Starting Fall 2025, the School of Dentistry will now mandate 100 hours of non-relative dentist shadowing, an increase from 60 hours, and extend the validity of prerequisite coursework to a full seven years.
Over 5,500 students attend the University of Detroit Mercy annually, with 72% enrolled full-time and more than 20% identifying as minorities. For Winter 2026, undergraduate freshmen can apply under rolling admission until October 1, 2025. Graduate and transfer applicants, however, must submit their materials by September 1, 2025.
Detroit Mercy offers over 100 programs across seven schools. With a 12:1 student-faculty ratio and campuses in four Michigan locations, including ones focused on studying Law and Dentistry, students benefit from close support. Admissions remain flexible year-round, with test-optional undergraduate policies and rolling admissions for the Winter and Summer terms.
Below is a summary of key facts you should know before you plan to study in the USA at the University of Detroit Mercy:
With the university welcoming applicants across multiple entry points each year, understanding when to apply becomes your first step forward.
University of Detroit Mercy Admission Dates
Detroit Mercy accepts applications for three main intakes each year: Summer (May),Fall (September), and Winter (January). Undergraduate deadlines are set for early, priority, or rolling admission plans.
College application due timelines vary by program type, and deadlines are non-negotiable for fixed-path programs, such as Dental or Medical Scribe. Below are the term-wise details, organized by applicant category.
Summer (May)
The summer term sees limited freshman activity but remains an option for transfers and most graduate students. This intake is often used by students seeking an early start or those who have finished prerequisite courses.
Programs admitted in May operate on rolling or final deadlines set in advance. For example, the final date for graduate applications is March 1, 2025 (Closed). Here's how the timeline for Summer 2025 breaks down by applicant type.
Type of Applicants
Criteria
Deadline/Date
Graduate Applicants
Final Application Deadline
March 1, 2025 (Closed)
All Undergraduate Freshmen
Regular/Rolling Admission
April 1, 2025 (Closed)
Undergraduate Transfers
Final Application Deadline
March 1, 2025 (Closed)
While Summer allows for an early start, Fall remains the university’s primary intake. Most undergraduate and graduate programs, including competitive tracks, target this term for their largest cohort.
Fall (September)
Most programs at Detroit Mercy, including the 7-Year Dental and 5-Year Physician Assistant courses, prioritize the Fall term for new enrollment. These tracks close admissions as early as January, well ahead of general application windows.
Freshmen also have the option to apply via Early Action or be considered for merit-based study abroad scholarships if they submit their application by December 1, 2024 (Closed).
The table below details the specific application deadlines for Fall 2025.
Type of Applicants
Criteria
Deadline/Date
7-Year Dental Program
Regular Admission
January 15, 2025 (Closed)
Graduate Applicants
Final Application Deadline
May 1, 2025 (Closed)
5-Year Physician Assistant
Regular Admission
January 15, 2025 (Closed)
All Undergraduate Freshmen
Early Action
November 1, 2024 (Closed)
Scholarship Priority
December 1, 2024 (Closed)
Regular/Rolling Admission
March 1, 2025 (Closed)
Undergraduate Transfers
Final Application Deadline
May 1, 2025 (Closed)
Missed the Fall cycle or planning a mid-year start? The Winter intake offers an alternate entry point, especially for transfers, late applicants, and those who deferred.
Winter (January)
The winter entry serves students who may have deferred from the Fall or are applying after missing earlier deadlines, or even for any reason, their college application got rejected. While undergraduate access is more limited, rolling admission remains open for freshmen until October.
Graduate applicants should finalize submissions by September 1, 2025, as program space may be reduced closer to the deadline.
Below is the list of deadlines for the January 2026 intake.
Type of Applicants
Criteria
Deadline/Date
Graduate Applicants
Final Application Deadline
September 1, 2025
All Undergraduate Freshmen
Regular/Rolling Admission
October 1, 2025
Undergraduate Transfers
Final Application Deadline
September 1, 2025
Once you’ve identified the correct deadline for your course or track, understanding how the actual process works is crucial. From forms to documentation and optional testing, each step has its purpose.
University of Detroit Mercy Admission Process
Detroit Mercy welcomes students across undergraduate, transfer, and graduate levels, each following a streamlined process. Applications are accepted for fall, winter, and summer intakes, with early and rolling options available for undergraduates.
International applicants must also provide financial proof, English proficiency scores (if applicable), and valid ID documents required for study abroad. Professional programs, such as the 5-Year Physician Assistant and 7-Year Dental track, follow separate deadlines and may require additional requirements.
Here is a step-by-step breakdown of the process:
Step 1: Submit the Online Application:
Undergraduate: Apply directly through the University’s application portal.
Graduate: Complete the online graduate application; deadlines vary slightly by term.
