Grand Canyon University (GCU) offers a great opportunity for students seeking a faith-based education that focuses on both academics and career preparation. With an 83% acceptance rate, GCU welcomes a large number of applicants, but maintaining a strong academic record can improve your chances of admission.
The university follows a holistic admissions process, evaluating SAT Exam and ACT scores, GPA, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and personal achievements. GCU has a test-optional policy, but students who submit SAT scores (920+) or ACT Exam scores (19+) may strengthen their applications. A GPA of 3.0 or higher is recommended for competitive applicants.
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1️⃣ GCU has one of the fastest-growing campuses in the U.S.! 📈 Over the past decade, the university has expanded rapidly, offering state-of-the-art facilities and new academic programs.
2️⃣ It’s a Christian university with a strong commitment to faith and service. ⛪ GCU integrates Christian values into its curriculum and encourages students to participate in community service.
3️⃣ GCU’s esports program is among the best in the nation. 🎮 The university has a cutting-edge esports arena and competitive gaming teams.
4️⃣ The university is known for its strong online programs. 🌍 GCU is a leader in online education, providing flexible learning options for students worldwide.
5️⃣ GCU offers affordable tuition with generous scholarship opportunities. 🎓 Many students receive financial aid, making higher education more accessible.
🚀 Check Admission Requirements of Top US Universities Accepting SAT & ACT!
Element |
Details |
College Name |
Grand Canyon University |
College Location |
Phoenix, Arizona |
University Short Form |
GCU |
Acceptance Rate |
83% |
Early Decision Due |
Rolling Admissions |
Regular Application Due |
August 31 or September 30 |
FAFSA Deadline |
June 30 |
SAT Scores |
920+ |
ACT Scores |
19+ |
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GCU seeks applicants who have excellent academic records, leadership ability, and a love of learning. Submitting SAT or ACT scores is not required, but greater scores can support an application. Students who have a commitment to academics, are active in extracurricular activities, and provide community service are valued by the university.
Requirement |
Details |
Application Platforms |
GCU Application, Common Application |
SAT Score (Recommended) |
920+* |
ACT Score (Recommended) |
19+* |
GPA Requirement |
3.0 or higher |
Application Requirements |
No essay required, but strong academic performance is recommended |
Application Fee |
No application fee |
If you have a strong GPA, solid SAT or ACT scores, and meaningful extracurriculars, you'll have a great shot at getting into Grand Canyon University. But GCU isn't just about numbers—it values students who demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and passion for learning.
Grand Canyon University has a test-optional policy, so you don’t have to submit SAT scores—but it can definitely help! A good SAT score of 920+ can boost your chances. Keep the Grand Canyon University SAT requirements in mind when applying!
When applying to Grand Canyon University, having a solid SAT score can strengthen your application. The Grand Canyon University SAT requirements show that most admitted students score around 980 on average, with a middle 50% range of 920–1040. Check out the breakdown below!
Section |
Average |
25th Percentile |
75th Percentile |
Math |
480 |
450 |
510 |
Reading + Writing |
500 |
470 |
530 |
Composite |
980 |
920 |
1040 |
Students applying to competitive programs such as nursing, business, and STEM fields should aim for higher SAT scores to strengthen their applications.
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Aiming for a good SAT score can help boost your chances at GCU! While Grand Canyon University SAT requirements are test-optional, most admitted students score between 920 and 1040. A higher score can make your application stand out. Check out the score distribution below!
Percentile |
SAT Score |
25th Percentile |
920 |
50th Percentile |
980 |
75th Percentile |
1040 |
📌 Know the SAT Test Dates and Deadlines: Check SAT Exam Calendar!
While Grand Canyon University SAT requirements are flexible due to its test-optional policy, some schools and programs within GCU may still consider SAT scores for admissions, scholarships, or placement purposes. Having a solid SAT score can strengthen your application. Here are some schools within GCU that may consider SAT scores:
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For students looking to boost their application, a solid Grand Canyon University ACT score can make a difference. While GCU is test-optional, submitting a good ACT score of 19 or higher can strengthen your chances, and a score closer to 22+ makes you even more competitive!
While Grand Canyon University ACT scores aren’t required for admission, submitting a competitive score can give your application an edge. Most admitted students score between 19 and 24, with an average ACT score of 21. A score closer to 24+ makes you a stronger candidate!
ACT Percentile |
ACT Score Range |
25th Percentile |
19 |
50th Percentile (Median) |
21 |
75th Percentile |
24 |
GCU superscores the ACT, meaning they consider the highest section scores across multiple test dates. This allows students to showcase their best possible composite score.
🚀Also Find out What are ACT Writing Score Here!
Your GPA plays a crucial role in GCU’s admissions process. Most admitted students have a GPA of 3.0 or above, showing solid academic performance.
When it comes to GPA requirements for Grand Canyon University, the school is moderately competitive. Most admitted students have a GPA between 2.8 and 3.8, with an average GPA of 3.3. A higher GPA, especially 3.5+, can strengthen your application!
GPA Percentile |
GPA Range |
25th Percentile |
2.8 |
50th Percentile (Median) |
3.3 |
75th Percentile |
3.8+ |
While GCU does not have a strict minimum GPA, students with lower GPAs can strengthen their applications with strong test scores and extracurricular achievements.
🚀Find out the Upcoming ACT Test Dates and Deadlines.
With an acceptance rate of 83%, GCU is considered moderately selective. While most applicants are admitted, a strong academic record and extracurricular involvement can improve admission chances.
Acceptance Rate |
Total Applicants |
Admitted |
Enrolled |
83% (Less Selective) |
36,861 |
30,534 |
7,620 |
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GCU offers a variety of scholarships to support students financially. These include merit-based, need-based, and program-specific scholarships.
🚀Get to Know the Recent Changes done in the SAT Exam!
GCU superscores both the SAT and ACT, meaning they consider your highest section scores across multiple test attempts. This allows applicants to submit their strongest possible scores for consideration.
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Grand Canyon University is a great choice for students looking for a faith-based education, strong academic programs, and a supportive campus environment. With an acceptance rate of 83%, GPA of 3.0+, and SAT scores of 920+ or ACT scores of 19+, many students have a solid chance of admission.
A holistic admissions process, generous scholarships, and superscoring make GCU an attractive choice for students looking to further their education. Whether you’re drawn to business, healthcare, STEM, or the arts, GCU provides a welcoming environment to grow academically and personally!
Many prestigious colleges and universities in the U.S. require SAT scores as part of their admissions process. Below is a list of some of the top colleges and universities that use SAT scores for their admissions.
Category |
Colleges/Universities |
Ivy League Schools |
|
Public Research Universities |
University of California System (some campuses) |
National Universities |
|
Liberal Arts Colleges |
|
College Name |
ACT Score |
SAT Score |
15–19* |
820–980* |
|
16–21* |
890–1080* |
|
17–20* |
860–1053* |
|
15–21* |
Not available* |
|
16–20* |
860–1062* |
University |
ACT Score |
SAT Score |
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* |
|
17–24* |
930–1175* |
|
19–25* |
950–1130* |
|
20–27* |
900–1150* |
|
20–26* |
1010–1200* |
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