Skip to main content
61.2%Acceptance
$49,834Tuition
2,418Students
79%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$62,971Earnings
Private nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalLiberal ArtsNCAA Division IIIStudy AbroadData: 2023-24Evangelical Lutheran

Overview

Augustana College is a less selective private four-year institution in Rock Island, Illinois. The school accepts 61.2% of applicants and enrolls 2,418 students.

Admission Statistics

Acceptance Rate
61.2%
Average SAT
1,130
SAT Range (25th–75th)
1,010–1,250
ACT Composite (avg)
25
Total Enrollment
2,418

Your Chances by SAT Score

Strong Candidate
SAT above 1,250

Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.

Competitive
SAT 1,010–1,250

Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.

Reach School
SAT below 1,010

Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.

Admission Guide

Augustana College operates on rolling admissions, so apply early to secure your spot and access merit scholarships before funds run out. Your application becomes stronger when you highlight specific connections to Augustana's distinctive programs, particularly the CORE curriculum that integrates liberal arts learning across all majors.

The computer science program stands out for its career preparation and hands-on learning opportunities, while the accounting program connects directly to regional business networks in the Quad Cities area. Business students benefit from the college's proximity to major employers like Deere & Company and the strong alumni network throughout the Midwest.

Augustana's campus culture centers around close faculty relationships and undergraduate research opportunities. Students here tend to be academically focused but also want the personal attention that comes with smaller class sizes. You'll find success if you prefer knowing your professors personally and want direct access to research projects typically reserved for graduate students at larger universities.

Your essays should mention specific Augustana programs like the Augie Choice guarantee, which provides funding for internships, research, or study abroad experiences. Reference particular professors whose research interests align with yours, or discuss how you'd use the college's January term for intensive study or travel programs.

The application includes Augustana-specific supplements asking about your interest in particular programs and how you'll contribute to campus life. Don't write generic responses about liberal arts education. Instead, connect your goals to specific resources like the Swenson Center for Social Entrepreneurship or the college's partnership with the Figge Art Museum.

Submit your transcripts showing strong performance in your intended major's prerequisite courses. Augustana weighs course difficulty alongside grades, so challenging yourself with advanced classes in your junior and senior years helps your application. Letters of recommendation from teachers in your planned field of study carry more weight than general character references.

Schedule a campus visit or virtual information session to demonstrate interest. The admissions team tracks engagement, and showing genuine knowledge of campus programs through your application materials makes a difference in scholarship consideration and final admission decisions.

What It Costs If You Get In

Average Net Price
$12,437/yr
Tuition (in-state)
$49,834
Students Receiving Aid
22%

View full cost breakdown →

After You Graduate

Graduation Rate (6-year)
79.2%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$62,971/yr
Freshman Retention Rate
82.8%

View full outcomes data →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Augustana College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?

Augustana College is test-optional, meaning you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores. If you do submit scores, they will be considered as part of your application.

What is the application deadline for Augustana College?

Augustana College has rolling admissions with priority deadlines of December 1 for fall semester and November 1 for spring semester. Applications are reviewed as they are received.

Does Augustana College offer early decision or early action?

Augustana College does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applications are processed through their rolling admissions system.

How many transfer credits does Augustana College accept?

Augustana College typically accepts up to 64 credit hours from community colleges and up to 96 credit hours from four-year institutions. Students must complete at least 32 credit hours at Augustana to earn a degree.