Admission Policies

Admission policies for Southeastern University’s programs are outlined in the below Admission Policy Manual. The policy manual outlines the admission process, application and fees, transcript, test score and documentation requirements for each student population. Unique admission policies for online, regional and extension, and certificate programs are provided.

Mission Statement

Equipping students to discover and develop their divine design to serve Christ and the world through spirit-empowered life, learning and leadership.

Vision statement

Southeastern University is anchored by Spirit-empowered education in a Christ-centered, student-focused learning community. Southeastern’s global impact is marked by a deep commitment to transforming minds and engaging culture through the integration of faith, learning and service. Each student’s divine design is nurtured and unleashed through the investment of faculty and staff, relationships within the community, the rigor of scholarship,diverse learning experiences and the discipline of spiritual formation, which propels students into a lifetime of serving the world in the spirit of Christ.

In addition to our mission and vision statement, we hold fundamental truths about the Christian faith that include the following:

The scriptures are inspired by God and declare his design and plan for mankind.

There is only one true God who is revealed in three persons: father, son and holy spirit (commonly known as the trinity).

Jesus Christ, as God’s son, was both fully human and divine.

We are proud of our affiliation with the assemblies of God and our Pentecostal tradition. We are also proud to be a welcoming community for students from all Christian backgrounds and denominations. Our campus includes many Baptists, Presbyterians, Methodists, etc., as well as nondenominational students. Everyone shares a strong commitment to knowing Christ and making him known, and we celebrate our theological similarities while appreciating our differences.

Statement of Faith

Southeastern University subscribes to the 16 Statements of Fundamental Truths of the Assemblies of God, which are as follows (condensed version):

Life Statement

Southeastern is more than a university; it is a community that transforms students. Joining this Christ-centered community obligates each student to embrace a set of core values centered on scriptural and civilized behavior. The core values of the Southeastern community are: authentic spirituality, a Christ-centered world-view, character development for ethics in life, servant leadership, academic and professional excellence, and cultural sensitivity.

Community Covenant

Since members of this faith-based community have voluntarily chosen to be a participant, all students are obligated to a code of scriptural and community standards and behavior.

As a Christ-follower and member of the community of Southeastern University, I will:

Human Sexuality Statement Biblical Foundations

Our understanding of human sexuality is derived from the following biblical principles:

God created humans as relational beings — the only part of creation that God explicitly designed to have community with Himself (Genesis 1:26). All other forms of community are designed to reflect this relationship between divinity and humanity (Hebrews 10:24–25, 1 Corinthians 12:14, Ephesians 5:25).

As a direct result of sin, the community between divinity and humanity was broken (Genesis 3:23–24). This brokenness has permeated into all other relationships (Genesis 4:15). Human sexuality is not exempt from the marring effects of separation from the Divine (Romans 1:21-23).

God’s intention for human sexuality is to occur between one genetic male and one genetic female within the covenant of marriage (Genesis 2:18, 21–24; Hebrews 13:4).

All forms of sexuality outside of God’s intention are a result of separation from God (1 Corinthians 6:13, 18–20) and are illegitimate moral options for the confessing Christian. In Scripture, several sexual behaviors are expressly forbidden, which include but are not limited to fornication, adultery, incest, unnatural sexual intercourse and homosexual acts (Exodus 20:14; Leviticus 18:7–23, 20:10–21; Matthew 5:27–28; Romans 1:20–27; 1 Corinthians 6:9; Galatians; 5:19; Ephesians 4:17–19; Colossians 3:5)

Into this broken world, God sent himself in the form of His only begotten Son, Jesus the Christ (John 1:1–3, 14). Through His sacrifice, Jesus became the Way to restoration of the Divine/human community (John 3:16). Until one has restored his or her relationship with God through His Son, Jesus, all other relationships — including human sexuality — will remain broken (John 14:6–7).

