduating from high school or earning a GED.
• Students with fewer than 24 transferable credit hours will be evaluated using first-year admission criteria in addition to transfer considerations.
• Students with 60 or more credits from an accredited institution.

How to Apply as a Transfer Student

Step 1: Submit Your Application
Complete the application for admission at www.doane.edu/apply

Step 2: Submit Official Transcripts
Provide official transcripts from:

• All colleges and universities attended
• High school (may be waived if you have earned an associate degree with 60+ credits)
• All transcripts must be sent directly from the issuing institution to Doane University.

Step 3: Application Review
Once all materials are received, your application will be reviewed. Admission decisions are communicated after a complete review of your academic history.

Step 4: Transfer Credit Evaluation
The Office of the Registrar will evaluate your coursework and determine how your credits apply toward your selected program. This evaluation provides a clear outline of your remaining degree requirements.

Admission Criteria

Transfer admission decisions are based on a holistic review of academic performance and readiness for success at Doane University.

• A cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher from institutions attended within the past three years is preferred
• Applicants with prior academic or disciplinary concerns are reviewed on a case-by-case basis
• If you have prior academic concerns, it is suggested you include a personal statement focusing on: 

1. Why does my academic journey show challenges?
2. What have you done to make yourself successful?
3. What will you do to continue that success at Doane University?

Additional information you are comfortable sharing that may provide background information as it relates to academic challenges. 

Doane University considers all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, or marital status.

Understanding Your Transfer Credits

Doane University is committed to helping you make the most of your previous coursework.

• Transfer credit is evaluated by the Office of the Registrar.
• Credits are applied toward your chosen degree program based on course equivalency and program requirements.
• Students are encouraged to submit transcripts early to allow for timely evaluation and advising.
• Final transfer credit determination is completed after all official transcripts are received and processed. Credit posting timelines may vary by campus and program.

Financial Aid and Enrollment Considerations

To ensure timely processing of financial aid:

• All official transcripts must be received by the second week of classes.
• Delays in transcript submission may impact financial aid eligibility or disbursement timelines.
• Students are encouraged to work closely with their admission representative and financial aid counselor to ensure all requirements are met prior to the start of the term.

Enrollment Fees (Lincoln and Online Transfer Students)

• $20 enrollment fee
• $65 program development fee (for degree-seeking students)

Community College Transfer Discount

If you have your associates degree and graduated from a community college that falls under our articulation agreement (graduation date must be in the last five (5) years), you will qualify for one of the following:

• Transferring to Lincoln campus - because you graduated with your associates degree from one of our articulated colleges a 15% discount will be taken off your tuition. This discount will continue for the duration of your time in a degree seeking program and if you maintain your graduation path from the start of program. 
• Transferring to Crete campus - because you graduated with your associates degree from one of our articulated colleges a $20,000 discount will be taken off your tuition. This discount will continue for the duration of your time in a degree seeking program and if you maintain your graduation path from the start of program. 
  *Please note: Crete may have additional scholarships available to you. If you qualify, scholarships are stackable. Please work with your Recruitment Specialist to find out your options. 

Articulated Colleges are:

Application Deadlines

Crete Campus:
Fall start date: Any time prior to July 1
Spring start date: Any time prior to November 15

Lincoln Campus:
Autumn Term: Any time prior to August 1
Winter 1 Term: Any time prior to September 15
Winter 2 Term: Any time prior to December 15
Spring Term: Any time prior to February 15
Summer Term: Any time prior to May 1

Notification of Admission

• Applicants will receive official notification of their admission decision once all required materials have been submitted and reviewed.
• Submission of application materials does not guarantee admission. Incomplete or inaccurate information may result in denial of admission or dismissal from the university.

Crete Campus Spring Term Applicants

First-year and transfer students applying for admission to Doane University’s Spring term must meet the applicable admission standards outlined in the First-Year and Transfer Student sections of this catalog.
Spring entry offers students the opportunity to begin or continue their academic journey without waiting for the next academic year. Doane University is committed to supporting Spring applicants with clear guidance, timely credit evaluation, and personalized advising to ensure a smooth transition into the university.

Application and Review Process

Upon receiving all required application materials, a Recruitment Specialist will review the application file. Applicants will receive an admission decision within two to three weeks following completion of their file. *See Admission Criteria under Transfer Students for full explanation of GPA and additional requirements. 

Enrollment Confirmation

Students who are admitted for the Spring term must submit a $200 enrollment deposit to confirm their place in the incoming class. This deposit is due by December 22. 

