Arcadia University's SAT requirements are the first step towards securing a successful admission to this prestigious university. With an acceptance rate of approximately 79%, Arcadia University evaluates applicants holistically, considering not just SAT or ACT scores but also GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendation letters. The average SAT score for Arcadia University typically falls between 1070 and 1265, while the average ACT score ranges between 26 and 30. A 3.3 or higher GPA is expected from students, implying a steady academic performance. Such knowledge of these key indicators is important for a good application at Arcadia University.
Arcadia University places importance on SAT and ACT scores, GPA, and other factors like essays and extracurricular activities. Here's a summary of Arcadia University admissions requirements:
Requirements |
Details |
Application Platform |
Common App or University Application |
SAT Scores |
1070 and 1265 |
ACT Scores |
26–30 |
GPA |
Typically around 3.3 or higher |
Application Requirements |
1 recommendation letter |
Personal Essay |
Required |
Extracurricular Activities |
Encouraged |
Application Fee |
$30 (fee waiver available) |
SAT scores are not the only criteria for admission into Arcadia University, although competitive applicants often tend to have scores on the higher end. According to statistics, the middle 50% of admitted students scored between 1100 and 1310 on the SATs taken specifically for Arcadia University; hence while they could improve an application, they are but a piece of a much larger puzzle. Although standardized test scores are included in Arcadia's comprehensive admission process, they are accompanied by an appraisal of high school GPA, extracurricular participation, personal statements, and letters of recommendation for each applicant under consideration.
The average SAT score for Arcadia University is an essential aspect of the admissions process. Students typically score between 1080 and 1260 on the SAT. While a high SAT score can strengthen an application, Arcadia University considers the entire application, including extracurriculars and essays.
Section |
Average |
25th Percentile |
75th Percentile |
Math |
565 |
515 |
615 |
Reading + Writing |
600 |
550 |
650 |
Composite |
1165 |
1070 |
1265 |
Students with Arcadia University SAT scores below the 25th percentile (1070) may face increased competition, and it's recommended that they emphasize other strengths. Students scoring above the 75th percentile (1265) generally have a higher chance of acceptance.
SAT Range |
Details |
Middle 50% Range |
Scores typically between 1070 and 1265 |
Below 25th Percentile |
Focus on other strengths |
Above 75th Percentile |
Stronger chance of acceptance |
Several schools that consider Arcadia University's SAT scores when evaluating applications within the university are as follows:
Arcadia University also accepts ACT scores, with admitted students typically scoring between 26 and 30. Applicants scoring below the 25th percentile (26) should highlight other aspects of their application, while those scoring above the 75th percentile (30) generally have a stronger chance of acceptance.
Score Percentile |
ACT Score |
25th Percentile |
26 |
75th Percentile |
30 |
The ACT score range of Arcadia University's candidates is not less than the academic trustworthiness of competitive applicants. It is a university that practices a balanced approach by weighing test scores against GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal statements. Scoring within or above this range, combined with a strong academic record and community involvement, increases a candidate's admission prospects.
The schools and colleges that accept ACT Scores are mentioned in the table below:
Schools That Accept ACT Scores |
College of Arts and Sciences |
School of Education |
School of Global Business |
A solid GPA is essential for admission to Arcadia University. The average unweighted GPA of admitted students is around 3.3. Applicants with GPAs below this average are encouraged to highlight leadership and community involvement.
Arcadia University's average GPA of accepted students is high relative to most institutions of this rank. In many cases, the average is more than 3.5 on an unweighted scale, which means that most accepted students have demonstrated excellent work over their high school years, and especially in challenging classes.
The middle 50% GPA range for admitted students is between 3.2 and 3.7. Students with such GPAs are usually on par in the admissions process. However, the student's GPA falls below or above this range. In that case, Arcadia University uses a holistic approach to admissions with respect to outstanding extracurricular activities, an effective personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Through such a comprehensive evaluation, students can showcase their other strengths beyond academic metrics.
Arcadia University Average GPA |
GPA Ranges for Admissions |
Average of 3.3 |
Middle 50% range: 3.0 - 3.6 |
With an acceptance rate of approximately 79%, Arcadia University's acceptance rate is moderately selective. The holistic admissions process at Arcadia University values not only academic metrics but also personal statements, recommendation letters, and extracurricular activities.
Admission Statistics |
Details |
Total Applicants |
Approximately 10,163 students annually |
Admitted Students |
Roughly 8,153 students |
Enrolled |
602 |
Holistic Review Approach |
Academics, personal qualities, and extracurricular activities are considered |
Arcadia University offers a comprehensive array of scholarships designed to support both merit-based and need-based students. Approximately 99% of Arcadia students receive some form of financial aid, with the majority benefiting from institutional grants and scholarships.
Arcadia provides several merit-based scholarships to recognize academic excellence and specific talents.
To qualify for need-based aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This process determines eligibility for various federal and state grants, including:
Arcadia University has a well-equipped endowed scholarships program designed to provide for the needs of students in perpetuity. There resulting scholarships come from donations or grants. Notable examples include the Kevin G. Shollenberger '88 Endowed Scholarship and the Mable Kuhn Cornell Endowed Scholarship.
To be considered for scholarships and financial aid at Arcadia University, prospective students should:
The strength of an application is based upon academic persuasion, whereby anything above-average SAT score, relatively impressive GPA, and balanced extracurricular activities would help to produce that. SAT and ACT scores are certainly important, but Arcadia takes a holistic view on admission, considering personal essays, recommendation letters, and accomplishments in equal measure. To improve your chances of acceptance, submit a comprehensive application that highlights both academic and individual strengths.
College Name |
ACT Score |
SAT Score |
17–20* |
860–1053* |
|
15–21* |
Not available* |
|
16–20* |
860–1062* |
|
15–19* |
820–980* |
|
16–21* |
890–1080* |
University |
ACT Score |
SAT Score |
17–24* |
930–1175* |
|
19–25* |
950–1130* |
|
20–27* |
900–1150* |
|
20–26* |
1010–1200* |
|
21–27* |
940–1200* |
|
16–25* |
910–1150* |
|
18–26* |
910–1150* |
|
18–24* |
910–1120* |
|
19–26* |
950–1150* |
|
21–28* |
950–1180* |
|
16–27* |
925–1140* |
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