Overview
Salve Regina University is a less selective private four-year institution in Newport, Rhode Island. The school accepts 69.5% of applicants and enrolls 2,102 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 69.5%
- Average SAT
- 1,205
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,130–1,280
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 27
- Total Enrollment
- 2,102
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
Salve Regina's Catholic identity shapes campus life in ways that go beyond Sunday Mass, so your application should address how you connect with service-oriented learning and social justice themes. The university requires a personal statement where you can highlight community service experiences or discuss how you plan to contribute to their mission of developing compassionate leaders.
Your essays should mention specific programs that interest you, particularly if you're drawn to nursing, education, or business. The nursing program operates its own simulation lab and clinical partnerships with nearby hospitals, while the Pell Honors Program offers smaller seminars and research opportunities with faculty. Don't write generically about wanting to help people - explain how Salve's hands-on approach to learning matches your career goals.
The Newport campus sits on oceanfront cliffs in mansion-turned-academic buildings, creating an intimate environment where professors know your name by the second week. Students who appreciate small class discussions and close faculty mentorship fit better here than those seeking large lecture halls and anonymous academic experiences. The campus culture blends preppy New England traditions with genuine care for social causes.
Submit your application by December 1st for priority consideration, though Salve practices rolling admissions through spring. The application includes Salve-specific short answer questions about your leadership experiences and how you handle challenges. Be specific about times you've taken responsibility or helped others rather than listing activities without context.
Your transcript matters more than test scores here, so don't panic if your SAT falls below their middle range. Salve wants to see consistent effort across four years, particularly in core subjects. If you struggled early in high school but improved significantly, address this growth in your application.
Visit campus if possible, especially during the academic year when you can sit in on classes and meet current students. The admissions office tracks demonstrated interest, so attending information sessions or connecting with your regional counselor can help your application stand out in a competitive pool.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $35,682/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $47,930
- Students Receiving Aid
- 15%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 74.9%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $72,975/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 85.3%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the application deadlines for Salve Regina University?
Salve Regina University offers rolling admissions for fall semester applications. Students are encouraged to apply early for the best chance at merit scholarships and housing.
Does Salve Regina University require SAT or ACT scores?
Salve Regina University has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What is the minimum GPA required for transfer students at Salve Regina University?
Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA from their previous college coursework to be considered for admission to Salve Regina University. Students with higher GPAs have better chances for merit aid.
Does Salve Regina University offer early decision or early action programs?
Salve Regina University does not offer early decision or early action programs. The university operates on a rolling admissions basis for most programs.