Overview
Judson University is a moderately selective private four-year institution in Elgin, Illinois. The school accepts 58.2% of applicants and enrolls 780 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 58.2%
- Average SAT
- 1,025
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 910–1,140
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 21
- Total Enrollment
- 780
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
Judson University accepts rolling admissions, so apply early in the fall to secure your spot and maximize financial aid opportunities. Your application will receive more attention when the admissions office has time to carefully review each file.
Strong applications highlight service and faith connections without being heavy-handed. Write about specific volunteer work or mission trips, but focus on what you learned about yourself or others rather than listing activities. The admissions team wants to see how you might contribute to their tight-knit Christian community of fewer than 800 students.
The Architecture program stands out as particularly competitive and well-regarded, requiring a portfolio submission. If you're interested in this field, connect with current students or faculty before applying to understand their design philosophy and studio culture. Business students benefit from small class sizes and direct faculty mentorship, which you should mention if relevant to your goals.
Your essay should address why Judson's Christian foundation matters to you specifically. Don't write generically about faith - connect your beliefs to your academic interests or career plans. The school wants students who will engage with chapel services and campus ministry, not just tolerate them.
Campus life revolves around close relationships with professors and small group activities. Introverted students often find their place here more easily than at larger schools, while those seeking big school athletics or extensive research opportunities might feel limited. The suburban Chicago location provides internship access without urban distractions.
Submit your FAFSA early since most students receive significant financial aid. The net price reflects generous institutional grants, but these are distributed on a first-come basis. Schedule a campus visit to meet with financial aid counselors who can walk you through specific scholarship opportunities.
Your letters of recommendation should come from people who know your character and service record, not just your academic performance. Youth pastors, volunteer coordinators, or mission trip leaders often provide more compelling perspectives than additional teachers.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $25,027/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $30,910
- Students Receiving Aid
- 40%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 53.3%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $56,313/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 73.8%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Judson University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Judson University has adopted 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 Judson University?
Judson University operates on a rolling admissions basis. Applications are reviewed as they are received, so applying early is recommended for the best chance of admission and financial aid.
Does Judson University accept transfer credits from other colleges?
Judson University accepts transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions. Students can transfer up to 90 credit hours toward their degree, though specific course equivalencies are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
What GPA do you need to get into Judson University?
Judson University does not publish a minimum GPA requirement. The admissions process considers multiple factors including academic performance, extracurricular activities, and personal essays.