Liberty University will be somewhere in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains foothills. The institute is a private, evangelical Christian known for being conservative with strong community values. However, being founded on such matters does not mean getting accepted is easy.
Acceptance rates of Liberty are considered to be low compared to other universities. Hence, in this article, we will explore the reasons behind that. From the unique goals the university strives to accomplish to the problematic requirements, learn why the university has a selective and competitive process.
What is Liberty University Known For?
What is Liberty University Known For?Liberty University is a private, prominent non-profit academic institute that bases its values on Christian education. It built its foundations on conservative values and a commitment to religion. It was founded in 1971 by Jerry Falwell Sr. He was a prominent political figure who worked on creating an institute that has now become one of the largest Christian ones in the world.
According to the university’s statistics, on-campus enrollment was 15,800, and online programs had 115,000 students in October 2022. While this is an impressive number, it does not mean getting accepted is an easy process.
But what is Liberty University known for? It has a diverse range of programs that range from nursing to engineering. However, people might know it for its conservative values. These include prohibiting tobacco and alcohol and banning premarital marriage on campus.
Yet, the list goes on regarding the unique aspects that Liberty University offers. Some of which are below:
- The campus covers over 7,000 acres and includes various academic buildings and athletic facilities.
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges accreditedthe university. It also has various accredited programs, all thanks to various distinct agencies.
- It is one of the few universities that offer a wide variety of online programs, ranging from bachelor’s to single courses.
- The university has over 20 NCAA Division I athletic teams: Liberty Flames and Lady Flames.
- Everyone on campus leads a moderately religious life. The institute emphasizes spiritual development through mandatory weekly convocation and other activities.
Overall, while this institute tends on the more conservative side, it offers many incentives to its students, ranging from athletic facilities to academic opportunities.
Is it Hard to Get Into Liberty University?
According to data compiled throughout previous years, the Liberty University acceptance rate is around 50%. While that might not seem too low of a number, the average acceptance rate of colleges and universities in the US stands at about 68%. This means that getting into Liberty University is relatively tricky.
So, why is this the case? While it is true that more than half the applicants get admission, the institute’s values are the critical factor in acceptance. This includes demonstrating academic excellence, a passion for the field you aim to study, and a commitment to Christian values.
Yet, some factors extend beyond the ones above. These include the essay portion of the application, recommendation letters, extracurricular activities, and work experience. Hence, the process is not impossible, but it is competitive. As a prospective student, you must put the time, effort, and consideration towards making a solid application.
What Makes Liberty University’s Acceptance Rate So Low?
There are many factors you must take into consideration when addressing the question of why is Liberty University’s acceptance rate so low. Many aspects make a university’s admission process competitive. Read on to find out more.
A large number of applicants
On an annual basis, the university receives tens of thousands of applications. Hence, they cannot accept everyone, as the resources will not be enough. Moreover, not everyone will satisfy the minimum requirements. This means a small number of open spots for each incoming class drives down the acceptance rate.
Emphasis on academic excellence
As you will read in the section below, Liberty University has specific academic criteria for admitting new students. Hence, this immediately leads to a large cutoff of individuals who do not meet the minimum standards.
Strict code of conduct
The strict and conservative environment might not be the best fit for everyone. As the campus prohibits the use of alcohol, premarital sex, and tobacco, the admission office might reject any individuals who they believe cannot abide by those rules.
The low acceptance rate boils down to many applicants, the academic standards, and the distinct mission the university aims to accomplish.
How to Get Into Liberty University: 7 Requirements
There are many Liberty University admission requirements that every prospective applicant must fulfill. The admission office largely bases its decisions on four factors. Those are your GPA, GED scores (depending on the level of studies you are applying to), general transcript, and essays. To find out the specifics, read on. You can also read about the list on their official webpage.
What GPA do you need to get into Liberty University?
The Liberty University GPA requirements range from 3.15-3.83. This is the typical accepted GPA to get into the program you desire. The admission process heavily relies on your GPA when considering your application. Hence, if you aim to apply to this institute, ensure you attempt to raise your GPA first. However, only 50% of admitted students fall within this GPA range.
