Chances of Getting Into Bucknell University
Lewisburg, Pennsylvania • Private University • #35 National • Founded 1846
Bucknell Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
Bucknell SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About Bucknell University
Bucknell University is a selective liberal arts university in central Pennsylvania with strong engineering and business programs. Known for high median earnings, a beautiful campus along the Susquehanna River, and a mix of liberal arts and professional preparation.
Top Programs
What Makes Bucknell Unique
- Combined liberal arts + engineering + management college
- Exceptionally high median earnings ($78K+) for an LAC
- Beautiful campus on the Susquehanna River
- Freeman College of Management — unique for a small university
- Strong Greek life and school spirit
Bucknell Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
Bucknell Application Deadlines
How to Get Into Bucknell: Admission Tips
Bucknell ED acceptance rate (~55%) is dramatically higher than RD
Demonstrated interest matters a LOT — visit, interview, engage
Engineering and business are the draws; mention specific programs
Bucknell values community involvement and leadership
Write compelling 'Why Bucknell' essays referencing specific offerings
The Brutal Truth About Bucknell Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 30% acceptance rate, Bucknell rejected over 8,400 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At Bucknell, having a 3.68 GPA and 1370 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. Bucknell 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 Bucknell genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 30%-acceptance-rate basket.
Bucknell Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at Bucknell University?
Bucknell University has an acceptance rate of 30% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 12,000+ applicants, approximately 950 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into Bucknell?
The average GPA of admitted students at Bucknell University is 3.68. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.53, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for Bucknell?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Bucknell students is 1300-1440. The average SAT score is 1370. For ACT, the range is 30-33 with an average of 32.
Is Bucknell hard to get into?
Yes, Bucknell University is selective with an acceptance rate of just 30%. 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 Bucknell cost?
Tuition at Bucknell University is $64,298 per year, with total cost of attendance at $82,400. However, 55% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $42,000+.
What are my chances of getting into Bucknell?
Your chances of getting into Bucknell University depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 30% 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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Popular Majors at Bucknell
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