Southeastern Human Sexuality

At Southeastern University, we affirm human sexuality as a gift from God, designed to serve as a mirror of one’s relationship with God. We believe that God’s intention for human sexuality is between one genetic male and one genetic female within the covenant of marriage (Genesis 2:18, 21–24; Hebrews 13:4).

In addition, Southeastern University supports the dignity of individual persons affirming their biological sex — understanding that any attempts to change one’s God-given sexuality through elective sex-reassignment or transvestite, transgender or nonbinary “genderqueer” acts or conduct is at odds with our biblical standards, denominational affiliation and subsequently our code of conduct.

Our Commitment

Therefore, we as a community commit to the following:

Because of our values surrounding modesty, sexual purity and safety, the university has had a single-sex housing and restroom policy for undergraduates since its inception, and we will continue to maintain this tradition.

In regard to athletics, we will continue to support our biblical understanding of affirming an individual’s biological sex as the basis for athletic competition.

As a university we will conduct our sexuality as a reflection of our relationship with God. Southeastern University pledges to guide the university community toward understanding and embracing its sexuality as a reflection of its relationship with God.

Seeing that sin is a common struggle for all, members of the SEU community are committed to treating one another with respect and Christ-like compassion (Philippians 2:3–5). Insults, slurs and other forms of derogatory speech have no place in a Christian community (James 3:9–12). Any deviation from a biblical standard of sexual behavior is a result of separation from God and therefore is an opportunity for repentance, grace and redemption so that as a community, we might honor one another and glorify God.

Misrepresentation Policy

Southeastern University strives to be an institution of high integrity and is committed to providing the most accurate information through all mediums to anyone associated with the University. Southeastern University will make every effort to not engage in misrepresentation of any form as defined by the U.S. Department Regulatory Citation: 34 CFR § 668.71 (c) which defines misrepresentation as any false, erroneous or misleading statement an eligible institution, one of its representatives, or any ineligible institution, organization, or person with whom the eligible institution has an agreement to provide educational programs, or to provide marketing, advertising, recruiting or admissions services makes directly or indirectly to a student, prospective student or any member of the public, or to an accrediting agency, to a State agency, or to the Secretary. A misleading statement includes any statement that has the likelihood or tendency to deceive. A statement is any communication made in writing, visually, orally, or through other means. Misrepresentation includes the dissemination of a student endorsement or testimonial that a student gives either under duress or because the institution required the student to make such an endorsement or testimonial to participate in a program.

Drug-Free School & Campus Policy

Southeastern University is committed to maintaining a Christ-centered and student-focused learning community that is free from alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs. In accordance with the University’s Community Covenant as well as the Code of Student Conduct and the Employee Handbook, the possession, use, distribution, or manufacture of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, illegal drugs, and other intoxicants by students or employees is prohibited both on and off campus. The University also prohibits abuse, misuse, and distribution of legal prescription medications.

The University’s position on alcohol, tobacco, and drugs is in compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989.

SEU Network Admission Process

Admission Process

Southeastern considers many aspects of a student’s academic and personal background when deciding admission status. Factors include your Christian character, personal recommendations, GPA, and desire and willingness to learn. No applicant will be denied admission to Southeastern University on the basis of race, color, sex, or national or ethnic origin. Southeastern does not discriminate against individuals with physical or mental disabilities who are otherwise eligible for admission to the university.

Once Southeastern has received a prospective student’s completed application file, the assigned Admission Counselor will consider the application for admission.

Partner Site Admission Requirements

Consistent with Southeastern University’s commitment to making education rigorous and accessible, requirements for off-campus students seeking admission are succinct with that of online undergraduate requirements, that is, they must demonstrate academic achievement, aptitude, and Christian character. Additionally, test scores are requested but not required for entrance. In the event graduate degrees are offered then the same standard is held to as that of main campus graduate students.

