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88.8%Acceptance
$18,168Tuition
1,671Students
35%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$47,482Earnings
Private nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalNAIAData: 2023-24Cumberland Presbyterian

Overview

Bethel University is a accessible private four-year institution in McKenzie, Tennessee. The school accepts 88.8% of applicants and enrolls 1,671 students.

Admission Statistics

Acceptance Rate
88.8%
Average SAT
1,029
SAT Range (25th–75th)
928–1,130
ACT Composite (avg)
19
Total Enrollment
1,671

Your Chances by SAT Score

Strong Candidate
SAT above 1,130

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

Competitive
SAT 928–1,130

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

Reach School
SAT below 928

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

Admission Guide

Submit your application through Bethel's online portal or the Common Application by August 1 for fall enrollment, though the university accepts rolling admissions throughout the year. You need your high school transcript, ACT or SAT scores, and a completed application form. No essays or letters of recommendation are required for general admission.

The nursing program operates under different admission standards and requires separate application materials including prerequisite coursework completion. Criminal justice and education programs also maintain higher academic expectations than the university's general admission requirements.

Housing fills up quickly despite the campus size, so submit your residence hall application and deposit as soon as you're accepted. New student orientation happens during the week before classes begin and covers registration for any remaining courses, campus tours, and ID card pickup.

Bethel requires all students to complete chapel attendance requirements each semester as part of its Christian university mission. You'll need to attend a minimum number of chapel services to remain in good standing, regardless of your personal faith background.

The McKenzie campus serves a largely regional student body, and many students commute from surrounding West Tennessee communities. Campus life centers around athletics, particularly basketball and football, with most social activities tied to sports seasons and religious programming.

Financial aid processing moves faster if you submit your FAFSA early in the year. The university offers both need-based aid and merit scholarships, with many students receiving some form of assistance to reduce the published tuition costs.

What It Costs If You Get In

Average Net Price
$21,803/yr
Tuition (in-state)
$18,168
Students Receiving Aid
31%

View full cost breakdown →

After You Graduate

Graduation Rate (6-year)
34.9%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$47,482/yr
Freshman Retention Rate
59.1%

View full outcomes data →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Bethel University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?

Bethel University accepts both SAT and ACT scores for admission. Check with admissions for current test-optional policies as requirements may have changed recently.

What is the application deadline for Bethel University?

Contact Bethel University admissions directly for current application deadlines. The school operates on a rolling admissions basis for most programs.

Can you transfer credits to Bethel University?

Bethel University accepts transfer credits from accredited institutions. Students should submit official transcripts for evaluation of transferable coursework.

What are the strongest academic programs at Bethel University?

Bethel University is known for its Allied Health programs, Business, Homeland Security, and Education programs. The school has particular strength in health-related fields and professional preparation programs.