Transfer Credit and Advising

Transfer students enrolling for the Spring term are encouraged to submit all official transcripts as early as possible to allow for timely evaluation of transfer credits and degree planning.
Doane’s advising and enrollment teams will work closely with Spring admits to:

• Evaluate previously earned credits
• Develop a clear academic plan
• Support a successful mid-year transition

Important Considerations for Spring Entry

Students entering in the Spring term should be aware of the accelerated timeline for onboarding and course registration. Early completion of application and transcript submission is strongly encouraged to ensure access to:

• Financial aid processing
• Course availability
• Academic advising and registration support

Application Deadline

Due to the quick turnaround and holiday break, we ask applicants to be as prompt as possible with their application and supporting documentation. It is suggested to have your application completed by December 15. Work with your Recruitment Specialist to assure you meet timelines.

International Students (F-1 Visa Holders)

Doane University is authorized under federal law to enroll non-immigrant students. We are committed to supporting international students through every step of the admission and enrollment process-from application through arrival on campus.

Application Requirements

In addition to standard admission materials, international applicants must submit:
Proof of English Language Proficiency*

• DuoLingo (Doane’s Preferred Test) Minimum score of 105
• TOEFL: Minimum score of 4
• IELTS: Minimum score of 6

* English proficiency requirements may be waived for students who have completed qualifying coursework at a U.S. institution or come from an exempt country. Work with your Recruitment Specialist to find out your options. 

Official Documents Needed

Transcripts must be evaluated and translated through a NACES-approved agency. At this time Doane University requires all foreign transcripts be evaluated through InCred:
All High School Transcripts are to be evaluated under the High School basic option in InCred
All College Transcripts are to be evaluated under the course-by-course option in InCred 

• Transfer Documents:  A Transfer Clearance Form is required from your previous U.S. institution. 
• Proof of Financial Support: Documentation demonstrating the ability to cover educational and living expenses this includes but not limited to:
  • Recent Bank Statements
  • Sponsorship Letters
  • Scholarship Letters
• Copy of Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the intended period of stay.  

International Admission Process Overview

Doane’s admissions and international student support teams will guide applicants through each step of this process.
Step 1: Application Submission and Review
Complete the application for admission at www.doane.edu/apply.

Step 2: Submit Official Transcripts
Provide official transcripts from:

• All colleges and universities attended
• High school (may be waived if you have earned an associate degree with 60+ credits)

All transcripts must be sent directly from the issuing institution to Doane University.

Step 3: Application Review
Once all materials are received, your application will be reviewed. Admission decisions are communicated after a complete review of your academic history

Admission Criteria
Transfer admission decisions are based on a holistic review of academic performance and readiness for success at Doane University.

• A cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher from institutions attended within the past three years is preferred
• Applicants with prior academic or disciplinary concerns are reviewed on a case-by-case basis
• If you have prior academic concerns, it is suggested you include a personal statement focusing on: 
  •  Why does my academic journey show challenges?
  •  What have you done to make yourself successful?
  • What will you do to continue that success at Doane University?
  • Additional information you are comfortable sharing that may provide background information as it relates to academic challenges. 

Doane University considers all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, or marital status

Step 4: Admission Decision Sent

                Be on the lookout for your admission letter to come to your email.  

Step 5: Start Sending Financial Verification Documents

Step 6: Enrollment Deposit of $200 due

Step 7: I-20 Issuance - you will work with your Recruitment Specialist through this process. Financial documentation and other documents will be required here. 

Financial Verification and I-20 Issuance

Students must complete a financial verification process to confirm their ability to fund their education.
Once financial documentation is approved:

• Doane University will issue the Form I-20
• Students may then apply for an F-1 student visa

Timely submission of financial documents is critical to avoid delays in the visa process.

Support for International Students

Doane University provides dedicated support throughout the admissions and transition process, including:

• Guidance through financial verification and visa preparation
• Pre-arrival communication and onboarding resources
• Ongoing support from admissions and international student services

Four-Year Guarantee

Doane University was one of the first institutions in the nation to initiate a four-year graduation guarantee. The guarantee is available to all first-time students who enter the Crete Campus in the fall semester. 

Doane agrees to offer all required courses necessary to complete one major, the Doane Core Connections, and the University’s graduation requirements within four years.  We will provide a qualified academic advisor to assist students in scheduling classes. Doane will provide academic support services to assist students in successfully completing their degree.

The student will enroll in eight consecutive semesters as a full-time student earning an average of 15 credits per term and will need to maintain a cumulative GPA to remain in good academic standing. The student will declare their major before their fourth semester. In addition, the student has to meet at least once per semester with their assigned academic advisor.

If the student is unable to complete their chosen major in four years and all the requirements have been met, Doane University will assume tuition costs for up to 18 credits per semester during the next two consecutive semesters of the courses needed to complete an undergraduate degree.