The necessary requirements to be submitted as part of the application to a Southeastern University Partner Site include:

Initial High School Transcripts

An official transcript, received prior to high school graduation, can be accepted if received directly from the school. If a transcript is sent from the student opened, the transcript will be considered unofficial. Official transcripts will be required for an acceptance decision. Applicants can satisfy this requirement with one of the following documents:

The following is a list of documents accepted for high school transcript:

A high school transcript with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale is required for admission. If the GPA is in a format other than a weighted 4.0 scale, it will be converted into a 4.0 weighted GPA. Southeastern will only consider the GPA received on the transcript at the time of acceptance for scholarship and acceptance purposes.

The General Education Development Certificate (GED) or High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) is accepted in place of a high school transcript if it is complete.

A home school transcript is also accepted. See home school Transcript Requirements for more information.

Final High School Transcript

After the student graduates, the student’s high school must send a complete official sealed final high school transcript which includes grades from the student’s final semester, a final GPA, and a graduation date. Official transcripts sent prior to graduation are considered initial transcript and can be used for the acceptance process. A diploma will not be accepted to meet the transcript requirement for incoming freshman.

Final transcript must be sent in one of the following ways:

The final transcript is due to the Admission Office before classes begin.

Home School Transcript Requirements

Southeastern University prides itself in being an exceptional college choice for homeschooled students, and part of our commitment to serving homeschooling families comes through the admission process. Since many homeschoolers do not study under the umbrella of a local school district or homeschooling agency, Southeastern permits families to create a transcript of the student’s high school coursework. Transcripts should include all courses taken in grades nine through 12, as well as final grades. Although not required, prospective students may also want to submit a portfolio. A portfolio typically includes a brief description of the courses you have completed and sample copies of work, such as a research paper or project, that best reflect the student’s abilities. The academic recommendation should be completed by an individual who has observed the student’s academic and personal progress, such as a tutor, former teacher, or employer. Academic recommendations completed by a relative will not be accepted.

GED (General Educational Development Test).

The GED is accepted in place of a home school transcript. If the student’s current state of residence requires a GED, the home school student must take and submit the GED.

Suspicion of Falsified Transcripts

When a high school transcript is sent to the SEU Admission Office and appears to be falsified, a member of the Admission team will call said school to verify the institution and to verify the validity of the transcript. If the high school cannot verify the information or is unreachable, the state Department of Education will be contacted to verify the information.

Christian Character Reference

Applicants must submit a Christian Character Reference form as part of their application. This assessment should be completed by an individual who knows the prospective student well (six months minimum required) and can provide the Admission Counselor with a candid assessment of the student’s Christian maturity. References completed by a relative will not be accepted.

Southeastern University is not obligated, but may call this individual to obtain more information about the student. Phone contact with the individual may be attempted to follow up concerning academic or behavioral issues disclosed in the application process.

Required Essay

Southeastern University requires prospective students to submit a 1-2 page essay using the following prompt:

“Describe the beginning and present growth of your relationship with God and how you see yourself as a good match for Southeastern’s academic and spiritual environment.”

The Academic Year

Southeastern University operates its traditional campus-based programs on a fall and spring semester system with two summer sessions.

The fall and spring semesters are 16 weeks in length. Class sessions during the regular semesters are scheduled so that they equate to fifteen, 50-minute sessions per credit hour, although they may vary depending on the nature of the instruction and schedule. Hybrid classes, mixing online and individual study with face-to-face sessions, are also held, as well as some online delivery courses, structured for campus-based students. New, incoming students may only enter in the fall or spring semester.

The two summer sessions are intensive one-week and three-week sessions. Course delivery during summer sessions also varies, but they are designed to be comparable to the semester sessions. The academic calendar outlines the main events including the beginning and ending dates of each semester and summer sessions.

Incentive Compensation Prohibition

Southeastern University will not provide any commission, bonus, or other incentive payment based directly or indirectly on success in securing enrollments or financial aid to any individual or entity engaged in recruiting or admission activities or in making decisions about awarding FSA program funds as specified by the Department of Education.

