Overview
Brigham Young University is a less selective private four-year institution in Provo, Utah. The school accepts 66.7% of applicants and enrolls 32,221 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 66.7%
- Average SAT
- 1,374
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,280–1,468
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 30
- Total Enrollment
- 32,221
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
BYU requires a religious endorsement from your local ecclesiastical leader as part of your application, which is unique among major universities. This endorsement confirms your commitment to living the Honor Code, which prohibits alcohol, premarital sex, and other behaviors, while requiring modest dress and grooming standards.
Your application essay should address specific LDS values and how you plan to contribute to the campus spiritual environment. Write about service experiences, mission preparation, or how your faith influences your academic and career goals. Generic essays about overcoming challenges won't stand out here.
BYU operates on a rolling admissions system, so apply early to improve your chances and secure housing. Applications open in October for the following fall semester, and spots fill quickly for competitive programs like computer science and engineering.
The campus culture centers heavily around LDS faith and practices. Daily devotionals, prayer before classes, and Honor Code expectations shape every aspect of student life. Students who aren't LDS can apply but must still follow all Honor Code requirements and attend devotionals.
Highlight any leadership roles in LDS church callings or seminary participation in your application. Returned missionaries often have advantages in admissions due to their service experience and language skills. If you served a mission, connect those experiences to your intended major.
Consider applying to the Honors Program simultaneously with your general application. The program offers smaller classes, priority registration, and graduate school preparation. Computer science and engineering programs are particularly competitive, so demonstrate relevant coursework, coding projects, or internships.
BYU's unique semester schedule includes Education Week and other religious conferences, so your academic calendar differs from most universities. The school also maintains strict policies about Sunday activities and expects students to prioritize church attendance over other commitments.
Financial aid works differently here since most students qualify for significant tuition discounts based on LDS membership. Factor this into your college cost comparisons, as BYU often costs substantially less than comparable private universities.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $14,487/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $6,496
- Students Receiving Aid
- 32%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 82.2%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $75,790/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 89.1%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Brigham Young University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
BYU requires either SAT or ACT scores for all applicants. Test scores are a required part of the application process.
What is the application deadline for Brigham Young University?
BYU has a priority application deadline of December 1 for fall admission. Applications submitted after this date are reviewed on a space-available basis.
Can non-LDS students attend Brigham Young University?
Yes, non-LDS students can apply and attend BYU. However, all students must agree to follow the Honor Code, which includes standards for dress, grooming, and conduct based on LDS principles.
How do transfer credits work at Brigham Young University?
BYU accepts transfer credits from accredited institutions, but all transferred coursework is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Students must complete at least 30 credit hours at BYU to earn a degree.