Overview
University of Central Oklahoma is a less selective public four-year institution in Edmond, Oklahoma. The school accepts 69.9% of applicants and enrolls 10,132 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 69.9%
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 21
- Total Enrollment
- 10,132
Admission Guide
University of Central Oklahoma operates on rolling admissions, so submit your application early in the fall for the best chance at merit scholarships and priority housing. The school awards significant scholarship money to students who apply by December, with some full-ride opportunities available through the Honors College.
Your application essay should highlight specific connections to UCO's programs rather than generic college goals. Mention the Jazz Lab if you're interested in music, the Southwest Center for Human Relations Studies for social work, or the specific engineering concentrations like electrical or mechanical that lead to strong job placement in Oklahoma's energy sector. The nursing program has excellent clinical partnerships with Oklahoma hospitals, so reference career goals that align with these real-world connections.
The Honors College requires a separate application with additional essays and maintains smaller class sizes with research opportunities. Apply here if you want a more academic environment within the larger university setting. Your essays for Honors should demonstrate intellectual curiosity through specific examples rather than listing achievements.
UCO's campus culture centers around practical career preparation rather than theoretical academics. Students here are typically Oklahoma residents who want quality education without leaving the state, plus a growing population of Texas students attracted by lower costs. The atmosphere is friendly and unpretentious, with strong school spirit around athletics, particularly wrestling and basketball.
Don't overlook UCO's location advantages in your application materials. Edmond provides internship access to Oklahoma City's business district, state government offices, and healthcare systems. Students commute easily to downtown jobs while living in a college town environment.
Submit your FAFSA early since UCO awards need-based aid on a first-come basis. Your academic record matters less here than showing genuine interest in the programs you're applying to and demonstrating how you'll use your education in Oklahoma's job market. Focus your application on practical goals and regional connections rather than abstract academic interests.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $18,990/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $8,522
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $19,409
- Students Receiving Aid
- 35%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 37.5%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $48,351/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 65.5%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the admission requirements for University of Central Oklahoma?
University of Central Oklahoma requires a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum 2.7 GPA and either a 20 ACT score or 1030 SAT score. Students must also complete specific high school coursework including four units of English, three units of math, and additional core subjects.
Does University of Central Oklahoma have rolling admissions?
Yes, University of Central Oklahoma uses rolling admissions with no specific application deadline. Students are encouraged to apply early for better housing and scholarship opportunities.
What is University of Central Oklahoma's transfer policy?
University of Central Oklahoma accepts transfer students with at least 24 completed college credit hours and a minimum 2.0 GPA. Students with fewer than 24 hours must also meet freshman admission requirements.
Is University of Central Oklahoma test-optional?
No, University of Central Oklahoma requires either ACT or SAT scores for admission. The minimum scores are 20 on the ACT or 1030 on the SAT.