Selective45% Acceptance Rate

Chances of Getting Into Baylor University

Waco, Texas Private University • #93 National • Founded 1845

Baylor Admissions Statistics 2025–2026

45%
Acceptance Rate
3.65
Average GPA
1305
Average SAT
30
Average ACT
42,000+
Total Applicants
3,400
Class Size
15:1
Student-Faculty Ratio

Baylor SAT & ACT Scores

SAT Scores (Middle 50%)

Score Range1220-1390
Average1305
10001600

ACT Scores (Middle 50%)

Score Range27-32
Average30
2036

About Baylor University

Baylor University is the oldest continuously operating university in Texas and the world's largest Baptist university. Located in Waco, Baylor combines strong pre-med and business programs with a faith-based community and Big 12 athletics.

Top Programs

Business (Hankamer)Pre-MedNursingEngineeringCommunication

What Makes Baylor Unique

  • Oldest university in Texas (founded 1845, before Texas joined the US)
  • World's largest Baptist university with faith-integrated education
  • Strong pre-med track with high medical school acceptance rates
  • McLane Stadium on the Brazos River — one of the most scenic venues
  • Baylor Research and Innovation Collaborative (BRIC)

Baylor Cost & Financial Aid

Cost of Attendance

Tuition$52,584/yr
Total Cost$70,400/yr
Median Earnings (10yr)$58,700/yr

Financial Aid

Students Receiving Aid60%
Avg Aid Package$26,000+
School TypePrivate

Baylor Application Deadlines

Regular Decision
February 1
Early Action
November 1

How to Get Into Baylor: Admission Tips

1

Baylor's EA gives a significant advantage for admission and scholarships

2

Pre-med and nursing are strong programs — highlight science interests

3

Faith and community engagement resonate with Baylor's mission

4

Merit scholarships are generous — strong students pay well below sticker

5

Baylor has gotten much more selective (45% now vs 70% a decade ago)

The Brutal Truth About Baylor Admissions

The numbers are brutal. With a 45% acceptance rate, Baylor rejected over 23,100 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.

Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At Baylor, having a 3.65 GPA and 1305 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.

The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. Baylor doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.

Bottom line: Apply if Baylor genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 45%-acceptance-rate basket.

Baylor Admissions FAQ

What is the acceptance rate at Baylor University?

Baylor University has an acceptance rate of 45% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 42,000+ applicants, approximately 3,400 students were admitted to the incoming class.

What GPA do I need to get into Baylor?

The average GPA of admitted students at Baylor University is 3.65. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.50, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.

What SAT score do I need for Baylor?

The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Baylor students is 1220-1390. The average SAT score is 1305. For ACT, the range is 27-32 with an average of 30.

Is Baylor hard to get into?

Yes, Baylor University is selective with an acceptance rate of just 45%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.

How much does Baylor cost?

Tuition at Baylor University is $52,584 per year, with total cost of attendance at $70,400. However, 60% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $26,000+.

What are my chances of getting into Baylor?

Your chances of getting into Baylor University depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 45% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.

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What Are Your Chances at Baylor?

Enter your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars. Get a personalized, brutally honest assessment of your odds — plus scholarship estimates.

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