University of Delaware: 73.8% Acceptance Rate

73.8%Acceptance

$16,080Tuition

18,812Students

79%Grad Rate (6-yr)

$72,950Earnings

#1 in DelawarePublic4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalResearch UniversityNCAA Division IStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

About University of Delaware

The University of Delaware builds future leaders through rigorous academics and real-world preparation. This public research university enrolls 18,812 students in a large suburban setting that balances campus community with access to major cities. The school earned national recognition when alumnus Joe Biden became the 46th President of the United States. Chemical engineering and business programs attract students seeking careers in high-demand fields.

Students pay an average net price of $16,931 after financial aid, making quality education accessible to middle-class families. Ten years after graduation, alumni earn a median salary of $72,950, providing strong returns on their educational investment. Graduates typically leave with $24,572 in debt, which they repay at an 80% success rate. The monthly loan payment of $261 remains manageable compared to earning potential.

The Fightin' Blue Hens compete in 21 Division I sports with athletic scholarships totaling over $16 million. Women make up 59.86% of the student body, creating a balanced campus environment. The 90.11% retention rate shows students find their fit quickly. With 96.1% of graduates employed shortly after graduation, Delaware delivers on its promise to prepare students for successful careers.

Academics & Faculty

The University of Delaware operates as a public research university with particularly strong programs in chemical engineering and business. Students benefit from a 15:1 student-faculty ratio that provides meaningful access to professors. The school's 79% four-year graduation rate reflects solid academic support systems. Chemical engineering stands out as a flagship program, leveraging the university's research focus and Delaware's proximity to major chemical companies. The business school attracts students seeking practical career preparation. With 90% of freshmen returning for sophomore year, most students find the academic environment engaging. The research university designation means undergraduates can participate in faculty research projects across various disciplines.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Full-Time Faculty: 98.9%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 79.2%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 78.8%
Retention Rate: 90.1%
Median Earnings (10 years): $72,950
Carnegie Classification: Doctoral University (R1)

Popular Programs by Earnings

Popular programs by earnings
Program	Level	Median Earnings
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.	Master	$93,342
Business Administration, Management and Operations.	Master	$86,424
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions.	Doctoral	$73,446
Computer and Information Sciences, General.	Bachelor	$70,176
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.	Bachelor	$68,698
Management Information Systems and Services.	Bachelor	$67,101
Chemical Engineering.	Bachelor	$66,401
Civil Engineering.	Master	$64,990
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering.	Bachelor	$63,005
Mechanical Engineering.	Bachelor	$62,632

View all 267 programs →

Campus Life

The University of Delaware's 18,812 students find themselves in Newark, a classic college town just 12 miles from Wilmington and 45 minutes from Philadelphia. With housing capacity for 7,191 students, about 38% live on campus, creating a active residential community centered around The Green, the historic heart of campus where students gather between classes. Delaware's four-season climate means packing both winter coats for snowy January days and shorts for humid summers.

The Fightin' Blue Hens athletic programs draw passionate crowds, especially for football games at Delaware Stadium. With a 90.11% retention rate, students clearly connect with the campus culture built around school spirit and strong academics. Weekend social life revolves around Main Street's restaurants and bars, fraternity and sorority events, and trips to nearby beaches or Philadelphia. The campus operates on a unique Four-One-Four calendar system, giving students a month-long winter session for study abroad or intensive courses. Students often cite the perfect balance between serious academics and an active social scene as defining features of the Delaware experience.

Setting: Suburb-Large
Housing Capacity: 7,191 beds
Calendar System: Four-One-Four
Study Abroad: Available
Founded: 1743

Campus Safety (2023)

120 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education

Campus safety incidents by location
Offense	On Campus	Residential	Noncampus	Public Property
Arson	14	12	0	0
Stalking	19	7	0	0
Dating Violence	11	7	0	0
Burglary	10	6	1	0
Rape	5	5	1	0
Aggravated Assault	3	1	0	6
Domestic Violence	1	0	1	2
Motor Vehicle Theft	4	0	0	0
Fondling	1	1	0	0
Robbery	0	0	0	2

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 25°–42°F
July Avg: 66°–88°F
Annual Precipitation: 47.0"
Annual Snowfall: 20.2"

Student Demographics

The University of Delaware draws nearly 60% of its 18,812 students from out-of-state, reflecting its strong national reputation beyond the small First State. Women outnumber men by a significant margin, likely drawn to the university's respected programs in education, health sciences, and liberal arts. With only 16% of students receiving Pell Grants, the campus tends to attract middle and upper-middle class families. The student body is predominantly white at 67%, though growing diversity includes Hispanic and Asian populations. This mix creates a campus of academically solid students who can handle the rigorous coursework.

Men: 40.1%
Women: 59.9%
White: 67.4%
Black: 6.4%
Hispanic: 9.9%
Asian: 5.5%
In-State Students: 41.3%
Pell Grant Recipients: 15.7%

Location

Newark sits in northern Delaware, just 12 miles southwest of Wilmington and 45 miles from Philadelphia. The university anchors this classic college town of about 33,000 residents, where students make up more than half the population during the academic year. With 59.86% of students being women, the campus brings energy to Newark's tree-lined streets and local businesses. The setting offers suburban charm with easy access to major East Coast cities - New York is less than three hours away, and Washington D.C. is under two hours south. Delaware's small size means beaches are within an hour's drive east. Students considering colleges in Delaware may also compare University of Delaware with similar schools in the region.

Address: Newark, Delaware 19716

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years): $72,950
Median Earnings (5 years): $75,528
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry): $48,100
Loan Repayment Rate: 80.0%
Monthly Loan Payment: $261/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $24,572

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at University of Delaware?

University of Delaware accepts 73.81% of applicants, making it moderately selective. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1190-1360 on the SAT. This public research university draws students who want strong academics without the ultra-competitive admissions of top private schools.

How much does University of Delaware cost after financial aid?

The average net price at University of Delaware is $16,931 after aid. Students from families earning under $30,000 pay just $9,354 on average, while those from higher-income families pay up to $25,310. The school keeps costs reasonable as Delaware's flagship public university.

What is University of Delaware known for academically?

University of Delaware excels in chemical engineering and business programs that attract students nationwide. With a 15:1 student-faculty ratio, classes remain manageable despite the 18,812 total enrollment. The university operates on a unique Four-One-Four calendar system that includes an intensive January term.

How much do University of Delaware graduates earn?

University of Delaware graduates earn a median of $72,950 ten years after graduation. The 96.1% employment rate shows strong job placement, while the 78.80% six-year graduation rate reflects solid student support. Graduates typically leave with $24,572 in debt and monthly loan payments of $261.

Where is University of Delaware located and what is campus life like?

University of Delaware sits in Newark, Delaware, a large suburban setting that balances college town atmosphere with easy access to major cities. The campus houses 7,191 students in residence halls, creating a active community. The Fightin' Blue Hens compete in 21 NCAA Division I sports with over 600 student-athletes.

Is University of Delaware the same school President Biden attended?

Yes, University of Delaware is President Joe Biden's alma mater, making it one of the most politically notable state universities in America. Founded in 1743, the university has produced other prominent alumni including NFL quarterbacks Joe Flacco and Rich Gannon. The school's political connections reflect Delaware's outsized influence in national politics despite its small size.