Readmit Process

A readmitted student is a student who previously enrolled at Doane University but did not attend consecutive terms and is seeking to re-enroll. This also includes students who have graduated from Doane and wish to pursue additional undergraduate classes. Returning to college is a big step-and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Doane’s admission, advising, and student support teams are here to help you transition back, build a plan, and stay on track to achieve your goals.

Crete Campus Readmission Process

Step 1: Complete the Returning Student Application at web.doane.edu/returning-students

Step 2: Eligibility Review - Once your application is submitted, Doane University will review your student record to ensure you are eligible to return. This includes reviewing academic standing and any outstanding university obligations.

Step 3: Next Steps and Enrollment Planning
After your review is complete, you will receive guidance on:

• Course registration
• Financial aid and billing
• Academic advising
• Housing and campus involvement (if applicable)

Step 4: Readmission Decision - Once a decision is made be on the lookout for a letter to come to your email. If you have questions throughout the process contact the Registrar’s Office at registraroffice@doane.edu

Lincoln and Online Students Returning

Students enrolled in Lincoln or Online programs are considered inactive after five (5) consecutive terms of non-enrollment. To return, complete the online Returning Student Application at web.doane.edu/returning-students. This process reactivates your student record and connects you with the appropriate team to continue your program.

HELPS Program

Higher Education Life Planning Systems (HELPS) is a program designed for graduates of Doane’s Crete campus who wish to return to the Crete campus to seek further education that prepares them for better career opportunities. Candidates must demonstrate that by returning for a specific progression of courses, career advancement is possible.

HELPS participants must be full-time students. They can earn tuition-free undergraduate credit during two academic terms (summer excluded) not to exceed 36 credits. If their program exceeds two academic terms, they must pay for the additional credit hours required. Graduates must have completed their Doane degree at least two years prior to eligibility. A maximum of six to eight hours of pre-approved credit can be transferred to count toward a major pursued in the HELPS program. This transfer may be accomplished with approval of the Vice President for Academic Affairs prior to beginning the program at Doane, or subsequent to the completion of work on campus. Credits from the Lincoln, Omaha or Online programs, when applicable, are accepted, as well as those from other institutions. An application for admission and detailed guidelines are available from the Admission Office.

Dual-Credit

Dual-credit courses are taught to high school students to earn both high school and college credit. Dual-credit courses may be delivered on a high school campus in partnership with the university, on a Doane University campus, or through online or hybrid formats. Dual-credit courses, regardless of location or modality (on-ground, hybrid, online) maintain the same rigor and learning objectives of Doane University’s academic offerings. 

Eligibility
High school students who meet the following criteria may be eligible to enroll in dual-credit courses:

• Maintain sophomore, junior or senior status
• A resident of Nebraska
• Meet academic readiness standards as determined by Doane University and/or the partnering high school

Enrollment is subject to course availability and program approval. Special permission to enroll in a dual credit course may be granted by the Executive Director of Extended Learning.

Academic Expectations
Dual-credit students are considered Doane University students and are subject to the same academic policies and procedures of a Doane University student. Grades earned in dual-credit courses become part of the student’s permanent academic record.

Transfer of Credit
Dual-credit courses completed with a satisfactory grade may be applied toward a bachelor’s degree at Doane University. Dual-credit courses may be transferred to other higher education institutions, but it is the student’s responsibility to determine how that credit will be accepted. 

Financial Aid and Tuition
Dual-credit students are classified as non-degree seeking and are not eligible for federal financial aid.

Access College Early Scholarship Program
Doane University is a participant in the Access College Early (ACE) Scholarship Program.
The Access College Early (ACE) Scholarship Program pays tuition and mandatory fees for qualified, low-income high school students to enroll in college courses from Nebraska colleges or universities, either through dual-enrollment or early enrollment agreements with these institutions. High school students may apply for funding under this program by completing the ACE Student Application, which is reviewed by the Coordinating Commission for award consideration.

To qualify for the scholarship the student must be enrolled in an eligible course being taken for a grade (courses taken as audit or as CR/NC are not eligible), and the student or student’s family must be approved to participate in one of the federal need-based government programs listed below, have experienced an extreme hardship that affects family income, or be participating in a designated Career Education program as established by the Nebraska Department of Education.

For more information about the ACE Scholarship Program visit: ccpe.nebraska.gov/access-college-early-ace-scholarship-program

Enrollment and Registration
High School students must complete a Doane University dual credit application and register prior to Census of the respective term.

