Santa Clara University Admissions

Santa Clara University is moderately selective with a 52% acceptance rate. About half of applicants gain admission, making it competitive but not impossible for well-prepared students. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1290-1480 on the SAT and average a 31 on the ACT. The 94% retention rate suggests admitted students are well-matched to the school. As a Jesuit institution in Silicon Valley's heart, Santa Clara seeks students who balance academic excellence with social responsibility. The university particularly values applicants interested in business, engineering, or service-oriented careers who want to combine rigorous academics with ethical leadership development in a collaborative Catholic environment.