Overview
Livingstone College is a less selective private four-year institution in Salisbury, North Carolina. The school accepts 63.8% of applicants and enrolls 798 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 63.8%
- Average SAT
- 880
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 800–960
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 18
- Total Enrollment
- 798
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
Livingstone College operates on rolling admissions, so apply early in your senior year for the best chance at scholarships and housing placement. Your application will receive more attention when the admissions office has time to carefully review materials rather than rushing through end-of-cycle submissions.
The college's criminal justice program connects directly with local law enforcement agencies for internships and job placement, making it particularly strong for students who want hands-on experience before graduation. Social work majors benefit from field placements throughout the Piedmont region of North Carolina. Highlight any community service, volunteer work with nonprofits, or leadership roles when applying to these programs.
Campus life centers around the Blue Bears athletic programs and Greek organizations, which dominate social activities and leadership opportunities. Students who want to make an immediate impact should mention specific ways they plan to contribute to campus organizations or start new initiatives. The small size means every student can find leadership roles if they actively seek them.
Write your personal statement about overcoming challenges or supporting your family and community. Livingstone specifically attracts first-generation college students and those from underserved backgrounds, so admissions officers want to see resilience and determination rather than traditional academic achievements. Discuss how you've helped others or worked while attending school.
Submit letters of recommendation from teachers, coaches, or community leaders who can speak to your character and work ethic. Academic performance matters less than showing you can persist through difficulties and contribute positively to campus life.
Visit campus if possible, especially during homecoming or a basketball game, to understand the tight-knit community atmosphere. Students here form close relationships with professors and classmates that last beyond graduation. Your application should reflect genuine interest in being part of a small, supportive environment where everyone knows your name.
Apply for the honors program if you have strong grades, as it provides smaller classes and additional scholarship opportunities. The program also offers priority registration and special housing options that improve your college experience.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $15,662/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $18,296
- Students Receiving Aid
- 84%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 27.1%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $32,600/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 77.6%
Frequently Asked Questions
What GPA do you need to get into Livingstone College?
Livingstone College does not publish a minimum GPA requirement. The college uses a holistic review process that considers academic performance alongside other factors.
Does Livingstone College require SAT or ACT scores?
Livingstone College 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 Livingstone College?
Livingstone College operates on rolling admissions, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. Students should apply early for the best chance at admission and financial aid.
Can you transfer credits to Livingstone College?
Livingstone College accepts transfer credits from accredited institutions. Students must submit official transcripts for evaluation, and the college typically requires a minimum grade of C for transfer credit consideration.