Selective32% Acceptance Rate

Chances of Getting Into Lehigh University

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Private University • #51 National • Founded 1865

Lehigh Admissions Statistics 2025–2026

32%
Acceptance Rate
3.78
Average GPA
1430
Average SAT
33
Average ACT
16,500
Total Applicants
1,350
Class Size
10:1
Student-Faculty Ratio

Lehigh SAT & ACT Scores

SAT Scores (Middle 50%)

Score Range1370–1490
Average1430
10001600

ACT Scores (Middle 50%)

Score Range31–34
Average33
2036

About Lehigh University

Lehigh University is a private research university in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, known for its top-tier engineering and business programs. With a 32% acceptance rate, Lehigh offers a close-knit community, strong industry connections, and a beautiful campus in the Lehigh Valley.

Top Programs

EngineeringFinanceComputer ScienceAccountingEconomics

What Makes Lehigh Unique

  • P.C. Rossin College of Engineering is nationally respected
  • Integrated business and engineering programs (IBE) are unique and highly selective
  • Located in Bethlehem, PA — a revitalized city with arts and culture scene
  • Strong Greek life and campus community traditions
  • Excellent career outcomes — graduates earn well above national averages

Lehigh Cost & Financial Aid

Cost of Attendance

Tuition$62,180/yr
Total Cost$80,560/yr
Median Earnings (10yr)$80,200/yr

Financial Aid

Students Receiving Aid50%
Avg Aid Package$48,000+
School TypePrivate

Lehigh Application Deadlines

Regular Decision
January 1
Early Decision
November 1
ED Acceptance Rate: ~55%

How to Get Into Lehigh: Admission Tips

1

Early Decision acceptance rate is ~55% — strong advantage for committed applicants

2

Lehigh values demonstrated interest — visit campus and engage with admissions

3

Engineering applicants should highlight math/science achievements

4

Supplemental essay should show specific knowledge of Lehigh's programs

5

Cross-college collaborations (business + engineering) are valued — show breadth

The Brutal Truth About Lehigh Admissions

The numbers are brutal. With a 32% acceptance rate, Lehigh rejected over 11,220 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.

Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At Lehigh, having a 3.78 GPA and 1430 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. Lehigh 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 Lehigh genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 32%-acceptance-rate basket.

Lehigh Admissions FAQ

What is the acceptance rate at Lehigh University?

Lehigh University has an acceptance rate of 32% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 16,500 applicants, approximately 1,350 students were admitted to the incoming class.

What GPA do I need to get into Lehigh?

The average GPA of admitted students at Lehigh University is 3.78. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.63, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.

What SAT score do I need for Lehigh?

The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Lehigh students is 1370–1490. The average SAT score is 1430. For ACT, the range is 31–34 with an average of 33.

Is Lehigh hard to get into?

Yes, Lehigh University is selective with an acceptance rate of just 32%. 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 Lehigh cost?

Tuition at Lehigh University is $62,180 per year, with total cost of attendance at $80,560. However, 50% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $48,000+.

What are my chances of getting into Lehigh?

Your chances of getting into Lehigh University depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 32% 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 Lehigh?

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

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