Overview
Lehigh University is a selective private four-year institution in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The school accepts 37.0% of applicants and enrolls 5,803 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 37.0%
- Average SAT
- 1,415
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,340–1,490
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 32
- Total Enrollment
- 5,803
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
Lehigh's engineering programs carry serious weight with employers, particularly in chemical, materials, and industrial engineering where graduates command top salaries. Your application should highlight quantifiable technical projects, internships, or research experience that shows you can handle the hands-on, collaborative nature of Lehigh's engineering curriculum.
The university operates on a rolling admissions basis, so submit your application early in the fall to maximize your chances and demonstrate genuine interest. Lehigh also offers binding early decision, which significantly boosts admission odds if you're certain about your choice.
Your essays should connect to Lehigh's specific resources like the Integrated Degree in Engineering, Arts and Sciences (IDEAS) program or the Martindale Center for Study of Private Enterprise if you're interested in business. Mention professors by name whose research aligns with your interests, or reference specific labs and facilities you want to access.
Campus culture centers heavily around Greek life and athletics, with strong school spirit around the Lehigh-Lafayette rivalry. Students tend to be academically focused but also social and career-driven. The Bethlehem location offers internship opportunities with nearby companies while maintaining a traditional college town atmosphere.
Your application will stand out if you show leadership in technical or entrepreneurial activities. Lehigh students often launch startups or participate in case competitions, so highlight any business plan competitions, hackathons, or leadership roles in STEM clubs.
Don't overlook Lehigh's strong alumni network, particularly in finance and consulting. If you're targeting these fields, research specific alumni who work at companies you're interested in and mention how you'd leverage these connections.
The computer science program has grown rapidly and offers solid career prospects, but your application should explain why you chose Lehigh over larger tech-focused schools. Focus on the smaller class sizes and undergraduate research opportunities that larger universities can't match.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $33,549/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $62,180
- Students Receiving Aid
- 18%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 89.2%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $105,584/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 92.7%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Lehigh University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Lehigh University is test-optional for most applicants. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
What is the early decision deadline for Lehigh University?
Lehigh offers Early Decision I with a November 15 deadline and Early Decision II with a January 15 deadline. Both are binding admission options.
Can transfer students apply to Lehigh University's business program?
Transfer students can apply to Lehigh's College of Business, but admission is competitive and requires completion of specific prerequisite courses. Students typically transfer after completing foundational business coursework at their current institution.
What GPA do transfer students need for Lehigh University?
Lehigh expects transfer applicants to have a minimum 3.0 GPA from their previous college coursework. Competitive transfer candidates typically have higher GPAs, especially for engineering and business programs.