Overview
Caldwell University is a less selective private four-year institution in Caldwell, New Jersey. The school accepts 66.4% of applicants and enrolls 1,437 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 66.4%
- Average SAT
- 1,165
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,010–1,320
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 23
- Total Enrollment
- 1,437
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
Caldwell University operates on rolling admissions, which means you can apply as early as September and receive decisions within weeks. Submit your application by December to maximize scholarship opportunities, as financial aid packages diminish later in the cycle.
Your personal statement should connect directly to Caldwell's Catholic Dominican tradition if you have any religious background or service experience. The admissions committee wants to see how you'll contribute to their close-knit campus community of under 1,500 students. Mention specific professors you'd want to work with or particular research opportunities that caught your attention during your campus visit.
The nursing program stands out as Caldwell's crown jewel, with graduates earning significantly higher salaries than other majors. If you're applying to nursing, highlight any healthcare volunteer work, shadowing experiences, or science research projects. The program requires a separate application with additional prerequisites, so plan accordingly.
Caldwell's small class sizes mean professors know your name and track your progress personally. This environment suits students who prefer discussion-based learning over large lecture halls. You'll thrive here if you want direct access to faculty mentorship and prefer collaborative rather than competitive academic atmospheres.
Don't overlook Caldwell's location advantages in your essays. The campus sits 20 miles from Manhattan, offering internship access while maintaining a suburban college feel. Many business and communications students commute to New York City for internships during their junior and senior years.
The Honors Program accepts applications during the regular admission process. Write your honors essay about intellectual challenges you've pursued independently, not just classroom achievements. The program offers smaller seminars, priority registration, and special housing options.
Your recommenders should emphasize your potential for building relationships and contributing to campus life. Caldwell's admissions team reviews applications completeally, paying attention to character references and community involvement alongside academic performance. Choose teachers who can speak to your work ethic and interpersonal skills, not just your test scores.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $21,188/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $39,450
- Students Receiving Aid
- 46%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 58.7%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $53,843/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 73.0%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Caldwell University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Caldwell University is test-optional, meaning you can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores with your application.
What is the application deadline for Caldwell University?
Caldwell University has rolling admissions with no strict deadline. Applications are reviewed as they are received until classes are full.
Does Caldwell University offer early decision or early action?
Caldwell University does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applications are processed through their rolling admissions system.
How many transfer credits does Caldwell University accept?
Caldwell University accepts up to 90 transfer credits from accredited institutions. Credits must have been earned with a grade of C or better to transfer.