Overview
Bucknell University is a selective private four-year institution in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. The school accepts 32.6% of applicants and enrolls 3,818 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 32.6%
- Average SAT
- 1,390
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,310–1,470
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 32
- Total Enrollment
- 3,818
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
Bucknell's engineering programs consistently produce high-earning graduates, making them natural focal points for your application essays if you're pursuing STEM fields. The computer engineering and chemical engineering programs offer particularly strong industry connections and research opportunities that you should highlight when explaining your academic interests.
Your application will benefit from showing genuine interest in Bucknell's liberal arts integration with technical fields. The university requires all students to take courses across disciplines, so admissions officers want to see that you're excited about this breadth rather than just tolerating it. Write about specific interdisciplinary connections that intrigue you.
Bucknell operates on Early Decision I, Early Decision II, and Regular Decision timelines. The Early Decision advantage here is significant, but only commit if Bucknell is truly your top choice. Your supplemental essays should reference specific professors, research labs, or campus programs rather than generic statements about small class sizes.
The campus sits in rural Lewisburg, creating a tight-knit community where Greek life plays a major social role. You'll fit well if you want close relationships with professors and classmates but don't need urban amenities. The isolation means campus activities drive social life, so mention clubs or organizations you'd join or start.
Your essays should show intellectual flexibility. Bucknell students often change majors or add minors across different schools within the university. Write about how you might explore connections between your intended major and other fields of study available on campus.
The Honors Program accepts applications during the regular admission process, requiring additional essays. These essays let you demonstrate deeper thinking about complex topics, so choose prompts that genuinely interest you rather than ones you think admissions officers want to read.
Submit your application materials early in the Regular Decision cycle if you're not applying Early Decision. Bucknell reviews applications as they arrive, and earlier submission can work in your favor for merit aid consideration. Your recommendation letters should come from teachers who know your work well rather than those with impressive titles but limited knowledge of your abilities.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $40,429/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $64,772
- Students Receiving Aid
- 11%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 86.2%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $93,807/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 95.8%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Bucknell University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Bucknell has a test-optional admissions policy, meaning you can choose whether to submit standardized test scores. If you submit scores, they will be considered as part of your application.
Does Bucknell University offer Early Decision or Early Action?
Bucknell offers two Early Decision rounds (ED I and ED II) which are binding commitments. The school does not offer Early Action.
What are the application deadlines for Bucknell University?
Early Decision I deadline is November 15, Early Decision II deadline is January 15, and Regular Decision deadline is January 15. All deadlines include the application fee and supporting materials.
Can transfer students apply to Bucknell University's engineering programs?
Yes, but transfer admission to engineering programs is highly competitive due to limited space and specific prerequisite requirements. Transfer students typically need strong grades in calculus, physics, and chemistry courses.