Overview
Biola University is a moderately selective private four-year institution in La Mirada, California. The school accepts 56.6% of applicants and enrolls 3,390 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 56.6%
- Average SAT
- 1,235
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,105–1,365
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 27
- Total Enrollment
- 3,390
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Biola requires a statement of faith as part of your application, where you describe your personal relationship with Jesus Christ and commitment to Christian principles. This isn't just a checkbox requirement,the admissions team carefully reads these statements to understand how your faith aligns with Biola's evangelical mission. Write authentically about your spiritual journey and how you see faith integrating with your academic and career goals.
Your essays should connect your academic interests to Biola's specific programs and Christian worldview integration. If you're interested in nursing, discuss how the program's emphasis on caring for the whole person aligns with your calling. For business majors, address how you want to apply biblical principles to ethical leadership. Computer science applicants can explore how technology serves God's kingdom. Avoid generic Christian language,be specific about your theological convictions and how they shape your academic pursuits.
Biola operates on a rolling admissions basis, so applying early gives you better chances for both acceptance and merit scholarships. The Torrey Honors Institute offers a great books program for high-achieving students who want interdisciplinary liberal arts education alongside their major. Mention Torrey in your application if you're drawn to classical texts and Socratic discussion methods.
Campus life centers around chapel attendance (required three times weekly), small group discipleship, and mission trips. Students who flourish here genuinely want faith integrated into their daily college experience, not compartmentalized. The community tends to be conservative evangelical, with lifestyle expectations including abstaining from alcohol and maintaining biblical standards for relationships.
Don't underestimate Biola's academic reputation,the nursing program has strong clinical partnerships, and the business school emphasizes both practical skills and ethical foundations. Faculty actively mentor students and many maintain industry connections that benefit job placement. The suburban Los Angeles location provides internship access while maintaining a close-knit campus feel where professors know students by name.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $28,101/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $46,704
- Students Receiving Aid
- 26%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 68.8%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $56,778/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 85.3%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Biola University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Biola University is test-optional, meaning you can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores with your application.
What is the application deadline for Biola University?
Biola University has a priority application deadline of March 1 for fall admission. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis after this date until the class is full.
Does Biola University require a statement of faith for admission?
Yes, Biola University requires applicants to complete a statement of Christian faith as part of the application process. This is a standard requirement at this Christian university.
Can transfer students apply to Biola University?
Yes, Biola University accepts transfer students who have completed at least 12 college credit hours. Transfer applicants must submit college transcripts and meet the same faith statement requirement as first-year students.