Overview
Gettysburg College is a moderately selective private four-year institution in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The school accepts 56.3% of applicants and enrolls 2,209 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 56.3%
- Average SAT
- 1,395
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,350–1,440
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 30
- Total Enrollment
- 2,209
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
Gettysburg College places heavy weight on demonstrated interest, so visit campus if possible and attend virtual information sessions. The admissions team tracks every interaction you have with the school, from opening emails to attending local recruitment events.
Your essays should reference specific professors, research opportunities, or programs that connect to your academic interests. The Eisenhower Institute offers undergraduate fellowships for public policy research that few applicants mention despite its prestige. The Gettysburg Great Books program provides an interdisciplinary honors track that impresses admissions officers when you can articulate why their approach appeals to you specifically.
Gettysburg requires the Common Application plus their own supplement asking why you want to attend. Don't write generically about liberal arts education or small class sizes. Instead, mention specific courses like "Environmental Geochemistry" or "Shakespeare and Film" that align with your interests. Reference the Pohanka Internship Program if you're interested in museum studies or the Schmucker Art Gallery's student curator positions.
The campus culture centers around Greek life, with about forty percent of students joining fraternities or sororities. Students tend to be preppy, politically engaged, and academically serious but not cutthroat. School spirit runs high around Civil War history and the location's significance. You'll fit well if you enjoy small discussion-based classes and want professors who know your name.
Submit your application by the early decision deadline if Gettysburg is your top choice, as the school admits a higher percentage of early decision candidates. Your application should show leadership experience and community service, as the admissions committee expects students who will contribute beyond academics. Highlight any volunteer work or internships related to history, politics, or public service.
Don't overlook the music and theater programs when crafting your application. The Sunderman Conservatory of Music and Majestic Theater provide performance opportunities that distinguish Gettysburg from similar liberal arts colleges. If you have experience in these areas, mention specific ways you'd contribute to campus productions or ensembles.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $30,086/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $64,230
- Students Receiving Aid
- 21%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 82.7%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $71,517/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 89.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Gettysburg College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Gettysburg College has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores with their application.
What is the early decision deadline for Gettysburg College?
Gettysburg College offers two early decision rounds: ED I deadline is November 15 and ED II deadline is January 15. Both are binding admission options.
Can you transfer to Gettysburg College as a sophomore or junior?
Yes, Gettysburg College accepts transfer students for fall and spring semesters. Transfer applicants must have completed at least one semester of college coursework at an accredited institution.
What are the strongest academic programs at Gettysburg College?
Gettysburg College is particularly known for its economics, business administration, political science, psychology, and English programs. The college also has a strong liberal arts curriculum across multiple disciplines.