What SAT and ACT scores do you need to enter Liberty University?
The Liberty University SAT requirements are within the range of 1020-1220. As for the Liberty University ACT requirements, you should aim for a score within the scope of 20-27.
Coming from an accredited high school
The high school you graduate from must meet state standards and be accredited. If you are unsure whether your school fits this criterion, contact the university’s admission office or ask your school.
Completing specific credit units in subjects
While the list below is the recommended curriculum throughout high school, it is not a mandatory factor in your application. However, following those and ensuring you complete them will prepare you better for education in university:
- English: 4 units
- College preparatory mathematics: 2-3 years (this could include courses such as Algebra II)
- Lab science: 2 years
- Social science: 2 years
- Foreign language: 2 years
- Electives: 4 units
Transcript requirements
The university will most likely decide based on your grades from 9th to 11th grade. Hence, those are the ones you must upload. You can ask your school for the unofficial transcripts during your application process, then submit the official ones before attending the university.
Does Liberty University require an essay for admission?
Yes. There is only one essay to write. The first is the admission essay, arguably the most critical factor in the admission process. This is the admission essay or the personal one. You must submit this before completing your application and getting admission.
So, what exactly should you write about? You must answer two questions with 100-150 words. The first question is related to describing your beliefs and how you can contribute to the college process. The second is about explaining how you would contribute to the leadership mission of the university.
Recommendation letters
You might be required to submit a recommendation letter. However, this depends on the program and the level of study you are applying to. You will access a link through the online application if you must send one. You can then enter your recommender’s email.
How to Apply for Liberty University: 7 Tips
So, how can you start applying to Liberty University? What is the procedure that you should follow? Below are the top tips that will help you complete your application on time and provide all the required documents.
Start your research early
You might want to start researching the university’s campus life, dormitories, and extracurricular activities. Find out which values and principles and how you connect to them. This will help you write your essay and appeal to the admission committee later. Moreover, starting early allows you to gather the necessary materials, complete the application, and submit everything before the deadline.
Highlight your strengths throughout our application
You will have three opportunities to portray your strengths and experiences. You can do so through your academic record, essay, or the additional documents you supply. If you have any community service or Christian service, do not forget to highlight it!
Get your letters of recommendation
If you are required to submit recommendation letters, reach out to your professor, advisor, or mentor. Whomever you are asking should know you on a personal level to be able to highlight your best qualities. Provide the recommender with enough information about the university and the letter requirements so they know how to format and approach the writing.
Be prepared for a potential interview
You might have to sit for an interview. For example, College of Osteopathic Medicine applicants must sit through a 25-minute interview. So, in such a case, you must be prepared to discuss your academic record, Christian services, or any other skills.
Pay the application fee
You must pay the application fee, which can be deferred until the Financial Check-In date. However, you might also have access to a wide range of application fee waivers. Such opportunities are provided if you visit the campus or attend an event at the university.
Consider applying for a scholarship
You might be able to obtain one of the many scholarships and waivers offered by Liberty University. This will allow you to reduce the Liberty University tuition fee of approximately $23,800. However, do not forget to apply for those options by the deadline to ensure you submit all necessary documents on time!
Make your final decision about admissions
The university might not be your first option. However, if it is, think long and hard when applying. For example, keep your options open or not rely on this university as your only option.
Is Liberty University a good school? Well, this is one of the questions that you must answer subjectively. Determine whether the location, expenses, and academic curriculum suit your goals and align with the university’s vision.
Wrapping Things Up: Why is Liberty University’s Acceptance Rate so Low?
o sum up, Liberty University’s low acceptance rate is due to various factors. Those include the unique missions and values, the academic requirements, and the general competitive environment. However, if you are interested in attending this university, highlight your Christian principles. Also, be prepared to live a more strict yet fruitful life.
However, if you are considering applying to Liberty University, reflect on your needs and goals first. Is it going to be a good fit for your aspirations? It does offer various academic programs, an extensive library, and vibrant athletic endeavors. This university might be perfect if you seek a comprehensive, faith-based education. Do not be deterred by the low acceptance rate. With adequate preparation, you can formulate an excellent application!
