Overview
Grand Canyon University is a less selective for-profit four-year institution in Phoenix, Arizona. The school accepts 77.9% of applicants and enrolls 68,619 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 77.9%
- Total Enrollment
- 68,619
Admission Guide
Grand Canyon University operates on a rolling admissions basis, so you can apply throughout the year rather than waiting for specific deadlines. Submit your application online along with official high school transcripts or GED scores, and you'll typically receive an admission decision within days.
Nursing programs at GCU are significantly more competitive than general admission and require separate application processes with higher academic standards. You'll need to complete prerequisite courses and may face additional requirements like entrance exams or interviews. Other health science programs also maintain stricter admission criteria than the university's overall standards.
Financial aid processing moves quickly at GCU, but submit your FAFSA early to maximize your aid package. The university offers multiple start dates throughout the year for many programs, giving you flexibility in when you begin classes.
Housing fills up quickly despite the large campus size. Apply for dormitories as soon as you're admitted if you want guaranteed on-campus housing. The university requires most first-year students under 21 to live on campus unless they're married, have dependents, or live with family locally.
GCU operates primarily as an online university with a physical campus in Phoenix. Many students attend entirely online, while others take hybrid schedules mixing online and in-person classes. Clarify which format your program offers before enrolling, as not all majors are available in both formats.
New Student Orientation is mandatory and covers academic planning, campus resources, and degree requirements. The program runs multiple times throughout the year to accommodate the university's flexible start dates. You'll register for classes during orientation, so come prepared with backup course options in case your first choices are full.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $21,931/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $17,450
- Students Receiving Aid
- 43%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 43.0%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $42,186/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 68.4%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the admission requirements for Grand Canyon University?
Grand Canyon University requires a high school diploma or GED, but does not mandate standardized test scores for most programs. Students must submit transcripts and complete the online application.
Does Grand Canyon University have application deadlines?
Grand Canyon University operates on rolling admissions with multiple start dates throughout the year. Students can apply and begin classes in fall, spring, or summer terms.
How many transfer credits does Grand Canyon University accept?
Grand Canyon University accepts up to 90 transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions. Students must earn at least 30 credits at GCU to receive a degree from the university.
Is Grand Canyon University accredited and what programs is it known for?
Grand Canyon University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The school is particularly known for its nursing programs and education degrees offered both online and on campus.