Overview
Roanoke College is a less selective private four-year institution in Salem, Virginia. The school accepts 79.8% of applicants and enrolls 1,801 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 79.8%
- Average SAT
- 1,165
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,070–1,260
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 25
- Total Enrollment
- 1,801
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
Submit your application through the Common Application along with your high school transcript, one letter of recommendation, and either SAT or ACT scores. Roanoke operates on rolling admissions, so you can apply anytime after September 1st, though applying earlier gives you priority for housing and financial aid consideration.
The nursing program requires separate admission after completing prerequisite courses during your first two years. You'll need to maintain strong grades in sciences and complete specific requirements before applying to the nursing sequence. Business and education programs also have additional requirements once you declare your major.
Housing fills up quickly despite the college's size. Submit your housing deposit as soon as you're admitted if you want to live on campus. Most first-year students live in traditional residence halls, while upperclassmen can choose from apartments and themed housing options.
The campus sits in Salem, a small city next to Roanoke. You'll need a car or rely on friends for transportation since public transit options are limited. The Blue Ridge Mountains provide hiking and outdoor recreation opportunities within a short drive.
Roanoke requires all students to complete the Intellectual Inquiry curriculum, which includes courses across multiple disciplines regardless of your major. Plan for this when mapping out your four-year schedule, especially if you're pursuing pre-professional tracks like pre-med or pre-law that have their own course requirements.
Financial aid decisions come with your acceptance letter. Merit scholarships are automatic based on your application, but you'll need to file the FAFSA for need-based aid. The college meets most students' demonstrated need through a combination of grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $27,786/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $36,774
- Students Receiving Aid
- 24%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 65.9%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $58,047/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 77.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Roanoke College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Roanoke College is test-optional, meaning you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores. If you choose to submit scores, they will be considered as part of your application.
What is the application deadline for Roanoke College?
Roanoke College has rolling admissions, so applications are reviewed as they are received. Early applications are recommended for better housing and financial aid consideration.
Does Roanoke College offer early decision or early action programs?
Roanoke College offers early decision with a November 15 deadline and early action with a December 1 deadline. Early decision is binding, while early action is non-binding.
How many transfer credits does Roanoke College accept?
Roanoke College accepts up to 64 transfer credits from community colleges and up to 90 credits from four-year institutions. Transfer students must complete at least 32 credits at Roanoke to earn a degree.