Overview
Franciscan University of Steubenville is a less selective private four-year institution in Steubenville, Ohio. The school accepts 66.7% of applicants and enrolls 2,775 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 66.7%
- Average SAT
- 1,210
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,100–1,320
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 25
- Total Enrollment
- 2,775
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
Franciscan University expects your faith to be central to your application story, not just mentioned as an afterthought. Your essays should connect your Catholic identity to your academic interests and career goals in specific ways, showing how you plan to live out your beliefs in your chosen field.
The university's Great Books honors program accepts only select students and requires a separate application with additional essays. Apply early since spots fill quickly, and write about specific texts or philosophical questions that have shaped your thinking rather than generic statements about loving literature.
Your application will stand out if you highlight service work, youth ministry experience, or leadership in Catholic organizations. The admissions office wants to see how you've already lived your faith in action. Mission trips, pro-life activism, or teaching religious education carry more weight here than typical volunteer work.
Campus life revolves around daily Mass, weekly household meetings (small faith-sharing groups), and strict residence hall policies including opposite-sex visitation hours. Students who struggle with these expectations often transfer out. If you're looking for a typical college party scene, look elsewhere.
The nursing program has an excellent reputation and strong job placement, making it worth highlighting if you're interested in healthcare ministry. The theology and catechetics programs prepare graduates for parish work and Catholic education, though the earning potential is lower.
Apply by the priority deadline in December to maximize scholarship opportunities. The rolling admissions process means later applicants compete for fewer spots and less financial aid. Submit your FAFSA early since the university relies heavily on federal aid to keep costs manageable.
Your recommendation letters should come from people who can speak to your character and faith life, not just academic performance. A youth minister, parish priest, or Catholic school teacher often provides more compelling insights than a secular teacher who only knows your classroom work.
The campus sits in a small Ohio River town with limited off-campus entertainment, so students create their own community through intramural sports, campus ministry, and student organizations. You'll spend four years in a close-knit environment where your classmates become lifelong friends and your professors know your name.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $23,987/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $32,630
- Students Receiving Aid
- 21%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 77.1%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $50,030/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 87.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the admission requirements for Franciscan University of Steubenville?
Franciscan University of Steubenville requires a high school diploma or GED, official transcripts, and SAT or ACT scores. The application includes essays and recommendation letters.
Does Franciscan University of Steubenville offer early admission options?
Franciscan University of Steubenville offers early action with a December 1 deadline. Regular decision applications are due February 15.
Is Franciscan University of Steubenville test-optional?
No, Franciscan University of Steubenville requires SAT or ACT scores for admission. Test scores must be submitted with the application.
Can transfer students apply to Franciscan University of Steubenville?
Yes, Franciscan University of Steubenville accepts transfer students who have completed at least 12 college credit hours. Transfer applicants need college transcripts and must meet minimum GPA requirements.