Applicants must submit an official transcript of secondary school work showing courses and marks earned from ninth grade on. Susquehanna prefers to see college/university preparatory courses including at least four years of English, four of mathematics, three or four of social sciences, three or four of sciences, and at least two years of one foreign language, in addition to elective classes. Standardised test score reports (ACT or SAT) and letters of recommendation are also required, but may be waived in lieu of two graded academic writing samples under the "Write Option" program.

Canadians follow the same procedures and timeline as US citizens when applying for admission. The application forms and supportive material must be received by March 1 for admission in the following fall, with December 1 the preferred deadline for full scholarship consideration. While Canadian nationals are eligible for merit-based scholarships, they may not try for US financial aid and will have to submit certification of resources in order to qualify for student visas.