Overview
University of St Francis is a moderately selective private four-year institution in Joliet, Illinois. The school accepts 58.4% of applicants and enrolls 1,292 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 58.4%
- Average SAT
- 1,135
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,030–1,240
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 26
- Total Enrollment
- 1,292
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
University of St. Francis operates on rolling admissions, which means you can submit your application as early as September and receive a decision within weeks rather than waiting until spring. Submit your application by November to secure the best financial aid packages and housing options.
Your application essay should highlight specific connections to the Franciscan mission of service and social justice. Write about volunteer work, community involvement, or career goals that align with helping others. The admissions team wants to see how you'll contribute to their service-oriented campus culture, not just what you'll gain from attending.
The nursing program stands out as the university's flagship offering, with simulation labs and clinical partnerships at nearby hospitals. If you're applying for nursing or health sciences, mention specific aspects of their hands-on training approach in your essays. The business programs also offer strong career outcomes, particularly in healthcare administration and human resources.
Campus life revolves around small class sizes and close faculty relationships. You'll work directly with professors on research projects and receive personalized mentoring. Students here tend to be career-focused and community-minded rather than party-oriented. Greek life exists but doesn't dominate social life.
Apply for the Honors Program through a separate application if your academic credentials are strong. Honors students receive priority registration, smaller seminar classes, and additional scholarship opportunities. The program requires an essay and letter of recommendation beyond your regular application materials.
Your high school coursework matters more than test scores at St. Francis. Take challenging courses in your intended major area and maintain consistent grades throughout senior year. The admissions team reviews applications individually rather than relying heavily on automated screening.
Location in Joliet provides internship opportunities in the Chicago metropolitan area while keeping costs lower than urban campuses. Many students commute from surrounding suburbs, creating a practical, no-nonsense student body focused on career preparation and community service rather than traditional college social scenes.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $16,284/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $37,000
- Students Receiving Aid
- 37%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 64.6%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $63,926/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 73.4%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does University of St Francis require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
University of St Francis has adopted a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for University of St Francis?
University of St Francis operates on a rolling admissions basis, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. Students should apply early for the best consideration for admission and financial aid.
How many credit hours can transfer students bring to University of St Francis?
Transfer students can bring up to 90 credit hours to University of St Francis. Students must complete at least 30 credit hours at USF to earn their degree.
Does University of St Francis offer early decision or early action programs?
University of St Francis does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applications are processed through regular rolling admissions.