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Arcadia University SAT, ACT, Acceptance Rate & GPA Requirements
IMPORTANT LINKS
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 Admission Requirements
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) |
Arcadia University SAT Score Requirements
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.
Arcadia University SAT Requirements
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 |
Arcadia University SAT Score Distribution
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 |
Arcadia University SAT Requirements for Schools
Several schools that consider Arcadia University's SAT scores when evaluating applications within the university are as follows:
- College of Arts and Sciences
- School of Education
- School of Global Business
Arcadia University ACT Score Requirements
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 |
Arcadia University ACT Score Distribution
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.
Arcadia University Schools That Accept ACT Scores
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 |
- 11 Full Test
- 14 Sectional Test
- 31 Topic Test
Arcadia University GPA Requirements
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 Average GPA Students Who Are Admitted to This University
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.
GPA Ranges for Admission
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 |
Arcadia University Acceptance Rate
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 Scholarships
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.
Merit-Based Scholarships
Arcadia provides several merit-based scholarships to recognize academic excellence and specific talents.
- Presidential Scholarship: A prestigious award for students demonstrating exceptional academic achievement.
- Creator Award: Available to select full-time undergraduate students studying majors in specific creative fields, enrolling at Arcadia as new students in fall 2025 or later.
- Innovation Award: Offered to select full-time undergraduate students studying majors in STEM fields, enrolling at Arcadia as new students in fall 2024 or later.
- Impact Award: Targeted at first-generation college students enrolling at Arcadia as new students in fall 2024 or later.
- Venture Beyond Award: Available to select full-time undergraduate students who live in states bordering Pennsylvania at the time of admission, enrolling at Arcadia as new students in fall 2024 or later.
Need-Based Aid
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:
- Federal Pell Grant: A need-based grant for low-income students.
- Federal Work-Study: Provides part-time employment opportunities to help students earn money to pay for educational expenses.
- Federal Direct Loans: Low-interest loans available to students and parents to help cover educational costs.
Endowed Scholarships
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.
Application Process
To be considered for scholarships and financial aid at Arcadia University, prospective students should:
- Complete the FAFSA: Ensure that Arcadia University (School Code 003235) receives your FAFSA form.
- Apply for Admission: Submit your undergraduate application through the Common Application or the University Application.
- Review Financial Aid Offers: Upon acceptance, you will receive a financial aid offer detailing the scholarships and aid for which you qualify.
Conclusion
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.
Check Colleges Accepting Low ACT Scores
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*
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* |
Colleges That Accept a 1200 Score on the SAT
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*
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* |
Arcadia University SAT Requirements FAQs
What scholarships are available at Arcadia University?
Arcadia University offers merit-based scholarships like the Presidential, Innovation, and Venture Beyond awards, as well as need-based aid like Pell Grants and Federal Work-Study.
How do I apply for scholarships at Arcadia University?
To apply for scholarships, complete the FAFSA and submit your application for admission to Arcadia University through the Common Application.
What is the acceptance rate for Arcadia University?
Arcadia University has an acceptance rate of approximately 64%, making it moderately selective.
Can I receive both merit-based and need-based scholarships at Arcadia University?
Yes, students can receive both merit-based and need-based scholarships, depending on their academic performance and financial need.
What is the average SAT score required for admission to Arcadia University?
The average SAT score for Arcadia University is between 1080 and 1260, and a strong academic record further enhances an application.
What are the GPA requirements for Arcadia University admissions?
Arcadia University typically requires a GPA of 3.3 or higher, with successful applicants demonstrating substantial academic achievement.