You can’t apply to college for your student, but you can be a helpful guide along the way. Below, we’ve laid out your steps to helping your student navigate their Biola application process. If you have any questions along the way, your student’s admissions counselor is here to help!
The college application is your student’s story. This is their chance to show off a bit! The application process gives us a chance to learn about your student through their own words. It allows them to paint a picture about who they are, what they hope to achieve, extracurricular activities and service projects they’ve participated in, and their academic history.
Encourage your student to be authentic to who they are in the admissions process. We want to get to know them and understand what they would bring to the Biola community.
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To apply, your student must:
Submit their completed application, including three short response questions (listed below):
1. Describe how and when you made a decision to follow Christ. (300–400 words)
2. Using personal examples, share about your recent spiritual growth. (300–400 words)
3. Why are you interested in attending Biola University? (100-200 words)
We recommend your student writes out a draft of their short response and refines them before submitting them in their application.
- Submit transcripts for each high school attended (and college, if applicable)
An unofficial transcript is acceptable for your student’s application, and can be uploaded as a .jpg, .png or .pdf file. Transcripts can also be emailed to admissions.transcripts@biola.edu.
- Decide whether or not to submit test scores
Biola is a test-optional university. We do not require domestic applicants to submit test scores. If your student has taken these tests, they may submit their scores to strengthen their overall academic qualifications and reduce the need for placement exams later in the enrollment process.
Application Deadlines
Fall 2025 Semester
November 30 - when your student applies by Nov. 30, they become eligible for the Premier Eagle Club, which includes a $500 scholarship
January 15 - Early Action 2
March 1 - Regular
Special Programs
Once your student has submitted their application, make sure they’re aware that the following programs require secondary applications:
How You Can Help
Listen well — ask your student questions about what they want out of college, and listen well to their answers. This will allow you to help them discern best when it comes to making their college decision.
Encouraging them to take initiative — completing tasks for your student doesn’t allow them to grow and take responsibility for their own education. Remind your student when deadlines are approaching and help them take initiative for themselves.
Offer to proofread application essays — if your student is open to it, offer to proofread their essays to help them hone in their voice and fix grammar and spelling.
Schedule college visits — grab a calendar and sit down with your student to figure out when you might fit college visits into their busy school, church, and practice schedule.
Gather financial aid documents — helping your student navigate the financial aid process is a very practical way you can help. Be sure to gather important documents like Social Security cards, tax returns and W-2s in preparation for the FAFSA opening in December.
Connect with Us!
Come for a visit! We recommend Biola Preview Day, or find another visit event or tour option. When your student visits between August 1, 2024 and August 30, 2025, they can earn a $500 scholarship for the 2025–2026 school year.
- When you visit a university, ask good questions!
Does who they say they are match with what I see around me? Does this place feel authentic?
Encourage your student to form a relationship with their admissions counselor! These friendly folks are trained in the entire admissions process, including financial aid.
We’re here to guide you and your student through every step of the admissions process. Connect with your student’s admissions counselor or reach out to us at admissions@biola.edu or 1-800-OK-BIOLA. We look forward to hearing from you and walking alongside you throughout this special time in your student’s journey.