Step 2: Upload Required Documents:
Freshman Applicants: High school transcript, a 250-word essay, and a letter of recommendation.
International Students: Passport, bank statement, Statement of Financial Support (if sponsored), and proof of English proficiency, such as the TOEFL iBT, IELTS, or Duolingo.
Transfer & Graduate Students:Credential evaluations from WES, ECE, or SpanTran (unless exempt), resume (for graduate), two recommendation letters.
Step 3: Application Review: Applications are reviewed based on GPA, IELTS essay writing sample quality, and any program-specific requirements. Test scores are optional for most undergraduate programs.
Step 4: Admission & Visa Process: Admitted international students receiveForm I‑20 for F-1 visa applications. A valid passport, SEVIS fee payment, and an embassy appointment are necessary. Current F-1 holders must submit a Certificate of F-1 Status Form to initiate the record transfer process.
Need help figuring out your eligibility or the best-fit course at the University of Detroit Mercy? Book a free one-on-one session with upGrad experts for customized application support.
Among Detroit Mercy’s most popular graduate programs, the MBA program attracts both early-career professionals and working students. If business leadership is your goal, this is a good place to begin.
University of Detroit Mercy MBA Admissions
Admission to the MBA program at Detroit Mercy is based on a holistic review of academic background, experience, and professional readiness. While a business-related degree isn't mandatory, applicants must show potential through past achievements or graduate aptitude tests.
Foundation courses may apply depending on prior coursework. Let’s walk through what qualifies an applicant for mastering MBA admission entry.
MBA Admission Requirement
The MBA program does not rely solely on test scores; applicants with solid GPAs and significant work experience may be exempt from the GMAT/ GRE requirement. Each candidate’s academic and professional history is reviewed to determine eligibility, course waivers, and any foundation prerequisites. The table below outlines the core requirements:
Requirement
Criteria
Academic Requirements
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university; minimum 3.0 GPA preferred
Work Experience
7+ years of professional experience help qualify for the test waiver
Test Scores
GMAT/GRE required unless applicant meets at least two of: 3.0+ GPA, 7+ years’ experience, or an existing graduate/professional degree
Resume
Professional summary including academic background, work experience, and relevant accomplishments
Recommendation Letter
Should come from a supervisor, professor, or employer familiar with the applicant's skills and potential
Optional Materials
Candidates may upload additional documents they believe support their application
Application Form
Detroit Mercy Graduate Online Application; no application fee required
Cost is a key factor for many MBA applicants, especially when balancing study with work. Detroit Mercy offers targeted financial aid to help offset tuition costs. Here's what funding options exist and who’s eligible to apply.
MBA Scholarships
Detroit Mercy’s MBA program offers two main merit-based awards for high-performing applicants. Last year, international students scoring 600or higher on the GMAT automatically secured the half-tuition scholarship. These scholarships don’t stack with other institutional funding.
Here are the eligibility details that can help you secure a scholarship to study abroad for the University of Detroit Mercy’s MBA program:
Scholarship
Details
The Half-tuition Scholarship
Eligibility: High academic standing with demonstrated leadership skills
Benefits: 50% of the tuition fees
Commerce Academic Scholarship
Eligibility: MBA applicants with a strong academic record
Benefits: Up to $16,000 (INR 13.7L)
If your focus is more aligned with research, science, or technical advancement, the university’s MS programs may be a better fit.
University of Detroit Mercy MS Admissions
Detroit Mercy’s MS programs admit students across three intake terms, Fall, Winter, and Summer, with most applicants starting in Fall or Winter. Programs are open to both domestic and international students, each required to meet specific academic and language criteria.
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is the baseline for eligibility. For those admitted full-time into business, science, or engineering tracks, graduate assistantships worth up to $35,000 (INR 30L) may be available. Admission criteria and scholarship options are outlined below.
MS Admission Requirement
Admission to Detroit Mercy’s MS programs requires a mix of academic background, personal intent, and formal documentation. All applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
For international applicants, proof of English language skills is essential, with TOEFL, IELTS, and Cambridge scores accepted. Supporting documents like a resume and statement of purpose help evaluate career fit. Here’s the complete list of requirements:
Requirement Criteria
Details
Resume
Required. Should detail academic background, relevant skills, and work experience
English Language Proficiency
TOEFL iBT: 79
IELTS Academic: 6.0
PTE Academic: 53
Cambridge English: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with a minimum score of 185
Should be from academic or professional references familiar with the applicant's qualifications
Academic Requirement
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
Additional Documents
Bank statement, Official Transcripts, Valid government-issued passport
Funding MS education can be just as demanding as applying to it, but it doesn’t have to be. Detroit Mercy offers a range of grants, assistantships, and scholarships across various departments.
MS Scholarships
Graduate scholarships are limited but competitive. Full-time MS students in engineering, science, or business may qualify for a Graduate Assistantship, which can offer up to$35,000 (INR 30L) in funding. Those who’ve studied previously in the U.S. or Canada may apply for a separate grant.