Reviewing Freshmen Applications

The Admission Office will review applications after all required documents are received and have been processed through Admission Data Office. The applicant’s file is prepared and accessible by the designated Admission Counselor, and/or the Director of Admission for review. Some applications are flagged for additional review by the Director of Admission. Once the decision has been made, the student will be notified of the decision in writing within two weeks.

Acceptance Process for Freshmen

The designated Admission Counselor will review prospective student applications following completion. The following is a list of specific information that the Admission Counselor is looking for in the application:

Once a decision has been reached, the Admission Counselor will complete the following steps:

If a student does not meet the requirements for general admission or if there are any other concerns, provisional acceptance may be granted or the file may be sent to the Director of Admission for review.

Provisional Acceptance

Provisional Admission

Provisional admission is available for students who do not meet the Academic Admission standards listed above. If one or more of the requirements have not been met, provisional admission may be granted on a case-by-case basis as determined by the Director of Admission.

Academic or Disciplinary Dismissal, Suspension, Probation, Felony

If a student marks ‘yes’ on their application to having been dismissed, suspended, or placed on probation from college or high school for academic or disciplinary reasons, their Admission Counselor will communicate with the prospective student’s prior school to obtain additional information relevant to their admission file.

If a student marks ‘yes’ on their application to having been convicted of a felony, the prospective student will be required to submit a certified criminal background check in addition to their regular admission documents. Admission Counselor will provide the student with instructions on how to complete the background check. The applicant is responsible for all costs to complete the certified criminal background check. If a prospective student has been convicted in the past, the file will be reviewed by the Director of Admission.

Transfer Students

Definition of A Transfer Student

If a student has earned 12.0 or more college-level credits from another institution after their high school graduation, they are considered a transfer student. This does not include remedial courses. Students who have completed at least one year with an affiliate Master’s Commission, Youth with a Mission (YWAM), or Discipleship Training School (DTS) are not considered transfer students; they are considered freshmen. Though the university awards credit based on advanced standing for their experience, the content is not considered college-level. Students who have taken Post-Secondary Educational Option (PSEO) or other similar credits during high school (i.e. Advanced Placement (AP) exams, or College Level Exam Placement (CLEP) exams) are also considered freshmen.

Application Process

In addition to the freshman application process, transfer students are required to submit additional pieces to be considered for acceptance. Southeastern University reserves the right to deny an applying transfer student for any of the following situations:

College Transcripts

Transfer students are required to submit all college transcript(s) as part of their admission application process before acceptance regardless of whether or not they want to transfer the credits. If the student is currently enrolled in classes, they must submit an unofficial copy of their transcript(s). If their college-level courses are complete, the student must submit an official copy sent from their institution. If the student attended more than one institution, an official transcript must be submitted from all institutions. The official high school transcript or scanned copy of the high school diploma will be required to verify high school completion if the applicant is transferring less than 60 college credit hours. The cumulative college GPA will be used to determine acceptance for transfer students who have earned 12 or more credits; at least a 2.0 GPA is needed to gain acceptance. A GPA of 1.99 or lower will be submitted to the Director of Admission for further review.

Graduation Requirement

In order to graduate from Southeastern University, 25% of the student’s credits must be earned as local, regular credit at SEU. This policy is maintained by the Registrar’s Office.

Transfer Credit Evaluation Process

Students should have their official high school transcript(s) sent to the Southeastern University Admission Office for review. The Admission Office will pass the original copy of the transcript to the Registrar’s Office and retain a copy for the student’s admission file. The Transcript Evaluator located in the Registrar’s Office will evaluate college transcript(s) and communicate the results to the student within 10 business days. Students who have questions regarding the degree audit can contact the Registrar’s Office and ask for the Transcript Evaluator.

Only transcripts sent directly from the originating institution to Southeastern University can be considered official. Initial transcripts may be sent for admission purposes and to receive an initial evaluation of transferable credits.

