Overview
Elmhurst University is a less selective private four-year institution in Elmhurst, Illinois. The school accepts 76.0% of applicants and enrolls 2,954 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 76.0%
- Average SAT
- 1,110
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 980–1,240
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 24
- Total Enrollment
- 2,954
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
You need to submit your application through the Common Application or directly through Elmhurst's website, along with your high school transcript and one letter of recommendation. The school operates on rolling admissions, so you can apply anytime, but earlier applications receive priority for housing and financial aid.
The nursing program requires separate application materials and maintains higher admission standards than the university overall. You'll need to complete prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and math before entering the nursing sequence in your sophomore year. Business programs like accounting and finance have additional requirements including specific math courses.
Housing fills up quickly, so submit your housing deposit immediately after acceptance if you want to live on campus. First-year students must live in residence halls unless they commute from home. The campus requires all incoming students to attend a summer orientation session where you'll register for classes and complete placement testing.
Elmhurst operates on a 4-4-1 academic calendar with two traditional semesters plus a January term where you take one intensive course. This J-term offers study abroad opportunities and internship experiences. The campus sits in downtown Elmhurst with easy train access to Chicago, making internships and part-time work in the city accessible.
Financial aid packages typically include both merit scholarships and need-based aid. You'll receive your aid offer with your acceptance letter, but the school allows negotiation if your financial circumstances change or if you receive better offers elsewhere.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $21,063/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $41,628
- Students Receiving Aid
- 37%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 65.2%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $61,462/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 75.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Elmhurst University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Elmhurst University has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Elmhurst University?
Elmhurst University operates on a rolling admissions basis with priority deadlines in early spring for fall admission. Students should apply early for the best chance at merit scholarships and housing.
How many transfer credits does Elmhurst University accept?
Elmhurst University accepts up to 90 transfer credits from accredited institutions. Students must complete at least 30 credits at Elmhurst to earn their degree.
Does Elmhurst University offer early decision or early action programs?
Elmhurst University does not offer binding early decision programs. The school uses rolling admissions, so applying earlier in the cycle provides advantages for scholarships and course registration.