Eligibility: Full-time MS in business, engineering, or sciences
Benefits: Up to $35,000 (INR 30L)
Detroit Mercy Grant
Eligibility: Students transferring from an accredited college or university in the U.S. or Canada.
Benefits: Up to $10,000 (INR 8.5L)
One of Detroit Mercy’s most sought-after professional degrees is the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS). Entry is competitive and tightly scheduled. If you’re considering a career in dentistry, it’s essential to understand the program structure, requirements, and deadlines early on.
University of Detroit Mercy Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) Admissions
Admission to the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program at the University of Detroit Mercy is open for the fall intake (January 15, 2025, now closed). Each year, over 2,000 applications are received for approximately 144 seats, making it one of the university’s most selective programs in the medical sciences.
Recent changes in prerequisites and testing policies reflect evolving standards in dental education. For the 2025–2026 cycle, the program has introduced new shadowing requirements and removed the Casper test. Let’s explore key eligibility and academic benchmarks for applicants.
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) Admission Requirement
Admission to the DDS program at Detroit Mercy requires strong academic performance, relevant clinical exposure, and recent standardized test scores. The application includes both centralized and university-specific components.
The program gives preference to candidates with senior-level science coursework and a track record of full-time study. Below are the updated requirements:
Requirement Criteria
Details
Academic Requirements
Minimum 60 credit hours; prerequisites must be completed within 7 years of application
Prerequisite Courses
Biology, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physics, English, Biochemistry, and Microbiology
Minimum GPA
3.0 (science and overall); 3.5+ is considered competitive
Shadowing Requirement
100 hours with a U.S./Canada-licensed non-relative general dentist or equivalent assisting hours
Test Scores
DAT required (scores must be under 2 years old); CDAT accepted for Canadian applicants
Application Platform
AADSAS + Detroit Mercy supplemental fee + photo
Letters of Recommendation
2 from the science faculty (or committee letter); 1 from a general dentist (non-relative)
Interview
By invitation only; includes mandatory Kira online assessment upon selection
Additional Notes
Casper is no longer required; candidates are encouraged to take upper-division science courses.
A Master's in Dentistry is an investment, but financial aid can ease the load. This section outlines scholarships and grants available specifically to DDS students.
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) Scholarships
Funding dental education can be demanding, but Detroit Mercy offers targeted support for qualified DDS students. One of its notable options, the Dental Merit Grant, can provide up to $10,000 (INR 8.5L) annually, rewarding academic consistency.
Those with a long-standing Catholic school background may also be eligible for additional aid. Here are the available scholarships for DDS candidates:
Scholarship
Details
Catholic Education University Grant
Eligibility: Students who attended a Catholic school from grades 1-12
Benefits: Up to $2,000 (INR 1.7L)
Dental Merit Grant (DMG)
Eligibility: Satisfactory academic progress with a good cumulative undergraduate G.P.A.
Benefits: Up to $10,000 (INR 8.5L) per year
Not every student fits into an MBA, MS, or DDS category, and the University of Detroit Mercy understands that. The university offers a wide range of postgraduate degrees in education, architecture, engineering, and other fields.
University of Detroit Mercy: Other PG Courses Admission
Beyond its MBA and MS programs, Detroit Mercy offers a range of professional and graduate-level courses in various fields, including health, engineering, education, and architecture. While the structure and format vary by program, most require a clear academic record and a well-defined personal intent.
Some courses, particularly in Nursing skills and Engineering, have slightly higher English language benchmarks. Here are the admission requirements:
Other PG Course Admission Requirements
Admission to these postgraduate degrees is based on several essential components, most notably, a completed bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Applicants are also expected to provide supporting documents such as a resume, a letter of motivation, and a valid ID.
A professional resume outlining academic background, skills, and relevant experience
English Language Proficiency
IELTS: 6.5+
TOEFL iBT: 80+ (81 for Engineering & Science, 83 for Nursing)
Academic Requirement
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of approximately 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
Letter of motivation
1-3 pages explaining academic and career goals, interests, and fit for the program
Identification Document
Valid government-issued ID
Application Form & Fee
The application fee is typically waived (free application)
Not every journey starts with a graduate degree. For many, Detroit Mercy becomes their first home away from college. The undergraduate application process brings its own set of benefits and flexibility.
University of Detroit Mercy Bachelor's Admission
Undergraduate admissions at Detroit Mercy are designed to be accessible and student-focused. The university offers multiple start terms and supports both domestic and international applicants.
With over 100 academic programs and a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, students benefit from close mentorship throughout their coursework. Here's what to know before applying for a bachelor’s degree.