Additional Information
For program details and course offerings visit: www.doane.edu/dual-credit

Open Learning Academy

Doane University’s Open Learning Academy (OLA) offers flexible, online courses designed for students seeking to advance their education without enrolling in a full degree program.
OLA is ideal for:

• Students completing prerequisite coursework for undergraduate, graduate, or professional programs
• Individuals pursuing health science prerequisites for pre-health pathways
• Individuals exploring academic interests
• Professionals seeking to build new skills or credentials
• Students preparing to transition into a degree program

The Open Learning Academy is commonly used by students to complete health science prerequisite coursework in preparation for undergraduate degree progression or application to professional programs. All OLA courses are credit-bearing and delivered in a fully online format. Many students enroll in OLA courses as part of a pre-health pathway, including preparation for:

• Medicine (MD/DO)
• Dentistry
• Physician Assistant (PA) programs
• Nursing programs
• Other health-related professional schools

OLA coursework allows students to strengthen their academic background, complete required science courses, and demonstrate readiness for rigorous academic programs.

Program Format

• Courses are offered in 5-week, 8-week and 16-week online courses
• Coursework is delivered fully online and asynchronously, allowing students to complete assignments on their own schedule within weekly deadlines
• Students should expect consistent weekly engagement, including assignments, discussions, and assessments
• Institutionally Accredited University by the Higher Learning Commission
• 100% Online Courses + Hands-On & Virtual Labs
• Transferable Credits
• No Textbook Fees
• 24/7 Tutoring Services

Admission and Enrollment
Students may enroll in OLA courses by registering online. If help is needed through the registration process, please reach out to Enrollment. 
Once enrolled, students will receive instructions for:

• Course access
• Login credentials
• Start dates and expectations

Students are encouraged to work with Enrollment or the OLA Teams to ensure selected courses align with their academic or pre-health program goals.

Important Considerations

Non-Degree Seeking Status
Students enrolled in the Open Learning Academy are classified as non-degree seeking.

• Enrollment in OLA does not guarantee admission to a degree program
• Students interested in pursuing a degree at Doane must complete a separate application for admission

Financial Aid
Students enrolled in OLA courses are not eligible for federal financial aid, as they are not enrolled in a degree-seeking program.
Students are responsible for understanding tuition costs and payment expectations prior to enrollment.
Private loans are available through Sallie Mae and College Ave. More information for these loans is found here on our website. Many students will use these lenders as a payment plan.  

Transfer of Credit
Courses completed through the Open Learning Academy are accredited and transcripted through Doane University.
However:

• Acceptance of transfer credit is determined by the receiving institution
• Doane University does not guarantee transfer of OLA coursework to other institutions
• Students pursuing health profession pathways are encouraged to confirm prerequisite requirements with their intended program

Academic Expectations
Students are expected to:

• Actively participate in coursework
• Meet assignment deadlines
• Successfully complete rigorous coursework, particularly in science-based classes aligned with pre-health pathways
• Uphold Doane University’s academic integrity standards

Technology Requirements
Students must have:

• Reliable internet access
• A computer capable of accessing course materials
• Basic proficiency with online learning platforms
• English proficiency is required and translators are not allowed in class
• Payment at time of registration  

Enrollment & Academic Advising

From your first conversation through graduation, you’ll be supported by a team dedicated to your success.

Your Enrollment Journey
Doane provides a structured, student-centered process to guide you from inquiry to enrollment and beyond:
1. Connect with a Recruitment Specialist
2. Apply and Receive an Admission Decision
3. Confirm Enrollment and Complete Next Steps
4. Meet with an Academic Advisor
5. Register for Courses and Begin Your Program
Each step is designed to ensure you have the information and support needed to move forward with confidence.

Recruitment Specialist
Your Recruitment Specialist is your primary point of contact during the admission and enrollment process.
They will:

• Review transfer credit and prior coursework
• Provide insight into programs and degree options
• Guide you through application and enrollment steps
• Help you understand timelines, costs, and next steps

Academic Advisor
Once enrolled, you will be paired with an Academic Advisor who will support your academic planning and progress.
Your advisor will:

• Help you create a personalized degree plan
• Assist with course registration each term
• Monitor your progress toward graduation
• Connect you with campus resources and support services

Advisors are accessible, responsive, and committed to helping you stay on track.

Student Responsibility
Student success is a shared responsibility. Students are expected to:

• Stay engaged in communication with their Recruitment Specialist and Advisor
• Register for courses within established timelines
• Review degree requirements and progress regularly
• Seek support when questions or challenges arise

Ongoing Support
Advising at Doane is continuous. Students are encouraged to connect with their advisor regularly to:

• Adjust academic plans
• Explore career and program options
• Stay aligned with graduation goals

Contact the Enrollment Team

enrollment@doane.edu
(402) 467-9000