Course Transfer Guidelines

Policies and procedures for transferring credits are:

CLEP, DANTES, AP, and IB Exams

Southeastern University accepts many CLEP, DANTES, AP, and IB exams for credit. These transcript/score reports must be sent to the Registrar for review. Exam transfer charts and equivalency requirements for general courses can be found in the Southeastern University’s Registrar’s Office. The transfer requirements are subject to change and are maintained by the

Registrar’s Office. Students who only complete CLEP, DANTES, AP, or IB exams are not considered transfer students. Students are only considered as transfer students if they complete 12 or more courses at a college after high school.

International Students

Who Is Considered International?

An international student is one who attends Southeastern on a non-immigrant F-1 visa. Students who have legal permanent residency (“green card”) status through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or who are U.S. citizens by birth but have grown up overseas may be culturally and socially “international,” but for purposes of the application, enrollment and financial aid eligibility, they should follow all procedures for U.S. citizens.

The following information is specific to international students who are not a Permanent Resident or citizen of the United States and are seeking to earn a bachelor’s degree as a traditional, campus-based student at Southeastern. It does not necessarily apply to graduate students or students pursuing an online program from their home countries.

Foreign students currently living in the United States under a legal visa or who have Permanent Resident status are exempt from International Student policies.

If Southeastern University will be providing immigration documentation for a foreign student to take courses in the United States, they will be considered International Students.

*Missionary dependents are exempt from all international student policies, as their citizenship is from the United States.

Sending Mail and Forms

Students will not receive postal mail from Southeastern University until they have been admitted to the university. International students will be encouraged to use the SEU website, or Admission Counselor email to download and submit information and documents until postal mail can be sent.

Permanent Residents

Foreign students who have legal resident status in the United States are not considered International Students. These students are required to meet Southeastern University’s traditional admission standards. These students will not require a student visa, therefore, they are not required to provide verification of funds. They may be eligible for Financial Aid and should contact the Student Financial Services Office to see if they qualify.

If English is not the applicant’s first language, they may be required to submit English Certification (TOEFL) scores. The International Student Coordinator reserves the right to request that the applicant take the TOEFL before an acceptance decision will be made. This information may be used in determining acceptance.

Application Process

Southeastern University welcomes students from other countries who show promise of benefiting from educational opportunities in the United States. International students must complete the same admission process as other freshmen or transfer students. It is suggested that foreign students apply for admission to SEU at least six months before the semester they wish to enroll. International student applications will not be reviewed for acceptance at Southeastern University until all of the following documents are received:

Completion and submission of the following documents are required for admission to SEU:

Exception: If the prospective student is from an English-speaking country, high school or university and has a “C” or higher in their English classes, then they will not be required to submit any of these tests)

Information regarding the TOEFL can be found at the TOEFL website, www.toefl.org. TEST OF ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE Educational Testing Service Princeton, NJ 18540 U.S.A.

Minimum accepted scores for the TOEFL.

The IELTS test as a replacement for the TOEFL. The minimum accepted score is a 6.

If applicable, submit any college/university transcript(s). If any transcript(s) are from a foreign university, a “course-by-course” transcript evaluation as offered by www.jsilny.com, www.wes.org or www.ece.orgwill be required. This evaluation will indicate to Southeastern whether or not any prior college credits can transfer to Southeastern; the evaluation also allows the Admission Office to determine if you qualify for transfer academic scholarships.

Instructions After Acceptance

In addition to the traditional admission standards, Southeastern University requires all international students to deposit or provide documentation showing proof of sufficient funds to cover one semester’s room, board, tuition and fees. International students may have a financial sponsor who will agree to be responsible for all debts acquired by the student while in this country. These requirements must be met before a Certificate of Eligibility for Student Status (Form I-20) is issued by the university. This is the student’s invitation to attend University in the United States.

International students accepted to Southeastern will be eligible to receive an I-20 as an invitation to come to Southeastern University. This is the first step for a student to receive an F-1 student visa. The following steps must be completed prior to an I-20 being sent: