Skip to main content
56.6%Acceptance
$30,832Tuition
1,415Students
67%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$53,907Earnings
#7 in ArkansasPrivate nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalNAIAStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

Overview

John Brown University is a moderately selective private four-year institution in Siloam Springs, Arkansas. The school accepts 56.6% of applicants and enrolls 1,415 students.

Admission Statistics

Acceptance Rate
56.6%
Average SAT
1,245
SAT Range (25th–75th)
1,100–1,390
ACT Composite (avg)
26
Total Enrollment
1,415

Your Chances by SAT Score

Strong Candidate
SAT above 1,390

Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.

Competitive
SAT 1,100–1,390

Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.

Reach School
SAT below 1,100

Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.

Admission Guide

John Brown University requires a faith statement as part of your application, so prepare to articulate how your Christian beliefs connect to your academic and career goals. The admissions committee wants authentic reflection on your spiritual journey, not generic Sunday school answers.

Your application will stand out if you highlight involvement in service projects, mission work, or leadership roles in faith-based organizations. JBU's campus culture centers around Christian community, so show how you've already contributed to similar environments. The university operates under a lifestyle agreement that prohibits alcohol, tobacco, and premarital sex, making it essential that you're genuinely aligned with these values.

Engineering students should emphasize hands-on experience through robotics teams, science fairs, or maker spaces. The program includes a required internship and capstone project, so mention any technical projects you've completed independently. Construction management applicants benefit from highlighting summer jobs in trades, volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity, or family connections to the building industry.

JBU uses rolling admissions, so apply early in the fall for the best scholarship consideration and housing options. The Honors Scholar Program requires a separate application with additional essays and offers priority course registration plus special seminars. Submit your honors application by February if you want full consideration.

The campus of fewer than 1,500 students creates tight-knit relationships between students and professors. You'll find students who choose JBU over larger state schools specifically for small class sizes and personal attention. Most students participate in intramural sports, chapel services, and residence hall activities.

Don't overlook the study abroad programs when writing your essays. JBU offers semester exchanges in England, Austria, and other locations that integrate faith perspectives with international experience. The university also runs short-term mission trips that many students reference as formative experiences.

Financial aid packaging happens quickly after admission, and merit scholarships are automatic based on test scores and grades. The school meets significant portions of demonstrated need, making it more affordable than the sticker price suggests for many families.

What It Costs If You Get In

Average Net Price
$21,144/yr
Tuition (in-state)
$30,832
Students Receiving Aid
21%

View full cost breakdown →

After You Graduate

Graduation Rate (6-year)
66.8%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$53,907/yr
Freshman Retention Rate
84.2%

View full outcomes data →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does John Brown University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?

John Brown University typically requires standardized test scores as part of the application process. Check with admissions for the most current testing policy and any temporary changes.

What is the application deadline for John Brown University?

John Brown University operates on a rolling admissions basis with priority deadlines. Contact the admissions office directly for specific deadline dates and scholarship consideration cutoffs.

Can transfer students apply to John Brown University mid-year?

John Brown University accepts transfer applications for both fall and spring semesters. Transfer students must submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges.

Does John Brown University offer early decision or early action admissions?

John Brown University uses rolling admissions rather than early decision or early action programs. Students receive admission decisions within a few weeks of submitting complete applications.