Advantages of getting into the University of Detroit Mercy for a Bachelor's
The University of Detroit Mercy enrolls approximately 5,500 students across its undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The university ensures an education grounded in individual attention.
Founded through the merger of two Catholic institutions in 1990, it remains Michigan’s most prominent Catholic university.
The school also has a 95% student success rate, encompassing both employment and graduate school placements. Here are some key advantages of getting a bachelor's degree at the University of Detroit Mercy:
Student-Faculty Engagement: With 93% of faculty holding terminal degrees and an average class size that supports one-on-one interaction, students benefit from high academic mentorship.
Career Development Programs: Detroit Mercy runs the third-oldest co-op program in the U.S., which is required in disciplines like Engineering, Architecture, and 5-year BSBA/MBA programs.
Placement Outcomes: 95% of students from the most recent graduating class secured employment or entered graduate programs shortly after completing their degrees.
Campus and Location: Students have access to four campus locations across Detroit, including downtown law and dentistry schools. Approximately 800 students reside in on-campus housing.
Academic Breadth: From liberal arts and business to nursing and engineering, Detroit Mercy offers more than 100 academic programs supported by seven schools and colleges.
Faith- and Mission-Driven Education: Sponsored by the Jesuits and the Sisters of Mercy, the university combines academic training with outcome-based learning, focusing on justice, leadership, and service.
Of course, to get in, you need to meet specific basic criteria, ranging from transcripts to optional test scores. Let’s walk through what first-year and transfer applicants should prepare before submitting.
Bachelor's Admission Requirements at the University of Detroit Mercy
Detroit Mercy keeps the process straightforward for students ready to begin their undergraduate journey. With small class sizes and individual support, the university combines academic structure with hands-on learning.
First-year applicants can choose between early action and regular admissions, both of which require a few core documents and a clear academic record.
Here are the typical requirements for admission to a bachelor’s degree program.
Requirement
Criteria
Academic Qualification
High school transcript; strong academic record preferred. Minimum GPA varies by program.
Writing Sample
250+ word essay on a topic of choice
Recommendation Letter
One required; should be from a counselor or teacher familiar with your academic abilities
Standardized Tests
Optional: SAT/ACT scores can be submitted for placement or scholarships
Additional Requirements
Program-specific documents may apply (e.g., portfolios, additional forms)
English Proficiency (Intl.)
TOEFL iBT: 61
IELTS: 6.0+
PTE: 45+
Duolingo: 105
ID Document (Intl.)
Valid passport or government-issued ID
To make your education more affordable, the university offers several scholarships, some of which are automatic, while others require a separate application. Here's how they stack up.
Bachelor's Scholarships at the University of Detroit Mercy
Many undergraduate scholarships at Detroit Mercy are tied to a student’s academic path, major, or progress within a program. For example, the Benson & Edith Ford Fund Scholarship is available from sophomore year onward, making it applicable starting Fall 2025 for those currently completing their first year.
A few awards begin as early as freshman year, depending on the major and performance. Here are two key opportunities for bachelor’s students:
Scholarship
Details
Benson & Edith Ford Fund Scholarship
Eligibility: Sophomore students and/or students who passed ADS 1000
Benefits: Up to $10,000 (INR 8.5L)
Theatre Performance Scholarship
Eligibility: Freshman theatre majors with an audition requirement
Benefits: $1,000 (INR 85K)
Once enrolled, support matters just as much as academics. Whether it’s tutoring, mental health, advising, or career mentoring, the university has resources in place.
University of Detroit Mercy Student Support Services
Detroit Mercy offers a wide range of services through its Student Success Center (SSC), focused on academic readiness, wellness, and inclusive support. It plays a central role in guiding undergraduate and graduate students through university life, particularly those with disabilities or those exploring career options after graduation.
Key student support services include:
Academic Support & Tutoring: The SSC provides tutoring across core subjects, along with placement testing, peer study groups, and developmental coursework through University Academic Services.
College Life Coaching: Students are matched with mentors for weekly academic coaching. Sessions focus on setting career goals, managing workload, and accessing relevant campus resources.
Major & Career Exploration: Through AIME and HEX, students unsure about their academic track receive structured guidance. These programs include career advising, workshops, and peer mentoring.
Counseling Services: Free professional mental health counseling is available to all enrolled students. Services include personal therapy, academic stress management, and support for adjustment.
TRIO Student Support: A federally funded initiative, TRIO assists students from low-income and underrepresented backgrounds with academic or career planning, scholarship guidance, and mentoring.
Testing Services: A formal testing center located in the SSC offers services such as accommodated exams, placement tests, and exam proctoring for external certifications.
Early Alert System (Beacon): Faculty and staff utilize Beacon to identify students who may require timely academic or personal support, enabling early and proactive interventions.
Through these programs, Detroit Mercy maintains a strong commitment to holistic student development, supporting not just academic success but also overall well-being.
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